Sanitary Survey Field Reference
&EPA
For Use When Conducting a Sanitary Survey of a Small Water System

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Office of Water (4606M)
EPA 816-R-17-002
August 2019

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Disclaimer
The Drinking Water Protection Division of the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water has reviewed and
approved this document for publication. This document provides guidance to
personnel conducting sanitary surveys and contains several recommended
questions. This guide uses the terms "sanitary survey" and "surveyor"
exclusively to avoid any confusion due to multiple definitions of other terms.
The term "state" where used in this document includes EPA where EPA is the
Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) primacy agency and where applicable.
The statutory provisions and EPA regulations described in this document contain
legally binding requirements. This document is not a regulation itself, nor does it
change or substitute for those provisions and regulations. Thus, it does not
impose legally binding requirements on EPA, states, or the regulated
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community. This document does not confer legal rights or impose legal
obligations upon any member of the public.
This document is not intended to be comprehensive and other approaches may
be appropriate for conducting sanitary surveys and satisfying the requirements
of the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWR) for sanitary
surveys. While EPA has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the
discussion in this document, the obligations of the regulated community are
determined by statutes, regulations or other legally binding requirements. In
the event of a conflict between the discussion in this document and any statute
or regulation, this document would not be controlling.
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Table of Contents
1	Introduction	1
2	How to Use This Guide	3
3	Ground Water Sources	5
4	Surface Water Sources	25
5	Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls	36
6	Chemical Feed and Storage Systems	50
7	Chemical Contaminant Removal	59
8	Disinfection	72
9	Turbidity Removal	89
10	Finished Water Storage Facilities	108
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11	Distribution Systems	125
12	Cross-Connections	141
13	Process Control and Compliance Monitoring	157
14	Water System Management	164
15	Other Considerations	172
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Introduction
1 Introduction
The purpose of a sanitary survey is to review a public water system (PWS)
source, facilities, equipment, operation and maintenance to evaluate the
adequacy of these elements for producing and distributing safe drinking water.
These elements provide multiple barriers for the protection of public water
supplies.
A sanitary survey serves as an important and proactive public health measure,
identifying areas that need additional attention and resources or improved
performance by the PWS to ensure continuing compliance with the NPDWR as
well as state regulations and requirements. The on-site sanitary survey also
serves to maintain continuing communication between the PWS and the State
and provides an opportunity to inform PWS personnel of new regulations or
1

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Introduction
requirements, training opportunities and other available resources and, if
appropriate, provide technical assistance.
A sanitary survey must include the following eight essential elements (40 CFR
142.16):
1.	Water source (protection,
physical components, and
condition)
2.	Water treatment
3.	Distribution system
4.	Finished water storage
5.	Pumps, pumping facilities,
and controls
6.	Monitoring, reporting, and
data verification
7.	Water system management
and operation
8.	Operator compliance with
state requirements

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How to Use This Guide
2
2 How to Use This Guide
This field guide is designed as a companion document to EPA's How to Conduct
a Sanitary Survey of Drinking Water Systems: A Learner's Guide. Key illustrations
and pictures from the EPA's Learner's Guide, along with the most relevant
questions are included in this field guide. The field guide can be used to remind
the surveyor of key components and questions for each of the sanitary survey
elements. It can also be used to show operators key components that may be an
issue.
This field guide references the voluntary consensus standards for PWSs by the
Water Supply Committee of the Great Lakes-Upper Mississippi River Board of
State and Provincial Public Health and Environmental Managers,
"Recommended Standards for Water Works, 2018 Edition" commonly referred
to as the "Ten States Standards." This field guide also references industry
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How to Use This Guide
standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), NSF International
(NSF), and the American Water Works Association (AWWA). These references
are provided for information only. Any state regulations, standards, policies, and
recommendations would be applicable to PWSs in those states.

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Ground Water Sources
3
3	Ground Water Sources
3.1	Quantity	6
3.2	Quality	7
3.3	Well	8
3.4	Springs	21
3.5	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Ground Water Sources	23
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Ground Water Sources
3.1 Quantity
•	Is the safe yield sufficient to meet current and future demands?
•	Is the quantity of the source sustainable?
•	Does the PWS have an operational master meter?
•	How many service connections are there? Does the PWS meter all
service connections?
•	Does the PWS have interconnections with neighboring PWSs or a
contingency plan for water outages?
•	Does the PWS have redundant sources?
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Ground Water Sources
3.2 Quality
•	Does the PWS have a smooth-nozzle raw water tap and treated water
tap for each well?
•	Are there any abandoned wells and have they been properly closed?
•	Are there unused or auxiliary wells connected to the distribution system?
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Ground Water Sources
3.3 Well
•	Is the well in a confined or unconfined aquifer?
•	Is the well site subject to flooding?
•	Is the well located near any immediate or potential sources of
contamination (PSOCs)?
•	Is there a Wellhead Protection Program (WHPP) in place?
•	Is there a driller's log available?
•	How deep is the well?
•	How often is drawdown measured?
•	What is the depth of the casing?
•	What is the depth of the grout seal and does it meet primacy agency
standards?
•	Does the sanitary seal meet primacy agency standards?
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Ground Water Sources
•	Does the casing extend above the floor or ground and meet primacy
agency well construction standards?
•	Does the well casing vent meet primacy agency well construction
standards?
•	If the well is in a pit, is it subject to flooding or runoff from impervious
surfaces?
•	Is the well pit checked and cleaned as part of regular maintenance?
•	Do check valves, blow-off valves, and water meters function properly and
does the PWS maintain them?
•	Has the PWS properly protected the upper termination of the well?
•	Does the PWS provide lightning protection?
•	Is the pump intake located below maximum drawdown?
•	Are check valves accessible for cleaning?
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Ground Water Sources
•	Has there been any decline in water quality or quantity over time?
•	Have the well casing and screens been inspected?
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Ground Water Sources
Figure 3-1: Sample minimum
distances from well to pollution
sources
SEPTIC
TANK

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Ground Water Sources
Table 3-1: Example minimum distances between wells & pollution sources
Source
Feet from well*
Watertight Sewers
50
Other Sewers
100
Septic Tanks
100
Sewage Field, Bed,
or Pit
200
Animal Pens and
Yards
200
* Consult the state regulatory agency for any setback requirements.
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Ground Water Sources
Figure 3-2: Components of a
drinking water well with
submersible pump
SANITARY WELL SEAL |
WATER TABLE!
WATER BEAMING SAND
CEMENT GROUT
rORMATTON SEAL
DROP!
SUHMEMSIBL£PUWPj
WATER BESRIHG SAND
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Ground Water Sources
Figure 3-3: Lineshaft
turbine upper well
construction
33
,	- WELL |
14

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Ground Water Sources
Figure 3-4: Submersible
turbine upper well
construction
PIPE PLUG
J-
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Ground Water Sources
Figure 3-5: Lower well
construction with submersible
turbine pump
CEMENT GROUT
FORMATION SEAL
PACKERj^T
SCREEN |
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Ground Water Sources
Figure 3-6: Pitless adapter detail
CONDUIT
SUBMERSIBLE CABLE I
J
fl jssmm
¦ yH dischargeTii
FITTING J
GROUT
FLEXIBLE CONNECTION
SNIFTER VALVE or
AIR CHARGER
17
33

