When specifying equipment for drinking water applications, compliance isn’t just a formality — it’s a responsibility. One of the most important Australian standards in this space is AS4020 – Testing of products for use in contact with drinking water. Here’s what it means, why it matters, and how it relates to Glacier vessels.
What Is the Purpose of AS4020?
The purpose of AS4020 is to ensure that products and materials that come into contact with drinking water do not adversely affect water quality.
The standard establishes testing requirements to confirm that materials will not:
- Release harmful chemicals or heavy metals
- Alter the taste, odour, appearance, or clarity of water
- Promote the growth of microorganisms
- Introduce toxic substances into potable water systems
In short, AS4020 helps safeguard public health by ensuring that components used in drinking water infrastructure are safe and suitable for purpose.
What Does AS4020 Certification Mean?
When a product is certified to AS4020, it means it has undergone independent laboratory testing under controlled conditions to assess:
- Chemical extraction levels
- Cytotoxicity (toxicity to living cells)
- Taste and odour impact
- Microbial growth potential
Certification confirms that the materials used in the product meet strict limits defined by the standard and are approved for contact with potable water.
Importantly, AS4020 certification applies specifically to the materials and components that contact water — not just the product as a whole.
Why Is AS4020 Important?
Compliance with AS 4020 is critical for:
- Drinking water treatment plants
- Municipal water infrastructure
- Commercial potable water systems
- Industrial applications involving potable water
Many Australian water authorities and regulatory bodies require AS4020 certification as a mandatory condition of supply. Without it, products may not be approved for installation in drinking water systems.
Beyond compliance, certification provides confidence to engineers, consultants, contractors, and asset owners that the equipment will not compromise water safety or regulatory obligations.
Glacier Vessels and AS4020 Certification
Glacier Filtration vessels designed for potable water applications are manufactured using materials that are certified to AS4020.
This means:
- Internal linings, coatings, and wetted components meet Australian drinking water safety requirements
- Products are suitable for use in potable water treatment systems
- Clients can confidently specify Glacier vessels in projects requiring AS4020 compliance
By ensuring compliance with AS4020, Glacier supports safe, high-quality drinking water outcomes while meeting the expectations of regulators and water authorities across Australia.
Compliance You Can Trust
In water treatment, performance and safety go hand in hand. AS4020 certification is not just a technical requirement — it is a commitment to protecting public health.
For projects involving potable water, specifying AS4020-certified vessels ensures compliance, reduces approval risk, and provides peace of mind from installation through to operation.