Revised Public
^EsffiL Notification
United Slates
Environmental Protection
Agency
Handbook
3rd Revision of Document: EPA816-R-23-002, March 2023
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(Original Document: EPA 816-R-00-010, June 2000)
(Revised Document: EPA 816-R-07-003, March 2007)
(2nd Revision of Document: EPA 816-R-09-013, March 2010)
(3rd Revision of Document: EPA 816-R-23-002, March 2023)
Office of Water (4606)
816-R-23-002
March 2023
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This handbook provides guidance to states, public water systems, and the general public concerning how the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) interprets its public notification regulations. This document does not,
however, substitute for the public notification regulations, nor is it a regulation itself. Thus, it cannot impose
legally binding requirements on EPA, states, or water suppliers and may not apply to a particular situation. This
document is not intended, nor can it be relied upon, to create any rights enforceable by any party in litigation
with the United States. EPA may decide to follow the guidance provided in this document, or to act at variance
with the guidance based on its analysis of the specific facts present. This guidance may be revised without public
notice to reflect changes in EPA's approach to implementing public notice, or to clarify and update text.
You should read the regulations thoroughly to ensure that you are in compliance. The public notification (PN)
Rule is in the Code of Federal Regulations under Chapter 40, Part 40 CFR 141, Subpart Q. beginning at section 40
CFR 141.201. The most recent version of the Rule can be found at the U.S. Government Publishing Office's
(GPO'si Web site.
This document includes public notification requirements and information for all applicable regulations through
December 2020.
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Public Notification Handbook
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Contents
Contents iii
Acronyms v
1. Introduction 1
Why is Effective Public Notification Important? 1
2. How to Use This Handbook 3
Appropriate Use of the Templates 4
3. Summary of Requirements 5
What kinds of violations and situations require public notice? 5
What information do I need to include in each notice for a violation or situation? 8
When and how do I need to notify my consumers? 10
Who must I inform when a violation or situation occurs? 10
What if I sell water to other systems? 10
Does every public notice need to be sent to everyone in my system? 11
What standard language do I have to include in my public notices? 11
What information do I need to include in a special public notice for fluoride SMCL exceedances? 12
What do I need to include for special public notices for unregulated contaminant monitoring? 12
What information do I need to include for special public notices if my state has allowed my NCWS to exceed
the nitrate standard up to 20 mg/L? 12
What information do I need to include for special notice for repeated failure to conduct required
Cryptosporidium monitoring? 13
What information do I need to include for special notice for failure to determine my bin classification or my
mean Cryptosporidium level? 13
What if I have been issued a variance or exemption? 14
Are there formatting requirements for public notices? 14
Will I have to provide notices in languages other than English? 14
What information must I provide to my state? 15
Procedures for Returning to Compliance 16
4. Making Public Notification Work - Plan In Advance 17
Planning in Advance for Public Notification 17
Assemble Your Response Team 17
Understand Your Audience and How to Reach Them 18
Create Your Communication Channels 19
Prepare Your Messages 21
Make a Notice Easy to Read 22
Consider Contingencies 22
During a Violation or Situation Requiring Public Notification 23
Have Materials Readily Available 23
Help the Media to Distribute an Accurate Notice 23
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Other Steps 25
Preventing Overreaction to a Public Notice 26
Follow-up After the Situation is Resolved 26
5. Tier 1 Public Notice Requirements and Suggestions 28
What is the deadline for issuing a Tier 1 public notice? 28
Which methods of delivery must I use? 30
Suggestions for effective public notification delivery 30
Suggestions for Layout of the Notice 32
Ten Required Elements 33
Additional Information 34
6. Tier 1 Public Notification Instructions and Templates 35
7. Tier 2 Notice Requirements and Suggestions 61
What is the deadline for issuing a Tier 2 public notice? 61
When might a Tier 2 public notice be elevated to Tier 1? 62
Which methods of delivery must I use? 63
Suggestions for Effective Public Notification Delivery 64
Suggestions for Layout of the Notice 65
Ten Required Elements 65
Additional Information 66
8. Tier 2 Public Notification Instructions and Templates 67
9. Tier 3 Notice Requirements and Suggestions 127
What is the deadline for issuing a Tier 3 notice? 127
Which methods of delivery must I use? 128
Suggestions for Effective Public Notification Delivery 129
May I combine notices for multiple Tier 3 public notices? 129
Suggestions for the Layout of the Notice 131
10. Tier 3 Public Notification Instructions and Templates 132
Appendix A: NPDWR Violations and Other Situations Requiring Public Notice1 159
Appendix A—Endnotes 163
Appendix B: Standard Health Effects Language for Public Notification 166
Appendix B—Endnotes 177
Appendix C: Translated Phrases 179
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Acronyms
CCR Consumer Confidence Report
CDC Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
CFE Combined Filter Effluent
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CWS Community Water System
EAS Emergency Alert System
EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
FBRR Filter Backwash Recycling Rule
FDA U.S. Food and Drug Administration
GWR Ground Water Rule
HAA5 Haloacetic acids (five)
IESWTR Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule
LCR Lead and Copper Rule
LCRR Lead and Copper Rule Revisions
LT1ESWTR Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule
LT2ESWTR Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule
MCL Maximum Contaminant Level
mg/L Milligrams per Liter
MRDL Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level
NCWS Noncommunity Water System
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NTU Nephelometric Turbidity Unit
NWS National Weather Service
PN Public Notification
PWS Public Water System
RTCR Revised Total Coliform Rule
SMCL Secondary Maximum Contaminant Level
Stage 1 DBPR Stage 1 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule
Stage 2 DBPR Stage 2 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule
SWTR Surface Water Treatment Rule
TCR Total Coliform Rule
TT Treatment Technique
TTHM Total Trihalomethanes
TNCWS Transient Noncommunity Water System
VOC Volatile Organic Chemical
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Public Notification Handbook vi
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1. Introduction
The purpose of this handbook is to explain the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) Public
Notification (PN) Rule and provide examples of effective public notices. This handbook is designed to meet the
needs of public water systems (PWSs) of all sizes, including suggestions and instructions targeted to very small
community systems (systems that serve 500 people or fewer). Suggestions, along with other useful hints for
creating effective notices for all systems, are set aside in boxes throughout the handbook.
This version of the handbook updates the March 2010 version (EPA 816-R-09-013). It reflects necessary changes
in light of recent EPA regulations, including the Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR) and other rule-related
updates. This document is an interim update and does not include Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR)
updates. This document has the current LCR requirements but does not include the LCRR PN Rule changes which
have a compliance date of October 16, 2024.
Throughout this document, the terms "state" and "states" are used to refer to all types of primacy agencies
including states, U.S. territories, Native American tribes, and EPA Regions that maintain state primacy. Note that
the PN Rule requirements described in this handbook are based on federal regulations. Citations provided within
the document refer to specific sections found in Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) (e.g., 40 CFR
141.201). States or tribes may have alternate public notice requirements or more stringent drinking water
standards. You should check with your state to make sure you meet its specific requirements.
Why is Effective Public Notification Important?
Public notification is designed to protect public health. As a public water supplier, you are required by law to
prepare and distribute public notification to consumers. One of the best ways water systems can contribute to
community health is to make sure people within a service area know about water quality issues and how to
protect themselves from potential risks. Public notification of drinking water violations and other situations
provides a way to educate the public, protect public health, build trust with consumers through open and
honest sharing of information, and establish an ongoing, positive relationship with your community. The greater
the effort your water system makes to reach and inform everyone in your service area using your system, the
more they will trust your commitment to delivering safe water and protecting public health.
It is important to note that public notification is the responsibility of the PWS, the time allotted for public notice
begins when you find out about the violation.
This guidance is designed to help water systems understand public notification requirements and deliver
effective information to educate their public and protect community health. Throughout this document, tips and
suggestions are provided to help you create an effective communication strategy for meeting the public
notification requirements under the PN Rule. The suggestions contained in this document are based on the
guiding principles for good risk communication and public education1, including:
• Accept and involve the public as a legitimate partner.
• Listen carefully to the public's concerns.
• Be honest, frank, and open.
• Coordinate and collaborate with other credible sources.
• Meet the needs of the media.
1 From: Covello, V.T. and Sandman, P.M. 2001. "Risk Communication: Evolution and Revolution." In: Wolbarst, A, ed. Solutions to and
Environment in Peril. Baltimore, MD: Johns Hopkins Univ. Press, pp 164-178.
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• Speak clearly and with compassion.
• Plan carefully and evaluate your efforts.
The communication strategy outlined in this document will help water systems plan for effective public
notification by analyzing the population they serve, determining the best ways to reach consumers, and creating
effective channels for distributing public notices.
In addition to increasing the effectiveness of public notices, this handbook will help public water system owners
and operators comply with federal and state requirements. States will find this handbook useful as well. The PN
Rule also provides flexibility to states, allowing them to set different, perhaps more stringent, requirements on
both a case-by-case and a rule-by-rule basis. Systems should keep this in mind when using the handbook.
Finally, as you read, you will notice references in brackets throughout the document. These are references to
the appropriate federal regulatory requirement found in the federal PN Rule and are included to help you
understand the particular requirement being discussed. See the U.S. Government Publishing Office's (GPO'si
Web site for the current version of the federal PN Rule.
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2. How to Use This Handbook
This handbook contains information to help you prepare and issue a public notice. Before you are faced with a
violation or situation requiring public notification, you should read this handbook. You should also check with
your state to determine if there are additional public notification requirements or if more stringent public
notification requirements apply. The steps to take to respond to a drinking water violation or other situation
requiring notice are listed below:
1. Determine what tier your violation or situation falls into. Use Table 1 in Chapter 3 for a summary of
violations and situations requiring notice and your deadline for providing public notice. You can also
refer to Appendix A for a listing by contaminant [40 CFR 141.201(a)!.
2. Consult your state if required.
a. For violations and situations requiring Tier 1 public notification, consult with your state as
soon as practical, but no later than 24 hours after you learn of the violation or situation [40
CFR 141.202(b)1. You must issue the notice within 24 hours, even if you are unable to contact
the state.
b. If you treat surface water or ground water under the direct influence of surface water and
have a single exceedance of turbidity limits or a two-day turbidity maximum contaminant
level (MCL) violation, immediately consult with your state when you learn of the violation.
Your state will determine whether the violation needs to be elevated to Tier 1 public
notification [40 CFR 141.203(b)!.
3. Review the requirements for public notices. Read Chapter 3 in this guidance, which describes content,
mandatory language, formatting, and the distribution requirements that are applicable to all notices.
Chapter 4 provides guidance on effective public communication.
4. Determine the appropriate method(s) of delivery. Chapters 5. 7, and 9 describe required delivery
methods for public notification Tier 1, 2, and 3, respectively, as well as ideas for creating the most
effective notice possible. Required methods vary based on system type and public notification tie. If
you operate a transient noncommunity water system (TNCWS), read the Public Notification Handbook
for Transient Noncommunity Water Systems (EPA 816-R-23-001, March 2023) for assistance on
delivery methods.
5. Develop a notice. You can use the templates that fit your situation or write your own. Contained in
Chapters 6. 8, and 10 are templates for commonly occurring violations and situations, along with
specific instructions for modifying each template. The instructions for each template are on the front
of the page; the corresponding template is on the back. Public Notification Templates for Community
and Non-transient Non-community Water Systems are available at the link provided. If there is no
template for your specific violation or situation, write your own notice using the list of required
elements in Chapter 3 or other applicable requirements provided in Chapter 3. and follow the
suggestions on layout in Chapters 6. 8, and 10. Most violations and situations have required language
regarding health effects [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is discussed in Chapter 3. found in
Appendix B. and included in the templates provided in this document.
6. Provide information for non-English speakers. If a large proportion of the population you serve does
not speak English, the public notice must contain information in the appropriate language regarding
the importance of the notice, and provide contact information at the water system for additional
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assistance [40 CFR 141.2.05(c)1. See Chapter 3 for more information on how to determine if you need
to include translations and how to get help translating notices. See Appendix C of this document for
information on some important and relevant phrases translated into various languages.