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Ground Water Sources
Figure 3-7: Split top well caps
Water-tight cap
Two
1 inch
locking
bolts
ground level
Neoprene
cap gasket
Rounded
comer
Large
electrical
junction box
with
ir line
test block
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Ground Water Sources
3.3
Figure 3-8: Well cap without sanitary seal (left) and well cap with
sanitary seal (right)
mm
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Ground Water Sources
33
Figure 3-9: Turbine
installation detail
SAMPLING
TAP

IT
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Ground Water Sources
3.4	Springs
•	Has the PWS protected the recharge area?
•	What activities and land uses take place in the recharge area?
•	What conditions cause changes to the quality of the water?
•	Has the spring source been sampled and evaluated for surface
influence?
•	Is the site subject to flooding?
•	Is the spring's intake adequately constructed and protected?
•	Does the PWS provide adequate site protection?
•	Is the spring box properly constructed?
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Ground Water Sources
22

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Ground Water Sources
3.5 Possible Significant Deficiencies for Ground Water Sources
•	No or inadequate access buffer (restricted area) around well.
•	No emergency or secondary well.
•	Openings, holes, pitting, corrosion on well casing subjecting the well to
surface water contamination.
•	Inadequate sanitary seal.
•	Bad seal around electrical conduit to submersible pump.
•	No air venting of the well to prevent creating a vacuum within the well,
which could draw in water of questionable quality from upper strata.
•	No or cracked well pad, erosion under/around the pad, pad not sloped
away from casing, or pad too small.
•	Improperly constructed spring boxes, including cracks, holes, or lack of
seal around electrical conduit; no means of locking access hatch.
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Ground Water Sources
•	Spring supply is intermittent or inadequate to meet demand.
•	Continuing decline in water quality or capacity.
•	Spring supply is subject to surface water influence.
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Ground Water Sources
4
4	Surface Water Sources
4.1	Quantity	26
4.2	Quality	27
4.3	Source Water Protection	28
4.4	Reservoirs	29
4.5	Streams and Rivers	31
4.6	Infiltration Galleries	32
4.7	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Surface Water Sources	35
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Ground Water Sources
4.1 Quantity
•	What is the total design production capacity?
•	What is the present average daily production?
•	What is the maximum daily production?
•	Is the safe yield sufficient to meet current and future demands?
•	Is the quantity of the source adequate?
•	If permits are required, is the facility operating within the limits? Are
permits available?
•	Does the PWS have an operational master meter?
•	Does the PWS have interconnections with neighboring PWSs or a
contingency plan for water outages?
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Surface Water Sources
4.2 Quality
•	Does the PWS monitor raw water quality? Has raw water monitoring of
the source(s) indicated the presence off. coli, Giardia lamblia, or
Cryp tosporidium ?
•	Does the PWS track changes in raw water quality?
•	What conditions cause fluctuations in water quality?
•	Are there changes that could affect treatment?
•	Are there any abandoned, unused, or auxiliary sources?
•	Is there an emergency spill response plan?
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Surface Water Sources
4.3 Source Water Protection
•	Has the PWS identified possible sources of fecal contamination and
addressed them?
•	Is the PWS implementing a plan to protect watershed or aquifer-
recharge areas?
•	What is the size of the protected area and who owns it?
•	Are surveys of the watershed conducted regularly?
•	What is the nature of the protection area?
•	Is there an emergency spill response plan?
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Surface Water Sources
4.4 Reservoirs
Is the area around the intake restricted?
Are there any pollution sources near the intakes?
Is the intake structure designed to draw water from different levels?
Is the PWS drawing the highest quality water?
How often are intakes inspected?
Does the PWS add any chemicals to the reservoir?
When did the PWS last have the dam inspected for safety (if applicable)?
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Surface Water Sources
4
PUMP MOTOR
INLET VALVE OPERATORS
WATER SURFACE
WET
WELL
SCREENED INTAKES
PUMP
OISCHARGE
BACKWASH
OISCHARGE
BACKWASH
INLET
Figure 4-1: Reservoir
intake structure with
different intake levels
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Surface Water Sources
4.5	Streams and Rivers
•	Is the area around the intake restricted and clearly marked?
•	Are there any pollution sources near the intakes?
•	How often are the intakes inspected?
•	What conditions cause fluctuations in water quality?
•	Are any chemicals being added at the intake structure?
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Surface Water Sources
4.6 Infiltration Galleries
•	Does the PWS provide adequate security for the pump house and the
area around the collection area?
•	What triggers a more thorough survey of the collection systems?
•	If the supply is impounded behind a dam, when was the dam last
inspected by the state or a consulting engineer?
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Surface Water Sources
Figure 4-2: Example of
an infiltration gallery
PUMP HOUSE I
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Surface Water Sources
Figure 4-3: Ranney well
4,6
34

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Surface Water Sources
4.7 Possible Significant Deficiencies for Surface Water Sources
•	No or inadequate access buffer (restricted area) around surface
intake structure.
•	Inability to draw water from different depths at surface intakes.
•	No emergency or secondary source.
•	Cross-connections between treated and untreated water.
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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
5 Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
5.1	Pumping Equipment and Appurtenances	37
5.2	Pumping Facilities	42
5.3	Controls	44
5.4	Auxiliary Power	47
5.5	Operation and Maintenance	48
5.6	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Pumps and Pumping Facilities	49
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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
5.1 Pumping Equipment and Appurtenances
•	What are the number (including reserves), location, and type of pumps?
•	Is the actual capacity of the pumping facility adequate to meet the
demand?
•	When and how are pump capacities determined?
•	What is the condition of the equipment?
-	Are all units operable?	- Leaking water?
-	Excessive noise, vibration,	- Dirt and grime?
heat or odors?
• Are the pumping systems equipped with:
-	Check or isolation valves?
-	Pressure gauges?
-	Flow meter?
Blow-off line?
Air release valve?
Leaking lubricant?
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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
•	How often are all pump stations visited?
•	Are there any cross-connections present?
•	Are the correct types of lubricant used?
•	Is the frequency of addition and amount of lubrication adequate?
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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
Submersibiie Turbine
Figure 5-1: Submersible turbine
and lineshaft turbine pumps
CHECK VALVE |
i	 -
CQWECTIOf^_^^l | -A DWOP PIP£ \
39
5,1
Lineshaft Turbine

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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
Figure 5-2: Lineshaft
turbine pump station
ISOLATION VAIVF
| PUMP TO WASH

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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
Figure 5-3: Booster pump
station

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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
5.2	Pumping Facilities
•	Is security adequate?
•	Is the building and equipment protected from flooding?
•	What is the structural condition of the building?
•	Can the operator access and remove equipment from the building for
maintenance?
•	Is the building orderly and clean?
•	Does the PWS use the pumping station for storage?
•	Is safety equipment adequate?
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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
5,2
Figure 5-4: Pumping
station/well house

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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
5.3	Controls
•	Is the motor control system adequately designed and reliable?
•	Is the pump system equipped with an adequate failure alarm system?
•	Does the auxiliary equipment have fail-safe devices?
•	Are controls equipped with elapsed time meters?
•	Does the PWS adequately protect controls?
•	Does the PWS adequately maintain control systems?
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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
Figure 5-5: Low-flow switch
0
I '
' I
I I

