Draft  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Voluntary Water Efficiency Labelling 
Scheme on Flow Controllers 
April 2014 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
48/F., Immigration Tower, 
7 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong 
Homepage: http://www.wsd.gov.hk Draft  
 
Page 1 of 19  
 
 CONTENTS 
Section  Title Page  
 
1. Purpose 2 
2. Background 2 
3. Scope 3 
4. Definitions 3 
5. Testing Methodology and Standard 5  
6. Water Efficiency Grading 7  
7. Water Efficiency Label 9  
8. Testing Laboratories and Certification Bodies 9  
9. Application for Registration 11  
10. Legal Provisions 15 
11. Compliance Monitoring and Inspection 15  
12. Complaints and Appeals 18  
13. Maintenance of Scheme 19  
 
Annexes 
1 Testing Guidelines for Flow Controllers 
2 Water Efficiency Label  
3 Proforma Letter of Application 
4 Information/Material to be submitted to the Water  Supplies 
Department 
5 Flow Chart for Registration 
 Draft  
 
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 1.    Purpose 
 
This document is intended to give a detailed descri ption on the Voluntary 
Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme (WELS) on Flow Co ntrollers. 
 
 
2.    Background 
 
2.1.  The voluntary WELS is one of the water conservation  initiatives that the 
Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) 
has adopted. The WELS would cover common types of p lumbing fixtures 
and water-consuming appliances. Products participat ing in the WELS will 
incorporate a water efficiency label that serves to  inform consumers the 
water consumption level and efficiency rating. Cons umers should then be 
able to take these factors into account in making t heir purchasing decision. 
 
2.2.  In overseas countries, the WELS is in different sta ges of development and 
implemented in several forms. In some countries, it  is a compulsory 
requirement to provide water efficiency labels for certain kinds of plumbing 
fixtures and appliances before they can be put on s ale in the market. For 
others, the WELS is implemented on a voluntary basi s so as to allow a lead 
time for the market to transform towards more water  efficient products. The 
implementation of WELS in Hong Kong adopts the latt er approach and 
aims to achieve the following: 
 
(a)  To provide consumers with information on the levels  of water 
consumption and efficiency ratings of plumbing fixt ures and 
water-consuming appliances; 
(b)  To facilitate consumers to select water efficient p lumbing fixtures and 
water-consuming appliances; 
(c)  To promote public awareness on water conservation a nd efficiency 
issues; and 
(d)  To achieve actual water savings. 
 
2.3.  The voluntary WELS in Hong Kong is being implemente d in phases for 
different groups of plumbing fixtures and water-con suming appliances. The 
first four groups of products for implementation of  the WELS are showers Draft  
 
Page 3 of 19  
 
 for bathing, water taps, washing machines and urina l equipment, which had 
been launched in September 2009, September 2010, Ma rch 2011 and 
March 2012 respectively. The next group of products  for implementation of 
the WELS is flow controllers. 
 
 
3.    Scope 
 
3.1.  The Scheme will apply to the flow controllers manuf acturers, importers, or 
other related parties participating in the Scheme. 
 
3.2.  The Scheme registration commences from XX July 2014 and will expire on 
31 December 2016  when re-registration may be necessary. 
 
3.3.  The Scheme only covers new flow controllers importe d to or manufactured 
in Hong Kong but does not cover second-hand product s, products already 
in existing use, under trans-shipment or manufactur ed for export, etc. 
 
3.4.  The Scheme is operated as a ‘Grading Type’ labellin g system. Under this 
Scheme, participating flow controllers will be rate d to different grades 
according to their nominal flow rates provided that  they have met the 
performance requirements specified in the Scheme. 
 
3.5.  The provisions of this Scheme shall apply to the fl ow controllers listed 
below: 
(a)  flow controllers installed to use with water taps; 
(b)   flow controllers installed to use with showers for  bathing; 
 
 
4.    Definitions 
 
Unless otherwise specified, the following definitio ns shall apply throughout 
this document: 
 
Department  means the Water Supplies Department, the Governmen t of 
HKSAR. 
 Draft  
 
Page 4 of 19  
 
 Director  means the Director of the Water Supplies Departmen t, the 
Government of HKSAR. 
 
Government  means the Government of HKSAR. 
Flow 
Controllers means  a device which regulates the flow of water so as to  
reduce  flow rate over a given range of pressures. Flow 
controllers are supplied in or without bodies. For in bodies 
type flow controllers, they could be classified as in-line 
type (for showers or taps) and end-of-line type (fo r taps), 
which are normally installed at the end of flexible  riser 
hose or at the spout of taps; while for flow contro llers 
supplied without bodies, they are installed in hose s, bodies 
or aerators of taps. 
 
HKAS  means the Hong Kong Accreditation Service. 
HOKLAS  means Hong Kong Laboratory Accreditation Scheme. 
Inspecting 
Officer  means the officer authorized by the Director to car ry out 
the inspection as described in Section 11 of this d ocument.  
 
ISO  means the International Organization for Standardi zation. 
 
Label  means the water efficiency label as described in S ection 7 
of this document. 
 
MRA  means a mutual recognition agreement/arrangement. 
participant  means a manufacturer, an importer or other related  party 
of the flow controller registered in the Scheme. 
 
recognized 
laboratory  means a laboratory that complies with the requireme nts 
for testing laboratory as stated in Section 8. 
 Draft  
 
Page 5 of 19  
 
 Scheme  means the Voluntary Water Efficiency Labelling Sch eme 
on Flow Controllers. 
showers means a showerhead through which water is intended to 
flow to form a spray for bathing purposes, which ma y 
include a fixed or pivot arm, a flexible hose (with  or 
without a flow controller), tap top assemblies, or other 
components. 
 
water taps means a tap that is designed to turn on and off the  flow of 
water into a basin or bowl or sink that is primaril y for 
washing/rinsing purposes, which may include a fixed  or 
pivot arm or a built-in flexible hose or automatic sensing 
open/close device or automatic closing mechanism or  hot 
and cold water mixing chamber. 
 