7. Provide your notice to persons served as soon as practical, but within the required time frame. Use
the method of delivery chosen in step 4 above.
8. Send a copy of each notice issued (including repeat notices) to your state. The copy is due to your
state within 10 days of distribution, along with a statement certifying that all public notification
requirements have been met [40 CFR 141.31(d)!. See the sample certification statement in Chapter 3.
Appropriate Use of the Templates
The templates in this handbook are designed to help operators create public notices for a variety of violations.
However, it is important to note that the templates included here are not all-inclusive and may not be
appropriate for all violations and situations. Depending on the severity of your violation or situation, it may be
necessary to modify the instructions you give to consumers or to change the timing of the notice. For instance, if
contaminant levels are 10 times the standard (rather than a slight exceedance), you may want to tell your
consumers they should not drink the water. In these cases, you should issue a notice immediately, rather than
waiting up to 30 days. It is important to consult your local health department or state in such situations. In some
cases, your state may instruct you to modify the timing or the notice to fit the situation.
Note that the public notice requirements described in this handbook are based on federal regulations. States or
tribes may have alternate public notice requirements or more stringent drinking water standards. You should
consult with your state in order to meet its specific requirements.
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3. Summary of Requirements
This chapter summarizes the federal PN Rule requirements. This chapter discusses the types of violations or
situations that require public notice, the required elements of a public notice, and the timing and method of
delivery of the notice based on the severity of the potential health risk. Except where noted, all requirements in
this chapter can be found in the CFR at 40 CFR 141, Subi , beginning at section 40 CFR 141.201. See the U.S.
Government Publishing Office's (GPO's) Web site for the current version of the federal PN Rule. Check with your
state to see if more stringent requirements apply.
What kinds of violations and situations require public notice?
In general, public notice is required for any of the following:
• Violations of MCLs or maximum residual disinfectant levels (MRDLs).
• Violation of treatment techniques (TT).
• Monitoring and testing procedure violations.
• Failure to comply with the schedule of a variance or exemption.
Other situations (not violations) which require public notice include:
• Occurrence of a waterborne disease outbreak or other waterborne emergency.
• Fecal indicator-positive ground water source sample.
• Special public notice for exceedance of the nitrate MCL in noncommunity water systems (NCWSs) that
have been granted permission by the state to continue to exceed the nitrate MCL of 10 milligrams per
liter (mg/l) (although they may not exceed 20 mg/l).
• Special public notice for exceedance of the fluoride secondary MCL (SMCL) - community water system
(CWS) only.
• Special public notice for availability of unregulated contaminant monitoring results.
• Operation under a variance or exemption.
• Special public notice for failure to 3 or more Cryptosporidium samples.
• Special public notice for failure to determine bin classification or mean Cryptosporidium level.
States may also require notice for other violations or situations.
EPA has assigned each violation and situation requiring public notice to one of three categories, or public
notification tiers, based on the risk of adverse health effects (see Appendix A).
• Violations and situations with significant potential to have serious adverse health effects on human
health as a result of short-term exposure require Tier 1 public notification.
• Violations and situations with potential to have serious adverse health effects on human health require
Tier 2 public notification.
• All other violations and identified situations not included in the list in Appendix A as requiring Tier 1 or
Tier 2 public notification require Tier 3 public notification.
Table 1 on the next page shows the organization of violations and situations into tiers based on the seriousness
of potential adverse health effects. For a complete list of contaminants and their appropriate tiers, refer to
Appendix A.
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Table 1. Violations and Situations Requiring Public Notice
Tier 1 - Violations and Other Situations Requiring Notice Within 24 Hours*
• Violation of the MCL for E. coli if the system: [40CFR 141.63(c) and 40CFR 141.860(a)!
o Has an E. coli-positive REPEAT sample following a total coliform-positive ROUTINE sample,
o Has a total coliform-positive REPEAT sample following an E. co/i-positive ROUTINE sample,
o Fails to take all required REPEAT samples following an E. coli-positive ROUTINE sample,
o Fails to test for E. coli when any REPEAT sample tests positive for total coliform.
• Violation of the MCL for nitrate, nitrite, or Total Nitrate + Nitrite.
• When a nitrate or nitrite confirmation sample is not taken within 24 hours of the system's receipt of the first sample
showing exceedance of the nitrate or nitrite MCL
• Special public notice for exceedance of the nitrate MCL (10 mg/l) by NCWSs, where permitted to exceed the MCL
(up to 20 mg/l) by the state.
• Violation of the alternate nitrate MCL of 20 mg/L by a NCWS allowed to go up to 20 mg/L [40 CFR 141.2.3(o)1
• Violation of the MRDL for chlorine dioxide when one or more of the samples taken in the distribution system on the
day after exceeding the MRDL at the entrance of the distribution system, or when required samples are not taken in
the distribution system.
• Violation of the turbidity MCL of 5 NTU, where the state determines after consultation that a Tier 1 notice is
required or where consultation does not occur in 24 hours after the system learns of violation.
• Violation of the treatment technique requirement resulting from a single exceedance of the maximum allowable
turbidity limit, where the state determines after consultation that a Tier 1 notice is required or where consultation
does not take place in 24 hours after the system learns of violation.
• Occurrence of a waterborne disease outbreak, as defined in 40 CF , or other waterborne emergency.
• Detection of E. coli, enterococci, or coliphage in a ground water source sample.
• Other violations or situations with significant potential to have serious adverse effects on human health as a result
of short-term exposure, as determined by the state either in its regulations or on a case-by-case basis.
• If the system experiences any of these violations or situations, in addition to issuing public notice, it must initiate
consultation with the state as soon as practical but within 24 hours after learning of the violation or situation. Note:
Initiate consultation means that at a minimum, the system has taken steps to contact the state. EPA and most states
now have voicemail or an emergency hotline, so systems should be able to leave a message. If the system is not able to
reach anyone within the 24-hour period, the system must still issue public notice within that timeframe. When
consultation does occur, the state or EPA will inform the system of any additional steps they must take as a follow-up to
the initial notice.
Tier 2 - Violations and Other Situations Requiring Notice Within 30 Days**
• All violations of MCL, MRDL, and TT requirements except where Tier 1 public notice is required.
• Violations of monitoring requirements where the state determines that a Tier 2 public notice is required, taking
into account potential health impacts and persistence of the violation.
• Failure to comply with the terms and conditions of any variance or exemption in place.
• For ground water systems providing 4-log treatment for viruses, failure to maintain required treatment for more
than 4 hours.
• Failure to take corrective action within the required timeframe or be in compliance with a state-approved corrective
action plan and schedule for a fecal indicator-positive source sample under the Ground Water Rule (GWR).
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Tier 2 - Violations and Other Situations Requiring Notice Within 30 Days**
• Failure to take corrective action within the required timeframe or be in compliance with a state-approved corrective
action plan and schedule for a significant deficiency under the GWR.
• Special public notice for repeated failure to conduct monitoring for Cryptosporidium (40 CFR 141.211).
• Special public notice for failure to determine bin classification or mean Cryptosporidium level (40 CFR 141.211).
** If the system exceeds the maximum allowable turbidity level, as identified in Appendix A to Subpart Q, it must consult
with the state as soon as practical but no later than 24 hours after learning of the violation. Note: Consult with the state
means that the system contacts and has a discussion with the state about the violation. If the system does not have a
consultation with the state within the 24-hour period, a Tier 1 public notice requirement is automatically triggered, and
the system must issue a public notice within the next 24-hour period. This is in contrast to the term "initiate
consultation" for violations or situations requiring Tier 1 public notification, here EPA intends that the system actually
have a discussion about the violation or situation.
Tier 3 - Violations and Other Situations Requiring Notice Within 1 Year
• Monitoring violations, except where a Tier 1 notice is required, or the state determines that the violation requires a
Tier 2 notice.
• Failure to comply with an established testing procedure, except where a Tier 1 notice is required, or the state
determines that the violation requires a Tier 2 notice.
• Operation under variance granted under §1415 or exemption granted under §1416 of the Safe Drinking Water Act.
• Special public notice for availability of unregulated contaminant monitoring results.
• Special public notice for exceedance of the secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) for fluoride (CWSs only).
• Failure to submit a completed assessment form after a system properly conducts an assessment in a timely
manner. ri41.860(d)(l)1
• Failure to notify the state following an E. coli-positive ROUTINE OR REPEAT sample in a timely manner.
ri41.860(d)(2)1
• Failure by a seasonal NCWS to submit certification of completion of state-approved start-up procedures.
[141.860(d)(3)1
SPECIAL NOTICE FOR GROUND WATER RULE (GWR) UNCORRECTED SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCIES
Under the GWR, if the state identifies a significant deficiency and it is uncorrected (after a specified amount of time),
special notice is required.
For CWSs, this GWR special notice would be provided in your Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). Please see the CCR
guidance document "Preparing Your Drinking Water Consumer Confidence Report - Guidance for Water Suppliers -
2nd Revision" (EPA 816-R-09-011). For NCWSs, this GWR special notice is required if the significant deficiency has not
been completely corrected within 12 months of notification of the deficiency.
This notice is required regardless of whether a violation has occurred. This special notice is not a public notification
requirement and, therefore, the content, form, and manner requirements do not apply. However, the special notice
must include:
• The nature of the significant deficiency.
• The date it was identified by the state.
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• The state-approved plan and schedule for correction (including interim measures, progress to date, and any
interim measures completed) [40 CI 03(a)(7)(ii)1.
If you have a large proportion of non-English speaking consumers, as determined by the state, you must include
information in the appropriate language(s) regarding the importance of the notice or a telephone number or address
where consumers may contact you to obtain a translated copy of the notice or assistance in the appropriate
language.
The following text illustrates an example of special notice for this violation:
On September 14, 2013, we were informed by the State Department of Public Health that a significant deficiency, two
leaking septic tanks near our source water supply, had been identified during a September 1, 2013, sanitary survey.
As required, we contacted the State Department of Public Health and were directed to make arrangements with the
owner of the property on which the septic tanks are located to have the tanks replaced. We did not do so within the
established deadline. Since being informed of the deficiency, we have been conducting regular testing of our source
water and we are implementing the corrective action plan established by the Department of Public Health. Under this
plan, the leaking tanks will be replaced by October 20, 2018.
What information do I need to include in each notice for a violation or situation?
Your public notice must include specific information in order to be considered complete. For each violation and
situation requiring notice (except for fluoride SMCL exceedances, availability of unregulated contaminant
monitoring data, and operation under a variance or exemption), you must provide a clear and easy-to-
understand explanation of the following 10 elements [40 CFR 141.205(a)1:
1. Description of the violation or situation, including the contaminant(s) of concern, and (as applicable) the
contaminant level(s).
2. When the violation or situation occurred (e.g., date the sample was collected or was supposed to be
collected).
3. Any potential adverse health effects from the violation or situation, using standard language for health
effects provided in Appendix B to 40 CFF ibpart Q or for monitoring or testing procedure
violations provided in 40 CFR 141.205(d)(2) or later in this chapter.
4. The population at risk, including subpopulations that may be particularly vulnerable if exposed to the
contaminant in their drinking water.
5. Whether alternate water supplies should be used.
6. Actions consumers should take, including when they should seek medical help, if known.
7. What you are doing to correct the violation or situation.
8. When you expect to return to compliance or resolve the situation.
9. Your name, business address, and phone number, or those of a designee of the PWS as a source of
additional information concerning the notice.
10. A statement encouraging notice recipients to distribute the notice to others, where applicable, using the
standard language given in this chapter.
Figure 1 contains an example showing how all the required elements fit into a public notice. Some required
elements may not apply to every violation or situation. However, you must still address these elements in your
notice. For example, consider item 6 - actions consumers should take. If it is unnecessary for consumers to boil
their water or drink bottled water, do not leave this item out. Instead, tell them they do not need to do so. This
is especially important for Tier 2 notices, where a violation may have been resolved by the time the notice is
issued or may not be an immediate health risk. You should ask your state or local health department for the
appropriate information for some elements of the notice, such as actions consumers should take to protect their
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health. The local health department also can help you identify other system-specific information, such as
vulnerable populations (e.g., children, dialysis patients) and effective communication channels for reaching
them. It would be valuable to acquire contacts and have these discussions prior to an event (see Chapter 4).
