Council Directive 80/778/EEC relating to the quality of water intended for human consumption.

The present Directive lays down standards applicable to water intended for human consumption. Water intended for human consumption shall mean all water used for that purpose, either in its original state or after treatment, regardless of origin. On the other side, the Directive shall not apply to: (a) natural mineral waters recognized or defined as such by the competent national authorities; (b) medicinal waters recognized as such by the competent national authorities. The provisions hereby established shall apply also to water used in a food production undertaking for the manufacture, processing, reservation or marketing of products or substances intended for human consumption and affecting the wholesomeness of the foodstuff in its finished form. In such case, Member States shall apply the values for the toxic and microbiological parameters listed in Tables D and E respectively of Annex I. Article 6 specifies the information to be provided by Member States to the Commission. The latter shall examine this information and take any measures which it deems appropriate. It shall periodically draw up a comprehensive report for the Member States. Article 9 specifies the circumstances under which Member States shall be authorized to derogate from the provisions laid down in this Directive. Without prejudice to article 4 (2), Member States may lay down more stringent provisions than those provided for in this Directive for water intended for human consumption. Three Annexes are attached. Annex I contains the list of parameters; Annex II is concerned with patterns and frequency of standard analyses; Annex III specifies reference methods of analysis.