Evaluation of household water treatment (HWT) products under the Scheme is based on voluntary submitting an expression of interest (EoI) and product dossier to WHO. Any HWT manufacturer meeting the minimum criteria outlined in the call for EoIs issued by WHO from time to time is invited to apply for participation in the Scheme. WHO works with an independent advisory committee (IAC) of experts in drinking-water treatment, microbiology and epidemiology, and designated testing laboratories to independently evaluate the performance of submitted HWT products.

Information on the evaluation process can be found in the Scheme Procedure for Evaluation, and the main steps are summarized as follows:

Why should you have your product evaluated under the Scheme?

• International reach: Results of the product testing are used to guide national governments and global procuring agencies in the selection of HWT products, and are listed on the WHO website
• Expedited registration: WHO works with national regulatory authorities to minimize the time required to register products that have been evaluated under the Scheme and found toe meet WHO performance criteria
• Consumer confidence: WHO works with national regulatory authorities to communicate results of testing, product labelling and certifications for products evaluated under the Scheme to ensure consumers understand the protection provided by HWT products and can make informed choices.

Evaluation

Expressions of Interest (EoIs) for evaluation under the Scheme  can be submitted at any time.  Products prioritized for evaluation under the Scheme are: relatively low cost; appropriate for low- and middle-income settings; generally free-standing and not requiring installation; and able to treat enough water a day to serve the number of individuals typically in a household or small public facility such as a primary health care centre.

To submit an EoI for evaluation, contact: hhwater@who.int

Previous evaluations