The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is drafting a positive list for substances that can be safely used in materials which will come into contact with drinking water in the EU. The first EU positive list will be based off existing Member State lists and include ~1500 substances. It is projected to be adopted by the European Commission by 2024. Once passed, a review program implemented by ECHA will reassess all substances within 15 years.

Addition of new substances to the positive list will require an application and review by ECHA. All approved substances will only be authorized for a limited period of time. To keep substances on the EU positive list, companies will need to submit review applications. Member States will also have the power to submit dossiers to ECHA to suggest removal of substances from the list or to update current entries (e.g. allowable concentrations). Details of the information requirements and assessment methods for addition or renewal on the positive list are in development.