DEAS 153: 2017  
ICS 13.060.20  
© EAC 2017                                                                                                                         Third  Edition 2017  
 
DRAFT EAST AFRICAN STANDARD 
Packaged drinking wate r — Specification 
EAST AFRICAN COMMUNITY DEAS 153: 2017 
ii © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 Copyright notice 
This EAC document is copyright-protected by EAC. While the reproduction of this document by 
participants in the EAC standards development proce ss is permitted without prior permission from EAC, 
neither this document nor any extract from it may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form for 
any other purpose without prior written permission from EAC. 
Requests for permission to reproduce this document for the purpose of selling it should be addressed 
as shown below or to EAC’s member body in the country of the requester: 
© East African Community 2017 — All rights reserved 
East African Community  
P.O.Box 1096 
Arusha 
Tanzania 
Tel: 255 27 2504253/8 
Fax: 255 27 2504481/2504255 
E-mail: eac@eachq.org 
       Web: www.eac-quality.net 
Reproduction for sales purposes may be subject to royalty payments or a licensing agreement. 
Violators may be prosecuted. DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  iii
 Contents Page 
Foreword ...................................................................................................................... ................................... iv 
1  Scope ......................................................................................................................... .......................... 1 
2  Normative references .......................................................................................................... ............... 1 
3  Terms and definitions ......................................................................................................... ................ 3 
4  Requirements for packaged drinking water ......................................................................................  4 
4.1  General requirements ................................. ......................................................................... ............... 4 
4.2  Specific requirements ......................................................................................................................... 5 
4.2.3 Organic contaminants .......................................................................................................... .............. 7 
4.3  Microbiological contaminants ............................................................................................................ 8 
4.4  Radioactive characteristics ................................................................................................... ............. 8 
5  Packaging ..................................................................................................................... ....................... 9 
6  Labelling requirements ....................................................................................................................... 9 
6.1  The name of the product ....................................................................................................... ............. 9 
6.2  Additional labelling requirements ............................................................................................. ........ 9 
6.2.1 Mineral content ....................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.  
6.2.2  Fluoride ............................................................................................................................... ................. 9 
6.2.3 Geographic location ........................................................................................................... ................ 9 
6.2.4 Water from water distribution system .......................................................................................... ..... 9 
6.3  Labelling prohibitions ......................................................................................................................... 9 
6.4  Optional Labelling ................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.  
7  Sampling .................................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.  
7.1  Sampling requirements .......................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.  
7.2  Parameters for minimum monitoring ............................................................................................. . 10 
8  Sampling plan for packaged drinking water ................................................................................... 1 1 
Annex A (normative)  Water safety plans .......................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.  
Annex B (informative)  Surveillance ................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.  
B.1 General surveillance requireme nts ....................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.  
Bibliography .................................................................................................................. ................................. 27  
 
 DEAS 153: 2017 
iv © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 Foreword 
Development of the East African Standards has been necessitated by the need for harmonizing requirements 
governing quality of products and services in the East African Community. It is envisaged that through 
harmonized standardization, trade barriers that are encountered when goods and services are exchanged within the Community will be removed.  
In order to achieve this objective, the Community established an East African Standards Committee mandated 
to develop and issue East African Standards.
  
The Committee is composed of representatives of the Na tional Standards Bodies in Partner States, together 
with the representatives from the private sectors and consumer organizations. Draft East African Standards are circulated to stakeholders through the National Standards Bodies in the Partner States. The comments 
received are discussed and incorporated before finalization of standards, in accordance with the procedures 
of the Community. 
East African Standards are subject to review, to keep pace with technological advances. Users of the East 
African Standards are therefore expected to ensure that t hey always have the latest versions of the standards 
they are implementing
.  
DEAS 153 was prepared by Technical Committee  EASC/TC 081,  Drinking water.  
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition  (EAS 153:2014),  which has been technically 
revised.  
 DRAFT EAST AFRICAN STANDARD dEAS 153:2017
 
