Regulatory Framework

It is the DWQR’s duty, under the Water Industry (Scotland) Act 2002, to enforce Regulations and other statutory instruments developed by the Scottish Government and Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs).

The specific requirements for drinking water quality in Scotland originate largely from European Directives, and have been translated into Scottish Law via the Water Supply (Water Quality)(Scotland) Regulations 2001.

On 5th December 1998, a revised Drinking Water Directive (98/83/EC) was published, which all member states of the European Union, including the UK, should now be compliant with. The only exception to this timescale is the final standard for lead, which takes effect in 2013.