Council Directive 2013/51/Euratom laying down requirements for the protection of the health of the general public with regard to radioactive substances in water intended for human consumption.

In view of the importance for human health of the quality of water intended for human consumption, this Directive lays down at the European Union level standards which have an indicator function and provide for the monitoring of compliance with those standards, as regards the presence of radioactive substances. In particular it lays down parametric values and frequencies and methods for monitoring radioactive substances. These provisions apply to: (a) all water, either in its original state or after treatment, intended for drinking, cooking, food preparation or other domestic purposes, regardless of its origin and whether it is supplied from a distribution network, a tanker, or in bottles or containers; (b) all water used in any food production undertaking for the manufacture, processing, preservation or marketing of products or substances intended for human consumption unless the competent national authorities are satisfied that the quality of the water cannot affect the wholesomeness of the foodstuff in its finished form. National mineral waters are excluded.