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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
Figure 5-6: Turbine flow meter
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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
5.4 Auxiliary Power
•	Is auxiliary power needed and, if so, is it provided?
•	What type of auxiliary power does the PWS provide? What conditions
activate auxiliary power?
•	Does the auxiliary power unit (APU) supply ALL electrical systems at the
pumping station?
•	If the emergency generator is located inside the building, is a carbon
monoxide detector installed?
•	Where is the fuel tank located?
•	Does the PWS regularly exercise and properly test the APU?
•	Is the APU secure and maintained in good condition?
•	Are there any cross-connections between the auxiliary power system
and potable water?
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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
5.5 Operation and Maintenance
•	Are the number and skill level of the staff adequate for operating and
maintaining the pumping facilities?
•	Does the operator maintain adequate operational records for pumping
facilities?
•	How often are the pump stations visited?
•	Are the pump stations protected against vandalism and intrusion?
•	Does the water system have written standard operating procedures
(SOPs) available, and do all operators follow them?
•	Is there an established and documented preventive maintenance (PM)
program?
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Water Supply Pumps, Pumping Facilities and Controls
5.6	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Pumps and Pumping Facilities
•	Cross-connections.
•	Inadequate/inoperable or unsecure control system.
•	Inadequate alarm system for failure of booster pumps.
•	No pressure gauge on pump discharge line or on pump suction side.
•	No cut off for low pressure on pump suction side.
•	No emergency power as required by the state.
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Chemical Feed and Storage Systems
6	Chemical Feed and Storage Systems
6.1	Chemical Feed Systems	51
6.2	Fluoridation	54
6.3	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Chemical Feed Systems	58
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Chemical Feed and Storage Systems
6.1 Chemical Feed Systems
•	What chemicals are used?
•	What are the amounts of chemicals used?
•	Where is the application point of each chemical?
•	Does the PWS have adequate process control monitoring and testing
procedures?
•	What is the condition of the chemical feed equipment?
•	Does the operator routinely calibrate the chemical feed equipment?
•	Are instrumentation and controls for the process adequate, operational,
and used?
•	Is chemical storage adequate and safe?
•	Do daily operating records reflect chemical dosages and total quantities
used?
51

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Chemical Feed and Storage Systems
•	Is the chemical feed system tied to flow (i.e., flow paced)?
•	Is there an operating 4-in-l valve or equivalent on each feed pump?
•	Is there a hazardous chemicals protection and communication program
in place?
•	Is there appropriate safety equipment (e.g., cartridge respirator for
calcium hypochlorite) and personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g.,
goggles and gloves) available and in use? Does the operator have the
training needed to use the safety equipment?
•	Is the building as clean and dry as possible?
•	Is any outside chemical storage protected?
•	Are all chemicals labeled and listed as NSF or UL approved for drinking
water?
•	How many days of chemical use are stored?
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Chemical Feed and Storage Systems
53

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Chemical Feed and Storage Systems
6.2 Fluoridation
•	Can the operator answer basic questions about the fluoridation process,
including what they need to do, when, and why?
•	Is there a proper concentration of fluoride in the distribution system at
all times?
•	Does the operator test fluoride concentrations in the PWS daily?
•	Does the fluoride concentration vary from day to day?
•	Does the operator perform testing correctly?
•	How often does the operator calibrate the testing instrument? When
was the last calibration?
•	Is there a water meter on the inlet line when using a fluoride saturator?
•	How often does the operator clean the fluoride saturator tank?
•	Is there a scale for weighing the solution tank for a liquid acid system?
54

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Chemical Feed and Storage Systems
•	How often are the scales calibrated?
•	Does a fail-safe switch control the fluoride feed system?
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Chemical Feed and Storage Systems
Figure 6-2: Fluoride acid feed
system
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Chemical Feed and Storage Systems
57

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Chemical Feed and Storage Systems
6.3 Possible Significant Deficiencies for Chemical Feed Systems
•	The chemical feed pump is the wrong size, not working, or needs repair.
•	No 4-in-l valve if the pump supports a critical chemical feed process (i.e.,
fluoride, coagulant feed, or chlorine).
•	The chemical feed control system is inoperable.
•	There are cross-connections present.
•	There is no means to determine fluoride residual (e.g., a flow meter and
associated saturator to calculate the feed rate or a fluoride test kit).
•	Failure to use NSF or ANSI-approved chemicals.
•	Improperly labeled chemicals or missing labels.
•	Operator is not performing tests daily for treatment chemicals added.
•	There is no check valve between metering pump and inlet pipe to
prevent siphoning of chemical to drinking water.
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Chemical Contaminant Removal
7
7	Chemical Contaminant Removal
7.1	General Considerations	60
7.2	Reverse Osmosis (RO)	61
7.3	Corrosion Control	63
7.4	Iron and Manganese Removal	64
7.5	Organics Removal	67
7.6	Aeration	68
7.7	Water Softening	69
7.8	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Chemical Contaminant Removal	71
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Chemical Contaminant Removal
7.
7.1	General Considerations
•	What treatment process is used?
•	What contaminant is the treatment used for?
•	What are the treatment goals?
•	Is the test equipment to monitor the data appropriate and in good
working order?
•	What operational data is the PWS collecting?
•	Are all automatic controls in operation?
•	Are analyses conducted to assess removal?
•	Is the facility performing adequate process control testing?
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Chemical Contaminant Removal
7.2 Reverse Osmosis (RO)
•	What performance testing is the PWS conducting?
•	What chemicals are being fed and at what dosages?
•	Is there a pretreatment filtration step?
•	Are automatic controls in operation?
•	If the PWS blends RO-treated water with water that bypasses RO
treatment, how is the blending ratio determined and is the final water
satisfactory?
Note: The sanitary deficiencies related to chemical feed systems in 6.1, page 51,
also apply to this section.
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Chemical Contaminant Removal
CONCENTRATED BRINE
62

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Chemical Contaminant Removal
7.3 Corrosion Control
•	What are the results of lead and copper sampling during the current
monitoring period?
•	What corrosion control is being used?
•	Is the PWS required to provide Optimal Corrosion Control Treatment?
•	If applicable, is the PWS meeting the state-designated water quality
parameters at both the customers' taps and the distribution system
entry point(s)?
•	What process-control sampling does the operator conduct at the plant
and throughout the distribution system as part of the corrosion control
program?
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Chemical Contaminant Removal
7.4 Iron and Manganese Removal
•	Do visual observations confirm the removal process is performing
adequately?
•	What chemicals are used and in what amounts?
•	Where does the operator apply chemicals and how are they monitored?
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Chemical Contaminant Removal
Figure 7-2: Manganese green
sand filtration intermittent
65
7.4
-; FILTERED WATER
BACKVVASH I I FILTERED I
WATER
TO WASTE

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Chemical Contaminant Removal
Figure 7-3: Manganese green sand
filtration continuous regeneration (CR)
I pH ADJUSTMENT
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Chemical Contaminant Removal
7.5	Organics Removal
•	What contaminant is the treatment used for?
•	Which removal process does the water system use?
•	What testing does the operator conduct to determine the effectiveness
of the removal process?
•	How are the treatment processes monitored and maintained?
•	How often is GAC or ion exchange resin replaced?
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Chemical Contaminant Removal
7.6 Aeration
•	What type of aeration system is used?
•	What process-control parameters does the operator monitor to evaluate
performance?
•	Are there contaminants nearby that the blower could draw into the air
supply?
•	What types of operational problems has the facility experienced that
could contribute to poor performance of the aeration device?
•	After aeration, does the PWS adequately disinfect the effluent before it
enters the water distribution system?
•	What is the condition, both inside and outside, of the aerator?
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Chemical Contaminant Removal
7.7 Water Softening
•	What are the treatment goals?
•	Is the facility tracking the chemicals used?
•	Is the facility meeting the Total Organic Carbon (TOC) removal
requirements (if applicable) of the Stage 1 DBPR?
•	What is the operator's knowledge of the softening process?
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Chemical Contaminant Removal
7.7
70

