The Water Supply (Water Quality) (Scotland) Regulations 2001

These are the main regulations that set drinking water standards in Scotland and require Scottish Water to take and analyse samples in a specified manner.

The Regulations mirror the requirements of the European Union Council Directive 98/83/EC of 3 November 1998 on the quality of water intended for human consumption.

• The Regulations came into force on 25 December 2003.
• Wholesomeness is defined by setting numerical standards for relevant parameters.
• The supply zone is defined as the basic unit for quality monitoring.
• Water authorities are required to monitor the quality of their supplies.
• Detailed sampling requirements are specified for samples taken at taps within zones, at service reservoirs and at water treatment works.
• Authorised Departures may be granted temporarily where the water is not of the required quality.
• Scottish Water must publish an annual report and keep a public register of water quality in its area.

For the full regulations, click the link below: http://www.scotland-legislation.hmso.gov.uk/legislation/scotland/ssi2001/20010207.htm