| Monthly
Board Report
- March 2001
Health Unit Responds to Private Drinking Water Concerns
By
Jennifer Bricker, Public Health
Inspector
When the public contacts
the Health Unit with concerns
about drinking water quality of
their own private water supply
system, it is the public health
inspector’s duty to respond
promptly and determine if the
concerns are of human health
significance. An initial
assessment is always made in order
to determine if there is a direct
affect on health caused by
bacterial or chemical
contamination or if it is simply
an aesthetic concern, such as a
high iron or calcium content.
On aesthetic concerns,
inspectors may give helpful advice
on treatment options or refer the
homeowner to a more appropriate
agency. On concerns of health
significance, we conduct an
initial assessment as follows:
- Identify and
explain results of samples
taken by the owner
- History of sampling
frequency
- Identify the
location and construction of
the well
- Assess potential
sources of contamination
- Assess concerns of
related illness in the
family
With this information we
will then determine the most
appropriate advice to give to the
homeowner to ensure that their
drinking water meets the Ontario
Drinking Water Standards. The
advice may include:
- Disinfecting the
well with chlorine or other
appropriate disinfectant
- Advising client to
boil water until further
sampling confirms safety
- Advising client not
to drink the water unless
treated
- Making repairs to
the well and surrounding
landscaping
- Installation of
disinfecting devices such as
ultra-violet light or
chlorinator systems or
- Drilling a new well
Every situation is unique
and presents its own new
challenges to the inspector. Most
inquiries are dealt with on the
telephone however site visits are
made in unusual or complicated
cases. |
Leeds,
Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit -
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