© EAC 2014 – All rights reserved 1
 Packaged drinking wate r — Specification 
1 Scope and field of application 
1.1 This Draft East African Standard specifies requirements and methods of sampling and test for 
packaged drinking water for direct human consumption. 
1.2 This standard applies to drinking water, carbonated drinking /sparkling drinking water and alkaline 
drinking water. 
2 Normative references 
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated 
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies. 
ASTM D 5907-13, Standard test methods for filterable matter (total dissolved solids) and non-filterable matter 
(total suspended solids) in water  
EAS 13, Containerized mineral water  
EAS 38, Labelling of prepackaged foods — Specification  
EAS 39, Hygiene in the food and drink manufacturing industry — Code of practice  
ISO 10523, Water quality 
━ Determination of pH 
ISO 11423, Water quality -- Determination of benzene and some derivatives 
ISO 12020, Water quality ━ Determination of aluminium ━ Atomic absorption spectrometric methods  
ISO 13877, Soil quality -- Determination of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons -- Method using high -
performance liquid chromatography  
ISO 14402, Water quality -- Determination of phenol index by flow analysis (FIA and CFA) 
ISO 15681 ISO 9308-1 
ISO 15089, Water quality -- Guidelines for selective immunoassays for the determination of plant treatment 
and pesticide agents 
ISO 16265, Water quality -- Determination of the methylene blue active substances (MBAS) index -- Method 
using continuous flow analysis (CFA) 
ISO 16266, Water quality 
━ Detection and enumeration of pseudomonas aeruginosa ━ Method by 
membrane filtration  DEAS 153: 2017 
2 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 ISO 21567, Microbiology of food and animal feeding stuffs ━ Horizontal method for the detection of Shigella 
spp Replace with a test method for water  
ISO 22743, Water quality -- Determination of sulfates -- Method by continuous flow analysis (CFA)  
ISO 9308-1 ISO 6059, Water quality — Determination of the sum of calcium and magnesium — EDTA titrimetric method  
ISO 6222, Water quality 
━ Enumeration of culturable microorganisms ━ Colony count by inoculation in 
nutrient agar culture media 
ISO 6332, Water quality ━ Determination of iron-spectrometric method using 1, 10-phenanthroline 
ISO 6461, Water quality ━ Detection and enumeration of the spores of sulphite reducing anaerobes 
(clostridia)  
ISO 6785, Milk and milk products -- Detection of Salmonella spp. 
ISO 6888, Microbiology of food and animal feeding stuffs ━ Horizontal method for the enumeration of 
coagulass-positive staphylococci (Staphylococcus aureus and other species)  
ISO 7027, Water quality — Determination of turbidity   
ISO 7393, Water quality -- Determination of free chlorine and total chlorine 
ISO 7887, Water quality — Examination and determination of colour  
ISO 7888, Water quality — Determination of electrical conductivity 
ISO 7899, Water quality ━ Detection and enumeration of intestinal enterococci  
ISO 7980, Water quality -- Determination of calcium and magnesium -- Atomic absorption spectrometric 
method 
ISO 8165, Water quality -- Determination of selected monovalent phenols 
ISO 8245, Water quality ━ Guidelines for the determination of total organic carbon (TOC) and dissolved 
organic carbon (DOC)  
ISO 8288, Water quality -- Determination of cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, cadmium and lead -- Flame atomic 
absorption spectrometric methods  
ISO 9297, Water quality ━ Determination of chloride ━ Silver nitrate titration with chromate indicator (Mohr’s   
method)  
ISO 9308, Water quality ━ Detection and enumeration of Escherichia coli and coliform bacteria  
ISO 9696, Water quality -- Measurement of gross alpha activity in non-saline water -- Thick source method 
ISO 9697, Water quality -- Measurement of gross beta activi ty in non-saline water -- Thick source method 
ISO 9964, Water quality ━ Determination of sodium and potassium  DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  3
 3 Terms and definitions 
For the purposes of this standard, the following terms and definitions shall apply  
3.1 
packaged drinking water 
water that has been suitably treated for human consumpti on filled and sealed in containers. It may contain 
minerals naturally occurring or intentionally added; it may contain carbon dioxide naturally occurring or 
intentionally added but does not contain sugars, sweeteners, flavourings or other food stuffs  
NOTE Packaged drinking water refers to drinking water, carbonated drinking water/sparkling drinking water and 
alkaline drinking water. 
3.2 
Carbonated drinking water /sparkling drinking water 
drinking  water  which,  after  possible  treatment and after packaging, has been made effervescent by the addition of carbon dioxide from another origin 
3.3 
alkaline drinking water  
Water meant for human consumption that has undergone treatment with alkalized filters or other permitted 
treatments to achieve a pH range of 8.6 to 10 (to be discussed further) 
3.3 
artesian well water 
water from a well tapping a confined aquifer in which the water level stands at some height above the top of 
the aquifer 
3.3 
glacial water 
water which is derived from an approved source originating from and collected within a watershed containing 
a glacier, and is not derived from a public water system 
3.4 
spring water 
water derived from an underground formation from whic h water flows naturally to the surface of the earth 
3.5 
well water 
water from a hole bored, drilled, or otherwise constructed in the ground which taps the water of an aquifer 
3.6 
purified water or demineralized water 
water which has been processed by distillation, deionization, reverse osmosis, or other suitable process, and contains no added substance, 
Alternatively, this water may be called:  
a) deionized water if it is processed by deionization; b) distilled water if the water has been processed by distillation; and 
c) reverse osmosis water if the water has been processed by reverse osmosis. 
3.7 
sterilized water  
water that is free from all types of microorganisms  DEAS 153: 2017 
4 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 3.8 
enriched water 
water with added minerals 
3.9 
prepared waters water that originates from other types of water supply suitably prepared before packaging 
3.10 
potable water water that is safe and suitable for human consumption 
3.11 
drinking water 
potable water intended for human consumption 
3.12 
treated water 
water that has undergone through processes such as flo cculation, coagulation, sedimentation, filtration and 
disinfection 
3.13 
water quality  
the chemical, physical and biological characteristics of water in respect to suitability for human consumption 
3.14 
safe water 
water that is free of physical, chemical and/or biologi cal substances  in concentrations which could cause 
illness or injury to consumers 
3.15 
surveillance  
an independent continuous, specific measurement, observation and reporting for the purpose of water quality 
management and operational activities 
3.16 
disinfection 
reduction by means of chemical agents and/or physical methods, of the number of micro-organism to a level 
that does not compromise public health 
4 Requirements for packaged drinking water 
4.1 General requirements 
4.1.1  The location, construction, operation and supervision of water supply source, its reservoirs and its 
distribution system shall be subject of approval by the relevant authority  
4.1.2 Packaged drinking water may optionally contain safe and permitted antimicrobial agents during processing. 
4.1.3   Essential minerals may be optionally added and if added they shall be declared in the label. 
4.1.4  Artesian water may be collected with the assistance of external force to enhance the natural underground 
pressure as long as such measures do not alter the physical properties, composition, and quality of water. 
4.1.5  Glacial water should contain an amount of total di ssolved solids, which at its collection point does not 
significantly differ from  that of the glacier. DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  5
 4.1.5  Spring water shall be collected only at the spring or through a borehole tapping the underground formation 
feeding the spring. There should be a natural force causing t he water to flow to the surface through a natural orifice. 
The location of the spring shall be identifiable. 
Spring water shall have all the physical properties, before treatment, and be of the same composition and quality, as 
the water that flows naturally to the surface of the earth.  
4.1.6  Packaged drinking water shall be handled under hygienic conditions stipulated in EAS 39 .  
4.2 Specific requirements 
4.2.1  physical characteristics 
The physical characteristics affecting the quality of water 
4.2.1.1 Packaged drinking water shall not have objectionable taste or odour to the consumers and shall be 
free from any foreign matter. 
4.2.1.2 Packaged drinking water shall comply with the physical characteristics in Table 1. 
Table 1 — Physical requirements 
 
 
 
  
 
 
4.2.2 Chemical characteristics 
4.2.2.1 Packaged drinking water shall comply with the chemical characteristics affecting quality indicated in 
Table 2 
Table 2 — chemical characteristics for packaged drinking water  
Sl. No. chemical characteristic  limits (mg/L max.) test Method  
ii) Total dissolved solids 1000  ASTM D 5907-13 
iii Total organic matter 0.003 ISO 8245 
iv) Total hardness, as CaCO 3, 300 ISO 6059 
v) Aluminium, ( Al) 0.2 ISO 12020 
vi) Chloride, (Cl) 250  ISO 9297 
vi) Iron (Fe)  0.3 ISO 6332 
vii) Sodium,( Na) 200 ISO 9964-1 
viii) Sulphate (SO 4) 400 ISO 22743 Sl. No. Characteristic Limits Method of test  
i) Colour (TCU max) 15  ISO 7887 
ii) Turbidity (NTU) 1 max. (NTU) ISO 7027 
iii) pHa) 6.5 – 8.5 ISO 10523 
vii) Total Suspended matter Not detectable ASTM D 5907-13 
a)  For carbonated drinking water, the pH range shall be 4 -5.9. For alkaline drinking water, 
pH  range shall be 8.6 - 10 
 DEAS 153: 2017 
6 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 ix) Zinc, (Zn) 5 ISO 8288 
x) Magnesium, (Mg) 100 ISO 7980 
xi) Calcium, (Ca) 150 ISO 7980 
xii) Free residual chlorine ( Cl 2) Not detectable ISO 7393 
xiii) potassium as (K), max 50 mg/l ISO 9964 
    