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Chemical Contaminant Removal
7.8 Possible Significant Deficiencies for Chemical Contaminant Removal
•	Improper storage and handling of powdered activated carbon
(combustion/explosion hazard).
•	Proximity of compressors to PSOCs for aeration processes.
•	No or inoperable low flow/low pressure switches on acid, chemical,
corrosion control or scale inhibitor feed lines.
•	Missing or improper backflow prevention for chemical feed lines.
•	No process control monitoring.
•	No regular testing to determine removal performance.
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Disinfection
8
8	Disinfection
8.1	Disinfection Methods	73
8.2	Hypochlorination Systems	75
8.3	Gas Chlorination Systems	76
8.4	Chloramines	80
8.5	Ozone	81
8.6	Ultraviolet Disinfection Systems	84
8.7	Chlorine Dioxide	85
8.8	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Disinfection	88
72

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Disinfection
8.1 Disinfection Methods
•	Can the operator answer basic questions about the specifics of their
disinfection process? Do they know when and where disinfection occurs
and why they are dosing at particular sites?
•	Have there been any interruptions in disinfection? If so, why?
•	Does the operator measure and record the temperature and pH of the
water at the point of chlorine application?
•	Are spare chemical feed pumps and repair kits available?
•	Is the contact time between the point of disinfection and the first
customer adequate to meet the required inactivation?
•	Was the PWS required to prepare a disinfection profile? Is the profile
available for review?
•	How is disinfectant residual measured and recorded?
•	Is test equipment maintained and are reagents replaced?
73

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Disinfection
•	Is a proper residual entering the distribution system at all times?
•	What disinfectant residual does the PWS maintain?
74

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Disinfection
8.2 Hypochlorination Systems
•	What kind of hypochlorite is used (e.g., calcium, sodium, or others)?
•	Is there a cover on the solution tank to minimize corrosive vapors?
•	Is there adequate spill containment?
•	What safety procedures does the operator follow during chemical
handling and mixing?
75

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Disinfection
8.3 Gas Chlorination Systems
•	How does the operator detect leaks? Are automatic detectors or some
manual form of detection used?
•	Is the sensor tube for the automatic detector near the floor level? Is
there a screen on the end of tube?
•	Is the chlorination equipment properly contained?
•	Are there any cross-connections in the chlorine feed make-up water or
injection points?
•	Is there an alarm tied to interruptions in the chlorine feed?
•	Does the PWS use automation, flow pacing, chlorine residual analyzer, or
another system to adjust feed rates? Does it work?
•	Is there more than one cylinder, and are they equipped with a manifold
and an automatic switch-over to avoid running out of chlorine?
•	Are the cylinders on a working scale?
76

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Disinfection
•	Are the valves on the tanks only open a quarter turn and have a wrench
in place for quick turnoff?
•	Does the operator properly mark all cylinders and restrain them to
prevent falling?
•	Does the operator follow safe practices during cylinder changes and
maintenance?
•	How many individuals are present when the chlorine cylinders are
changed?
•	What type of respiratory protection is used?
•	Is there an emergency plan, and when was it last practiced?
•	What is the operating condition of the chlorinator?
•	Is redundant equipment available, and are there adequate spare parts?
•	Are the appropriate lighting, guards, and railings in place? Are there
other safety concerns, such as electrical hazards?
77

-------
Disinfection
83

-------
Disinfection
Figure 8-2: Ammonia
squeeze bottle used to
detect chlorine gas leaks
Spout
Cap
Plastic Squeeze
Bottle
Cellulose Spong*
^-Ammonia Watoi
V4Fuil
79

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Disinfection
8.4 Chloramines
•	What are the treatment objectives for chloramination?
•	What type of process control monitoring does the operator conduct?
•	What are the points of application for the chlorine and ammonia?
•	Where is chloramine residual being monitored?
•	Does the PWS sell water to communities that use chlorine instead of
chloramines?
•	Has management provided for the safety of the operator responsible for
the O&M of the chloramination processes?
•	Has the water system notified critical populations of the use of
chloramines?
80

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Disinfection
8.5 Ozone
•	Why is the PWS using ozone?
•	What secondary disinfectant does the water system use?
•	What type of process control monitoring does the PWS conduct?
•	How and where does the PWS generate ozone?
•	Is there an ozone monitoring plan to address the entire ozonation
process?
•	What are the application points for the ozone?
•	How is ozone inactivation (CT) determined?
•	Does the PWS have an operation and maintenance (O&M) plan for the
ozone system?
•	Is the PWS complying with the MCLfor bromate and the monitoring
requirements under the DBPRs?
81

-------
Disinfection
• Has management provided for the safety of the operators responsible
for the O&M of all ozonation processes?
82

-------
Disinfection
83

-------
Disinfection
8.
8.6 Ultraviolet Disinfection Systems
•	Is the PWS meeting its UV dose and inactivation requirements?
•	If required, has the PWS met the requirement to treat at least 95% of the
water delivered to the public within validated conditions for each
month?
•	Does the operator monitor the UV reactor for validated conditions?
•	Are UV reactor maintenance procedures in place and followed?
•	Is upstream treatment performance meeting the requirements?
•	Have there been changes to the treatment train?
-	Inlet and outlet piping or channel conditions.
-	Plant hydraulics or in plant flows.
-	Any upstream treatment.
-	UV lamps or sensors-make/models should match those approved by
the state
84

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Disinfection
8.
8.7 Chlorine Dioxide
•	Why is the water system using chlorine dioxide and what are the
treatment objectives?
•	Is the water system using sodium chlorite and, if so, at what percentage?
•	How and where is the sodium chlorite stored?
•	What is the secondary disinfectant being used?
•	What is the purity of the chlorine dioxide produced?
•	Does the operator adjust the chlorine gas feed rate as required and
recalibrate the equipment according to manufacturer specifications?
•	Are sample petcocks available to perform the required sampling?
•	What are the application points for the chlorine dioxide? Is the CT value
properly calculated?
85

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Disinfection
•	Is the PWS complying with the MRDL for chlorine dioxide and MCL for
chlorite as well as the monitoring requirements under the DBPRs?
•	Has management provided for the safety of the operators responsible
for the O&M of the chlorine dioxide generation processes?
86

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Disinfection
Figure 8-4:
Chlorine
dioxide
generator:
Recycled
aqueous
chlorine
method
23%Aeeva
Soriiun Cr.Vm t>
joluticft TuaX
iox
Sixfann Oibnti
SoluQonTtiik
87

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Disinfection
8.8 Possible Significant Deficiencies for Disinfection
•	Missing no-flow/fail-safe device for the chlorination system.
•	Incompatible storage of chemicals with chlorine.
•	No redundant chemical feed pumps for disinfection system.
•	Inoperable chemical feed pump causes interruption in disinfection
process.
•	Cross-connection in disinfection process.
•	No backflow/back siphonage prevention devices for make-up water.
•	UV lamps are not cleaned routinely or problems meeting inactivation
requirements.
•	No process control monitoring.
•	Gas chlorine cylinders are not properly restrained.
•	No determination of inactivation.
•	There are interruptions in the requisite disinfection process.
88