Figure 1. The Required Elements of a Public Notice
2. When the violation
occurred
6. Actions consumers
should take
3, Potential adverse
health effects
7. What is being —
done to correct the
violation or situation
10. Required
distribution language
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Jonesvllle Water System Has Violated a Drinking Water Standard
Our water system recently violated a drinking water standard. Even though
this was riot an emergency, as our customers, you have a right to know what
happened and what we are doing to correct the situation.
We routinely monitor for the presence of drinking water contaminants. Testing
results from October 2020 to September 2021 show that our system exceeded
the standard, or maximum contaminant level (MCL), for total trihalomethanes.
The standard for total trihalomethanes is 80 parts per billion, averaged at each
sampling location for a year. The level of TTHMs averaged at one location at
our system for a year was 148 parts per billion.
What should I do?
• You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. If a
situation arises where the water is no longer safe to drink, you will be
notified within 24 hours.
» People with severely compromised immune systems, people with an infant,
and some elderly may be at increased risk. These people should seek
advice about drinking water from their health care providers.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been an emergency, you would have been
notified within 24 hours.
Some people who drink water containing trihalomethanes in excess of the MCL
over many years may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central
nervous system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
What is being done?
TTHMs are four volatile organic chemicals which form when disinfectants
react with natural organic matter in the water. We are working to minimize the
formation of TTHMs while ensuring an adequate level of disinfection to protect
customers from exposure to bacteria. We have since taken samples at this
location and throughout the system and had them tested. They show that we
now meet the standards.
For more information, or to learn more about protecting your drinking water
please contact John Jones at (502) 555-1212.
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water,
especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example,
people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do
this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or
mail.
This is being sent by the Jonesvitle Water System.
State Water System 1D#1234567. Date Distributed: 10/24/2021
1. Description of the
violation
5. Should alternate
water supplies be
used
4. The population at
risk
8. When the system
expects to return to
compliance
9. Phone number for
— more information
If you do not know when your water system will return to compliance, state that honestly and give your
consumers an idea of how long it may take. For example, an E. coli violation might be addressed within days,
whereas installation of corrosion control might take months. When talking about potential health risks, you
should always be straightforward even if that means stating the cause of the problem is not completely
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understood. If you are overly optimistic in your estimate of the time required to address a problem and your
system does not meet your estimate, you may see public trust erode.
Some situations, such as waterborne emergencies, may not have mandatory health effects language. In these
cases, you must provide system-specific wording that describes potential health effects. You may be able to
adapt the language from another treatment technique or MCL violation.
When and how do I need to notify my consumers?
After you learn of a violation or situation, public notice must be provided within the required timeframe and
using the specified delivery methods as summarized in Table 2 on the following page. The tier to which a
violation or situation is assigned determines the timeframe and delivery method of the public notice. TNCWS
owners and operators should refer to the Public Notification Handbook for Transient Noncommunity Water
Systems (EPA 816-R-23-001, March 2023) to see requirements that are specific to them.
Who must I inform when a violation or situation occurs?
If you are faced with a violation or situation requiring public notification, you must provide the notice to persons
served by your water system. This means you must take all reasonable steps to inform people if they would not
be reached by the most commonly used methods of public notification and you must identify different types of
CWS consumers and make an effort to reach them. Additionally, every new billing customer or unit must be
notified of any ongoing violations or situations for which notice has previously been issued. The form and
manner are specific to the situation, but all public notices need to be designed to reach residential, transient,
and non-transient users. A NCWS's notice must be posted in a conspicuous location for as long as a violation or
situation lasts. Remember that the most effective public notices—those that protect public health and build
consumer understanding and trust—reach the largest possible group of people.
For example, if a CWS mails a notice to its billing customers only, people who do not receive water bills, such as
tenants whose utilities are included in their rent, or people who work in the area served by the system but live
elsewhere, would not receive the public notice. Publishing a public notice in the newspaper and providing copies
of the public notice to landlords to distribute to their tenants would help reach those people. At a NCWS, hand
delivery of notices would reach only those consumers who are present when the notices are distributed. Posting
would reach visitors or newcomers.
You are required to include standard language in your public notices that encourages distribution of the notice,
where applicable. This language is included in this chapter and is intended to increase public awareness of the
situation. Use of this language does not relieve you of your obligation to notify persons served, however.
What if I sell water to other systems?
If you sell or otherwise provide drinking water to other public water systems (PWSs), you are required to give
public notice of a violation or situation to the owner or operator of any systems to whom you sell water.
(Systems that sell water to another system are known as "wholesale" systems; purchasing systems are referred
to as "consecutive" systems.) As a wholesale system, you are not required under the PN Rule to distribute notice
to persons served by the consecutive systems. It is the responsibility of the consecutive system to provide public
notice to the people it serves. For example, if you supply water to six other systems, the PN Rule requires you to
provide public notice to the owner or operator of each of the other six water systems. Each of the six
consecutive systems must, in turn, provide notice to the persons they serve within the appropriate deadline.
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The "clock" for public notification (i.e., the point in time from which the deadline for notification is determined)
begins for each of the consecutive systems when they are notified of the violation or situation. In a situation
where a system purchases water, then sells some of this water to another system, this could have a
"multiplying" effect. In a Tier 1 situation, for example, the notification deadline for the third system could be up
to three days after the violation was originally identified. In such circumstances, it may be easier and more
appropriate for you as the wholesale system to notify all consumers of consecutive systems by broadcasting the
notice over television or radio, or for you and the consecutive systems to issue joint notices. In general, you
should send copies of the notice to their consecutive systems prior to notifying the media, if time permits. You
should incorporate procedures and chains of communication for such situations into your emergency
management or communications plan. In addition, any memoranda of understanding you sign with other water
systems should spell out each system's public notification responsibilities.
Does every public notice need to be sent to everyone in my system?
In general, public notices must be provided to all people who are served by the system. However, in some cases
where a portion of the distribution system is physically or hydraulically isolated from the rest of the distribution
system, your state may allow you to notify only those people in the portion of the distribution system that is out
of compliance. For example, if you have a Total Coliform Rule (TCR) or RTCR violation in a portion of your
distribution system that is hydraulically disconnected from the rest of the system, you may request from your
state to provide notice to only those consumers in that portion of the distribution system. You must receive
written permission from your state to limit distribution of a notice.
This may also apply to purchasing systems. If a consecutive connection is in an area of the distribution system
that is isolated from other parts of the distribution system, and that portion of the distribution system serving
the purchasing system is in compliance, your state may not require you to notify the purchasing system of the
violation. Again, permission to limit distribution of the public notice must be in writing.
What standard language do I have to include in my public notices?
Health effects language for MCL and MRDL violations, treatment technique violations, and violations of the
conditions of a variance or exemption. You must include the health effects language specified in Appendix B for
such violations. You must also describe potential health effects for other situations, even if there is no
mandatory language. Contact your local health department or primary agency for suggestions.
Lanauaae to encourage the widest possible distribution of the notice to all persons served. You must include the
following language in all notices where applicable. There are situations where this may not apply—for example,
this language would probably not be necessary on a posted notice, since posting makes the notice available to
everyone who passes by.
"Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or
mail."
Use of this language does not relieve you of your obligation to notify persons served.
Lanauaae for monitoring violations (including testing procedure violations). You must include the following
language for all monitoring and testing procedure violations:
"We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of
regular monitoring are an indicator of whether or not your drinking water meets health standards.
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During [compliance period], we ['did not monitor or test' or 'did not complete all monitoring or testing']
for [contaminant(s)], and therefore cannot be sure of the quality of your drinking water during that
time."
What information do I need to include in a special public notice for fluoride SMCL
exceedances?
CWS that exceed the SMCL of 2 mg/L for fluoride but do not exceed the MCL of 4 mg/L must issue a special
public notice in a form and manner similar to public notice meeting Tier 3 requirements. You do not need to
include the 10 required elements listed in Figure 1. The notice must include the following text as written (with
information in brackets filled in).
"This is an alert about your drinking water and a cosmetic dental problem that might affect children
under nine years of age. At low levels, fluoride can help prevent cavities, but children drinking water
containing more than 2 milligrams per liter (mg/L) of fluoride may develop cosmetic discoloration of
their permanent teeth (dental fluorosis). The drinking water provided by your community water system
[name] has a fluoride concentration of [insert value] mg/L.
Dental fluorosis, in its moderate or severe forms, may result in a brown staining and/or pitting of the
permanent teeth. This problem occurs only in developing teeth, before they erupt from the gums.
Children under nine should be provided with alternative sources of drinking water or water that has
been treated to remove the fluoride to avoid the possibility of staining and pitting of their permanent
teeth. You may also want to contact your dentist about proper use by young children of fluoride-
containing products. Older children and adults may safely drink the water.
Drinking water containing more than 4 mg/L of fluoride (the EPA's drinking water standard) can increase
your risk of developing bone disease. Your drinking water does not contain more than 4 mg/L of
fluoride, but we're required to notify you when we discover that the fluoride levels in your drinking
water exceed 2 mg/L because of this cosmetic dental problem.
For more information, please call [name of water system contact] of [name of community water system]
at [phone number]. Some home water treatment units are also available to remove fluoride from
drinking water. To learn more about available home water treatment units, you may call NSF
International at 1-877-8-NSF-HELP."
See Template 3-10 for an example special public notice for fluoride SMCL exceedance.
What do I need to include for special public notices for unregulated contaminant
monitoring?
If you monitor for unregulated contaminants, you must issue a special public notice stating that the results of
the monitoring are available and give a phone number to call for those results. Your special public notice must
be in a form and manner similar to public notice meeting Tier 3 requirements. You do not need to include the 10
required elements listed in Figure 1. See Template 3-9 for an example.
What information do I need to include for special public notices if my state has allowed my
NCWS to exceed the nitrate standard up to 20 mg/L?
When a NCWS has been given permission by the state to provide water in excess of the nitrate MCL (although
no higher than 20 mg/L), the NCWS is required to issue a special public notice in a form and manner similar to
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public notice meeting Tier 1 requirements. The notice must be continuously posted and must include the
mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) as written. The notice must
contain the 10 required elements as listed in Figure 1. See Template 1 4 for an example.
In addition, if the NCWS incurs a nitrate violation (i.e., the average of two sample results > 20mg/L), then the
system must issue a Tier 1 public notice for the violation in addition to continuously posting the special public
notice [40 CFR 141.23(o)l.
What information do I need to include for special notice for repeated failure to conduct
required Cryptosporidium monitoring?
Surface water systems that incur a violation for failure to sample for Cryptosporidium in the source water for any
three months as required under the Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT2ESWTR) are
required to issue special public notice in a form and manner similar to public notice meeting Tier 2
requirements. The notice must include the following text as written (with information in brackets filled in).
"We are required to monitor the source of your drinking water for Cryptosporidium. Results of the
monitoring are to be used to determine whether water treatment at the [treatment plant name] is
sufficient to adequately remove Cryptosporidium from your drinking water. We are required to
complete this monitoring and make this determination by [required bin determination date]. We ["did
not monitor or test" or "did not complete all monitoring or testing"] on schedule and, therefore, we may
not be able to determine by the required date what treatment modifications, if any, must be made to
ensure adequate Cryptosporidium removal. Missing this deadline may, in turn, jeopardize our ability to
have the required treatment modifications, if any, completed by the deadline required, [date].
For more information, please call [name of water system contact] of [water system name] at [phone
number]."
The notice must contain the 10 required elements as listed in Figure 1, including a description of what you are
doing to correct the violation and when you expect to return to compliance or resolve the situation. See
Template 2-25 for an example.
What information do I need to include for special notice for failure to determine my bin
classification or my mean Cryptosporidium level?
