Ministerial Decree 174 (Ministerial Decree 174/2004) Certification – Italy

Ministerial Decree 174 (Ministerial Decree 174/2004) – Italy

Ministerial Decree 174/2004 is the Italian decree that regulates the suitability requirements for materials and products intended for contact with drinking water.

This regulation establishes that all components used in water systems—such as faucets, pipes, tanks, fittings, gaskets, coatings, and pumps—must guarantee hygienic and sanitary safety, without releasing harmful substances or altering the characteristics of the water.

The decree, which implements European directives on water intended for human consumption, represents the fundamental regulatory framework for manufacturers and installers in Italy.

In particular, Ministerial Decree 174 defines:

the categories of regulated materials (metals, plastics, elastomers, coatings, cementitious products);

the conformity criteria and test methods to verify their compatibility with drinking water;

The requirement to use certified materials for the construction of distribution systems and equipment in contact with water intended for human consumption.

Compliance with Ministerial Decree 174 is therefore a mandatory requirement for the marketing and installation of products in Italy, and is often required as a prerequisite even in international contexts, where it is recognized as a guarantee of quality and safety.