 
5.    Testing Methodology and Standard 
 
General 
5.1.  The testing methodology of other tests is described  in Annex 1 with 
reference to the testing conditions and requirement s specified in the 
Australian/New Zealand Standard No. ATS 5200.037.2: 2005 – Technical 
Specification for Plumbing and Drainage Products: F low controllers – For 
use in heated or cold water plumbing systems or oth er equivalent 
international standards approved by the Department.  
 
5.2.  The flow controllers installed to use with water ta ps (Category 1 flow 
controller) shall be tested to be safe for potable water use in accordance 
with standards below: 
 
(a)  Non-metallic components: BS 6920 or other equivalen t international 
standards accepted by the Department; 
 
(b)  Metallic components: relevant BS standards or other  equivalent 
international standards accepted by the Department.  
 
Flow Rate Test Draft  
 
Page 6 of 19  
 
 5.3.  The nominal flow rates of the flow controllers shal l be determined in 
accordance with Annex 1. The water efficiencies of the flow controllers 
will be rated to different grades according to the type of the flow controllers 
and the nominal flow rate test results subject to t he compliance with other 
performance requirements mentioned in Section 5.4 b elow. 
 
Other Performance Requirements 
 
5.4.  The flow controllers shall also be tested in accord ance with Annex 1 for 
conformity with all the performance requirements as  shown in Table 1. 
 
Table 1: Performance Requirements for Flow Controll ers  
 
Performance Property  Performance Requirements  
Endurance test The flow rate which is re-measured a fter 
the endurance test of the flow controller 
shall be within 1 litre/min of the nominal 
flow rate, as determined in the flow rate 
test. 
Watertightness test (not 
applicable for a flow 
controller that is supplied as 
an attachment to an outlet 
without any closing 
mechanism) No signs of cracks, leakage or other 
failure should be observed. 
 
5.5.  The flow controllers installed to use with water ta ps (Category 1 flow 
controller) shall also be tested to be safe for pot able water use in 
accordance with relevant standards as specified in Section 5.2, or other 
equivalent international standards accepted by the Department. 
 
Quality Requirement 
5.6.  The flow controllers shall be manufactured under a design (if applicable) 
and production system operating according to a reco gnized international 
quality system (such as ISO 9001). 
 Draft  
 
Page 7 of 19  
 
  
6.    Water Efficiency Grading 
 
Classification of Flow Controllers 
6.1.  For the purpose of water efficiency rating assessme nt, all flow controllers 
to be registered under the Scheme is classified bas ed on the category or 
categories submitted by the participants in accorda nce with Table 2. The 
flow controllers will be registered and labelled wi th either one Label for the 
corresponding category or two Labels, i.e. one Labe l for category 1 and the 
other Label for category 2. 
 
Table 2: Classification of Flow Controllers 
Category  Description  
1 Flow Controllers for Water Taps 
2 Flow Controllers for Showers for Bathing 
 
Water Efficiency Grading 
6.2.  The water efficiencies of the flow controllers are rated to different grades 
according to their types and nominal flow rates as shown in tables 3 and 4. 
Grade 1 is the most water efficient whereas grade 4  is the least water 
efficient. 
 
  Draft  
 
Page 8 of 19  
 
 Table 3:  Conversion of Water Consumption to Water Efficiency Grades for 
Category 1 Flow Controllers  
Nominal Flow Rate of 
Category 1 Flow 
Controllers  
f (litre/minute) Water 
Efficiency 
Grade Symbolic Presentation on the 
Water Efficiency Label 
f ≤ 5.0 Grade 1 1 water droplet  
5.0 < f ≤ 7.0 Grade 2 2 water droplets   
7.0 <  f ≤ 9.0 Grade 3 3 water droplets    
9.0 < f Grade 4 4 water droplets     
 
Table 4:  Conversion of Water Consumption to Water Efficiency Grades for 
Category 2 Flow Controllers 
Nominal Flow Rate of 
Category 2 Flow 
Controllers  
f (litre/minute) Water 
Efficiency 
Grade Symbolic Presentation on the 
Water Efficiency Label 
f ≤ 9.0 Grade 1 1 water droplet  
9.0 <  f ≤ 12.0 Grade 2 2 water droplets   
12.0 <  f ≤ 16.0 Grade 3 3 water droplets    
16.0 < f Grade 4 4 water droplets     
 
6.3.  If the flow controllers are operated with constant flow operation to achieve 
the maximum difference between the highest and lowe st average flow rates 
in the flow rate test not exceeding 2.0 litres/min as specified in Annex 1, 
the merit will be shown on the Label for public inf ormation and description 
of the merited function will be referred from the r egistration certificate. 
 
6.4.  If the flow controller cannot fulfil the performanc e requirements specified 
Draft  
 
Page 9 of 19  
 
 in Sections 5.4 and 5.5 respectively, application f or registration under the 
Scheme will not be accepted. 
 
 
7.    Water Efficiency Label 
 
Label Location 
7.1.  The Label should be self-adhesive or pre-printed on to the packing or a 
swing tag securely fastened to the product/packing.  It is a compulsory 
requirement for the participant to affix/print the Label to his/her registered 
flow controller or its packing at a prominent locat ion or a swing tag 
securely fastened to the product/packing. The parti cipant should also ensure 
that the registered flow controller shall be displa yed for sale with the 
label(s).  
 
Colour Scheme and Dimensions 
7.2.  The Label should be printed on white-coloured self- adhesive sheet material 
(for self-adhesive type) in accordance with the fig ures and dimensions as 
shown in Annex 2. The soft copy of the Label can be  obtained from the 
Department. 
 
Paper Quality 
7.3.  The paper used for the Label should be durable and possess good wear and 
tear characteristics. It should stick tightly on th e flow controller or its 
packing or a swing tag securely fastened to the pro duct/packing. 
 