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Turbidity Removal
9 Turbidity Removal
9.1	Conventional Treatment	90
9.1.1	Coagulation - Rapid Mix	91
9.1.2	Sedimentation	92
9.1.3	Filtration	92
9.2	Direct Filtration	94
9.3	Package Filtration	96
9.4	Slow Sand Filtration	98
9.5	Diatomaceous Earth Filtration	100
9.6	Bag and Cartridge Filtration	102
9.7	Membrane Filtration	104
9.8	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Turbidity Removal	106
89

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Turbidity Removal
9.1 Conventional Treatment
SOURCE
Figure 9-1:
Conventional
filtration
treatment
FINISHED
WATER 1

4-
STATIC MIXER
(COAGULATION)
OR
FLASH MIX
CHEMICAL CHAMBER
FEED
FLOCCULATION
SEDIMENTATION
90

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Turbidity Removal
9.1.1 Coagulation - Rapid Mix
•	Does treatment include continuous coagulant feed when the plant is in
operation?
•	What type and combination of coagulants are used?
•	Does the operator understand the purpose of each coagulant chemical
used?
•	How does the operator determine the dosage of each coagulant
chemical?
•	Is there a process control plan for coagulation addition?
•	Is the rapid mix process adequate?
•	Is the flocculation process adequate?
91

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Turbidity Removal
9.1.2	Sedimentation
•	Is the sedimentation process performing adequately?
•	Is the clarifier performing adequately?
•	How does the PWS start and stop operations?
•	Is there visible floe carryover onto the filters?
•	Does the operator monitor settled water turbidity?
9.1.3	Filtration
•	Is the filtration process performing adequately?
•	Is there adequate pretreatment?
•	Are there rapid fluctuations in the flow through the filter?
•	What controls and assessments does the operator use to evaluate filter
performance?
92

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Removal
•	Are instrumentation and controls for the process adequate, operational,
and in service?
•	What initiates a backwash, and is there a SOP in place?
•	What is the return to service process for filters?
•	How is the backwash water treated and returned?
•	What is the rate of backwash water return flow?
•	If the plant is a conventional plant, is it meeting the DBP precursor
removal requirements of the Stage 1 DBPR?
•	Is there a plan for media replacement and filter inspection?
93

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Turbidity Removal
9.2 Direct Filtration
SOURCE
Figure 9-2: Direct
filtration treatment
STATIC MIXER
(COAGULATION)
OR
FLASH MIX
CHEMICAL CHAMBER
FEED
FLOCCULATION
94

-------
Removal
•	See the questions, in 9.1.1, page 91, on considerations for
coagulation-rapid mix.
•	See the questions, in 9.1.3, page 92, on considerations for filtration.
•	Does the source water or treated water quality still justify direct
filtration?
95

-------
Turbidity Removal
TREATED
WATER
TO
CLEAR
WELL
9.3 Package Filtration
Figure 9-3: Package plant
96

-------
Removal
•	See the questions, in 9.1.1, page 91, for considerations for coagulation-
rapid mix.
•	See the questions, in 9.1.2, page 92, for considerations for
sedimentation.
•	See the questions, in 9.1.3, page 92, for considerations for filtration.
•	Is there any cross-contamination at common walls between water at
different stages of treatment?
•	Is the package plant operated within design criteria or state
requirements or limits?
•	Is the operator maintaining the plant according to manufacturer
recommendations?
•	Are repair and replacement parts still available from the manufacturer?
97

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Turbidity Removal
9.4 Slow Sand Filtration
TAIIWATER
Figure 9-4: Slow
sand filtration
FINISHED WATER I
[jHEADWATE^j
98

-------
Turbidity Removal
•	What pretreatment does the water system use, if any?
•	What method does the operator use to clean the slow sand filters?
•	Are there redundant slow sand filters?
•	Is the slow sand filter covered and light-free?
•	Are some filters taken out of service seasonally?
•	What is the filter maintenance schedule and return- to-service process?
99

-------
Turbidity Removal
9.5 Diatomaceous Earth Filtration
Figure 9-5: Diatomaceous earth filtration
FILTERED
WATER CHAMBER
ELEMENTS OF
METAL SCREEN
CERAMIC OR
PLASTIC MESH (FABRIC)
PRECOAT
DIATOMACEOUS
EARTH (l/ie1)
GATE & DOUBLE
CHECK VALVES
FILTERED WATER
TO SYSTEM | I
HOLLOW FLUTED
SEPTUM
WIRE OR
PLASTIC CLOTH
| TO WASTE
100

-------
Turbidity Removal
•	What levels of pre-coat and continuous body feed does the operator
maintain?
•	How does the operator handle flow interruptions?
•	When does the operator initiate backwashing?
101

-------
Turbidity Removal
9.6 Bag and Cartridge Filtration
Figure 9-6: Bag and
cartridge filtration
I i
50fJ ROUGHING FILTER \ \ 5\i FILTER |
OR BASKET STRAINER I	1

102

-------
Turbidity Removal
•	What type of pretreatment is used?
•	Have the bags or cartridges undergone a demonstration study to show
removal achieved?
•	Does the final unit provide the required level of removal?
•	What are the average and the shortest times between filter
replacements?
•	How is filter integrity and the need for filter replacement monitored?
•	Is the filter being used the same model as was approved by the state?
•	Is there an inventory of replacement filters and are replacement filters
readily available from the manufacturer?
103

-------
Turbidity Removal
9.7 Membrane Filtration
Figure 9-7: Spiral wound
reverse osmosis filter core
Permeate
Spacer
Feed Water
(Raw Water)
Mesh
Spacer
Feed Water
(Raw Water)
Concentrate
(Reject Water)
Permeate
(Treated Water)
RO Membrane
104

-------
Turbidity Removal
•	What type of membrane is used, and what is its intended purpose?
•	What type of pretreatment is used?
•	How is membrane integrity being determined?
•	What measures does the operator use to control membrane fouling?
•	What is the percentage recovery and what technique does the operator
employ for backwash?
•	If backwash is recycled, how is it treated and what is the percentage
added to the raw water supply?
•	What is the frequency of cleaning and disposal of cleaning fluids and
brines?
•	What is the condition of the plant, gauges, and appurtenances?
•	Is the membrane filtration plant's operation consistent with primacy
agency conditions or limits?
•	What is the replacement schedule for the membranes?
105

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Turbidity Removal
9.8 Possible Significant Deficiencies for Turbidity Removal
•	Failure to calibrate turbidity monitoring equipment or to record above
the regulatory threshold (i.e., "capped").
•	Inadequate process control testing or record keeping.
•	Key chemical feeds are not flow-paced.
•	No overfeed protection of a chemical feed (lack of flow-control switch).
•	Inadequate process control sample locations (e.g., no way to measure
dosages).
•	Insufficient or missing backflow prevention for surface wash or air scour
filters.
•	Intermittent coagulant feed.
•	Insufficient mixing or too vigorous mixing at chemical feed points.
106

-------
Turbidity Removal
•	Exceeding any of the NPDWRs turbidity performance requirements
resulting in treatment technique violations.
•	No integrity testing of membranes.
•	Membrane, bag, or cartridge filters replaced with unapproved models.
•	Alternative filtration technologies not approved by the state or not
operated according to state-approved conditions.
107