Surface water systems that fail to determine their bin classification or mean Cryptosporidium level after
completing source water monitoring required under LT2ESWTR are required to issue special public notice in a
form and manner similar to public notice meeting Tier 2 requirements. The notice must include the following
text as written (with information in brackets filled in).
"We are required to monitor the source of your drinking water for Cryptosporidium in order to
determine by [date] whether water treatment at the [treatment plant name] is sufficient to adequately
remove Cryptosporidium from your drinking water. We have not made this determination by the
required date. Our failure to do this may jeopardize our ability to have the required treatment
modifications, if any, completed by the required deadline of [date]. For more information, please call
[name of water system contact] of [water system name] at [phone number]."
The notice must contain the 10 required elements as listed in Figure 1, including a description of what you are
doing to correct the violation and when you expect to return to compliance or resolve the situation. See
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Templates 2-26 for an example of failure to determine bin classification or 2-27 for an example of failure to
determine mean Cryptosporidium level.
What if I have been issued a variance or exemption?
Public notice for operating under a variance or exemption must issue public notice in a form and manner similar
to public notice meeting Tier 3 requirements. You do not need to include the 10 required elements listed in
Figure 1. You must notify your consumers within one year of obtaining it and repeat the notice annually for as
long as the variance or exemption exists. You must include the following in your public notice:
• An explanation of the reason(s) for the variance or exemption.
• The date on which the variance or exemption was issued.
• A brief status report on the steps you are taking to install treatment, find alternative sources of water,
or otherwise comply with the terms and schedules of the variance or exemption.
• A notice of any opportunity for public input in the review of the variance or exemption.
If you violate the conditions of the variance or exemption, you must issue a Tier 2 public notice and the notice
must contain the 10 required elements as listed in Figure 1.
Are there formatting requirements for public notices?
All public notices must meet certain formatting standards. These requirements will help highlight your notice in
the newspaper or other printed or posted format and ensure that consumers can easily read and understand the
notice.
Notices must:
• Be displayed in a conspicuous way (where printed or posted).
• Not contain overly technical language or very small print.
• Not be formatted in a way that defeats the purpose of the notice.
• Not contain language which nullifies the purpose of the notice.
Your state may have special formatting requirements. Check to be sure that you meet all of its requirements.
Will I have to provide notices in languages other than English?
Remember that your goal is to inform and protect the public and the best way to do that is to make it easy for
them to understand your message. Messages are easiest to understand when they are presented in the
audience's first language. When it comes to communicating risks, it is important to make it as easy as possible
for your audience to understand your message. Clarity and simplicity help people understand risks and put them
in perspective.
If a large proportion of the population you serve does not speak English, the PN Rule requires that your notice
must, at a minimum, contain information in the appropriate language(s) regarding the importance of the notice,
or it must provide a phone number or address where a translated notice or information or assistance in the
appropriate language is available. Your state may have established criteria for what constitutes a large
proportion of the people you serve; check with the state to be sure.
If your state does not define what constitutes a large proportion of non-English speaking consumers, it is up to
you to make this determination. To find information on the languages spoken in your community, see the U.S.
Census Bureau's Web site, https://data.census.gov/cedsci/. The census database includes answers to questions
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about literacy levels, which languages besides English are spoken at home, and the level of English proficiency.
(English proficiency is important, because if a group tends to speak another language at home, but is also able to
read and understand English, a notification in a second language may not be necessary.) You should also be able
to find out the number of people who speak each language.
To access information on the U.S. Census Bureau's Web site, use the Advanced Search link and search
for information about people. Under that selection, you can filter for other characteristics including
language.
You may want to be more proactive in deciding whether to translate your public notices based on the severity of
the notice and your non-English speaking population. Keep in mind that public notices are about violations of
drinking water standards or other situations that pose a potential health risk. You may wish to provide notices in
multiple languages if non-English speaking populations are in your service area, whether or not they constitute a
large proportion of your service population. Although you are not required to provide full translations of notices,
this is strongly recommended for Tier 1 public notices and for other violations that pose a serious health risk.
States may be able to provide you with some assistance in finding translators, but it is your responsibility to get
the notice translated. See Chapter 3 for more on identifying whether translated notices are needed, and how to
reach non-English speaking people.
EPA has resources available for any language barriers and translations in multiple languages. Information can be
found on the EPA's website www.epa.gov. specifically Information for Individuals with Limited English
Proficiency https://www.epa.gov/lep and Processes for Assisting People with Limited English Proficiency
https://www.epa.gov/ogc/assisting-people-limited-english-proficiency. can be found by clicking the links
provided. Specific questions can be asked by using the EPA's Contact Page and more information will be
provided to you.
Chapter 6 includes Spanish language templates for nitrate and E. coli notices. In addition, Appendix C includes
translations of several important phrases, such as "do not drink the water," "boil your water before using," and
others.
What information must I provide to my state?
After you provide the notice to your consumers, you must, within 10 days, send your state a copy of each type
of notice you distribute (e.g., newspaper article, press release to television/radio, mail notices) and a
certification that you have met all the public notification requirements [40 CFR 141.31(d)1. You must send
certifications for both initial and any repeat notices.
A sample certification "box" with appropriate language is provided below. Although a certification is mandatory,
this example is only one suggested format. Contact your state; they may have a certification form they require
to be submitted to them. If your state does not have a required certification form for you to use, you may wish
to copy this certification (with appropriate blanks filled in) onto the bottom or reverse of the copy of the public
notice you send to the state.
Sample Certification "Box"
PWS Name: [water system namel
PWS ID #: [PWS ID numberl
For Violation: [describe violation or situation]
Occurring on: [datel
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The public water system indicated above hereby affirms that public notice has been provided to consumers in
accordance with the delivery, content, and format requirements and deadlines in [regulatory citation].
Consultation with state (if required) on: [datel
Notice distributed by: [methodl
on: [datel
Notice distributed by: [methodl
pn: [datel
Content - required elements.
Signature of owner or operator
Date
Procedures for Returning to Compliance
If your system has not adequately provided public notification to the consumer or intended audience, the water
system will remain out of compliance. It is important to take steps to achieve compliance, so the public is
properly aware of the potential issues or hazards with their drinking water.
Water systems can achieve compliance once the system issues proper public notification in the form, manner,
and frequency required.
Water systems that fail to submit a certification documenting public notification distribution can achieve
compliance when the system submits certification to the state that it has fully complied with the public
notification requirements.
Water systems that are required to consult with the state, must initiate a consultation with the state to achieve
compliance. This includes water systems that were required to provide Tier 1 public notice and failed to initiate
the consultation with the state. The water system is returned to compliance once they consult with the primacy
agency. [40 C 202(b)(2)!
Systems that have a failure to send adequate, timely, and repeat public notice for failure to comply with any
schedule prescribed pursuant to a variance or exemption can achieve compliance by sending adequate, timely,
and repeat public notice for failure to comply with any schedule prescribed pursuant to a variance or exemption,
or timely and adequate notice after the granting of a variance or exemption. [40 CFR 141.6(c). 40 CFR 141.201.
40 CFR141.204(a)-(b). 40 CFR 141.205(b). 40 CFR 141.206. and Appendix A to Subpart Q of Part 1411
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4. Making Public Notification Work - Plan in Advance
Effective risk communication, particularly when potentially serious health risks are involved, requires advanced
planning, effective communication, and follow-up. The discussion that follows describes some of the key steps
you can take before, during, and after a situation that requires public notification. It includes suggestions for
making your communication efforts as effective as possible. Systems are not required to perform all of the
activities discussed in this chapter; however, it will be helpful to them if they do.
Planning in Advance for Public Notification
Any advanced work you can do to prepare for a public notification effort will pay off if you are faced with a
violation or situation. Advanced planning will allow accurate information to be transferred quickly to all affected
consumers with ease and will allow for time to correct issues if situations do not go as planned. When timing is
critical, it will be less stressful for you if you have developed communication channels and become familiar with
the templates provided in this guidance ahead of time.
When your community and water system conduct emergency planning, include Tier 1 PN Rule requirements in
your plans. This way when a serious violation, waterborne disease outbreak, or other emergency occurs you will
already have in place an established process, chain of command, and knowledge of the best communication
channels and delivery methods for reaching your public. You will also have the relationships, contacts, and
understanding of key stakeholders that you will need if you are faced with a very short turnaround time for
communicating required information to the public.
Assemble Your Response Team
• Develop a working relationship and response plan with your local health department so that you have
an agreed-upon process for sharing information about water-related health risks and communicating
with the public. Consumers may call the health department for information about health risks described
in your communications. If you coordinate in advance, you can help to ensure that, regardless of whom
they call, your public hears consistent messages that will help them understand the risks and how to
manage them.
o Remember, situations that require public notices will probably affect health professionals in your
community. They will need accurate and clear information on contaminants and health risks so that
they can help your public understand the risks and how to manage them. Health professionals need
to understand how the violation or situation affects their patients (especially those professionals
who treat children, the elderly, pregnant women, people with compromised immune systems, or
other sensitive subpopulations). Public health officials may know the most effective channels for
reaching your community's health providers. Discuss this in advance so that you are not trying to
find every clinic, doctor, and nurse in your community while you are trying to solve a contamination
problem. The local health department or sanitarian is also likely to have valuable information to
share about the populations you serve, particularly about the subpopulations most vulnerable to
water-related illnesses and ways to reach them.
• Work with your community's emergency managers to establish ties with the state office that works
with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)/National Weather Service (NWS) to
access the Emergency Alert System (EAS). Through memoranda of agreements between states and the
NWS, communities can broadcast alerts of non-weather emergencies, including drinking water
violations and situations, via NOAA Weather Radio and NOAA Weather Wire Service. This is a very
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effective delivery method to have at your disposal in case of a violation or situation requiring a Tier 1
public notice.
• Create a list of emergency contact numbers for all of the people who will be critical to your outreach
efforts, including public health representatives, webmasters that support your Web site and key Web
sites hosted by the local government, health department, media contacts, local government officials,
and leaders from the subpopulation groups you identify in your service community. Ensure this list is
kept up to date for future notices.
• Identify printers or copying services that have the capacity to generate high volumes of copies, and
other vendors that supply services that you may need in an emergency.
• Identify alternative water suppliers such as bottled water distributors in case you need to supply an
alternate source of water.
• Find out whom you should contact at the state for cases where consultation is required. Determine
whether there are alternative procedures for notifying the agency when violations or situations occur on
weekends or holidays. Also, be sure you have a way to contact them during an emergency, such as a
power failure, that may cause them to not be at their place of business. This is especially true if you
routinely communicate via e-mail.
Understand Your Audience and How to Reach Them
Water systems need to know their customers before they are faced with a critical need to reach and inform
them. One of the most effective steps you can take to plan in advance for a public notice distribution is to
analyze and segment your service population. The key to segmenting your audience for effective communication
is to identify the number of discrete subgroups within your community that receive information in different
ways, require special advice, or have distinct communication needs. For example, your community may consist
of several language groups, several groups with different reading proficiencies, multiple groups that obtain their
information from different media sources, and sensitive subpopulations that may require additional public
health information. If you can identify these specific subgroups within your community, and identify what
differentiates each group, you will be better prepared to reach each group effectively. Questions to research in
advance include:
• Are there facilities in your service area that require additional content such as schools, hospitals, or food
preparation organizations?
• What languages are spoken in your service area?
• Within each language community, what percentage of people is also proficient in English?
• Are there large numbers of people in your service area with low literacy levels?
• Are low-literacy groups "clustered" in certain zip codes or neighborhoods?
• What sources of information do these groups rely on?
• Are there areas with limited broadband that may not have the Internet?
• Are there communities that may not have 24-hour access to the Internet like a prison or assisted living
facility?
Consider your local media as another good source of information on your audience. It is the media's job to know
the community inside and out. Media outlets have an economic need to understand how to reach various
segments of the audience, and typically have a mission to "serve" the community. These two goals mean that
they likely have knowledge of various subgroups in your community, and contacts with key leaders within those
communities. Since you should establish relationships with the media anyway (as partners in communication),
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one way to develop allies within the media is to recognize their knowledge and abilities by asking them for
valuable information about your service population.
