Is an annual inspection of a Schankanlage (draft system) mandatory?
Yes. An annual inspection of a Schankanlage (beer / beverage draft dispensing system) is generally mandatory, based on technical safety rules and food hygiene regulations.
| Type of inspection | Mandatory? | Supervising body |
|---|---|---|
| Technical safety inspection (TÜV) | Yes | TÜV or certified specialist company (Fachbetrieb) |
| Hygiene and cleanliness check | Yes | Food control authority (Lebensmittelkontrolle) |
| Microbiological testing (e.g. TVC – Total Viable Count) | Yes | Accredited hygiene laboratory |
| Criterion / standard | Requirements |
|---|---|
| DIN 6650 | Technical design, operation and maintenance requirements for beverage draft systems |
| TRSK 501 | Cleaning and maintenance schedule (regular intervals) |
| Timing of technical inspection | Every 12 months or when a new installation is put into service |
| Internal cleaning interval | Every 7 days (lines, taps, dispensing heads) |
| Full professional cleaning | Every 2 weeks by a specialised company |
| Operations log (Betriebsbuch) | Mandatory – all inspections, cleanings and maintenance must be documented |
Gas pressure (CO₂ or N₂) and the correct function of safety valves
Cleanliness of the beer / beverage lines and the tap / dispensing head
Hoses, seals and connections – inspected for corrosion, wear or leaks
Cleaning records and maintenance dates (complete and up to date?)
Compliance with labelling regulations (beer name, product origin, correct indication at the tap)
Staff training regarding safe cleaning and hygienic handling of the system
Presence and validity of the TÜV sticker / inspection label (Prüfplakette)
You receive an inspection label (Prüfplakette) or a TÜV report.
The label is usually placed visibly next to the Schankanlage, or the report is stored in the hygiene / health documentation file.
The date of the next due inspection is clearly written on the label.
| Service | Approximate cost |
|---|---|
| TÜV inspection / specialist company check | €100 – €200 |
| Regular internal cleaning (weekly) | Done internally by staff (labour cost only) |
| Monthly professional external cleaning | €50 – €100 |
| Periodic microbiological tests | €30 – €60 per sample |
| Neglect | Possible consequences |
|---|---|
| Missing or incomplete cleaning / operations log | Warning from the food control authority and obligations to improve documentation |
| Bacterial growth in taps or lines | Fine plus possible temporary shutdown of the dispense system by the authorities |
| Exceeding permissible gas pressure | Risk of explosion / accidents, TÜV violations, possibly prohibition of operation |
The editorial team of this website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and various sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur or certain details may change or may not yet be fully verified. The information provided here should therefore be regarded as an initial, non-binding guide. For binding and legally reliable advice, please always consult the competent authorities and certified specialist companies.