Information on the Label 
7.4.  The information that appears on the Label shall acc ord with the Label 
format as indicated in Annex 2 and shall tally with  the information listed on 
the registration certificate issued by the Departme nt. 
 
 
8.    Testing Laboratories and Certification Bodies 
 
8.1.  The testing specified in Sections 5.3, 5.4 & 5.5 is  to be carried out either by 
an independent testing laboratory or an accredited laboratory. The 
Department will accept the results and certificates  issued by the testing Draft  
 
Page 10 of 19  
 
 laboratories, which fulfill one of the following cr iteria as specified in 
Sections 8.2, 8.3 or 8.4. 
 
8.2.  The laboratory is accredited by the Hong Kong Accre ditation Service 
(HKAS) for carrying out the tests stipulated in thi s Scheme i.e. Sections 5.3, 
5.4 & 5.5 of this document under the Hong Kong Labo ratory Accreditation 
Scheme (HOKLAS) or a scheme with which HKAS has con cluded a 
mutual recognition agreement #; and the results are issued in a test report or 
certificate bearing the accreditation mark. 
 
8.3.  A laboratory which achieves HOKLAS accreditation (o r is accredited by a 
scheme with which HKAS has concluded a mutual recog nition agreement) 
for laboratory testing of water consuming appliance s other than the tests 
stipulated in the Scheme, and the laboratory can de monstrate their 
capability of carrying out tests on Flow Controller s in accordance with 
Annex 1. 
 
8.4.  An in-house laboratory fulfills the criteria listed  below: 
 
(c)  Self-declaration by the manufacturer, importer or o ther related parties 
that the operations of their in-house laboratory fo llow the requirements 
of ISO/IEC 17025; and  
(d)  The manufacturer is currently operating according t o a recognized 
international quality system (such as ISO 9001); and  
(e)  The manufacturer’s or importer’s or related parties ’ in-house 
laboratory has been successful in carrying out test s on water 
consumption appliances and where these tests have b een evaluated and 
certified by internationally recognized third party  certification 
organisations. 
 
# HKAS has concluded mutual recognition arrangement s with overseas accreditation bodies for testing 
laboratory accreditation. The list of mutual recogn ition arrangement partners may change from time to 
time and the up‐to‐date list is available from the HKAS website of 
http://www.itc.gov.hk/en/quality/hkas/doc/common/mr amla/MRA_HOKLAS_en_ch.pdf . Partners of 
these arrangements recognise the accreditations gra nted by one another as equivalent. An up‐to‐date 
APLAC MRA list is available from http://www.aplac.org/aplac_mra.html . An up‐to‐date ILAC MRA 
is available from https://www.ilac.org/documents/mra_signatories.pdf .  Draft  
 
Page 11 of 19  
 
 8.5.  The participant can utilise the testing report fulf illing the requirements in 
Annex 1 issued by an overseas laboratory with MRA w ith HKAS for 
application purpose.  
 
 
9.    Application for Registration 
 
Application Procedures 
9.1  All manufacturers, importers and other related part ies in the flow 
controllers business are welcome and encouraged to participate in the 
Scheme. For known manufacturers and importers, invi tation letters will be 
issued to them. However, any manufacturers, importe rs and other related 
parties in the flow controllers business may submit  applications for 
registration no matter whether they are invited or not.  
 
9.2  The application for registration can be submitted b y means of an 
application letter through post, facsimile or elect ronic mail to the Water 
Supplies Department:  
 
Address: 47/F, Immigration Tower 
7 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong 
Fax number: 2824 0578 
Email: wsdinfo@wsd.gov.hk 
 
A proforma letter of application is attached in Ann ex 3. In order to ensure 
effective implementation of the Scheme, the partici pant must be committed 
to full compliance with the obligations set out in the Scheme. The proforma 
letter of application in Annex 3 details the obliga tions. The proforma 
application letter is also available at the Water S upplies Department’s 
website ( http://www.wsd.gov.hk/en/wels/index.html ) for downloading. The 
application submission can be made in either Englis h or Chinese. 
 
Information/Documents/Materials to be Submitted for  Application  
9.3  The information/material to be submitted with the a pplication are listed as 
follows: 
 
(a)  Information of the company, i.e. name, address, tel ephone number, fax Draft  
 
Page 12 of 19  
 
 number, e-mail address, website address, and contac t person, etc.); 
(b)  Information of the flow controller being applied fo r registration in the 
Scheme, i.e. brand name, model no. and/or name, flo w controller 
category, catalogue (if available), two photos (sho wing the front and 
bottom views of the flow controller) and country of  origin; 
(c)  Proposed commencement date to affix the Label to fl ow controller 
(Year _____, Month _____); 
(d)  Documentary proof that the design (if any) and prod uction system for 
the flow controller is operating according to a rec ognized international 
quality system (such as ISO 9001). The submission o f product 
drawings extracted from the product manual or desig n manual, and 
international quality system certificate on the man ufacturer can be 
considered as documentary proof of recognition of t he quality system. 
Failure to renew the recognized international quali ty system may 
render the model registration null and void; 
(e)  Detailed test report in accordance with the reporti ng requirements 
specified in Annex 1 and relevant test standards fo r safe for potable 
water use required in Section 5.2, if applicable. T he test report shall be 
issued by a recognized laboratory complying with th e requirements in 
Section 8. The required information requested in Se ctions A5, B6 and 
C5 of Annex 1 of the scheme document have to be pro vided in a single 
section of the test report; and;  
(f)  Statement on whether the testing laboratory has sat isfied with the 
requirements of Section 8. 
 
The above information is also listed in Annex 4. Up on the request of the 
Department, a reference sample for each flow contro ller to be participated 
in the Scheme shall be submitted by the participant  at his/her own cost. 
 