 
4.2.2.2 Inorganic substances 
Packaged drinking water shall comply with the limits of  inorganic substances affecting safety indicated in 
Table 3. 
Table 3 — Limits for inorganic substances in packaged drinking water  
Sl. No. Substance Limit 
mg/L, max. Method of test 
 
i) Arsenic, (As) 0.01 ISO 11969  
ii) Cadmium, (Cd) 0.003 ISO 5961 
iii) Lead, (Pb) 0.01 ISO 8288 
iv) Copper, (Cu) 2.000 ISO 8288 
v) Mercury (total Hg 2  0.001 ISO 12846 
vi) Manganese, ( Mn) 0.1 ISO 6333  
vii) Selenium, (Se) 0.01 ISO 9965  
viii) Ammonia (NH 3) 0.5 ISO 11732 
ix) Chromium, ( Cr) 0.05 ISO 9174 
x) Nickel, (Ni) 0.02 ISO 8288 
xi) Cyanide( CN) 0.01 ISO6703 
xii) Barium, ( Ba) 0.7 ISO 11885 
xiii) Nitrate, ( NO 3) 45 ISO 7890 
xiv) Boron(B)  0.5 ISO 9390 
xv) Fluoride,( F) 1.5 a) ISO 10359 
xvi) Bromate, (BrO 3) 0.01 ISO 15061  
xvii) Nitrite(NO 2) 0.5 ISO 6777  DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  7
 xiii) Phosphates, (PO 43-) 2.2 ISO 15681 
 uranium 0.03 ASTM D 6239-9 
a) If the product contains more than 1.0 mg/L fluoride, the following term shall appear on the label as part of, or in close 
proximity to the name of the product on in any otherwise prominent position ‘’water contains fluoride’’. 
 
4.2.3 Organic substances 
Packaged drinking water shall comply with the limits of organic contaminants affecting safety indicated in 
Table 4. 
  
Table 4 — Limits for organic substances in packaged drinking water  
 
Sl. No. Substance (Arrange alphabetical 
order) Limit µg/L max. Method of test 
i) Aromatics   
Benzene 10 ISO 11423 
 Toluene 700 
Xylene 500 
Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbon 0.7 ISO 13877 
ii) Chlorinated Alkanes and Alkenes   
Carbon tetrachloride 2 ISO 10301- 
  1,2-Dichloroethane 30 
 1,1-Dichloroethylene 0.3 
 1,1-Dichloroethene 30 
 Tetrachloroethene 40 
iii) Phenolic substances   
 Phenols 2 ISO 8165 
 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol 200 ISO 14402 
iv) Trihalomethanes   
 Chloroform 30 ASTM D 3871-
85 
v) Pesticides  
 Aldrin/Dieldrin 0.03 ISO 15089 
 Chlordane (total) 0.3 
 2,4- Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid 30  
 DDT (total) 1 
 Heptachlor and Heptachlor Epoxide 0.03 
 Hexachlorobenzene 1 DEAS 153: 2017 
8 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
  Lindane BHC 2 
 Methoxychlor 20 
vi) Surfactants (reacting with methylene 
Blue) 200 ISO 16265 
viii) Organic matter 3 ISO 8245- 
 
4.3 Microbiological contaminants 
Packaged drinking water shall comply with the limits indicated in Table 5. 
Table 5 — Microbiological limits  for packaged drinking water 
Sl. No. Type of micro-organism Limits Method of test  
i) Total viable counts at 22 ºC 
in mL, max. a) 100 ISO 6222 
Total viable counts at 37 ºC, 
in mL, max. a) 50 
ii) Total Coliforms in 100 mL Absent ISO 9308-1 
iii) E. Coli  in 100 mL Absent ISO 9308-1 
iv) Staphylococcus aureus in 
100 mL Absent ISO 6888-1 
v) Sulphite reducing anaerobes 
in100 mL Absent ISO 6461-2 
vi) Pseudomonas aeruginos a 
fluorescence in 100 mL Absent ISO 16266 
vii) Streptococcus faecalis  in 
100mL Absent ISO 7899-2 
viii) Shigella  in 100 mL Absent ISO 21567 
ix) Salmonella  in 100 mL Absent ISO 6785 
x) cryptosporidium  Absent ISO 15553 
xi) Giardia Absent 
a) This parameter is for monitoring the system at source. Total time before analysis 
should be not more than 6 h at 4 ºC. Determination of total viable counts shall start within 12 h after collection of the packaged drinking water sample.
 
 
4.4 Radioactive characteristics 
Packaged drinking water shall comply with the limits for radioactive materials stipulated in Table 6. 
Table 6 — Limits for radioactive mate rials in packaged drinking water  
Sl. No.  Radioactive 
material Limits in  
Bq/L Method of test  
i) Gross alpha activity 0.5 ISO 9696  
ii) Gross beta activity 1 ISO 9697 DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  9
  
5 Packaging 
5.1 The product shall be packaged in sealed retail containers suitable for preventing the possible 
adulteration or contamination of water and shall be in accordance with environmental regulations of Partner 
States 
5.2 The package shall be made from food grade material and strong enough to withstand normal handling 
and transportation. 
6 Labelling  
In addition to the requirements of EAS 38, the following specific labelling requirements shall apply and shall be 
legibly and indelibly marked. 
 
6.1 The name of the product 
6.1.1  The name of the product shall be as provided in the definition clauses 
6.1.2 The label may provide the following composition: Na+, K+ Ca++, Mg++, Fe++, Cl-, SO42, F-, NO3 
and bearing the pH and TDS 
6.1.3  Packaged drinking water which contains carbon dioxide at levels than those naturally occurring in the 
source of the product shall be labelled with the words ‘carbonated, carbonation added, or sparkling’. 
6.2 Additional labelling requirements 
6.2.2 Fluoride 
Packaged water containing added fluoride shall be labeled "Fluoridated water". Any water that is called 
fluoridated water shall contain not less than 0.8 mg/L fluoride ion. The product should not contain more than 
1.5 mg/L of fluoride. 
6.2.3  Geographic location  
The geographic location may be indicated on the label for artesian, spring or well water. 
6.2.4 Water from water distribution system  
When drinking water is supplied by a public or private tap water distribution system, the wording "From a 
public or private distribution system" must appear along with the name of the product on the front of the main 
label. 
6.3 Labelling prohibitions 
6.3.1  No claims concerning medicinal (preventive, alleviative or curative) or other beneficial effects relating 
to the health of the consumer shall be made in respect of the properties of the product covered by the 
standard. 
6.3.2  The way in which labels on the packaged water are presented shall not cause confusion with other 
categories of water, particularly mineral waters, as defined in the EAS 13.  DEAS 153: 2017 
10 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 6.3.3  The use of any statement or of any pictorial device, which may create confusion in the mind of the 
public or in any way mislead the public about the nature, origin, composition and properties of packaged 
drinking water put on sale, is prohibited. 
7.2  Parameters for minimum monitoring 
It is recognized that, in many instances, the cost of performing a full analysis against Table 1, Table 2, Table 
3, Table 4, Table 5, and Table 6 can be prohibitive. 
Analysis of the parameters in Table 7 may be deemed acceptable for the purpose of indicating on going levels 
of operational efficiency in a water treatment plant. However, a relevant authority may require additional tests. 
Table 7 — Parameters required for minimum monitoring 
 