• Determine the key local media that each subgroup looks to for information. For example, identify non-
English radio stations, television shows on cable access, and local public radio stations that may appeal
to your various target subgroups. Identify local foreign-language newspapers and determine which of
these reach the most people. Remember that some may only be published weekly and would therefore
not be appropriate for violations or situations requiring Tier 1 public notification.
Identify community and ethnic group leaders and discuss with them your commitment to provide safe drinking
water to their constituents. These "grassroots" groups usually have a high level of contact with target
demographic groups and tend to be trusted by them. Establish and maintain working alliances with these
grassroots organizations so that if you need to quickly distribute a message about the drinking water in the
future, you already have channels in place to reach your diverse audience. Building these relationships will also
demonstrate your concern for the community and establish a level of trust that will increase the likelihood that
they will assist you when needed.
Consider local government officials, neighborhood and civic associations, community leaders, large employers,
church leaders, grocery store owners, barber shop owners...everyone who has the ear of a particular subgroup
within your community is a potential ally.
• Ethnic organizations, churches/mosques/synagogues and multicultural centers are in touch with the
needs and concerns of specific racial, religious or ethnic groups, including people who cannot speak or
read English.
• Healthcare providers, hospital and nursing home directors and social service providers, are a first source
of information for many people, especially vulnerable populations, such as elderly populations, cancer
patients or HIV/AIDS patients.
Consider how you can deliver your messages most effectively to each subgroup in your community. Different
audiences demand different messages because they have differing concerns and, sometimes, different ways of
absorbing information.
In the discussion below of how to make materials more readable, you will find suggestions for including graphics
and other visual cues to help your audience understand printed information. Also consider that some of your
audience may have low-literacy skills or visual impairments that make it difficult to process written information
and consider how you can provide information to them through television, radio, in public meetings or through
word-of-mouth. You may want to ensure radio or televised announcements are provided late at night and early
in the morning in addition to primetime news to help ensure consumers on such schedules receive the
information. Also, remember that not all of your customers are residential. Some of your commercial customers
may want information about how the violation or situation affects them (e.g., can a restaurant owner use the
water for cooking, can a landscape business use the water on their plants, etc.).
Create Your Communication Channels
Once you have analyzed your population and have an idea of the multiple groups you will want to reach in the
event of a public notice, establish the relationships and processes you will need to have in place to work through
those groups to reach your target audiences. For example, if you know you have a large Hispanic population in
your service area and that many members of the community tend to listen to specific radio stations, watch
certain television programs, read particular periodicals, and convene at specific locations, make advance
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connections to those sources of information. Preparing an organizational chart that maps communication
channels and maintains current contacts is recommended (see Figure 2). Figure 2. Example Organizational Chart
Public Wafer Sptent
Public Communications
Point Person
f^nirr1 _
Phi HI*
Email; ""
• Call on the media that can help you reach your target communities. Explain your commitment to
providing safe drinking water and that you will sometimes need to reach as many people as possible in a
short time period to share important health messages. Enlist them in your cause and establish a process
for sharing information with these "third-party communicators" so that they can help you distribute
public notices. Explain ahead of time what constitutes an emergency and what it means if you contact
them in the future to request help with distribution of a public notice.
o Develop relationships with the media. Hold an annual media day where you can offer tours and
explain how your system operates, including any improvements you may be implementing. In
addition, find out if local news outlets hold community outreach days. The more informed your local
media is about your water system, the more accurate and positive they will be when writing about a
violation or situation. Cultivate a positive image—that your water system is a resource to protect,
not simply another "utility." Designate one person on your staff to serve as a liaison to the media.
Establish a relationship with a key reporter (e.g., someone who covers environmental or public
health issues), so that you can make quick contact with them in an emergency. A good relationship
will improve the likelihood that your message is aired the way that you want it to be.
o Ask your media contacts what kind of information about water quality issues they would find
valuable, in case of an emergency, and prepare draft materials for the media. Make it easy for the
media to cover your story correctly.
• Establish contacts with institutions and people who can translate notices into other languages for you
and help you target non-English speaking populations to receive translated notices. Community centers,
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universities, high school teachers and community activists can help provide translations. Make contacts
ahead of time for low-cost translations. Consider word-of-mouth as one potential method of getting
notice to non-English speaking consumers (however this method cannot be the sole method of provide
the notice), especially if there are no television or radio stations or newspapers in those languages. To
stimulate word-of-mouth transfer of information, you need to have relationships with opinion leaders
who are well connected within each community you want to reach. It is also important to work with
community or ethnic organizations, such as churches, mosques, temples, and community associations to
make sure the notice gets to non-English speaking consumers.
• Each public notification tier has required methods of delivery. Review this handbook in advance of a
violation or situation so that you are prepared to distribute information within each required timeframe
and as quickly and widely as possible.
Prepare Your Messages
Do not wait for a violation or situation to occur to begin preparing your messages. Think ahead about the key
concerns that each of your subgroups may have in the case of different violations or situations and identify
specific subgroups that may face particular health risks from different contaminants to treatment problems.
• Review the templates provided in this handbook now, before timing is critical, to ensure the message
will address the specific needs of your system. Modify the templates, if necessary, to meet the needs of
your system but remember to include all 10 required elements of a public notice.
• If possible, test your messages ahead of time with groups who can serve as surrogate audiences. While
EPA has tested public notice templates in this handbook with focus groups for readability and
understandability, consider having focus groups and special interest groups (e.g., the elderly, non-
English speaking, renters, etc.) evaluate your public notices and process to provide feedback. Of course,
any time you are faced with a situation that requires a public notice, you should pay attention to the
reactions among your consumers, so if you are faced with a similar situation in the future, any
difficulties will not be repeated.
• Train spokespersons, build Web pages, create fact sheets and brochures, and develop agendas for public
meetings in advance. In the wake of a crisis, you will be glad to have draft materials ready for final
review and quick distribution.
• If applicable, consider including a statement in your message that the state regulations are more
stringent than the federal regulations.
Preparing your message in advance will be especially useful if you know your system is at risk of a violation. For
example, if contaminant levels are below the MCL but have the potential in the future to exceed it, or if there
are recurring pollution problems associated with naturally occurring contaminants or land uses in your area, you
can prepare a notice in anticipation of a possible violation.
Even emergency situations will generate a number of common concerns. When a violation or situation affects
their drinking water, people will be most concerned with what they need to do, whether they or their family are
at risk, and what is being done to address the situation. For more information on communicating risk, refer to
EPA's Effective Risks and Crisis during Water Security Emergences document at:
http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZvPDF.cgi/6000QCES. PDF?Dockev=60000CES. PDF.
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Make a Notice Easy to Read
Most readers only read the top half of a notice (or what can be read in 10 seconds) and focus on large text such
as headings and bolded text. The most important information, especially instructions to protect consumers'
health, should be placed on the top half of the notice in large print. Smaller type is appropriate for the less
critical elements, such as what the system is doing, an explanation of the cause of the violation or situation, etc.
You must still include all the required elements in the notice. See pages 14 and 15 (Figure 1) for a list of the 10
required elements.
• Try to limit wordiness. A question-and-answer format is easy to read and guides readers to the
information that is likely to concern them. Each paragraph should only deal with one topic, and it is very
important to limit the number of different messages you include in your communications. When dealing
with potential health risks, people become emotional and have difficulty processing information. The
best way to help your public understand your public notice is to present a limited number of messages
and to strive for consistency of messaging across all communications media. If people hear your few,
simple messages over and over again, they are more likely to accurately estimate their risks and to take
the right steps to manage them.
• Put the most important components of the message (i.e., those that have the greatest implications for
protecting public health) at the top of the notice in large text. The templates for public notices included
in Chapters 6. 8 and 10 provide examples of notices that meet the requirements of the federal PN Rule,
and are clear, concise, and understandable.
• Use a font for your public notice that is easy to read. The font used for the public notice templates in
this document is Arial, which is a sans serif font.
• Use graphics, such as photographs or drawings, to illustrate your messages. Wherever possible, provide
an image that describes the actions the public should take to protect themselves from potential health
risks. See Appendix C of this document for information on some important and relevant phrases
translated into various languages. Appendix C also includes simple pictures that convey the concept of
"do not drink the water," that would be understood by someone who cannot read. These pictures would
also grab the attention of people passing by.
• Highlight the name of your system, especially where people in your area are served by more than one
water system. You may also want to prepare a map showing the area you serve, especially if it extends
beyond city limits. You may want to print the notices on your system's letterhead which, coupled with
the title of the notice, will help people recognize that the notice is important.
Consider Contingencies
You may need to provide bottled water, especially for a violation or situation requiring Tier 1 public notification.
You should confirm ahead of time, and periodically reconfirm, that available bottled water supplies meet the
Food and Drug Administration or state safety standards by asking bottlers for their most recent testing results.
Make sure your bottled water supplier understands your emergency plan and has its own plan for providing
you with large quantities of water on short notice. You should also try and secure a commitment from the
supplier to provide water to you before others in an emergency situation.
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During a Violation or Situation Requiring Public Notification
Have Materials Readily Available
Obtain fact sheets on contaminants from EPA's Web site at: https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking"
water. This way if you issue a public notice in the future, you will already have the explanatory materials your
consumers may ask for after receiving your notice. EPA's fact sheets are updated periodically, so check EPA's
Web site regularly to make sure that you have the most recent version. You may consider including EPA's Web
site on the public notice so that consumers may obtain information directly regarding public notification and the
contaminant of concern. In addition, consider including your system's Web site, if you have one, or your
municipality on the public notice if you plan to have up-to-date information regarding the situation on the Web
site.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (1-800-311-3435) is a good source of information on
drinking water contaminants that can cause disease. CDC's Web site includes documents and factsheets on
contaminants and diseases, including Cryptosporidium. For instance, guidelines on notification for
cryptosporidiosis are available in the CDC's Cryptosporidium and Water: A Public Health Handbook
(http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/crvpto/crypto.pdf). This handbook discusses the decision-making process
for issuing boil water advisories, provides information on preparing news releases, and contains educational fact
sheets on preventing disease. Much of the information in the handbook is also applicable to other types of
disease outbreaks and emergencies. This handbook, along with fact sheets and other publications on
Cryptosporidium, are available at: http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/crypto/. Information on other diseases is
available at: http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/diseases.html. Having copies of fact sheets on hand may be
helpful in response to inquiries from customers and local media. Remember, your state may have more
stringent requirements for when to issue a boil water notice.
Help the Media to Distribute an Accurate Notice
When you work with the media to distribute a public notice, call on your contacts who already understand your
mission to inform and protect the public. Having established relationships with editors, writers, producers, and
program hosts will help you to get your message out to the public quickly and correctly. However, you should
not rely solely on the media to distribute your notice. To ensure key facilities (schools, hospitals, businesses,
etc.) are properly notified, keep and maintain a listing of these facilities and their contacts, and notify them
directly.
If you write a press release or get a reporter to write a story for the newspaper, television, or radio, explain what
information you are trying to communicate and why (i.e., the 10 elements required on each public notice).
Explain to the media in clear and open terms what you are required to do about a violation or situation and
make it easy for them to identify the most important information, including a description of the violation or
situation, the population at risk, the instructions to consumers, and potential health effects. The easier you
make it for the media to accurately cover your story, the more likely you are to get the results you want. Make
sure they understand that all 10 required elements should be addressed in the story. Whenever possible, visit
your media contacts in person to request coverage.
For a violation requiring Tier 1 public notification, broadcast media can be the primary source of public notice
distribution. Broadcast media can also be used for Tier 2 or 3 public notification, but this must be done in
conjunction with direct delivery or mailing the notice to customers.
• Draft a press release for the media and make sure it highlights the key information and how people can
get more information (i.e., your system's contact name and number). When you send the notice to radio
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and television stations and newspapers, write "PRESS RELEASE FOR PUBLIC SAFETY" at the top of the
notice to emphasize its importance.
• Offer to be interviewed on the air by a television or radio station. Ideally, spokespeople should
understand and be trained to deal with the pressures associated with an interview, so that they will
appear calm (and not evasive or defensive).