9.4  Company's chop should be stamped on all the documen t front covers/pages 
provided. All photocopy test reports submitted to t he Department shall be 
certified as true copy. Upon the request of the Dep artment, the participant is 
required to provide the original copy of the test r eports. 
 
Acceptance/Rejection of Application 
9.5  On receipt of the application, the Department will verify whether the flow 
controller meets the requirements based on the subm itted information and Draft  
 
Page 13 of 19  
 
 will rate the flow controller with a water efficien cy grade according to the 
flow controller’s nominal flow rate. 
 
9.6  If the application is accepted, the participant wil l be notified of the result 
within 17 working days upon the receipt of all nece ssary information 
requested. A registration certificate listing the i nformation to be displayed 
on the Label will be issued to the participant by t he Department. The 
participant will then be allowed to affix/print the  Label to the ‘registered’ 
flow controller or its packing or a swing tag secur ely fastened to the 
product/packing. The participant should ensure that  the Label is correctly 
printed and affixed to the flow controller or its p acking or a swing tag 
securely fastened to the product/packing in accorda nce with Section 7. 
 
9.7  If the application is rejected, a notification lett er with reason(s) of rejection 
will also be given to the participant within 17 wor king days upon receipt of 
all necessary information requested. 
 
9.8  The flow chart for registration is shown in Annex 5 . 
 
Participant’s Obligations 
9.9  In order to ensure effective implementation of the Scheme, the participant 
must understand and be committed to full compliance  with the obligations 
set out in the Scheme. The participant is obliged t o: 
 
(a)  submit application, the information/material requir ed in Section 9.3 
and the test results which follow the format set ou t in Sections I, II and 
III of Annex 1 and relevant test standards for safe  for potable water 
use required in Section 5.2, if applicable; 
(b)  at his/her own costs, produce the Label and affix/p rint the Label either 
to the flow controller or its packing at a prominen t location or a swing 
tag securely fastened to the product/packing in acc ordance with 
Section 7; 
(c)  ensure that the registered flow controller shall be  displayed for sale 
with the Label; 
(d)  fully inform other related parties (such as sales a gents, retailers, etc.) 
in the participant’s sale distribution network once  the flow controller is 
registered under this Scheme and notify them that t he Department may Draft  
 
Page 14 of 19  
 
 request to enter their premises to carry out the ra ndom/ad-hoc 
inspections in Section 11; 
(e)  allow random/ad-hoc inspection to be conducted by I nspecting 
Officers authorized by the Director on the register ed flow controller at 
his/her premises; 
(f)  allow the tested and performance data of the regist ered flow controller 
to be uploaded to the Department’s website for publ ic information; 
(g)  conduct re-test(s) at his/her own costs at a recogn ized laboratory if 
non-compliance is found on the registered flow cont roller. The result 
of re-test(s) shall reach the Department within the  time specified by 
the Department; 
(h)  notify the Department by means of a notification le tter (in either 
English or Chinese with the company’s chop should b e stamped on all 
submitted documents) through post, facsimile or ele ctronic mail of any 
changes of the company information (e.g. company na me). The 
notification should be made not less than 14 workin g days before the 
change. Failure to comply may render the model regi stration null and 
void. Changes of flow controller information (e.g. brand name, model 
no.) will be considered as major changes that requi re new applications 
for registration in the Scheme; and 
(i)  remove within three months all Labels from the flow  controller, its 
packing and/or the swing tag securely fastened to t he product/packing 
if it has been de-registered. 
 
9.10  The details of flow controllers registered under th is Scheme will be kept in 
a register maintained by the Department. The regist ration records will be 
regularly uploaded to the Department’s website for public information. 
 
Termination 
9.11  Under circumstances of poor performance such as: 
 
(a)  the participant failing to fulfil the obligations s et out in the Scheme; or 
(b)  the flow controller failing to perform in accordanc e with rated water 
efficiency grade and/or the performance requirement s of the Scheme 
and the participant not being able to rectify the n on-compliance within 
the time frame specified by the Department; or 
(c)  where the Director is of the opinion that registrat ion of a flow Draft  
 
Page 15 of 19  
 
 controller is contrary to the public interest, 
 
the Department may de-register a flow controller fr om the Scheme with 
immediate effect by giving the participant notice i n writing. Once a flow 
controller is de-registered, it is not allowed to a ffix a Label to it. The 
participant shall remove all Labels from the de-reg istered flow controller, 
its packing and/or the swing tag securely fastened to the product/packing 
within three months from the notice. 
 
9.12  Participant who decides to discontinue participatin g in the Scheme or to 
withdraw any registered flow controller from the Sc heme shall give at least 
three months’ advance notice to the Department. 
 
 
10.    Legal Provisions 
 
10.1  Without prejudice to any remedy a purchaser may hav e against the party 
under the law of Hong Kong, a culpable party may be  subject to the 
following sanctions. 
 
10.2  This Scheme is a voluntary scheme. However, a parti cipant who abuses the 
Scheme by giving false information on the Label may  constitute an offence 
under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, Cap. 362. 
 
10.3  Unauthorized use of the Label(s) may constitute an offence under the 
Copyright Ordinance, Cap. 528. 
 
 
11.    Compliance Monitoring and Inspection 
 
Purpose 
11.1  To uphold credibility of the Scheme and to maintain  continuous confidence 
of the consumers, compliance check on the Labels on  those flow controllers 
registered in the Scheme is necessary. In addition,  to avoid the 
unsatisfactory situation that unauthorized Labels a re used on non-registered 
flow controllers, the Department may also carry out  suitable form of 
inspection on those flow controllers which have not  been registered under Draft  
 
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 the Scheme. 
 
