Drinking Water Ordinance: Who Qualifies and What You Get
If you manage a hotel with a large water system, learn about the mandatory testing requirements to ensure water safety and compliance.
This ordinance sets the hygiene and safety standards for drinking water to ensure it is safe for public consumption. It provides the regulatory framework used to maintain water quality across various systems.
Who it's for
This regulation specifically targets owners and operators of large water systems. In the hospitality industry, this primarily applies to hotels that manage extensive plumbing and water distribution networks. If you manage a hotel in Germany, you must determine if your specific facility's water system falls under the scope of these large-scale requirements.
What you get
The primary benefit of following this ordinance is achieving compliance regarding water safety. By adhering to the rules, you ensure that your facility meets the necessary standards for Legionella testing. This process helps confirm that the water being used in your hotel is safe and meets the required hygiene standards for your guests and staff.
What it costs you
While there is no direct government fee to register for this ordinance, there are operational costs involved in maintaining compliance. You will need to pay for professional laboratory testing to verify that your water is safe. These laboratory costs are your responsibility and are required to ensure that all hygiene and safety standards are being met according to the ordinance.
The catch to know
The most important thing to remember is that testing is not a suggestion; it is a mandatory requirement for large-scale systems. Because these systems are subject to rigorous hygiene and safety inspections, failing to perform the required testing could result in non-compliance with federal regulations.
How to apply
- Evaluate your hotel's water system to confirm if it qualifies as a large-scale system under the ordinance.
- Arrange for a certified professional laboratory to conduct the required water quality and Legionella testing.
- Document all results and testing procedures to ensure you can provide proof of compliance during inspections.