What is a New Product or Technology Approval?
The MassDEP Drinking Water Program issues New Technology Approvals for products and technologies that come into contact with public drinking water as required by the drinking water regulations 310 CMR 22.04 (8). MassDEP ensures that the product/technology, whether new or existing, is safe, that public health is protected, that the quality of the drinking water is not compromised and that there is compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act and Massachusetts Drinking Water Requirements.
These products and technologies include, but are not limited to: drinking water additives, filtration devices, treatment systems, coatings, pipes, tanks, vending machines, and backflow prevention devices.
What products and technologies have been approved?
The following list of technologies have been approved for use statewide in Massachusetts in accordance with the drinking water regulations 310 CMR 22.04(8). For public water suppliers, using any of the statewide listed technologies will avoid the need for an additional new technology approval. However, piloting may still be required at the specific location where the technology will be implemented. Public water suppliers must contact the appropriate regional office below before using any of the technologies listed.
MassDEP Regional Office Contacts
Please note, in lieu of a statewide technology or product approval, a public water supplier may apply for and receive a site-specific approval for any technology in accordance with 310 CMR 22.04(1) by first contacting the appropriate regional office to determine the permitting requirements. These site-specific approvals are not included in the statewide list of approved technologies.
What other organizations review and approve these products/technologies?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency does not issue approvals for drinking water technologies; however, they maintain a drinking water treatability database and information on the cost-effectiveness of treatment options. EPA Drinking Water Technologies
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) develops standards for products.
The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) tests and certifies products, materials, and systems that come into contact with drinking water for safety and performance to ANSI standards.
The Underwriter Laboratory (UL) tests and certifies products.
National Automatic Merchandizing Association (NAMA) certifies water vending machines.
The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) develops codes and standards and tests and certifies products.
The Water Quality Association tests and certifies drinking water treatment products to ANSI standards.
Who can apply for a New Technology Approval?
Statewide approval: A manufacturer or manufacture representative may apply for a new product or technology approval if it is currently not on the list.
Site-Specific approval: Public water suppliers or their representatives may apply for and receive a site-specific approval for any technology or product in accordance with 310 CMR 22.04(1) by first contacting the appropriate regional office below to determine the required approvals and permits.
How do I apply?
There are four different types of applications depending on the type of approval you are requesting.
New Technology Approval application forms
WS 11, 12: Minor, Major Technology Approval
WS 27: New Technology - 3rd Party Approval
WS 28: New Technology Vending Site/Source
WS 31: New Technology - Vending Machines, POU/POE Devices
Please contact the Drinking Water Program if you have questions about these application forms.