Scope 
11.2  The scope of inspection includes, but not limited t o, sample checking and 
testing for the following items: 
 
(a)  whether the Label is affixed/printed to registered flow controllers or 
their packing or swing tags securely fastened to th e product/packing as 
required in Section 7; 
(b)  whether the Label being displayed is of correct for mat in accordance 
with Section 7; 
(c)  whether the water efficiency grade rated by the Dep artment based on 
the data submitted by the participant is in line wi th the grade rated 
from the results of random testing conducted by the  Department; 
(d)  whether the data shown on the Label tally with the information listed 
on the registration certificate; and 
(e)  whether unregistered flow controllers display unaut horized Labels. 
 
11.3  The participants will be requested to take immediat e remedial action and 
report the follow-up action taken if non-compliance  is found on their 
registered flow controllers such as incorrect infor mation shown on the 
Label. 
 
11.4  The Department will periodically appoint a recogniz ed laboratory to 
conduct random testing on the registered flow contr ollers in accordance 
with the requirements specified in Sections I, II a nd III of Annex 1 and 
relevant test standards for safe for potable water use required in Section 5.2, 
if applicable. For a registered flow controller whi ch is found to fall within 
either one of the following cases, the Department m ay request the 
participant to conduct separate test at his/her own  cost on the registered 
flow controllers, in accordance with the testing me thodology as stated in 
Annex 1 in a recognized laboratory agreed by the De partment. 
 
(a)  The flow controller is found not meeting the perfor mance 
requirements specified in Section 5.4; or 
(b)  The flow controller is found not meeting the water efficiency grade 
rated based on the data previously submitted by the  participant in the Draft  
 
Page 17 of 19  
 
 application; or 
(c)  The measured flow rate of flow controller is found deviated from the 
registered flow rate by more/less than 20%. 
 
The re-test should be carried out on at least three  further samples of the 
flow controller. For case (a) above, the performanc e test results of the three 
flow controllers should meet the requirements speci fied in Sections 5.4 and 
5.5. If the test results fail to meet such requirem ents, the Department may 
either require the participant to withdraw his/her registration or de-register 
the flow controller rated from the Scheme. For case  (b) above, the water 
efficiency grading rated from the average nominal f low rate of the three 
flow controller samples should be the same as the g rading on the Label. 
Otherwise, the Department will require the particip ant to take appropriate 
remedial action including re-registering in the Sch eme by replacing a Label 
with correct grading and nominal flow rate for the registered flow 
controller. 
 
11.5  If non-compliance is confirmed and no remedial acti on is taken by the 
participant within the time prescribed by the Depar tment, the Department 
may order it be de-registered from the Scheme. Once  a flow controller is 
de-registered, it is not allowed to affix/print a L abel to it or its packing or 
the swing tag securely fastened to the product/pack ing. The participant shall 
remove all Labels from the de-registered flow contr oller and its packing or 
the swing tag securely fastened to the product/pack ing within three months 
from the notice. Failure to remove the Labels from the de-registered flow 
controller may contravene the relevant ordinances a s mentioned in Section 
10 above. 
 
Inspecting Officers 
11.6  The Director will authorize Inspecting Officers to carry out flow controller 
compliance monitoring and inspection. The officers will carry proper 
identification cards which will be produced during their inspection. 
However, the officers will not inform the participa nts in advance of their 
inspection. 
 
11.7  It is the participants' obligation to allow the Ins pecting Officers to gain 
access to their premises to carry out the inspectio n.   Draft  
 
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Mode of Inspection 
11.8  Inspections will be carried out on registered flow controllers under the 
Scheme on a random basis. Based on the record of th e registration, random 
inspection programmes will be developed. Inspection  will also be 
conducted on the non-registered flow controllers wi th unauthorized Labels. 
 
11.9  In addition to the random inspections, the Inspecti ng Officers will carry out 
ad-hoc inspections in response to complaints. The i tems to be inspected in 
such a case will depend upon the nature of complain ts and may include the 
items as stated in Section 11.2. 
 
11.10  Inspections will normally be carried out at the ret ail outlets and flow 
controller showrooms. Where necessary, inspection w ill also be done at 
warehouses. 
 
11.11  The inspection results will be properly recorded fo r future analysis as well 
as on evaluation of the effectiveness of the Scheme . 
 
 
12.    Complaints and Appeals 
 
12.1  The Department will be responsible for dealing with  complaints from 
participants and other parties against matters rela ted to the Scheme. 
 
Complaints Handling Procedure 
12.2  The Department shall ensure that complaints are pro perly recorded and 
handled without undue delay. 
 
12.3  The Department shall carry out investigation on com plaints and reply to 
them within a reasonable time. For complaints that require site inspection 
and laboratory test, the complainant shall be notif ied through an interim 
reply. 
 
12.4  The Department shall inform the complainant of the result or decision made 
on the complaint. 
 Draft  
 
Page 19 of 19  
 
 Appeal Procedure 
12.5  A participant may appeal against the decision or ac tion taken by the 
Department in writing to the Director stating the r eason for the appeal. 
 
12.6  The Director may decide to suspend the decision or action taken by the 
Department from the day on which the appeal is made  until such appeal is 
disposed of, withdrawn or abandoned unless such sus pension would, in the 
opinion of the Director, be contrary to public inte rest. 
 
12.7  The Director may, by notice to the appellant, requi re the appellant to attend 
meeting(s) with him or his representatives and prov ide documents and give 
evidence relevant to the appeal. 
 
12.8  The Director shall notify the appellant of his deci sion and reasons for it. 
The decision will be final. 
 
13.    Maintenance of Scheme 
 
13.1  To ensure that the Scheme can continue to operate e ffectively and 
efficiently, the Scheme will be maintained as follo ws: 
 
(a)  Continuous updating of the lists of flow controller s registered in the 
Scheme as follows: 
 
(i)  registered flow controllers with details such as re gistration 
numbers in the Scheme, dates of registration, flow rate data, 
performance data, makes, models and other related i nformation; 
and; 
(ii)  manufacturers, importers or other related parties o f the registered 
flow controllers with details such as addresses, te lephone 
numbers, e-mail addresses, etc. 
 