• Write a draft story or an op-ed for the newspaper and give a completed draft to an editor.
• Provide radio and television programs with talking points, sources for impartial information (e.g., links to
EPA or CDC, contacts at the health department, etc.) and suggestions of people they can interview for a
story.
• Provide statistics, charts, and graphics (photographs, video footage, drawings, maps, etc.) along with
your text to make it easy for different types of media to broadcast your story.
• Always take phone calls from the media whether you can answer their questions or not.
CASE STUDY
City of Lacey, Washington
To alert residents of an E. coli MCL violation in the distribution system, the City of Lacey and the Washington
State Department of Health issued a joint press release. (The City also hand-delivered notices in the affected
neighborhood.) Co-issuing the notice gave the press release greater credibility and showed that the City and
State were providing consistent information. At the same time, the City contacted Seattle and Tacoma television
and radio stations and newspapers. The local newspaper also interviewed system personnel daily. While Lacey
received positive feedback on its efforts within the affected neighborhood, it also learned an important lesson
about working with the media. Many unaffected consumers were unnecessarily alarmed because lengthy
television interviews were edited to short sound bites, some of which did not mention that only 450 homes in
the system's 40,000-person distribution area were affected. Lacey addressed the misperception through the
local newspaper and a special consumer hotline. This taught the City the importance of prioritizing information
for the press and making sure the press knows what information the public critically needs.
If the media will not run a story on your violation or situation, ask an official from your emergency
management department to participate by reading the notice on the air or agreeing to an interview. The media
may be more likely to air a public notice connected to such officials.
If a newspaper will not publish a story or press release, you may need to buy space to print the notice in its
entirety. You should buy an advertisement as close to the front of the paper as possible and make it large
enough that people will easily see it. Legal notices are not recommended because they rarely meet the
formatting requirements for public notices and are not widely read.
General Tips on Working with the Media
• Be truthful and up-front about local water quality issues.
• Don't be defensive when answering questions.
• Answer questions as well as you can, but don't be afraid to say that you need to check on something if there
is a question you can't answer (once you find the information, quickly report back on what you've found).
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• Keep in mind that reporters are not familiar with state or federal requirements for safe drinking water -
avoid technical jargon!
• Provide additional sources of information such as state contacts or EPA fact sheets.
• Be sensitive to the fact that reporters may be working on tight deadlines.
• Provide a list of the 10 required elements that must be addressed in your public notice so that the media
can adequately inform the public about potential risks and how to manage them.
Don't be upset if a newspaper article isn't exactly as you would want it, but politely tell a reporter if a significant
piece of information is wrong or missing so that it can be corrected.
When you send a press release to local television and radio stations, try to get them to commit to airing the
story. Watch or listen to the news to be sure the public notice is aired. It is possible that, despite your best
attempts, the story will be incomplete, or the television/radio station will not air the notice. If this happens,
distribute a written follow-up notice as soon as possible, even if the deadline has passed. Include any additional
information that has become available since the initial notice was prepared. Although a partial notice telling
consumers what to do is better than no notice, your obligation under the PN Rule is not satisfied until a
complete notice is distributed.
Other Steps
Notify local health professionals about the violation or situation. People may call their healthcare providers with
questions about how the violation or situation may affect their health, and these professionals should have the
information they need to respond appropriately. In addition, health professionals, including dentists, use tap
water during their procedures and need to make plans to use uncontaminated water.
To address sensitive populations, maintain a list of key facilities (e.g., nursing homes, hospitals) and their
contacts and notify them directly. This will be beneficial in instances where the media may be unreliable, or
these facilities may otherwise not receive the notice in a timely manner.
Be prepared for customers to call you with questions. The people staffing the phone lines should understand the
violation that prompted the notice and be prepared to respond to people's concerns: what they need to do,
whether they are at risk, and how quickly the situation will be resolved (if known). Consider preparing a list of
possible questions and answers for people answering the phones.
As with the media, it is important not to be evasive or defensive in responding to questions. Remember that
some callers may not be proficient in English. You may need to have someone on your staff that is bilingual or
enlist the help of a grassroots organization or translator. Consider asking community volunteers to support a
multilingual telephone bank in the event of an emergency and make sure people who answer the phones are
prepared to read or explain the entire notice to callers if necessary.
Consider providing handouts and additional information at places like the public library, town hall and
supermarkets, etc.
Your system's Web page (or that of your municipality's) can also be a valuable communications tool; it is a good
place to furnish updates and more detailed information after the initial notice is provided. This is especially true
in "well-connected" communities where a high percentage of the population has Internet access. It is also
appropriate for some NCWSs where users regularly use computers and e-mail, such as an office building, a
business, or a college. Add a date and time stamp to your page and update it frequently (even if the content of
the message does not change). People want to know that the information they are reading is as current as
possible. This could help limit the volume of calls you receive. Web products should be accessible to the visually
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disabled. Most software that creates Web pages or word processing software allows the text to be read aloud by
a computer.
Preventing Overreaction to a Public Notice
Public education during a violation or situation can minimize overreaction to a water problem and can help
focus community attention on the source of a problem. Also, public education prior to a violation or situation
about contaminants, what a public notice means, and specific types of water problems, is an excellent public
relations tool. All public education will help create a partnership between you and your customers that
demonstrates your commitment to providing safe water and reduces the prevalence of the "us versus them"
mentality.
Public notification for recurring problems such as a nitrate violation is more effective if supplemented by a
public education program. There are a number of ways to create awareness of a contaminant problem and of
what it means for public health. These include public meetings at community centers, newspaper or local
television and radio coverage, working with local libraries to establish a reference section on the problem, or
newsletters or fact sheets mailed with monthly bills or otherwise distributed broadly throughout the
community. Information that is helpful to the public includes:
• Descriptions of the contaminant(s).
• Information on how contaminants get into the water.
• What you are doing to prevent or correct the problem.
• If and why the problem recurs, and what the public can do to prevent a recurrence.
• If and why protection measures have a limited effectiveness.
• The impact on the consumer.
While ongoing problems warrant implementing an early and ongoing public education campaign, public
response to a notice can point you to other areas in which public education would be useful. For example, if you
receive a high number of calls about a notice, there is probably a need for greater public understanding of the
problem.
Another way to prevent overreaction is to recruit spokespeople who are perceived by the public as neutral
experts to share your message. Examples include university experts with relevant expertise; local doctors and
health professionals; or leaders of local non-profit or advocacy groups with an environmental, community, or
public health focus. Communications that are solely through water system staff, politicians, and consultants
could be perceived as biased.
Begin your communications with a genuine expression of empathy. Do not try to downplay the issues that your
public expresses concern about. Instead, state your awareness and understanding of their concerns and your
commitment to keeping them informed so that they know everything that you know. People feel more
comfortable about risk when they know the people communicating with them believe their concerns are valid.
Follow-up After the Situation is Resolved
Your state may require you to do follow-up or "problem corrected" notices for violations or situations,
particularly for violations or situations requiring Tier 1 public notification. If it does not, you should consider
issuing such a notice anyway. Sometimes, information on the source of the contamination is not available at the
time of an initial notice. Providing a notice with updated information demonstrates that you are working on the
problem. Consumers will expect to receive official word that the problem is solved or being addressed. Template
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1-10 at the end of Chapter 5 is an example of a notice for a corrected violation or situation. This template can be
used for any violations or situations requiring public notification that has been corrected.
Follow-up analysis can help ensure that the message in the notice was received as intended, and that all target
audiences understood the notice. The results of such analyses can help mold future efforts.
• Media surveys can assess how well television, radio stations and the press reported the information.
Media coverage can be monitored by reviewing the Web sites of local media outlets or purchasing the
services of media surveillance firms. Relevant information includes the frequency of stories, the media
through which they were reported, and the content of the stories (e.g., whether the most important
facts were covered or if any erroneous information was reported).
• Polling citizens directly can provide a gauge of your outreach's effectiveness by determining citizens'
awareness of the violation, how they perceived the information, and if they were satisfied with and
could understand it. The telephone is the most common polling avenue; however, phone polls should be
undertaken and interpreted with caution, as the subjects of a phone survey would not include low-
income residents with no telephone (door-to-door surveys are an option in these areas). Pollsters
should be able to speak all of the languages represented in the service area. Grassroots organizations
may be surveyed as well.
• If you post on a Web site, look at how many people visited your Web site, how many people opened
and/or downloaded the public notice and how many other Web sites are linked to your Web site.
To ensure accuracy and ease in developing future notices, you should evaluate your notification process and
update your contacts annually.
Implement ongoing public education programs about contaminants for which you are at risk of violation; that is,
contaminants whose levels are below the MCL but have the potential in the future to exceed it (or have
previously exceeded it). This would apply to naturally occurring contaminants, such as radium, fluoride, or
arsenic, and for recurring pollution problems (e.g., nitrate, pesticides). With an education program in place,
consumers will be better informed if a violation occurs.
Continue to demonstrate your commitment to public health. Schedule public meetings to discuss the violation
or situation and to explain necessary treatments (if they are needed) or how citizens can protect the water
supply so that future violations are less likely. Invite the public to tour your facility. Maintain good relationships
with the media or civic leaders so that they will provide fair news and information about the water system—
whether you have another public notification situation or not.
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5. Tier 1 Public Notice Requirements and Suggestions
Tier 1 public notices must meet the content, format, and multilingual requirements described in detail in
Chapter 3 and are required for the following violations or situations [40 CFR 141.202(a)!:
Tier 1 - Violations and Other Situations Requiring Notice Within 24 Hours*
• Violation of the MCL for E. coli if the system: [40 CFR 141.63(c) and 40 CFR 141.860(a)]
o Has an E. coli-positive REPEAT sample following a total coliform-positive ROUTINE sample,
o Has a total coliform-positive REPEAT sample following an E. co/i-positive ROUTINE sample,
o Fails to take all required REPEAT samples following an E. coli-positive ROUTINE sample,
o Fails to test for E. coli when any REPEAT sample tests positive for total coliform.
• Violation of the MCL for nitrate, nitrite, or Total Nitrate + Nitrite.
• When a nitrate or nitrite confirmation sample is not taken within 24 hours of the system's receipt of the first sample
showing exceedance of the nitrate or nitrite MCL
• Special public notice for exceedance of the nitrate MCL (10 mg/l) by NCWSs, where permitted to exceed the MCL
(up to 20 mg/l) by the state.
• Violation of the alternate nitrate MCL of 20 mg/L by a NCWS allowed to go up to 20 mg/L [40 CFR 141.2.3(o)1
• Violation of the MRDL for chlorine dioxide when one or more of the samples taken in the distribution system on the
day after exceeding the MRDL at the entrance of the distribution system, or when required samples are not taken in
the distribution system.
• Violation of the turbidity MCL of 5 NTU, where the state determines after consultation that a Tier 1 notice is
required or where consultation does not occur in 24 hours after the system learns of violation.
• Violation of the treatment technique requirement resulting from a single exceedance of the maximum allowable
turbidity limit, where the state determines after consultation that a Tier 1 public notice is required or where
consultation does not take place in 24 hours after the system learns of violation.
• Occurrence of a waterborne disease outbreak, as defined in 40 CFR 141.2, or other waterborne emergency such as a
treatment failure, chemical spill or overfeed, sewage spill or natural disaster.
• Detection of E. coli, enterococci, or coliphage in a ground water source sample.
• Other violations or situations with significant potential to have serious adverse effects on human health as a result
of short-term exposure, as determined by the state either in its regulations or on a case-by-case basis.
• If the system experiences any of these violations or situations, in addition to issuing public notice, it must initiate
consultation with the state as soon as practical but within 24 hours after learning of the violation or situation. Note:
Initiate consultation means that at a minimum, the system has taken steps to contact the state. EPA and most states
now have voicemail or an emergency hotline, so systems should be able to leave a message. If the system is not able to
reach anyone within the 24-hour period, the system must still issue public notice within that timeframe. When
consultation does occur, the state or EPA will inform the system of any additional steps they must take as a follow-up to
the initial notice.