Sl. No. property Test method 
a)  Conductivity or 
dissolved solids Table 1 
b)  Colour 
c)  Turbidity; 
d)  Taste 
e)  Odour 
f)  pH value 
g)  Fluoride as F- 
h)  Nitrate 
i)  Aluminium 
j)  Iron(total) 
k)  Nitrite Table 2 
l)  Ammonia 
m)  Residual free chlorine 
n)  Faecal coliform bacteria 
or E. coli; Table 5 
o)  Shigella spp 
p)  Salmonella spp 
 
If abnormal results are encountered in any of these analyses, sampling frequency shall be increased and/or 
additional analyses carried out. 
NOTE A consumer complaints register for the aesthetic qualities of the water should be maintained. DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  11
 8 Sampling plan for packaged drinking water 
Sampling plan shall be done in accordance with Annex B. 
 
 
 DEAS 153: 2017 
12 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 Annex A 
(normative)  
 
Recommended hygienic practices 
A.1 Field of application  
This annex prescribes appropriate general techniques for collecting packaged drinking water, its treatment, 
bottling, packaging, storage, transport, distribution and sale for direct consumption, so as to guarantee a safe, healthy and wholesome product. 
A.2 The definitions, terms and expressions used are the same as those given in Clause 3. 
A.3 Prescriptions of the resources of packaged drinking water. 
A.3.1 Protection of alimentary reservoirs and aquifers 
A.3.1.1 Authorization 
Packaged drinking water shall be recognized and approved as such by the relevant Authority having 
jurisdiction in the place of collection. 
A.3.1.2 Determination of the genesis of mineral waters 
As far as it is methodologically possible in each case, a precise analysis should be carried out on the origin of 
mineral waters, the period of their residence in the ground before being collected and their chemical and 
physical qualities. 
A.3.1.3 Perimeter of protection 
If possible areas wherein packaged drinking waters might be polluted or its chemical and physical qualities 
otherwise deteriorated should be determined by a re levant authority. Where indicated by hydrogeological 
conditions and considering the risks of pollution and physical, chemical and biochemical reactions, several 
perimeters with separate di mensions may be provided. 
A.3.1.4 Protective measures 
All possible precautions should be taken within the protec ted perimeters to avoid any pollution, of or external 
influence on, the chemical and physical qualities of packaged drinking water 
It is recommended that regulations be established for the di sposal of liquid, solid or gaseous waste, the use of 
substances that might deteriorate packaged drinking water (e.g. by agriculture) as well as for any possibility of 
accidental deterioration of mineral waters by natural  occurrences such as a change in the hydrogeological 
conditions. Particular consideration should be given to the following potential pollutants: bacteria, viruses, 
fertilizers, hydrocarbons, detergents, pesticides, pheno lic compounds, toxic metals, radioactive substances 
and other soluble organic or inorganic substances. Even where nature provides apparently sufficient protection against surface pollution, potential hazards s hould be taken into consideration, such as mining, 
hydraulic and engineering facilities etc. DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  13
 A.3.2 Hygiene prescriptions for collection of mineral waters 
A.3.2.1 Extraction 
The withdrawal of packaged drinking water (from springs, galleries, genuine or drilled wells) shall be 
performed in conformity with the hydrogeological conditions in such a manner as to prevent any other than the packaged drinking water from entering or, should there be pumping facilities, prevent any extraneous water 
from entering by reducing the supply. The packaged drinking water thus collected or pumped should be 
protected in such a way that it will be safe from poll ution whether caused by natu ral occurrence or actions or 
neglect or ill will. 
A.3.2.2 Materials 
The pipes, pumps or other possible devices coming into contact with packaged drinking water and used for its 
collection should be made of such material as to guarantee that are original qualities of packaged drinking 
water will not be changed. 
A.3.2.3 Protection of the extraction area 
In the immediate surroundings of springs and wells, precautionary measures should be taken to guarantee 
that no pollutant whatsoever could enter the extraction area. The extraction area should be inaccessible to 
non-authorized people by providing adequate devices (e.g. enclosure).  Any use not aiming at the collection of 
mineral waters should be forbidden in this area. 
A.3.2.4 The exploitation of natural mineral water 
The condition of the extraction facilities, areas of extr action and perimeter protecti on as well as the quality of 
the  packaged drinking water should periodically be checked. To control the stability of the chemical and 
physical particulars of the packaged drinking water derived, besides the natural variations, automatic 
measurements of the typical characteristics of water should be carried out and notified (e.g. electrical conductance, temperature, and content of carbon dioxide) or frequent partial analysis should be done. 
A.3.3 Maintenance of extraction facilities 
A.3.3.1 Technical aspects 
Methods and procedures for maintaining the extraction facilities should be hygienic and not be a potential 
hazard to human health or a source of contamination to packaged drinking water. From the hygiene standpoint, servicing of the extraction installations should meet the same standards as those required for the 
bottling or treatment. 
A.3.3.2 Equipment and reservoirs 
Equipment and reservoirs used for extraction of packaged drinking water should be constructed and 
maintained in order to minimize all hazards to human health and to avoid contamination. 
A.3.3.3 Storage at the point of extraction 
The quantity of packaged drinking water stored at the poi nt of extraction should be as low as possible. The 
storing should furthermore guarantee protection against contamination or deterioration. 
A.3.4 Transport of packaged drinking water within an establishment and from the source 
Packaging at the source is preferred.  DEAS 153: 2017 
14 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 A.3.4.1 Means of transport, piping and reservoirs  
Any vehicle, piping or reservoir used in the processing of packaged drinking water from its source to the 
bottling facilities, the latter included, should comply with the necessary requirements and be made of inert material such as ceramic and stainless steel which prevents any deterioration, be it by water, handling, 
servicing or disinfection; it should allow easy cleaning. 
A.3.4.2 Maintenance of vehicles and reservoirs 
Any vehicle or reservoir should be properly cleaned and disinfected and kept in good repair so as not to 
present any danger of contamination to packaged drinking  water and of deterioration of the essential qualities 
of packaged drinking water. 
A.4 Establishment for processing packaged drinking water — Design and facilities 
A.4.1 Location 
Establishments should be located in areas, which are free from objectionable odours, smoke, dust or other 
contaminants and are not subject to flooding. 
A.4.2 Roadways and areas used by wheeled traffic 
Such roadways and areas serving the establishment, which are within its boundaries or in its immediate vicinity, should have a hard paved surface suitable for wheeled traffic. There should be adequate drainage 
and provision should be made for protection of the extraction area where appropriate and to allow for cleaning. Adequate road signals may be provided to call the attention of road users to the existence of mineral 
waters extraction area. 
A.4.3 Building and facilities 
A.4.3.1 Type of construction 
Buildings and facilities should be of sound construction and maintained in good repair. 
A.4.3.2 Disposition of holding facilities 
Rooms for recreation, for storing or packaging of raw material and areas for the cleaning of containers to be 
reused should be apart from the bottling areas to prevent the end product from being contaminated. Raw and 
packaging materials and any other additions, which come into contact with mineral waters, should be stored 
apart from other material. 
A.4.3.3 Adequate working space should be provided to allow for satisfactory performance of all 
operations. 
A.4.3.4 The design should be such as to permit easy and adequate cleaning and to facilitate proper 
supervision of packaged drinking water hygiene.  
A.4.3.5 The buildings and facilities should be designed to provide separation by partition, location or other 
effective means between those operations, which may cause cross-contamination. 
A.4.3.6  Buildings and facilities should be designed to facilitate hygienic operations by means of a 
regulated flow in the process from the arrival of the pa ckaged drinking water at the premises to the finished 
product, and should provide for appropriate temperature conditions for the process and the product. DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  15
 A.4.3.7 packaged drinking water handling, storing and bottling areas 
A.4.3.7.1 Floors 
Where appropriate, should be of waterproof, non-absorbent, washable, non-slip and non-toxic materials, 
without crevices, and should be easy to clean and disinfect. Where appropriate, floors should slope sufficiently 
for liquids to drain to trapped outlets. 
A.4.3.7.2 Walls 
Where appropriate, should be of waterproof, non-absorbent, washable and non-toxic materials and should be 
light coloured. Up to a height appropriate for the operation they should be smooth and without crevices, and should be easy to clean and disinfect. Where appropriate, angles between walls, between walls and floors, 
and between walls and ceilings should be sealed and smoothened to facilitate cleaning. 
A.4.3.7.3 Ceilings 
Should be so designed, constructed and finished as to prevent the accumulation of dirt and minimize 
condensation, mould development and flaking, and should be easy to clean. 
A.4.3.7.4 Windows 
Windows and other openings should be so constructed as to avoid accumulation of dirt and those which open 
should be fitted with screens. Screens should be easily movable for cleaning and kept in good repair. Internal 
windowsills, if present, should be slop ed to prevent use as shelves. 
A.4.3.7.5 Doors 
Should have smooth, non-absorbent surfaces and, w here appropriate, be self-closing and close fitting. 