(b)  Periodic review of the testing methodologies, proce dures for 
registration application and compliance monitoring etc. 
 
(c)  Continuous evaluation of the effectiveness of the S cheme and 
assessment of what changes are necessary. Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
1 
 
  
 
 
Testing Guidelines for Flow Controllers 
 
 
 
Condensed Testing Requirements 
with reference to the  
ATS 5200.037.2: 2005 Standard 
 
 
 
 
- Note - 
 
This Annex is a guideline to facilitate the partici pant to grasp the context of water 
efficiency testing requirements. It makes reference  to the Appendices B and C of the 
captioned standard and focuses on the measurement o f water flow rate, the endurance 
test and watertightness for flow controllers. The p articipant should be able to obtain 
from the text a good appreciation of the testing re quirements. On the other hand, the 
captioned standard is much more comprehensive and d etailed and contains exact 
definitions. Due to condensed size, this Annex cann ot replace the captioned standard 
nor is there any intention to do so. In case of dou bt, the captioned standard should 
always be consulted. 
 
Section I of this Annex describes the methodology f or determination of Nominal Flow 
Rate. The endurance test for flow controllers are e laborated in Section II. 
 
 Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
2 
 
 Section I - Methodology for Determination of the No minal Flow 
Rate of Flow Controllers 
 
A1. Scope 
 
This section sets out the method for determining th e nominal flow rate of 
a flow controller. 
 
A2.  Principle 
 
The flow controller to be tested is supported in a test rig and water is 
passed through the test sample at dynamic flow pres sures of 150 kPa, 250 
kPa, 350 kPa and 500 kPa; when the flow rate has st abilized it is recorded 
at each of these pressures at ambient water tempera ture. 
 
A3 Apparatus 
 
The following apparatus is required: 
 
(a)  A water supply capable of delivering water at:  
(i)  A flow rate of more than 20 l/min; and 
(ii)  A dynamic flow pressure of at least 500 kPa. 
(b)  Test apparatus made from DN 15, Type B copper pipe.  The 
branch for flow pressure measurements shall be loca ted at least 
250 mm downstream of any valve or fitting. The flow  controller 
connection shall be not more than 300 mm downstream  of the 
branch for the flow pressure measurements. A typica l test 
arrangement is shown in Figure A1 below. 
(c)  A pressure gauge having an accuracy of ±2% of the t rue value. Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
3 
 
 (d)  A flow meter having an accuracy of ±2% of the true value. 
 
Figure A1 Typical Test Arrangement 
 
A4 Procedure 
 
The procedure shall be as follows: 
 
(a)  Assemble the flow controller in accordance with the  
manufacturer’s specified method of assembly. Where a flow 
controller is supplied with adjustable settings, ad just the flow 
controller to the maximum flow setting. 
(b)  Mount the test sample in the test rig with the wate r supply 
connected to the intended inlet. 
(c)  Condition the flow controller by allowing the water  to flow and 
adjusting the control valve gradually until the dyn amic flow 
pressure of 500 kPa is achieved. Maintain the flow until the flow 
and pressure remain stable for at least 1 min. 
(d)  Gradually adjust the control valve to turn off the flow of water. 
(e)  Gradually turn on the flow of water until a stabili zed flow at a 
dynamic flow pressure of 150 kPa is achieved. 
(f)  Observe the flow meter and record the flow rate at that dynamic 
flow pressure. 
Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
4 
 
 (g)  Repeat Steps (e) and (f) with the dynamic flow pres sure increased 
to 250 kPa, 350 kPa and then to 500 kPa. 
(h)  Gradually adjust the control valve to turn off the flow of water. 
(i)  Repeat Steps (e) to (h) to obtain a second reading of the flow rates 
at the range of pressures. 
(j)  Calculate and record the average flow rates at each  of the 
following dynamic pressures: 
(i)  150 kPa 
(ii)  250 kPa 
(iii)  350 kPa 
(iv)  500 kPa 
(k)  Calculate the mean of the average flow rates obtain ed in Step (j) 
(i) to (j) (iii), and record this value as the nomi nal flow rate. 
Please note that although the flow controller is te sted to 500 kPa, 
the recording of the average flow rate at that pres sure is to 
facilitate consumers in making their flow controlle r selection. 
(l)  From the averages obtained in Step (j) (i) to (j) ( iii), record the 
highest and lowest average flow rates. 
(m)  Calculate and record the maximum difference between  the highest 
and lowest average flow rates at Step (l) for the m erited function. 
 
A5 Test Report 
 
The following shall be reported: 
(a)  Manufacturer, brand name, model name and model numb er (if 
these are applicable) of the flow controller. 
(b)  Provide a table showing the average flow rate throu gh the test 
sample, at the dynamic flow pressures of: Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
5 
 
 Dynamic flow 
pressure (kPa) 150 250 350 500 
Average flow rate 
(litres/minute)     
NOTE: The average flow rates as determined in parag raph A4 (j) 
(c)  The nominal flow rate in 1 decimal place (e.g. 5.2 litres/minute). 
NOTE: As determined in paragraph A4 (k). 
(d)  The difference between the highest and lowest avera ge flow rates 
as determined in paragraph A4 (m) for the merited f unction. 
(e)  Two photos clearly showing the front view of the fl ow controller 
and the connection hole of the flow controller. 
(f)  Combine the test report sections as specified in Se ction II and III, 
if applicable, to form a complete test report. 
 
 
 
 
 Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
6 
 
 Section II  Endurance Test for Flow Controllers 
 
B1 Scope 
 
This section sets out the method by which flow cont rollers are tested for 
the endurance. The test measures the ability of flo w controllers to operate 
satisfactorily with normal heated and cold-water ap plications during the 
expected life of the device. 
 
B2 Principle 
 
The test sample is installed in a test rig and conn ected to a 
temperature-controlled heated and cold water supply  at a given pressure. 
A cyclic mechanism is used to open and close the va lve providing water 
to the test sample. On completion of the pressure c ycles, the test sample 
is retested in accordance with Section I of this An nex. 
 
