Posted By John Webster Anita Galvanised pipes can be used for drinking water with no health risk. For years, galvanised steel was the material of choice for cold water storage tank. Problems tend to be associated with corrosion (the gavanising is lost at joints) and for this reason their use is restricted in some countries. Local water chemistry (especially pH and hardness) will dictate suitability or otherwise. Corrosion is accelerated if used in conjunction with copper. However, only pipe and fittings approved by the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme and complying with the UK Water Regulations (Byelaws in Scotland) may be used for drinking water. Your supplier should be able to provide the necessary information. Otherwise, consult the Water Fittings and Materials Directory which is published by the WRAS.