The cleanability of the various materials are different. There are often substandard elastomers used that have high porosity, mould defects, and hardness variations that effect cleanability.

Adamantly NO.

The test rig reference pipes were standardized as to surface texture and length. The surface finish characteristics are evaluated during yearly audits to recertify the test rigs. The test rigs are accredited by ISO.

All of the current EHEDG guidelines are available to all members on the website.

If re-testing is required, it will be performed in the ISO accredited test rig. However, there are cases in which some EL Class I certificates can be re-certified without further testing, provided the guideline for the equipment has not changed and the equipment conforms to all hygienic design principles with no internal angles or radii and contains no elastomers.

Please see the transition plan outlined in our letter dated 26 June 2017.

EHEDG testing and certification is voluntary and an added value both for the equipment manufacturer and for the user, to clearly identify the component as hygienically designed. It is up to the company's decision if they like to apply for certification or not. Each Certificate Holder will have to make the business decision of whether or not a particular certificate is worthy of the cost of re-certification.

The decision to establish a limited lifetime of all certificates was taken by the EHEDG Executive Committee upon request of our food industry members and upon recommendation of the EHEDG Advisory Board, to clearly identify certified components compliant to state-of-the-art requirements. The proposed changes are to protect the integrity of the EHEDG Certification program. A strong and consistent certification program benefits all users. It is prejudicial to categorize these actions as “punishment”.

No. EHEDG has taken the position to be proactive in its actions to strengthen the Certification program.