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Finished Water Storage Facilities	10
10 Finished Water Storage Facilities
10.1	Gravity Storage	109
10.2	Hydropneumatic Storage Tanks	119
10.3	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Storage Facilities	123
108

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
10.1 Gravity Storage
•	Is the storage system designed for direct pumping or floating on the
distribution system?
•	Is the storage capacity adequate?
•	Is the storage over-sized?
•	Do storage tanks turn over regularly?
•	Is the elevation of the tank sufficient to maintain pressure throughout
the distribution system?
•	Is there a need for separate pressure zones?
•	Does the operator understand the controls that regulate tank water
levels?
•	Are control systems reliable and properly protected?
•	Is the water level indicator operational?
109

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
1
•	Is there a cleaning, inspection, and maintenance program?
•	Is all finished water storage covered?
-	Air Vents:
¦	Is the vent equipped with a non-corrodible screen that meets state
or other standards?
¦	Does the vent terminate above the roof and meet state or other
standards?
-	Overflows:
¦	Does the overflow outlet terminate above the ground and is it
protected against flooding and animal intrusion?
¦	Is the overflow outlet protected with a non-corrodible screen or
flapper valve?
¦	Are the tank drain and overflow pipe directly connected to a storm
drain or sanitary sewer?
110

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
•	What is the design and condition of the rooftop access hatches?
•	Is the seal on the rooftop access hatch in place and in good condition?
•	Does the operator keep the access hatch locked, and do authorized
personnel have access to the keys or combinations?
•	Condition of tank drain pipe?
•	Are there any other openings in the tank walls, wall-to-roof connections,
or the roof?
•	Are the cathodic protection access plates watertight?
•	If there is roof penetration for a water level indicator cable, is it sealed to
prevent contamination?
•	Are there other unsealed roof penetrations?
•	Are there sewer lines in the vicinity of an in-ground storage tank and
does the separation distance meet state requirements?
Ill

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
•	Are there cracks in the walls or covers of the in-ground concrete storage
tanks?
•	Is there evidence of foundation pad damage or foundation to tank
connection damage?
•	Is there protection from flooding?
•	Can the tank be isolated from the PWS? Are there procedures to sustain
the water supply when the storage tank is out of service for
maintenance?
•	Has the PWS protected the site against vandalism?
•	Does the PWS use approved interior surface coatings?
•	Does the PWS monitor for coliform and volatile organic contaminants
(VOCs) before returning the tank to service?
•	Has the PWS protected the tank against icing?
•	Are there indications that the tank may not be structurally sound?
112

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Finished Water Storage Facilities
•	Has the PWS protected the tank against corrosion?
•	Has the tank been protected for seismic events?
•	Does the operator or contractors properly disinfect storage tanks
following interior maintenance?
•	Are emergency procedures established?
•	Does the operator follow safety precautions?
•	If the tank is wooden, does the operator manage it in a manner to
minimize an increase in bacterial count?
113

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
101
Figure 10-1: In-
ground storage
SHALLOW
GROUND
WATER
LEVEL
BAFF1 PS |
114

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
Figure 10-2:
Elevated storage
and ground level
storage
mm
ELEVATED
115

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
Figure 10-3: Large vs. narrow diameter tanks
116
101

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
10
Figure 10-4: Tank
components direct
pumping (dedicated
inlet and outlet)
OVERFLOW |
117

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
118
Figure 10-5: Side stream
components for tank with
single inlet/outlet

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
10.2
10.2 Hydropneumatic Storage Tanks
•	Is tank capacity
adequate?
•	Does the low pressure
"pump-on" level
maintain adequate
distribution system
pressure?
•	Are instruments and controls adequate and operational? Does the
operator use and maintain them?
•	What is the cycle rate and air-to-water ratio?
•	Does the operator properly protect the tank and the controls?
•	Are emergency procedures established?
•	Are there back-up systems?
119
Tank Capacity Formula
Tank capacity = at least 10 times capacity of
the well's largest pump; and,
Well pumps = at least 10 times average daily
consumption rate.

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
10.2
•	Are the interior and exterior surfaces in good condition?
•	Are tank supports adequate and structurally sound?
•	Is the recharge air free of pollutants such as oil from an air compressor?
•	What is the physical condition of the outside hatch?
•	Are the pump and source capable of meeting the PWS's maximum
momentary demand?
CAUTION: Hydropneumatic tanks are pressure vessels. A pressure of 50 psi is
equivalent to 3.5 tons per square foot of tank surface area. DO NOT TAP ON THE
TANKS!
120

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
Figure 10-6: Styles of pressure tanks
AIR VOLUME
CONTROL
AIR
121

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
Figure 10-7: Lineshaft
turbine pump and
hydropneumatic tank
10.2
122

-------
Finished Water Storage Facilities
10.3 Possible Significant Deficiencies for Storage Facilities
•	Access hatches not locked or hatch improperly designed (shoebox lid
with intact seal).
•	Holes left in tank by removal of cathodic protection rods or any other
reason.
•	Missing or damaged screen on air vents or overflow outlets. Overflows
with flapper covers should still have a screen since debris, ice, snow, etc.,
can prevent them from closing.
•	Erosion around the foundation of storage tanks which could lead to
instability and eventual collapse of the tank (elevated or ground
storage).
•	Cracks in the walls of concrete storage facilities.
•	Inadequate venting or missing air vents. No or improper screening of
vents; vents do not terminate adequate distance above the surface.
123

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Finished Water Storage Facilities
•	Evidence of animals, insects in the storage facility, or signs of tampering.
•	No regular inspection, cleaning, or preventive maintenance schedules.
•	Exterior corrosion or damage on hydropneumatic tanks.
•	Inadequate site security.
124

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Distribution Systems
11
11	Distribution Systems
11.1	Distribution System Components	126
11.2	Material Standards	128
11.3	Water Quality	129
11.4	Maps, Drawings and Planning	132
11.5	Distribution System Monitoring	133
11.6	Operation and Maintenance	135
11.7	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Distribution Systems	140
125

-------
Distribution Systems
11.1
11.1 Distribution System Components
•	Does the PWS have an inventory of pipe material used?
•	Are there materials of concern such as lead service lines, wood pipe,
unlined cast iron, thin wall PVC, pipe not approved for potable water
use?
•	How many service connections are there? Does the PWS meter all
service connections?
•	Who owns the water meters?
•	If the water meters on customer service lines are located in below grade
vaults, who is responsible for maintaining the sanitary condition of the
vault - the water system or the customer?
•	How old are the water meters? Does the water system replace water
meters at the frequency recommended by primacy agency or AWWA
standards?
126

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Distribution Systems
•	Is there a main replacement program?
•	Does the PWS have or follow standards for separation distances
between potable water mains and storm or sanitary sewers?
•	Are there any lead goosenecks still in place and used for service
connections? If yes, how many? Are there plans to remove these? If yes,
by what date?
•	Does the PWS use HDPE pipe for main lines or service connections?
11.1
127

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Distribution Systems
11.2
11.2 Material Standards
•	What standards does management use to select materials? Are all
materials ANSI/NSF certified?
•	Does the operator only use materials manufactured according to
industry standards such as AWWA and NSF?
•	Is there a set of construction standards used by the PWS?
•	Does the PWS have its own construction standards, or has it adopted
some from another agency?
•	Do the construction standards meet primacy agency requirements?
•	Are in-house staff and contractors required to use the same standards?
•	Does the water system follow their own standards?
128

