DVGW (German Technical and Scientific Association for Gas and Water)  is an association with about 14,000 members and has worked successfully in the gas and water industry for more than 150 years. Safety, hygiene and environmental protection are the main focuses of all the association's activities. DVGW is an association with about 14,000 members which establishes the generally accepted rules of technology for gas and water systems, initiates research projects and innovations and provides training on a full range of gas and water industry topics. Moreover DVGW provides an inspection and certification unit for products, individuals and companies. DVGW codes of practice lay the foundation for technical self-regulation and for the responsibility of the gas and water industry in Germany. They ensure safe gas and water supplies to the highest international standards. The not-for-profit organization was established in Frankfurt am Main in 1859. DVGW is economically independent and politically impartial.