What is the deadline for issuing a Tier 1 public notice?
As soon as practical but within 24 hours of learning of a violation or situation, you must:
• Initiate consultation with your state [40 CFR 141.202(b)!.
• Issue a public notice.
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CASE STUDY
Town of Walkersville, Maryland
When a construction crew accidentally ruptured a sewer line one mile from its well field, the Town of
Walkersville, MD, immediately issued a precautionary boil water advisory for infants, the elderly, and people
with severely compromised immune systems. While no drinking water contamination was evident, the Town
was concerned that its treatment plant might not be capable of removing or inactivating Cryptosporidium that
might be present in the sewage. To notify consumers, volunteer fire department staff knocked on doors at 3,000
homes and businesses, and Walkersville notified the cable company and other local media. Walkersville also
provided water in tanker trucks to a local nursing home and spoke to medical professionals in the area. Three
days later, when tests of untreated well water showed increasing bacteria concentrations (but before any
contamination was detected in the finished water) the boil water advisory was extended to all residents,
including those using private wells. The volunteer fire department again assisted with notification. Tanker trucks
were set up in four locations. The advisory was rescinded when Walkersville temporarily connected to the
nearby Frederick, MD, water supply. Even though bacteria levels reached 30,000 organisms/100 mL in well water
and Cryptosporidium was confirmed in the sewage, no residents became ill due to the incident, in large part due
to the early public notification and quick response by the Town of Walkersville.
The consultation with the state is independent of the public notice itself. You must issue the notice within 24
hours, even if you are unable to contact anyone at the state. Most states have 24-hour emergency hotlines, so
consultation should be possible at any time. As a result of the consultation, your state may set additional public
notice requirements [40 CFR 141.202(b)!. You may be directed to issue repeat notices for continuing violations
or situations, "problem corrected" notices, or, if your initial notice does not meet the requirements, another
notice. The agency may also require you to provide notice to specific groups, such as healthcare providers.
Remember to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification statement to your state within 10 days
after providing the initial and any repeat notice [40 CFR 141.31(d)!. You must also notify new billing customers
of ongoing violations or situations for which you have previously provided notice [40 CFR 141.2061.
Required Elements of a Public Notice [40 CFR 141.205(a)!
• A description of the violation or situation including contaminant of concern and contaminant level, as
applicable.
• When the violation or situation occurred.
• Potential adverse health effects, using standard health effects language in Appendix B to Subpart Q. and/or
language for monitoring and testing procedure violations in Appendix A to Subpart Q.
• Population(s) at risk, including especially vulnerable subpopulations.
• Whether alternative water supplies should be used.
• Actions consumers should take, including when they should seek medical help, if known.
• What you are doing to correct the violation or situation.
• When you expect to return to compliance or resolve the situation.
• Name, business address, and phone number for additional information.
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• The following standard language encouraging distribution to all persons served, where applicable:
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not
have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.
Which methods of delivery must I use?
You must use one or more of the following: broadcast media (e.g., radio and television), posting in conspicuous
locations, hand delivery, or a method approved in writing by the state in advance or during consultation. The
method(s) you choose must be reasonably calculated to reach all persons served, including residents,
employees, and travelers. Therefore, you may need to use other methods in addition to those previously
mentioned. For instance, a large system might provide the notice to local radio and television stations; then, to
reach people who don't watch or listen to the news, they might also put the notice in the newspaper. You must
use at least one of the required methods and whatever other methods are necessary to reach all consumers [40
CFR 141.202(c)!.
Be sure that people understand the importance of notifying others who may travel through the distribution area
of the violation or situation. For instance, people who patronize restaurants or work in office buildings in the
distribution area but live elsewhere, may not be aware of the violation or situation. Owners of these
establishments should know what they need to tell their customers and are encouraged to inform their
customers about the violation or situation and post a warning as well.
Suggestions for effective public notification delivery
When choosing a method for public notification, you should consider several issues including the population
served, population density (i.e., is the area rural, urban, or suburban), available assistance, and your proximity to
radio and television stations, newspapers, and accessibility to online platforms.
Large systems should use a combination of broadcast media (e.g., radio and television), newspapers, email, web
site, and social media platforms, if approved in writing by the state. You should also supplement media notices
by posting in public buildings and delivering multiple copies of notices to hospitals, clinics, and community
centers.
When you write a notice for radio or television, assume that it will only receive a few seconds of airtime. Make
sure the most important information, including a phone number to call for more information, will be included.
See Chapter 4, "Making Public Notification Work - Plan in Advance," for tips on working with the media.
In addition, consider putting a notice in local area newspapers to help supplement the other required Tier 1
public notification delivery methods. Notice in a newspaper may be in the form of an article or a paid
advertisement. Articles are more effective than paid notices however, because they are more likely to be
noticed and read. Work with the local newspaper to write an article on the violation and what the system is
doing to correct it. Be sure that anyone at the paper who writes or edits the article knows what items are the
most important to include. If your system is located in the suburban area of a large city, you should request that
your notice be placed in the weekly community news section. Also, focus on getting articles published in smaller
community newspapers, homeowners' association newsletters or similar publications.
For television notices, ask the station or cable company to put "scrollers" across the screen similar to National
Weather Service announcements for weather emergencies. This is a good way to put the notice on television
and reach people who don't watch the news, as well as target a subsection of the television audience. You can
work with the appropriate state office to broadcast alerts through the Federal Emergency Management
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Agency's (FEMA's) Integrated Public Alert & Warning System which provides public safety officials with an
effective way to alert and warn the public about serious emergencies using the Emergency Alert System (EAS),
Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and other public alerting systems from a single interface. Additional
information can be found at: https://www.fema.gov/integrated-public-alert-warning-svstem. You can also check
with your state emergency preparedness office.
The Internet offers the advantage of being very dynamic; Web sites, and social media platforms can be updated
as new information becomes available or to address people's concerns and answer their questions. Add a date
and time stamp to your page and update it frequently (even if the content of the message does not change).
People want to know that the information they are reading is as current as possible. However, remember that
access to the Internet may be limited for some customers, so you should rely on this as a secondary and not a
primary method.
E-mail may also be an effective way to contact some users especially electronic bill paying customers; however,
e-mail should also be considered supplemental, and not the primary method of public notice delivery since e-
mail addresses change frequently, spam filters may filter out the notice, and some people may not read the
message.
Tips for Very Small Community Systems
Here are some suggestions for very small systems to use to reach the people they serve:
• Hand delivery combined with posting at grocery stores, banks, public bus stops, train stations, etc., may be
appropriate for you, especially if radio and/or television are impractical.
• In rural areas within range of a radio or television station in a larger town, ask the station to air the notice
(make sure that they clearly identify the area affected so as to not cause undue alarm to people in
unaffected areas). You may still need to use additional methods of notification.
• Hold community meetings, especially where consumers have low reading ability or don't speak English
(where the operator or a community member can translate).
Automatic phone dialers may be effective in large systems as a supplement to broadcast media. Some cities and
counties have a computer-based rapid-call system which can be integrated with geographic information systems
to target a specific service area. Dialers should not be relied on too heavily; consumers may hang up on recorded
messages, children may answer the phone and not transmit the message to their parents, and residents may not
understand English. Automatic phone dialers are considered a secondary method of public notice delivery and
should not be relied upon as the primary method.
Prepare written notices on your water system's letterhead. This gives the notice additional credibility and
makes it easily recognizable as official word from the water system. Also, consider putting the date on the
notice.
If there are non-English speaking populations in your service area, it is strongly recommended that you fully
translate Tier 1 public notice into other languages or provide a phone number for assistance in other languages.
See Chapter 3 for more information on translating and getting the notice to these groups. At a minimum, you
must include some information in the appropriate language if there is a large proportion of non-English speakers
[40 CFR 141.205(c)!. You may also want to address the needs of the blind and deaf communities and people with
limited reading abilities.
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Selecting a Delivery Method
Here are some questions to consider when determining how to deliver your notice:
• My system is in a suburban area. How can I write the notice so that it will not alarm the rest of the
metropolitan area not served by my system when the notice is delivered through the media?
• Can I be sure the radio or television station will give the notice the airtime it needs?
• Will the local newspaper write an accurate article about the violation or situation? Will it prominently
publish the information in a press release? Will I need to buy an ad or notice?
• Do I have the time and resources to deliver the notice door-to-door?
• Are volunteers available to assist me?
Send a broadcast e-mail. Create an "address list" in your e-mail software that includes contacts at each
newspaper and radio or television station in the area.
You can make door hangers for hand delivery that will not easily blow away. Knot a rubber band through a hole
punched in the notice and put the rubber band around consumers' doorknobs.
If you post a notice, be sure that the notice is durable. It should not blow away if posted outdoors. Consider
laminating notices that will be placed over sinks or outside, especially if they are likely to remain there for an
extended time.
CASE STUDY
City of Lacey, Washington
Throughout the course of an E. coli MCL violation in the distribution system, the City of Lacey water system
maintained close contact with the lab, seeking its insight on tests, protocols, and ramifications. This enabled the
system to make timely decisions and prepare for likely outcomes. The system could then anticipate and initiate
the next outreach or public awareness piece. As soon as it became evident that repeat samples for E. coli would
be positive, the water system mobilized city employees to conduct an early evening door-to-door notification to
about 450 homes in the affected area. Employees rang doorbells to talk to residents and provided door hangers
that included a boil water order, health effects language on E. coli, and information on a community meeting to
be held the next day. City employees also staffed a hotline for consumers. Lacey set up a temporary bulletin
board in the affected neighborhood to post updates. The electronic and print media also ran stories on the
situation. When the boil water order was lifted, the system held another meeting and again hand-delivered door
hangers, which included customer evaluation forms. Ninety percent of the respondents gave Lacey a rating of
satisfactory or higher for its handling of the event, citing the City's proactive outreach effort as the reason for
the solid rating.
Suggestions for Layout of the Notice
Tier 1 public notices should convey the urgency of the situation and make it clear to consumers what actions
they must take. Templates 1-1 through 1-10 at the end of this chapter offer sample language and instructions
for preparing Tier 1 public notices. Template 1-1A contains Spanish language for an E. coli MCL violation and
Template 1-2.A contains Spanish language for a nitrate notice.
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Ten Required Elements
Make sure your notice clearly displays the following information:
1. Description of the Violation or Situation - Violations and situations that require Tier 1 public
notification, especially those used for posting, hand delivery, or in a newspaper, should have an
attention-getting title. For example, "WARNING" is better than "Public Notice."
a. This should be followed by a sentence about the targeted audience or the population at risk.
For example: "People served by [Water System Name]" can be used in notices for fecal
indicator positive samples or waterborne disease outbreaks, were as "Infants under 6
months of age" can be used for notices for nitrate violations. If the area you serve does not
follow municipal boundaries or if only a portion of the distribution system is affected, define
the area at the top of your notice or include a map. Titles should be in large and/or bold type
and centered across the top of the page.
b. Provide a short description of the violation or situation in large type. As soon as consumers
read "Boil Your Water" because of the presence of fecal indicator, they will want to know
why they should do so. However, since this is a headline, it should be kept short and concise.
As another example, for nitrate violations, you might say, "High nitrate levels have been
detected." Then the level detected should be listed in normal type, followed by the MCL, if
applicable. A more detailed explanation of the violation or situation should be given in the
body of the notice.
2. When the Violation or Situation Occurred - The public notice should notify consumers of the date
the violation or situation occurred.
3. Any Potential Adverse Health Effects from the Violation or Situation - The notice should detail
potential health effects (using the language in Appendix B - do not alter the health effects language
in any way).
4. The Population at Risk - For violations or situations requiring Tier 1 public notification, all people
who may drink the water are at risk.
5. Whether Alternate Water Supplies Should be Used - The notice should include whether (and
where) consumers should seek alternative drinking water sources.
