Depending on the types of certification document used in the application, the validity period of GA differs. For example, an application using BSI Kitemark certificate will be granted a validity period of 3 years from the issue date of the GA letter; application through WRAS will be granted the same validity period as in the WRAS certificate; application through valid test reports issued by designated testing laboratories in Hong Kong will be granted a 5-year validity period from the last test date of the product. It should also be noted that for an integrated product utilising more than one certification document the one with the shortest validity period will be adopted.
Normally a GA application will be completed in 20 working days. Longer processing time is required if the applicants do not submit all the necessary information or certificates and thus re-submission is required. In some cases, extra time is required to countercheck the submitted certificates with the relevant overseas bodies.
BS 6920 is a standard to test for suitability of non-metallic products for use in contact with water intended for human consumption with regard to their effect on the quality of the water. If a water supply product has non-metallic components that would be in contact with water intended for human consumption, compliance with the relevant requirements in BS 6920 is required.
The Water Authority permits the use of the water supply products in fresh water plumbing systems, subject to full adherence to Waterworks installation requirements. On the other hand, the installation of these products in flushing water plumbing systems and fire services may be allowed, subject to compliance with the relevant Waterworks requirements, corrosion resistance property, etc.