Overview
ISO 24994:2026 is an international standard developed by ISO for plastics piping systems used in water supply, focusing specifically on the determination of selected metal and semi-metal migration values from plastic pipes, fittings, and their joints. The standard establishes a method using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to measure migration of metals and semi-metals from the internal surfaces of components in contact with water intended for human consumption. The metals and semi-metals addressed include: lead (Pb), tin (Sn), antimony (Sb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), barium (Ba), magnesium (Mg), aluminium (Al), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), and arsenic (As).
This standard is applicable to all plastic pipes, fittings, and joints designed for transporting potable water, supporting quality assurance in both manufacturing and regulatory contexts.
Key Topics
- Methodology using ICP-MS: Guidance on preparing samples, running migration tests, and calibrating instruments to accurately detect trace levels of metal and semi-metal migration.
- Sample Preparation: Details on preparing pipe, fitting, and joint samples, including prewashing and stagnation steps for reliable results.
- Testing Conditions: Specification of test liquids, temperatures, and durations aligned with real-world water supply conditions.
- Metals and Semi-Metals Concerned: Identification and quantification of migration values for 12 priority elements relevant to water quality and regulatory compliance.
- Reporting Requirements: Standardized reporting for clear, comparable results including expression as both concentration (μg/l) and migration rate (μg/dm²·d), as well as the inclusion of test conditions and sample characteristics.
- Quality Control: Use of blank tests, certified reference materials, and calibration standards to ensure result validity.
Applications
ISO 24994:2026 delivers significant practical value for various stakeholders in the plastics piping system industry and the broader potable water supply chain. Key applications include:
- Product Certification and Compliance: Supports manufacturers in verifying that their systems meet regulatory thresholds for metal and semi-metal migration, a critical step for product safety and market access.
- Water Quality Monitoring: Provides water utilities, laboratories, and regulatory bodies with a scientifically robust and standardized method to assess potential contamination from plastic pipe systems.
- Material Selection and Design: Assists engineers and designers in material evaluation and system design, ensuring the longevity and safety of installations intended for human consumption.
- Routine Quality Control: Facilitates ongoing monitoring and routine testing in production or during maintenance, aiding in early detection of issues and reducing health risks.
- Regulatory Reference: Serves as a harmonized testing basis for national or regional standards, enhancing consistency across borders.
Related Standards
Understanding the broader standards landscape enhances the effective implementation of ISO 24994:2026. Relevant standards include:
- ISO 8795: Migration assessment - provides general test methods for migration from plastics piping systems, referenced for sample and migration liquid preparation.
- ISO 3696: Water for analytical laboratory use - requirements for water purity in testing, ensuring accurate results.
- Additional ISO/TC 138 Standards: Covering other material properties, installation practices, and test methods for plastics pipes, fittings, and valves.
- ISO 17456: (Example) Guidelines for laboratory performance of plastics pipes for drinking water.
By aligning with ISO 24994:2026, organizations reinforce water quality assurance and regulatory compliance, promoting safe potable water distribution through the effective assessment of metal and semi-metal migration in plastic piping systems.