In accordance with § 17 Par. 1 of the Drinking Water Ordinance of May 28, 2001, construction and other materials that when in contact with water release substances in concentrations higher than considered inevitable by the generally accepted engineering standards, or that directly or indirectly infringe the human health regulations stipulated by this Ordinance, or that alter the odour or flavour of the water, shall not be used for linings intended for use in contact with drinking water.

The former Federal Health Agency has not issued any recommendations on cement-bound and lining materials. As the physical behaviour of such materials differs from that of plastic materials, the Plastics and Drinking Water Recommendations (KTW recommendations) cannot be borrowed verbatim.

This Code of Practice W 347 had to be reviewed in order to ensure that its contents reflect the state of the art and conform to the corresponding European Standards.

This Code of Practice describes the requirements for and the testing of cement-bound materials intended for use in drinking water supply systems.