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Distribution Systems
11.3
11.3 Water Quality
•	What disinfection procedure does the water system use for new or
repaired water mains?
•	Are distribution mains looped to the greatest extent possible?
•	Has the addition of service connections created dead-end lines?
•	Are there any bottlenecks in the piping system (a small diameter pipe
connected on both ends by large diameter pipe)?
•	Are blow-offs connected to sanitary or storm sewers, or do they exit
below ground, below flood level in ditches or streams?
•	Is there any point in the PWS where pressure drops below primacy
agency pressure standards during peak demand or fire response?
•	If the valves are in a vault, is the operator trained in confined space
procedures?
129

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Distribution Systems
11.3
•	If there are pressure zones controlled by automatic pressure reducing
valves (PRVs), do the PRVs work properly?
•	If there are PRVs, can the operator describe how they work and what
they do?
•	What are the possible impacts of a PRV failure?
•	If there is a hydraulic model, has the operator compared it to actual
conditions? When was the model last updated?
•	Are backflow prevention assemblies installed and tested at each
commercial site where backflow could cause a reduction in water
quality?
•	Does the discharge piping on all air valves extend a proper distance
above ground and flood level?
130

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Distribution Systems
11.3
Has management or the operator identified distribution system problem
areas on a PWS map?
Does the PWS provide bulk water stations? How are they monitored and
controlled?
131

-------
Distribution Systems
11.4
11.4 Maps, Drawings and Planning
•	Are as-built drawings available?
•	How often are maps updated?
•	Do maps and as-builts contain the proper information?
•	Is there a master plan showing proposed construction and replacement
lines?
132

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Distribution Systems
11.5
11.5 Distribution System Monitoring
•	Have there been changes in the distribution system since the last
survey?
•	Does the operator have goals for and monitor for chlorine residuals
throughout the distribution system?
•	What is the operator using to measure disinfectant residuals?
•	If required, is the residual at least 0.2 mg/L prior to the first customer?
•	If required, does the operator maintain a measurable residual at coliform
sampling points?
•	Are there an adequate number of residual sampling sites, and do they
provide a representative sample of PWS conditions?
•	Does the operator use the correct, unexpired, reagent for testing free
and total residuals?
133

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Distribution Systems
11.5
Is the operator waiting the correct length of time before reading
disinfectant the residual?
When has the operator last calibrated or replaced the testing
instrument?
Does the operator measure and record PWS pressures at high and low
elevations?
Does management record and analyze customer water quality
complaints?
If the PWS is fully metered, what is the percentage of total water
produced that is considered to be non-revenue water?
134

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Distribution Systems
11.6
11.6 Operation and Maintenance
•	What is the frequency of main breaks?
•	Are the breaks primarily in one area? What type of pipe is involved?
•	Is there a line flushing program? Is a systematic unidirectional process
used? Are records maintained of frequency, location, and amount of
time required?
•	Is there a fire hydrant flushing program separate from the line flushing
program?
•	Is there a valve inspection and exercising program? Does the operator
maintain the records?
•	Does the PWS have a backhoe? If not, how long would it take a
contractor or rental company to provide one if needed? Can the PWS
obtain this equipment late at night?
135

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Distribution Systems
•	How often does the operator take pressure readings in the distribution
system? Are they representative of the PWS? What readings result in
action? What actions does the operator take?
•	Are adequate repair materials on hand?
•	Are there written procedures for isolating portions of the PWS and
repairing mains?
•	Does the PWS maintain an updated list of critical customers?
•	Does the PWS have a corrosion control program?
•	Does the PWS have an interconnection with any other PWSs?
•	Does the PWS have adequate AND operable valves?
•	Are all elbows, tees, and dead ends supported by concrete thrust blocks
or restraining fittings?
136

-------
Distribution
Systems
11.6
•	Is proper bedding used, and do contractors or maintenance staff follow
proper backfill procedures during the installation of new or repaired
pipes?
•	Does the PWS or their contractors perform pressure or leak tests on all
new pipe construction?
•	If corrosive soils are present in the distribution system area, are cast-
iron, ductile iron, and steel pipe protected from external corrosion?
•	Are cast-iron and steel pipe protected from external corrosion?
•	How does the surveyor's sanitary survey findings affect the RTCR
sampling requirements?
137

-------
Distribution Systems
Figure 11-1: Air release valves
138
11.6

-------
Distribution Systems
11
Figure 11-2: Pressure control
valve
PILOT VALVE I
CONTROL
CHAMBER
STRAINER &
CONTROL ORIFICE
i VALVE BODY I
139

-------
Distribution Systems
11.7
11.7	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Distribution Systems
•	Cross-connection(s).
•	Negative or low pressures in the distribution system.
•	Unapproved construction materials and methods.
•	Lack of proper valving.
•	Air release valves not plumbed to daylight.
•	Inadequate pipe size for distribution needs.
•	Not maintaining disinfectant residuals as required by either federal or
state standards.
140

-------
Cross-Connections
12 Cross-Connections
12.1	Cross-Connections	142
12.2	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Cross-Connections	155
141

-------
Cross-Connections
12.1 Cross-Connections
•	Does the PWS have a written cross-connection control program?
•	Is the cross-connection control program active and effective in
protecting against cross-connections and backflow conditions?
•	Does the cross-connection control program address areas of specific
concern for cross-connection and backflow in the water system's service
area?
•	Are there any unprotected cross-connections at the water treatment
plant?
•	Does the PWS test backflow preventers at treatment plants and other
facilities it owns?
•	How are backflow preventers in the distribution system tested and
maintained?
•	Are there unprotected cross-connections in pumping stations?
142

-------
Cross-Connections
•	Are there unprotected cross-connections in the distribution system that
the PWS owns or controls?
•	Are new services reviewed for cross-connection hazard?
•	Does the PWS have a program to control the use of fire hydrants?
143

-------
Cross-Connections
Figure 12-1: Backflow
as a result of back-
pressure
FOTABLI
WATER
3

WAT6RD |
CUOLEH
QUDDLCflJ
|ouuu^^
144
12.

