As part of the capacity building objectives of the Scheme, WHO works to support countries in strengthening regulation and conducting complementary evaluations of HWT products, and in general applying the WHO Guidelines on Drinking-water framework for assessing and managing water-related risks.

Strengthening regulation of HWT products

National regulatory authorities can play a vital role in ensuring the efficacy, safety and quality of HWTS products. However, many countries do not have health-based standards to evaluate and regulate HWTS. WHO is working to strengthen regulatory systems through a variety of approaches, including providing training on application of WHO Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality in risk-based assessments, and facilitating discussions on HWTS regulation within the larger context of water quality and health intervention regulation.

Strengthening manufacturing quality management of local HWT products

In a number of countries locally manufactured products comprise a significant share of the HWTS market. Such products are largely filters (e.g. ceramic and bio-sand) but may also include other treatment technologies such as chlorine disinfectants and flocculant-disinfectants. The performance of such products can vary widely depending on the manufacturing quality. WHO is working to understand the key factors affecting performance and strengthening quality management of locally manufactured products.