B3 Application 
 
The method is applicable to the following cycle ran ge: 
 
(a)  Where the flow controller is located upstream of th e shut-off 
operating mechanism or forms part of the shut-off o perating 
mechanism: 50 000 ±500 cycles. 
(b)  For other flow controllers: 10 000 ±100 cycles. 
 
To simulate temperature changes that occur in actua l operation, the flow 
controller is also subjected to alternate supplies of heated and cold water Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
7 
 
 every 55±5 cycles between the heated water at the t emperature specified 
in paragraph B4(b) and at ambient water temperature . 
 
 
B4 Apparatus 
 
A test rig fitted with a counter to count complete cycles, and capable of – 
 
(a)  Operating the test sample through 50 000 ±500 cycle s from 0 kPa 
to 350 kPa. 
(b)  Delivering heated water at a temperature of – 
(i)  80 ±3°C or manufacturer’s maximum operating tempera ture 
±3°C for flow controllers with water taps; or  
(ii)  55 ±3°C for flow controllers with showers for bathi ng. 
(c)  Deliver a flow rate of 20 l/min at 350 kPa. 
(d)  Provide 12 ±1 cycles per min; and 
(e)  Alternate ambient and heated water every 55 ±5 cycl es. 
 
A typical test arrangement is shown in Figure B1 be low. 
  Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
8 
 
  
 
Figure B1 Typical Test Arrangement for Endurance Te st 
 
B5 Procedure 
 
The procedure shall be as follows: 
 
(a)  Test the flow controller in accordance with Section  I of this 
Annex to determine and record the initial nominal f low rate and 
average flow rates at 150 kPa, 250 kPa, 350 kPa of the test 
sample. 
(b)  Connect the test sample to the test rig. 
(c)  Adjust the supply pressures for each water supply a nd check that 
the pressures and water temperatures are as specifi ed. 
(d)  Commence the opening and closing operations of the valves 
supplying water to the test sample. 
(e)  Reset the cycle counter to zero. 
(f)  Operate the timing and control equipment to achieve  the 
following complete cycle: 
(i)  Valve opens. 
Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
9 
 
 (ii)  Valve remains open for a period of 1 +5, −0 s. 
(iii)  Valve fully closes. 
(iv)  Valve remains fully closed for 2 +5, −0 s. 
During each cycle, the test sample shall be supplie d with water 
from either the hot supply or the cold supply. Afte r every 55 ±5 
cycles, the supply shall be switched from being col d to hot and 
vice versa. 
(g)  Regularly check that the prescribed limits are bein g met 
throughout the test. The rig may be turned off to p erform this test. 
Record the results and the number of cycles at whic h these checks 
occur. 
(h)  At the completion of Step (g), retest the test samp le in accordance 
with Section I of this Annex to determine and recor d the final 
nominal flow rate and average flow rates at 150 kPa , 250 kPa, 350 
kPa of the test sample. 
(i)  Calculate the difference between the nominal flow r ates of the test 
sample determined in Step (a) and Step (h). 
 
B6 Test Report 
The following shall be reported and formed part of the test report 
specified in paragraph A5: 
(a)  Manufacturer, model, size, and category of the flow  controller. 
(b)  Water temperature of hot water supply used in parag raph B5 (f). 
(c)  Number of cycles completed. 
(d)  Initial nominal flow rate and average flow rates of  the flow 
controller determined in paragraph B5 (a). 
(e)  Final nominal flow rate and average flow rates of t he flow 
controller determined in paragraph B5 (h). Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
10 
 
 (f)  The difference between the nominal flow rates of th e test sample 
determined in paragraph B5 (i) 
 
 Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
11 
 
 Section III  Determination of Watertightness (not applicable for  a 
flow controller that is supplied as an attachment t o an 
outlet without any closing mechanism) 
 
C1 Scope 
 
This section sets out the method for testing flow c ontrollers for leakage 
through the flow controller assembly. The method is  as follows: 
 
Hydrostatic pressure test at not less than 500 kPa,  except where the 
manufacturer specifies a maximum operating pressure  the test pressure to 
be not less than 1.5 times the maximum operating pr essure. 
 
Please note that this test is not applicable for a flow controller, such as an 
aerator, that is supplied as an attachment to an ou tlet without any closing 
mechanism. 
 
C2 Principle 
The test sample is held in a test rig and hydraulic  pressure is applied over 
a predetermined time period, entrapped air being bl ed off prior to testing. 
 
C3 Apparatus 
C3.1 Pressurizing system 
Pressurizing system capable of producing the specif ied test pressure 
without shock or pulsations. A hydraulic accumulato r or pump may be Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
12 
 
 used for this purpose. The hydrostatic pressure tes t shall be conducted 
with water and the system shall be capable of provi ding the required 
pressure under no-flow conditions. 
 
C3.2 End connections 
The sample connected to the pressurizing system, su pported and held in a 
suitable jig. 
 
Connection to the flow controller inlet and pluggin g of the flow controller 
outlet, if the flow controller is supplied without any closing mechanism, 
shall be made by threaded or compression ends. The pressurizing unit 
shall be connected to the inlet of the flow control ler. 
 
External clamping forces may be applied to the fitt ing to hold the flow 
controller against the connection sealing mechanism . Adequate guarding 
shall be provided to protect the tester. 
 
The flow controller outlet, except for the flow con troller with any closing 
mechanism, shall have a flow-control valve to allow  free discharge or 
stop the flow against the pressurizing system. The free discharge shall be 
to atmosphere and readily seen. 
 
