Why RCM and WaterMark Matter for Head Spas?

As head spas become increasingly popular across Australian salons, many business owners are investing in new equipment. When purchasing professional head spa equipment, aesthetics and functionality are only a small part of the equation. However, behind this, compliance and safety certifications play a vital role in protecting businesses, clients and reputations.

Two of the most important certifications for head spas in Australia are RCM and WaterMark. By understanding what these are and why they matter, you can make informed investment decisions and avoid future costly risks.

What is RCM Certification?

RCM stands for Regulatory Compliance Mark. This is the Australian and New Zealand compliance mark that shows when an electrical product has met all required safety, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and radio communication standards.

This is a mandatory certification for all head spas that contain electrical components, such as pumps, heating elements, LED lights, controls, power suppliers, etc.

A RCM certification confirms that the product:

  • Meets Australian and New Zealand electrical safety laws.
  • Complies with EMC standards meaning that it will not interfere with other devices
  • Meets radio frequency requirements if wireless components are involves
  • The supplier has registered this product and holds compliance documentation

Without a RCM certification, head spas should not legally be sold or used in any Australian commercial environment.

Why RCM Matters for Head Spas

As head spas are used in a wet environment, this significantly increases the electrical risk if equipment is not properly certified.

Using non-RCM compliant Head Spas could result in:

  • Electrical faults and hazards to clients and staff.
  • Insurance claims being rejected.
  • Liability issues if an incident occurred.
  • Potential fines or compliance action.
  • Damage to a salon’s professional reputation.

When a head spa has a RCM certification, it ensures that the equipment has been designed and tested specifically for safe operation under Australian conditions.

What is WaterMark Certification?

WaterMark is the mandatory plumbing and drainage compliance certification in Australia. This means that it proved that a product connected to Australia’s water supply is safe, legal, and approved for use.

A head spa must be WaterMark certified if it connects to mains water, drainage systems, and/or backflow systems.

By holding this certification, it ensure that the product:

  • Meets all Australian plumbing standards
  • Is safe for connection to portable water
  • Will not contaminate the water supply
  • Is compatible with licensed plumbing installations

Why WaterMark Matters for Head Spas?

WaterMark certification is critical for head spas as they are directly connected to water systems.

If you use a non WaterMark certified head spa, it can lead to:

  • Licenced plumbers refusing to instal the unit
  • Failed council/building inspections
  • Insurance coverage being voided
  • Potential water contamination risks
  • Complain issues during audits or tenancy checks

In most cases, plumbers are legally prohibited from installing non WaterMark certified products.

The Risk of Non-Compliant Head Spa Equipment

Imported or low cost head spas make seem appealing, but you are often then left dealing with equipment that is not properly Australian compliant and are only certified for overseas markets.

These machines are often made with electrical and plumbing components that are not approved locally, exposing salon owners to serious operational and legal risks.

Unfortunately, this is something that is very often discovered after installation, when it is too late.

Why Compliance Protects Your Business

When you invest in RCM and WaterMark complaint head spa equipment, you are helping to ensure:

  • Client safety, which in turn gives peace of mind
  • Smooth installation process by licensed tradies
  • Compliance with Australian laws
  • Valid insurance coverage
  • Long term reliability and support

Compliance is not just a technical requirement but a business protection measure.

Our Commitment at The Online Beauty Warehouse

At The Online Beauty Warehouse, we understand how important compliance is for Australian salons.

This is why we prioritise:

  • RCM certified electrical components
  • WaterMark approved plumbing connections
  • Equipment designed specifically for Australian regulations
  • Transparent documentation and ongoing support

Our goal is to help salon owners invest with confidence, knowing that their equipment is safe, compliant, and built to last.