A.4.3.7.6 Stairs, lift cages and auxiliary structures 
Such as platforms, ladders, chutes; should be so situated and constructed as not to cause contamination to 
food. Chutes should be constructed with inspection and cleaning hatches. 
A.4.3.7.7 Piping 
Piping for packaged drinking water lines should be independent of potable and non-potable water. 
A.4.3.8 In packaged drinking water handling areas all overhead structures and fittings should be installed 
in such a manner as to avoid contamination directly or indirectly of packaged drinking water and raw materials 
by condensation and drip, and should not hamper cleaning operations. They should be insulated where 
appropriate and be so designed and finished as to prevent the accumulation of dirt and to minimize 
condensation, mould development and flaking. They should be easy to clean. 
A.4.3.9 Living quarters, toilets and areas where animals are kept should be completely separated from 
and should not open directly to mineral waters handling areas. 
A.4.3.10 Where appropriate, establishments should be so designed that access can be controlled. 
A.4.3.11 The use of material, which cannot be adequately cleaned and disinfected, such as wood, should 
be avoided unless its use would not be a source of contamination.  
A.4.3.12 Canalization, drainage lines DEAS 153: 2017 
16 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 Canalization and drainage and used water lines as well as any possible waste storage area within the 
protected perimeter should be built and maintained in such a manner as not to present any risk whatsoever of 
polluting aquifers and springs. 
A.4.3.13 Fuel storage area 
Any storage area or tank for the storing of fuels such as coal or hydrocarbons should be designed, protected, 
controlled and maintained in such a manner as not to present a risk of aquifers and springs being polluted during the storage and manipulation of these fuels. 
A.4.4 Hygienic facilities 
A.4.4.1 Water supply 
A.4.4.1.1 Ample supply of packaged drinking water under adequate pressure and suitable temperature 
should be available with adequate facilities for its storage, where necessary, and distribution with adequate 
protection against contamination. 
A.4.4.1.2 packaged drinking water, for steam production or for refrigeration or any other use should be 
carried in separate lines with no cross connection between them and without any chance of back siphonage. It 
would be desirable that these lines be identified by different colours. Steam used in direct contact with mineral 
waters and packaged drinking water contact surfaces should contain no substances, which may be hazardous 
to health or may contaminate the food.  
A.4.4.2 Effluent and waste disposal 
Establishments should have an efficient effluent and waste disposal system, which should at all times be 
maintained in good order and repair. All effluent lines (including sewer systems) should be large enough to 
carry full loads and should be so constructed as to avoid contamination of packaged drinking water supplies. 
A.4.4.3 Changing facilities and toilets 
Adequate, suitable and conveniently located changing facilities and toilets should be provided in all 
establishments. Toilets should be so designed as to ensure hygienic removal of waste matter. These areas should be well lighted, ventilated and where appropri ate heated, and should not open directly to mineral 
waters handling areas. Hand washing facilities with warm or hot and cold water, a suitable hand-cleaning 
preparation, and with suitable hygienic means of drying ha nds, should be provided adjacent to toilets and in 
such a position that the employee will have to use them when returning to the processing area.  Where hot 
and cold water are available mixing taps should be provided.  Where paper towels are used, a sufficient 
number of dispensers and receptacles should be provided near each washing facility. Care should be taken that these receptacles for used paper towels are regularly emptied. Taps of a non-hand operatable type are 
desirable. Notices should be posted directing personnel to wash their hands after using the toilet. 
A.4.4.4 Hand washing facilities in natural mineral water processing areas 
Adequate and conveniently located facilities for hand washing and drying should be provided wherever the 
process demands. Where appropriate, facilities for hand disinfection should also be provided. Warm or hot and cold water should be available and taps for mixing the two should be provided. There should be suitable 
hygienic means of drying hands. Where paper towels are used, a sufficient number of dispensers and 
receptacles should be provided adjacent to each washing facility. Taps of a non-hand operatable type are desirable. The facilities should be furnished with  properly trapped waste pipes leading to drains. 
A.4.4.5 Disinfection facilities 
Where appropriate, adequate facilities or cleaning and disinfection of working implements and equipment 
should be provided. These facilities should be constructed of corrosion resistant materials, capable of being DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  17
 easily cleaned, and should be fitted with suitable means of supplying hot and cold water in sufficient 
quantities. 
A.4.4.6 Lighting 
Adequate natural or artificial lighting should be provided throughout the establishment. Where appropriate, the 
lighting should not alter colours and the intensity should not be less than: 
a) 540 lux (50 foot candles) at all inspection points; 
b) 220 lux (20 foot candles) in work rooms; and c) 110 lux (10 foot candles) in other areas. 
Light bulbs and fixtures suspended over mineral waters in any stage of production should be of a safer type 
and protected to prevent contamination of mineral waters in case of breakage. 
A.4.4.7 Ventilation 
Adequate ventilation should be provided to prevent excessive heat, steam condensation and dust and to 
remove contaminated air. The direction of the airflow should never be from a dirty area to a clean area. 
Ventilation openings should be provided with a scree n or other protecting enclosure of non-corrodible 
material. Screens should be easily removable for cleaning. 
A.4.4.8 Facilities for storage of waste and inedible material 
Facilities should be provided for the storage of waste and inedible material prior to removal from the 
establishment. These facilities should be designed to pr event access to waste or in edible material by pests 
and to avoid contamination of packaged drinking water, equipment, buildings or roadways on the premises. 
A.4.5 Equipment and utensils 
A.4.5.1 Materials 
All equipment and utensils used in packaged drinking water handling areas and which may contact the 
packaged drinking water should be made of material which does not transmit toxic substances, odour or taste, 
is non-absorbent, is resistant to corrosion and is capable of withstanding repeated cleaning and disinfection. 
Surfaces should be smooth and free from pits and crevices. The use of wood and other materials, which cannot be adequately cleaned and disinfected, should be avoided except when their use would be a source of 
contamination. The use of different materials is exercise d in such a way that contact corrosion that can occur 
should be avoided. 
A.4.5.2 Hygienic design, construction and installation 
All equipment and utensils should be so designed and constructed as to prevent hazards and permit easy and 
thorough cleaning and disinfection. 
A.5 Establishment: Hygiene requirements 
A.5.1 Maintenance 
The buildings, equipment, utensils and all other physical facilities of the establishment, including drains, 
should be maintained in good repair and in an orderly condition. As far as practicable, rooms should be kept protected from steam, vapour and surplus water. DEAS 153: 2017 
18 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 A.5.2 Cleaning and disinfection 
A.5.2.1 Cleaning and disinfection should meet the requirements of this standard.  
A.5.2.2 To prevent contamination of packaged drinking water, all equipment and utensils should be 
cleaned as frequently as necessary and disinfected, whenever circumstances demand. 
A.5.2.3 Adequate precautions should be taken to prevent packaged drinking water from being 
contaminated during cleaning or disinfection of rooms, equipment or utensils, by water and detergents or by 
disinfectants and their solutions. Detergents and disinfectants should be suitable for the purpose intended and should be acceptable to the official agency having jurisdiction. Any residues of these agents on a surface, 
which may come in contact with packaged drinking water, should be removed by thorough rinsing with water, 
before they are or equipment is again used for handling packaged drinking water. 
A.5.2.4 Either immediately after cessation of work for the day or at such other times as may be 
appropriate, floors, including drains, auxiliary structures and walls of packaged drinking water handling areas 
should be thoroughly cleaned. 
A.5.2.5  Changing facilities and toilets should be kept clean at all times. 
A.5.2.6  Roadways and yards in the immediate vicinity of and serving the premises should be kept clean. 
A.5.3 Hygiene control programme 
A permanent cleaning and disinfection schedule should be drawn up for each establishment to ensure that all 
areas are appropriately cleaned and that critical areas, equipment and material are designated for special 
attention. An individual, who should preferably be a per manent member of the staff of the establishment and 
whose duties should be independent of production, should be appointed to be responsible for the cleanliness of the establishment. He should have a thorough understanding of the significance of contamination and the 
hazards involved. All cleaning personnel should be well trained in cleaning techniques. 
A.5.4 Storage and disposal of waste 
Waste material should be handled in such a manner as to avoid contamination of packaged drinking water. 
Care should be taken to prevent access to waste by pests. Waste should be removed from packaged drinking 
water handling and other working areas as often as necessary and at least daily. Immediately after disposal of the waste, receptables used for storage and any equipment, which has come into contact with the waste, 
should be cleaned and disinfected. The waste storage area should also be cleaned and disinfected. 
A.5.5 Exclusion of animals 
Animals that are uncontrolled or that could be a hazard to health should be excluded from establishments. 
