Flexible Hose Assemblies Not Compliant With Standards Illegal For Sale Or Installation

In Australia, concerns have recently surfaced regarding the sale of flexible hose assemblies that do not meet the latest Australian Standards – AS 3718:2021 and AS 3499:2022. These non-compliant products are absent from the WaterMark Product Database, which means they are not legally permitted for sale or installation in Queensland under the Plumbing and Drainage Act and Non-Conforming Building Products legislation. 

Transition Deadline and Legal Implications

All flexible hose assemblies were required to meet the updated standards by 31 December 2024. Plumbers installing non-certified products risk legal consequences and insurance implications if those products fail and cause damage. This underscores the critical need for tradespeople to verify compliance before proceeding with installation.

Certification and Identification Requirements

Australian Standards mandate that all flexible hose assemblies be clearly marked with the specific Standard to which they are certified. However, these markings do not need to indicate the date of the latest Standard. This makes it essential for plumbers to consult the WaterMark Product Database to confirm that the product they intend to use meets current compliance requirements.

Ensuring Compliance

For the protection of both plumbers and end-users, it is imperative to use only certified products. Failure to do so can result in costly legal action, damage to property, and harm to professional reputation. Plumbers and merchants should adopt the habit of cross-referencing product certifications with the WaterMark database as a standard part of their installation process. Staying informed and vigilant about compliance requirements ensures the safety, legality, and durability of plumbing installations across Australia.

For more information, please contact MPAQ Technical team on 07 3273 0800.