-------
Cross-Connections
Figure 12-2: Indirect cross-
connection

-------
Cross-Connections
12.1
Figure 12-3: Air gap
Diameter-* |<-
"D" ! I I
"2D"
146

-------
Cross-Connections
Figure 12-4:
Atmospheric vacuum
breaker
IoperatorI
12
147

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Cross-Connections
Figure 12-5:
Gravity
atmospheric
vacuum breaker
Flow Condition
Noji Flow Conditions
148

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Cross-Connections
Figure 12-6: Pressure
vacuum breaker
mm
149

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Cross-Connections
12.1
Figure 12-7: Double check
valve assembly
150

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Cross-Connections
mm
Figure 12-8: Reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly
| TEST PORTS"!
*1 GATE VALVE
I FLOW DIRECTION
PRESSURE
DIFFERENTIAL
RELIEF VALVE
|*1 CHECK VALVE
151

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Cross-Connections
Figure 12-9: Split
feed cross-
connection diagram

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Cross-Connections
Figure 12-10: Surface wash
cross-connection (potable
surface wash water and
unfiltered water)
POTABLE
WATER I
	1	
153
FILTER TO
WASTE DRAIN
FINISHED
WATER

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Cross-Connections
Figure 12-11: Air release valve
piped to drain
154

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Cross-Connections
12
12.2 Possible Significant Deficiencies for Cross-Connections
•	Customers with private wells interconnected with premise plumbing.
•	Hospitals, extermination businesses, industrial customers, etc., with no
testable backflow prevention assemblies.
•	Uncontrolled or unattended attachments to hydrants for use by water
haulers.
•	Backflow prevention assemblies are not tested, or no
surveillance/enforcement program exists for usage and testing
requirements (e.g., for home irrigation systems in addition to the usual
businesses).
•	High leakage rates that pose risks of back-siphonage during pressure
drops (response to fires, main breaks, power outage, etc.).
•	Pressure/air release valves located below grade in vaults or not
separated from drains.
155

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Cross-Connections
12.2
No cross-connection program.
Testable backflow prevention assemblies are not tested on an annual
basis.
Assemblies that fail the annual test are not repaired.
New services not reviewed for cross connection hazards.
Cross-connections between treated and untreated water.
156

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Process Control and Compliance Monitoring
13 Process Control and Compliance Monitoring
13.1	Approved Laboratories	158
13.2	In-House Monitoring	159
13.3	Electronic Data Recording, Monitoring, and Testing: SCADA	161
13.4	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Process Control Monitoring	162
157

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Process Control and Compliance Monitoring
13.1 Approved Laboratories
•	Is the laboratory certified for all the analytes being monitored?
•	Is the laboratory certification current?
158

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Process Control and Compliance Monitoring
13.2 In-House Monitoring
•	Is adequate monitoring in place?
•	Is the operator following proper sample collection and analysis
procedures?
•	Are testing facilities and equipment adequate?
•	Does the manufacturer recommend testing a "reagent blank" for each
lot of reagent used in their colorimetric methods (including chlorine)?
•	Does the operator properly maintain records of the monitoring
program?
•	Does the operator adjust treatment based on laboratory results?
159

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Process Control and Compliance Monitoring
13.2
Figure 13-1: Ground water systems
sampling locations
160

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Process Control and Compliance Monitoring
13.3 Electronic Data Recording, Monitoring, and Testing: SCADA
•	When was the current SCADA system installed?
•	Did the operator receive adequate training and written guidance to
operate and maintain the SCADA system?
•	Can the operator contact the SCADA vendor when they cannot resolve
an issue?
161

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Process Control and Compliance Monitoring
13.4 Possible Significant Deficiencies for Process Control Monitoring
•	Using a laboratory or analyst for compliance samples not certified for
drinking water analyses.
•	Use of expired reagents.
•	Use of incorrect sample containers to collect compliance samples (glass
versus plastic, preserved versus unpreserved).
•	Use of unapproved sampling site for compliance monitoring.
•	Compositing of compliance samples instead of taking individual samples
(unless allowed).
•	Instrumentation not calibrated and verified according to manufacturer's
operational manuals or state requirements.
•	Failure to maintain a disinfectant residual log.
162

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Process Control and Compliance Monitoring
•	If required, failure to continuously monitor and record turbidity from
individual filters at least every 15 minutes.
•	If required, failure to continuously monitor or collect grab samples every
4 hours for combined filter effluent turbidity.
163

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Water System Management
14
14 Water System Management
14.1	Organization	165
14.2	Planning	167
14.3	Personnel	168
14.4	Operations	169
14.5	Finance	170
14.6	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Water System Management	171
164

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Water System Management
14
14.1 Organization
•	Who owns the PWS?
•	Is there a formal organizational chart?
•	Does the operating staff have authority to make required operation,
maintenance, or administrative decisions affecting the performance and
reliability of the plant or PWS?
•	Are administrators familiar with SDWA requirements and PWS needs?
•	Is there a formal and adequate planning process?
•	Does the PWS manage its information?
•	Does the PWS track and identify typical operating parameters such as
non-revenue water and cost per unit of production of finished water?
•	Does the PWS use a computer system to track finances, operational data,
and maintenance practices?
165

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Water System Management
•	Is there effective communication between key management staff,
operations staff, and the primacy agency?
•	What is the level of cooperation between the PWS and other agencies
and organizations?
•	What is the level of cooperation between the PWS and the local fire
department?
•	Is there a customer complaint system and an ongoing public information
program?
•	Does the PWS have a budget and an adequate source of capital for
operations, maintenance, and capital projects?
•	Is the PWS eligible for, and has the PWS received, state or federal
funding?
•	Does the PWS have a budget and an adequate source of capital to fund
staff wages?
166

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Water System Management
14.2 Planning
•	Is an emergency or contingency plan available, workable, and exercised?
•	Are written, workable plans available for the areas listed below?
-	Source protection.
-	Sampling and monitoring.
-	Emergency or contingency.
-	Hazard communication plan (if required).
-	Cross-connection control.
-	Repair, replacement, and future expansion (capital improvement).
-	Distribution system flushing program.
167

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Water System Management
14.3 Personnel
•	Are there sufficient personnel?
•	Is there anticipated staff separation within the next five years?
•	Is there a contingency plan for replacing retiring or separating PWS
personnel?
•	Is the staff qualified?
•	Does management ensure personnel are adequately and appropriately
trained?
•	Is complacency an issue?
•	Does management adequately train the operators in safety procedures
and equipment?
168

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Water System Management
14.4 Operations
•	Is there an overall O&M manual for the facility?
•	Has management established standard operating procedures (SOPs) at
the facility?
•	Is there sufficient storage for spare parts, equipment, vehicles, traffic
control devices, and supplies?
•	Are the facilities and equipment of the PWS adequate?
169

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Other Considerations
14.5 Finance
•	Does the PWS have the technical, managerial, and financial capacity to
deliver safe water to its customers on a continuing basis? Are the
financing and budget satisfactory? What is the estimated income? What
are the estimated expenses?
•	Does management properly prioritize funding?
•	Are there sufficient funds for staff training?
•	Are projected revenues consistent with projected growth?
•	Does the PWS have formal accounting systems and written procedures
for financial records?
•	Does the PWS have budget and expenditure control procedures?
•	What are the PWS's debt service expenses?
•	Does the PWS have a water conservation policy or program?
170

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Other Considerations
14.6
14.6	Possible Significant Deficiencies for Water System Management
•	Ongoing, unaddressed violations.
•	Non-compliance with corrective action plan for significant deficiency
identified in the last sanitary survey.
•	No or inadequate SOPs.
•	Insufficient staffing or coverage.
•	Key managers unfamiliar with the SDWA requirements.
•	No tracking of assets.
•	No equipment use logs.
•	No annual budget.
•	No asset management or capital improvement plans.
171

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Other Considerations
15 Other Considerations
•	Has the water system identified and implemented techniques and
practices for its sustainability?
•	Are water conservation and efficiency of water-using products key
factors in ensuring water availability?
•	Do customers have information on efficient water-using appliances?
•	Has the water system conducted an energy audit?
•	Can the water system separate its energy costs from other operating
costs?
•	Has a water supply analysis and water supply plan with demand
projections been done?
•	Are the sources of supply adequate to meet current and expected
demand?
172

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Other Considerations
15
Are there long-term changes in source water quantity or quality
expected and plans to address any changes?
Is there a drought response plan?
173

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