A.5.6 Pest control 
A.5.6.1 There should be an effective and continuous programme for the control of pests. Establishments 
and surrounding areas should be regularly examined for evidence of infestation.  
A.5.6.2 Should pests gain entrance to the establishment, eradication measures should be instituted. 
Control measures involving treatment with chemical, physical or biological agents should only be undertaken by or under direct supervision of personnel who have a thorough understanding of the potential hazards to 
health resulting from the use of these agents, including those hazards which may arise from residues retained in the packaged drinking water, such measures should only be carried out in accordance with the 
recommendations of the official agency having jurisdiction. 
A.5.6.3 Pesticides should only be used if other precautionary measures cannot be used effectively. 
Before pesticides are applied, care should be taken to safeguard packaged drinking water equipment and DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  19
 utensils from contamination. After application, co ntaminated equipment and utensils should be thoroughly 
cleaned to remove residues prior to being used again.  
A.5.7 Storage of hazardous substances 
A.5.7.1 Pesticides or other substances, which may present a hazard to health, should be suitably labeled 
with a warning about their toxicity and use. They should be stored in locked rooms or cabinets used only for that purpose and dispersed and handled only by authorized and properly trained personnel or by persons 
under strict supervision of trained personnel. Extreme care should be taken to avoid contamination of packaged drinking water. 
A.5.7.2  Except when necessary for hygienic or processing purposes, no substance which could 
contaminate packaged drinking water should be used or stored in packaged drinking water handling areas. 
A.5.8 Personal effects and clothing 
Personal effects and clothing should not be deposited in packaged drinking water handling areas. 
A.6 Personnel hygiene and health requirements 
A.6.1 Hygiene training 
Managers of establishments should arrange for adequate and continuing straining of all packaged drinking 
water in hygienic handling of natural mineral water and in personal hygiene so that they understand the 
precautions necessary to prevent contamination of packaged drinking water. 
A.6.2 Medical examination 
Persons who come into contact with packaged drinking water in the course of their work should have a 
scheduled medical examination if the official agency having jurisdiction, acting on medical advice, considers that this is necessary, whether because of epidemiological considerations or the medical history of the prospective natural mineral water handler. Medical examination of packaged drinking water handlers should 
be carried out at other times when clinically or epidemiologically indicated. 
A.6.3 Communicable diseases 
The management should take care to ensure that no person, while known or suspected to be suffering from, 
or to be a carrier of a disease likely to be transmitted through food or while afflicted with infected wounds, skin infections, sores or with diarrhoea, is permitted to work in any packaged drinking water handling area in any 
capacity in which there is any likelihood of such a person directly or indirectly contaminating packaged 
drinking water with pathogenic micro-organisms. Any person so affected should immediately report to the management. 
A.6.4 Injuries 
Any persons who has a cut or wound should not continue to handle packaged drinking water contact surfaces 
until the injury is completely protected by a waterproof covering which is firmly secured, and which is 
conspicuous in colour. Adequate first-aid fac ilities should be provided for this purpose. 
A.6.5 Washing of hands 
Every person, while on duty in a packaged drinking water handling area, should wash his hands frequently 
and thoroughly with a suitable hand cleaning preparation under running water. Hands should always be 
washed before commencing work, immediately after using the toilet, after handling contaminated material and whenever else necessary. After handling any material, which might be capable of transmitting disease, hands DEAS 153: 2017 
20 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 should be washed and disinfected immediately. Notices requiring hand washing should be displayed. There 
should be adequate supervision to ensure compliance with this requirement. 
A.6.6 Personal cleanliness 
Every person engaged in packaged drinking water handling area should maintain a high degree of personal 
cleanliness while on duty, and should at all times while so engaged, wear suitable protective clothing including 
head covering and footwear, all of which should be cleanable, unless designed to be disposed of and should 
be maintained in a clean condition consistent with the nature of the work in which the person is engaged. Aprons and similar items should not be washed on the floor. When natural mineral water is manipulated by 
hand, any jewellery that cannot be adequately disinfected should be removed from the hands. Personnel 
should not wear any insecure jewellery when engaged in handling of natural mineral water. 
A.6.7 Personal behavior 
Any behavior, which could result in contamination of pa ckaged drinking water, such as eating, use of tobacco, 
chewing (e.g. gum, sticks, betel nuts, etc) or unhygienic practices such as spitting, should be prohibited in packaged drinking water handling areas. 
A.6.8 Visitors 
Precautions should be taken to prevent visitors to natural mineral water handling areas from contaminating the 
product. These may include the use of protective clothing. Visitors should observe the provisions 
recommended in A.5.8, A. 6.3, A.6.4 and A.6.7. 
A.6.9 Supervision 
Responsible for ensuring compliance by all personnel with all requirements of A.6.1 to A.6.8 inclusive should 
be specifically allocated to competent supervisory personnel. 
A.7 Establishment-hygienic processing requirements 
A.7.1 Raw material requirements 
To guarantee a good and stable quality of packaged dr inking water, certain criteria should be monitored 
regularly, namely, 
A.7.1.1 Spring discharge, temperature of the packaged drinking water. 
A.7.1.2 Appearance of the packaged drinking water. 
A.7.1.3 Odour and taste of the packaged drinking water. 
A.7.1.4 The conductance of packaged drinking water or any other adequate parameter. 
A.7.1.5 The microbiological flora. 
A.7.2 Should there be a perceptible lack in meeting the standards; the necessary corrective measures are 
immediately to be taken. 
A.7.3 Treatment 
The treatment may include decantation, filtration, airi ng and where necessary application of off takes of 
carbon dioxide. 
A.7.3.1  Processing should be supervised by technically competent personnel. DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  21
 A.7.3.2  All steps in the production process, including packaging, should be performed without 
unnecessary delay and under conditions which will prevent the possibility of contamination, deterioration, or 
the development of pathogenic and spoilage micro-organisms. 
A.7.3.3  Rough treatment of containers should be avoided to  prevent the possibility of contamination of the 
processed product. 
A.7.3.4  Treatment are necessary controls should be such as to protect against contamination or 
development of a public health hazard and against deterioration within the limits of good commercial practice. 
A.7.4 Packaging material and containers 
A.7.4.1 All packaging material should be stored in a clean and hygienic manner. The material should be 
appropriate for the product to be packed and for the expected conditions of storage and should not transmit to 
the product objectionable substances beyond the limits acceptable to the official agency having jurisdiction. 
The packaging material should be sound and should provi de appropriate protection from contamination. Only 
packaging material required for immediate use should be kept in the packing or filling area. 
A.7.4.2 Product containers should not have been used for any purpose that may lead to contamination of 
the product. In case of new containers if there is a possibility that they have been contaminated, should be 
cleaned and disinfected. When chemicals are used for these purposes, the container should be rinsed as 
prescribed under A.5.2.3. Containers should be well drained after rinsing. Used and, when necessary, unused 
containers should be inspected immediately before filling. 
A.7.5 Filling and sealing of containers 
A.7.5.1 Packaging should be done under conditions that pr eclude the introduction of contaminants into 
the product. 
A.7.5.2 The methods, equipment and material used for sealing should guarantee a tight and impervious 
sealing and should not damage the containers nor deteriorate the chemical bacteriological and organoleptic 
qualities of natural mineral water. 
A.7.6 Packaging of containers 
The packaging of containers should protect the latter from contamination and damage and allow appropriate 
handling and storing.  
A.7.7 Lot identification 
Each container shall be permanently marked in code or in clear to identify the producing factory and the lot. A lot is quantity of natural mineral water produced under identical conditions, all packages of which should bear 
a lot number that identifies the production during a particular time, interval, and usually from a particular "line" 
or other critical processing unit. 
A.7.8 Processing and production records 
Permanent, legible and dated records of pertinent processing and production details should be kept 
concerning each lot. These records should be retained for a period that exceeds the shelf life of the product. Records should also be kept of the initial distribution by lot. 
A.7.9 Storage and transport of the end product 
The end-product should be stored and transported under such conditions as will preclude contamination with 
and/or proliferation of micro-organism s and protect against deterioration of the product or damage to the 
container. During storage, periodic ins pection of the end product should take place to ensure that only natural DEAS 153: 2017 
22 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 mineral water, which is fit for human consumption, is dispatched and that end-product specifications should be 
complied with. 
 DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  23
 Annex B  
(normative) 
 
