Water Efficiency Labels Introduced for Water Fixtures Products across the Gulf Region

In a strategic move to enhance water conservation efforts in the Middle East, the GCC Standardization Organization (GSO) has mandated the implementation of the Gulf Technical Regulation for Water Consumption Conservation Products (GSO-WER) for products entering the region. 

This initiative, outlined in the GSO Technical Regulation is designed specifically for water consumption conservation products, aiming to streamline water usage for optimal social and economic benefits.

Approved during the 5th Meeting of the Ministerial Committee for Standardization Affairs of the Gulf Cooperation Council in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman on May 11, 2023, the regulation is set to take effect from the beginning of 2024. 

The regulation is poised to impact various product categories, ensuring that water consumption is rationed appropriately. This move aligns with the organization's commitment to fostering efficient and effective water use across member states.

The regulation will apply to the following product categories (from official GSO documents):

• Category 1: Taps, Showers, Sprayers
• Category 8: Urinals
• Category 9: Flow Regulators
• Category 10: Water closet tanks – oriental types
• Category 11: WC Toilets or Flush toilets

All GSO member states, including the United Arab Emirates, Kingdom of Bahrain, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Sultanate of Oman, State of Qatar, State of Kuwait, and the Republic of Yemen, are bound by the Gulf Technical Regulation for water consumption conservation products.

How can we help?

To ensure compliance with the new regulation, SGS in the UAE has been appointed as the notified body by the GSO to conduct testing on these products, playing a crucial role in the successful implementation of this groundbreaking water efficiency initiative across the region.