scope:

The point-of-use (POU) and point-of-entry (POE) systems addressed by this standard are designed to be used for the supplemental microbial control of specific organisms that may occasionally be present in drinking water (public or private) because of intermittent incursions. Certain of these specific organisms that may be introduced into the drinking water are considered established or potential health hazards. This standard establishes requirements for POU and POE drinking water treatment systems, and the materials and components used in these systems.

NOTE - This standard does not apply to products intended for use on water of unknown microbiological quality. For such applications, refer to the protocol NSF P23.

Purpose

It is the purpose of this standard to establish minimum requirements for the reduction of microorganisms using mechanical filtration devices for supplemental treatment of microbiologically safe drinking water. Mechanical filtration devices covered by this standard are intended for use only on water supplies that have been treated to public water system standards or otherwise are determined to be microbiologically safe as demonstrated by routine testing. They are intended only for protection against intermittent incursions or accidental microbiological contamination of otherwise safe drinking water. This standard also specifies the minimum product literature and labeling information that a manufacturer shall supply to authorized representatives and system owners as well as the minimum service-related obligations that the manufacturer shall extend to system owners.

NOTE - This standard does not apply to products intended for use on water of unknown microbiological quality. For such applications, refer to the protocol NSF P231: Microbiological Water Purifiers.