Sampling plan for mineral waters 
B.1 General requirements of sampling 
B.1.1  In drawing, preparing, storing and handling samples,  the following precautions and directions shall be 
observed; 
a) Sample shall be drawn in original sealed bottle/container and kept in protected place not exposed to 
damp air, dust or soot; and 
b) Each bottle/container in original shall be sealed and marked with full details of sampling. 
B.1.2 Scale of sampling 
B.1.2.1 Lot 
The quantity of packaged mineral waters of the same type belonging to the same batch of manufacture and 
packed in a day, shall constitute a lot. 
B.1.2.2 For ascertaining the conformity of the material to the requirements of the specification, samples 
shall be tested from each lot separately. 
B.1.2.3 The number of containers to be selected from a lot shall depend on the size of the lot and shall be 
according to Table B.1. 
Table B.1 — Scale of sampling 
Number of containers in the lot (L) Sample size (2) 
L ≤ 5000 3 
5000 < L ≤ 10000 5 
10000< L ≤ 15000 7 
L> 15000 9 
 
B.1.2.3.1 The containers shall be chosen at random from the lot. In order to ensure the randomness of 
selection, procedure given in ISO 24153;" Random sampling and randomization procedures shall be followed. 
B.1.2.4 Initially the number of cartons equal to the number of containers to be taken from the lot 
(according to column 2 of Table B.1) shall be chosen at random. These cartons thus selected shall be opened 
and the containers in these cartons examined visually for the condition of packing, external appearance and 
the fill. The lot shall be considered satisfactory for inspection of other characteristics given in the specification, 
if all the containers in the cartons opened are found satisfactory for these characteristics.  
B.1.2.5 In case of any defective container is found according to B.1.2.4, twice the number of cartons shall 
be opened and the container examined for these characteristi cs. If no defective container is found, the lot shall 
be considered satisfactory of inspection of other characteristics given in the specification. DEAS 153: 2017 
24 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 B.1.3 Preparation of test samples 
B.1.3.1 From each of the cartons opened according to B.1.2.4, three containers shall be taken from its 
different layers so as to obtain three times the required number of containers in the sample (see col. 2 of 
Table B.1). 
B.1.3.2 In case the number of cartons to be opened is according to B.1.2.4, the number of cartons equal 
to the number of containers in the sample shall be taken at random from these cartons and then the required 
number of containers picked up according to B.1.3.1. 
B.1.3.3 The sample bottles selected as in B.1.3.1 or B. 1.3.2 shall be divided at random into three equal 
sets and labeled with all the particulars of sampling. One of these sets of sampled containers shall be for the 
purchaser, another for vendor and the third for referee.  
B.1.3.4 Referee sample 
Referee sample shall consist of a set of sample containers marked for this purpose and shall bear the deals of 
the purchaser and the supplier. These shall be kept at a place agreeable to the purchaser and the supplier so 
as to be used in case of a dispute between the two. 
B.1.4 Criteria for conformity 
The lot shall be declared as conforming to the requireme nts of the relevant specification if all the parameters 
are satisfied. DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  25
 Annex C 
(informative)  
 