C4 Procedure 
The procedure shall be as follows: Annex 1  
 
 
                                                                                        
13 
 
 (a)  Mount the flow controller in a suitable test jig an d connect inlets to 
the pressurizing system. 
(b)  Open flow-control valve or flow controller, if appl icable, allow water 
to run and discharge freely to atmosphere and remov e air. Ensure that 
the outside of the fitting is free of drops or glob ules of water. 
(c)  Close the flow-control valve on the outlet or flow controller, if 
applicable, and pressurize the entire flow controll er assembly to the 
test pressure. Observe for sealing of end connectio ns and hold 
pressure for 10 s to 25 s.  
(d)  While the pressure is being maintained, observe for  leakage through 
the body of the flow controller. 
 
C5 Test Report 
 
The following shall be reported: 
 
(a)  Manufacturer, model, size, and category of the flow  controller. 
(b)  Test pressure applied to the flow controller. 
(c)  Any visible splits, cracks, leakage or other failur e of the flow 
controller. 
(d)  Compliance or non-compliance with the criteria spec ified. 
 
 Annex 2  
 
                                                                                        
1 
 Water Efficiency Label 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Annex 2  
 
                                                                                        
2 
 Water Efficiency Label 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes: 
1.  The soft copy of this water efficiency label (Label ) can be obtained from the 
Water Supplies Department. 
 
 
(This is only a sample design of the Label for illu strating the approximate size. It is 
subject to further artwork design.) 
 
Annex 3  
 
                                                                                        
1 
 Proforma Letter of Application 
Our ref.  
 
Tel.  
Fax.  
 
Date  
 
Water Supplies Department  
47/F, Immigration Tower  
7 Gloucester Road, Wanchai  
Hong Kong  
 
Dear Sir/Madam,  
 
Application for Registration in the Voluntary Water  Efficiency Labelling 
Scheme on Flow Controllers 
 
Our company is the (manufacturer / importer / other  related parties (please specify)*) 
of___________________(brand name, model number and/ or name of flow controller) 
in Hong Kong. We would like to apply for registrati on of the flow controller in the 
above Scheme.  
 
We understand fully our obligations as stated in th e scheme document and will 
comply with all relevant requirements, in particula r those specified below:  
 
(a)  submit application, the information/material requir ed in Section 9.3 of the 
Scheme document and the test report in accordance w ith the reporting 
requirements specified in Annex 1 and relevant test  standards for safe for 
potable water use required in Section 5.2, if appli cable;  
(b)  at our own costs, produce the Label(s) and affix/pr int the Label(s) either to 
the flow controller or its packing at a prominent l ocation or a swing tag 
securely fastened to the product/packing in accorda nce with Section 7;  
(c)  ensure that the registered flow controller shall be  displayed for sale with the 
Label(s);  
(d)  fully inform other related parties (such as sales a gents, retailers, etc.) in the 
participant’s sale distribution network once the fl ow controller is registered 
under this Scheme and notify them that the Water Su pplies Department Annex 3  
 
                                                                                        
2 
 (Department) may request to enter their premises to  carry out the 
random/ad-hoc inspections as stated in Section 11 o f the Scheme document; 
(e)  allow random/ad-hoc inspection to be conducted by I nspecting Officers 
authorized by the Director of Water Supplies on the  registered flow 
controller at his/her premises;  
(f)  allow the tested and performance data of the regist ered flow controller to be 
uploaded to the Department’s website for public inf ormation;  
(g)  conduct re-test(s) at his/her own costs at a recogn ized laboratory if 
non-compliance is found on the registered flow cont roller. The result of 
re-test(s) shall reach the Department within the ti me specified by the 
Department;  
(h)  inform the Department of any change in accordance w ith Section 9.9 (h) of 
the Scheme Document; and  
(i)  remove within three months all Labels from the flow  controller, its packing 
and/or the swing tag securely fastened to the produ ct/packing if it has been 
de-registered.  
 
The detailed information of the flow controller whi ch we apply for registration is 
shown in the attached documents (see Annex 4 for th e list of information to be 
submitted) for your processing. 
 
 
Yours faithfully,  
 
 
 
 
 
(Manufacturer/Importer/Agent's Name and Company Cho p)  
 
 
 
 
______________  
* delete as appropriate  Annex 4  
 
                                                                                        
1 
 Information/Material to be Submitted 
to the Water Supplies Department 
 
 
1.  Information of the company, i.e. name, address, tel ephone number, fax 
number, e-mail address, website address, and contac t person, and sale 
distribution network (names and addresses of the di stributor(s), etc.); 
2.  Information of the flow controller being applied fo r registration in the 
Scheme, i.e. brand name, model no. and/or name, flo w controller 
category, catalogue (if available), two photos clea rly showing the front 
and bottom views of the flow controllers and countr y of origin. 
3.  Proposed commencement date to affix the Label(s) to  flow controller 
(Year _____, Month _____). 
4.  Documentary proof that the design (if any) and prod uction system for 
the flow controller is operating according to a rec ognized international 
quality system (such as ISO 9001); 
5.  Detailed test report in accordance with the reporti ng requirements 
specified in Annex 1 and relevant test standards fo r safe for potable 
water use required in Section 5.2, if applicable. T he test report shall be 
issued by a recognized laboratory complying with th e requirements in 
Section 8. The required information requested in Se ctions A5, B6 and 
C5 of Annex 1 of the scheme document have to be pro vided in a single 
section of the test report; and; 
6.  Statement on whether the testing laboratory has sat isfied with the 
requirements of Section 8. 
 
 
Note: Company's chop should be stamped on all the d ocument front covers/pages 
provided. All test reports submitted to the Water S upplies Department (WSD) 
should be certified as true copy. Upon the request of WSD, the participant is 
required to provide the original copy of the test r eports for perusal.  Annex 5  
 
                                                                                        
1 
 Flow Chart for Registration 
 
 
 
 Commencement 
of Scheme 
Through other 
channels Through 
invitation letter  
Manufacturers 
importers, other 
related parties 
Submit application & 
information 
(see Annexes 3 and 4)  
Process 
application 
Application 
accepted?  
Register  
flow controller Rejected 
Record yes no