Which kind of water should NSF Standard #14 ensure safe for use?

NSF Standard #14 focuses on the safety and performance of plumbing products, specifically ensuring that materials used for the potable water supply are safe and do not leach harmful substances. This standard sets criteria for the testing and certification of materials that come into contact with drinking water to ensure they meet health-based requirements and are safe for human consumption.

This is critical because potable water is used for drinking and food preparation, which requires the highest safety standards to prevent contamination and protect public health. The compliance with NSF Standard #14 ensures that any plumbing products, such as pipes and fittings, will not introduce contaminants into the water supply.

In contrast, stormwater runoff, lateral wastewater discharge, and groundwater contamination do not pertain to the standards set by NSF Standard #14 for potable water and involve different aspects of water management and regulatory compliance.