Water safety plans 
Note;  water safety plan shall be revised to be aligned to WHO guidelines for water safety. (to be 
checked during public review). Action TC Secretary. 
C.1 Packaged mineral waters operators shall develop, implement and maintain a water safety plan taking 
into consideration the potential risks to the safety of the water from the supply catchment area to the 
consumer. 
C.2 A water safety plan shall consist of three key components:   
a) system assessment to determine whether the mineral waters supply chain (up to the point of 
consumption) as a whole, can deliver water of a quality that meets health-based targets;  
b) identifying control measures in a mineral water system that will collectively control identified risks and 
ensure that the health-based targets are met; and  
c) management plans describing actions to be taken during normal operation or incident conditions , 
documenting the system assessment (including upgrade and improvement), monitoring, communication 
plans and supporting programmes.  
C.3 A water safety plan shall include measures to protect the source of drinking water from risks of 
pollution. 
a) measures to ensure all installations intended for the production of drinking water exclude any possibility of 
contamination. For this purpose and in particular:  
i)  the installation for collection, the pipes and the reservoirs shall be made from materials suited to the 
water and in such a way as to prevent the introduction of foreign substances in water; and 
ii) the equipment and its use for production shall meet hygienic requirements;  
b) measures to ensure an appropriate treatment such as pre-treatment processes, coagulation, flocculation, 
sedimentation, filtration and disinf ection are undertaken to assure the safety of water for the consumers; 
and 
c) appropriate operational monitoring system including monitoring parameters that can be measured and for 
which limits have been set to define the operational e ffectiveness of the activity; frequency of monitoring 
and procedures for corrective action that can be implemented in response to deviation from limits. If, during production it is found that the water is polluted, the producer shall stop all operations until the 
cause of pollution is eliminated; and a verification plan to ensure that individual components of a mineral-
waters system, and system as a whole is operating safely. DEAS 153: 2017 
26 © EAC 2017 – All rights reserved
 Annex D 
(normative) 
 
Surveillance 
D.1 General surveillance requirements  
Mineral waters producers shall ensure, at all times, the quality and safety of the water that they produce. 
Public health surveillance (that is, su rveillance of health status and trends ) contributes to verifying drinking-
water safety.  
Adequate infrastructure, proper monitoring and effective planning and management; and a system of 
independent surveillance are basic and essential requirements to ensure the safety of mineral waters.  
Surveillance shall cover the total supply network from th e source of untreated water to the consumer delivery 
points.  
A sampling programme that takes into consideration appropriate international recommendations shall be 
established and implemented. The sampling shall be regular and its frequency shall mainly depend on the 
following factors: 
a) quality of water harnessed including effects on the wa ter from climatic, human and industrial activities;  
b) type of treatment for drinking worthiness;  c) volume of water processed;  
d) risks of contamination;  
e) background of public water supply network;  
f) population served; and  g) capabilities of the analytical facility (both in term s of capacity and in terms of analytical performance). 
  
  DEAS 153: 2017 
© EAC 2017 – All rights reserved  27
 Bibliography 
[1] Guidelines for drinking water quality, fourth edition 2011, WHO. 
[2] Codex Stan 108 Adopted 1981, Amended 2011, Codex standard for natural mineral waters. EAS 153: 2014  
 
© EAC 2014  – All rights reserved