6. Actions Consumers Should Take - The instructions to consumers should be next in your notice. This
should be a short phrase in large type, such as "Boil Your Water" or "Do Not Drink the Water."
a. For nitrate MCL violations, the notice should instruct consumers not to boil water, since that
may be their first reaction. Explain that boiling the water will concentrate the nitrate and
may make levels even higher.
b. For microbiological violations, waterborne disease outbreaks, or other emergencies, provide
detailed instructions on using boiled water for brushing teeth, cooking, making ice, etc. If
you instruct consumers to use bottled water, you should make sure that any water you
provide meets U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or state bottled water safety
standards.
c. Be sure to provide instructions for those who are not at high risk as well. For example,
nitrates at levels below 20 mg/L are not generally considered hazardous to adults. E. coli
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might only be present in part of the distribution system, and unaffected consumers (i.e.,
people outside of a narrow area impacted who do not need to boil their water), should be
told they do not need to take action but have a right to be informed of the problem.
7. What You Are Doing to Correct the Violation or Situation - The notice should explain the corrective
action you are taking to correct the situation.
8. When You Expect to Return to Compliance or Resolve the Situation - You must include when you
expect to return to compliance or resolve the situation.
9. Your Name, Business Address, and Phone Number or those of a Designee of the Public Water
System - You should include your PWS ID number at the bottom of the notice. This will help your
state track compliance and prevent tracking errors between systems with similar names. Also
include the date you distributed the notice. If you are coordinating with the local health department,
you may wish to also list its phone number.
10. A Statement Encouraging Notice Recipients to Distribute the Notice to Others - Encourage
recipients to distribute the notice to others, where applicable, using the standard language given in
this chapter.
Additional Information
If you know the source of the contamination, include it in the notice. This information helps the consumer
understand why there is a violation or other situation and what is necessary to resolve it. It also reinforces the
fact that drinking water is a vulnerable resource that must be protected, and that treatment can be costly. If you
do not know the actual source, you should at least provide common or possible sources such as those listed in
the guidance for Consumer Confidence Reports available at:
http://water.epa.gov/lawsregs/rulesregs/sdwa/ccr/compliancehelp.cfm.
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6. Tier 1 Public Notification Instructions and Templates
The pages that follow contain instructions and templates for issuing Tier 1 public notification. Along with each
template are instructions, including the required method of delivery and suggestions for completing individual
sections of the notice. These instructions are designed to supplement Chapter 5. so you may see much of the
information repeated here. The following templates are included:
• RTCRf. coli MCL Violation Notice-Template 1-1
• RTCR E. coli MCL Violation Notice in Spanish - Template 1-1A
• Nitrate MCL Violation - Template 1-2
• Nitrate MCL Violation Notice in Spanish - Template 1-2
• Nitrate Failure to Take a Confirmation Sample - Template 1-3
• Special Notice: NCWS Allowed Up to 20 mg/L Nitrate - Template 1-4
• NCWS Allowed > 20 mg/L Nitrate that Exceed 20 mg/L - Template 1-5
• Chlorine Dioxide MRDL- Template 1-6
• Combined Filter Effluent (CFE) Maximum Turbidity Exceedance, or Turbidity Single Exceedance -
Template 1-7
• Waterborne Disease Outbreak - Template 1-8
• Fecal Indicator-Positive Source Sample - Template 1-9
• Problem Corrected -Template 1-10
Each template also includes the mandatory health effects language from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q
(presented in italics in each notice, with an asterisk on either end). This information must be included as
written; with additional violation or situation specific information added in the brackets.
You must also include the following italicized language in all notices, where applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)1. Use
of this language does not relieve you of your obligation to take steps reasonably calculated to notify all persons
served:
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not
have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.
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Instructions for E. coli MCL Violation Notice - Template 1-1
Template Below
Description of Violation or Situation
An E. coli maximum contaminant level (MCL) violation requires Tier 1 public notification. This violation occurs when any PWS has:
• A total coliform-positive routine sample result followed by an £ coli-positive repeat sample result;
• An £ coli-positive routine sample result followed by a total coliform-positive repeat sample result;
• An £ coli-positive routine sample result and fails to take all required repeat samples; or
• A total coliform-positive repeat sample result and fails to test for £ coli.
You must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but no more than 24 hours after learning of the MCL violation [40
CFR 141.202(b)!. During this time, you must also contact your state. You should also coordinate with your local health department. You
must use one or more of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.202(c)!:
• Radio
• Television
• Hand or direct delivery
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Another method approved in writing by the state
You may need to use additional methods (e.g., newspaper or delivery of multiple copies to hospitals, clinics, or apartment buildings) since
notice must be provided in a manner reasonably calculated to reach all persons served. If you post or hand deliver, EPA recommends
printing your notice on your system's letterhead, if you have it.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for hand delivery or for publication in a newspaper. However, you may wish to modify it before
using it for a radio or television broadcast. If you do modify the notice on the reverse, you must still include all required public notice
elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on each end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on each end.
Alternative Sources of Water
If you are providing bottled water, your notice should say where it can be obtained. If you are providing bottled water, make sure it
meets U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or state bottled water safety standards.
Corrective Action
In your notice, you must describe corrective actions you are taking [40 CFR 141.205(a)(7)! and when you expect to return to compliance
or resolve the situation [40 CFR 141.205(a)(8)!. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with the presence of £
coli. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements, if appropriate, or develop
your own text:
• We are completing a comprehensive assessment of our water system and of our monitoring and operational practices to identify
and correct any causes of the contamination.
• We are chlorinating and flushing the water system.
• We are switching to an alternate drinking water source.
• We are increasing sampling for coliform bacteria to determine the source of the contamination.
• We are repairing the wellhead seal.
• We are repairing, cleaning, and disinfecting the storage tank.
• We are restricting water intake from the river/lake/reservoir to prevent additional bacteria from entering the water system and
restricting water use to emergencies.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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It is recommended that you notify health professionals in the area of the violation. People may call their doctors with questions about
how the violation may affect their health, and the doctors should have the information they need to respond appropriately. In addition,
health professionals, including dentists, use tap water during their procedures and need to know about the potential contamination so
they can use bottled water.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved. See Template 1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice
template.
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Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR) E. coli MCL Violation Notice - Template 1-1
DRINKING WATER WARNING
E. coli is present in [Water System Name]'s water
BOIL YOUR WATER BEFORE USING
[Briefly describe the situation, such as: "E. coli bacteria were found in the water supply on [give date]" or "We did not
perform required testing of the water system and must assume that E. coli bacteria are in the water as of [give date]]. These
bacteria can make you sick and are especially a concern for people with weakened immune systems.
Bacterial contamination can occur when increased run-off enters the drinking water source (for example, following heavy
rains). It can also happen due to a break in the distribution system (pipes) or a failure in the water treatment process.
What should I do? What does this mean?
• DO NOT DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST. Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute and let
it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing
teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the
water.
*E. coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal wastes.
Human pathogens in these wastes can cause short-term effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or
other symptoms. They may pose a greater health risk for infants, young children, the elderly, and people with
severely compromised immune systems. *
The symptoms above are not caused only by organisms in drinking water. If you experience any of these symptoms
and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice. People at increased risk should seek advice from their
healthcare providers about drinking this water.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action]. We will inform you when tests show no bacteria are present and you no longer need to boil
your water. We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated timeframe].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address]. General guidelines on
ways to lessen the risk of infection by bacteria and other disease-causing organisms are available on the EPA Ground Water
and Drinking Water Website at https://www.epa,gov/ground~water-and~drinking-water.
* Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for E. coli MCL Violation Notice in Spanish - Template 1-1A
Template on Reverse
The template on reverse is a Spanish translation of Template 1-1 for an E. coli maximum contaminant level (MCL) violation.
All the instructions of Template 1-1 apply. This template is an exact translation of the English template, so if you need to
modify the English templates, you should modify this template accordingly. Schools or universities may be able to provide
low-cost translations. See the discussion on translations in Chapter 3 for suggestions on multilingual notices.
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Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR) E. coli MCL Violation Notice in Spanish -
Template 1-1A
AVISO SOBRE SU AGUA POTABLE
[E. coli esta] presente en el agua del Sistema [Water System Name]
HIERVAN EL AGUA ANTES DE USARLA
[Briefly describe the situation in Spanish, such as: "E. coli fue encontrada en su servicio de agua el dia [given date]" or "No
hicimos las pruebas necesarias del servicio de agua y debemos suponer que la bacteria E. coli esta en el agua a partir de
[given date]]. Estas bacterias pueden enfermarle, y son especialmente peligrosas para personas con los sistemas
inmunologicos debiles.
Contaminacion bacteriana puede ocurrir cuando un exceso de aguas rebasa sus cauces y entran en las fuentes de agua
potable (por ejemplo, despues de una lluvia fuerte). Tambien, puede ocurrir cuando se rompe un sistema de recoleccion de
aguas negras (por ejemplo, una tuberia), o cuando hay una falla en el tratamiento de agua.
dQue debo hacer? dQue es la significa de este?
NO BEBA EL AGUA SIN HERVIRLA ANTES. Hierva toda el agua, dejela hervir por un minuto, y dejela reposar antes
de usarla, o utilice agua embotellada. Agua hervida o embotellada debe ser usada para beber, hacer hielo, lavarse
los dientes, lavar los platos y para preparar la comida hasta proximo aviso. El proceso de hervir mata a bacteria y
otros organismos en el agua.
*E. coli son bacterias cuya presencia indican que el agua esta contaminada con desechos humanos o de animales.
Los agentes patogenos humanos en estos desechos pueden causar consecuencias a corto plazo, como diarrea,
colicos, nausea, dolores de cabeza u otros sintomas. Pueden representor un peligro mas grave para la salud de
bebes, ninos y ninas de corta edad, los ancianos y personas con sistemas inmunologicos en alto riesgo. *
Los sintomas descritos arriba no ocurren solamente debido a los microbios; pueden ser resultados de otros
factores. Sin embargo, si usted siente estos sintomas y los persisten, usted puede optar por hacer una consulta con
su medico. Personas en situaciones de alto riesgo deben consultar con sus proveedores de servicios medicos.
dQue se esta haciendo al respecto?
[Describe corrective action in Spanish], Le informaremos cuando las pruebas demuestren que no hay bacterias y cuando
usted ya no necesita hervir su agua. Anticipamos que resolveremos el problema el [date of expected resolution in Spanish
day-month-year].
Para obtener mas informacion, contacte a [name of contact] al [phone number] o [mailing address], Reglas generales sobre
las maneras de reducir el riesgo de infeccion por bacterias y otros organismos causantes de enfermedades estan
disponibles en el sitio web de Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water de la EPA en httpsi//www,epa,gov/ground-
water-and-drinking-water.
*Por favor, comparta esta informacion con otros que toman de estafuente de agua, especialmente con
aquellos que no hayan recibido el aviso directamente, por ejemplo: personas en apartamentos, hospitales,
hogares de infantes, escuelas o comunidades de negocios. Usted puede compartirlo en un lugar publico o
distribuyendo unas copias a mano o por correo. *
Este aviso ha sido enviado a usted por [water system name], Numero de Identificacion: .
Fecha de distribucion: .
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Instructions for Nitrate MCL Violation - Template 1-2
Template on Reverse
Since violating the nitrate maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L) requires Tier 1 public notification and you
must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but no more than 24 hours from learning of the violation [40 CFR
141.202(b)!. During this time, you must also contact your state. You should also coordinate with your local health department. This
template is also applicable to nitrite and total nitrate and nitrite violations. You must use one or more of the following methods to deliver
the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.202(c)!:
• Radio
• Television
• Hand or direct delivery
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Another method approved in writing by the state
You may need to use additional methods (e.g., newspaper, delivery of multiple copies to hospitals, clinics, or apartment buildings), since
notice must be provided in a manner reasonably calculated to reach all persons served. If you post or hand deliver, print your notice on
your system's letterhead, if you have it.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for hand delivery or for publication in a newspaper. However, you may wish to modify it before
using it for a radio or television broadcast. If you do modify the notice on the reverse, you must still include all required public notice
elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information. You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Alternative Sources of Water
If you are providing bottled water, your notice should say where it can be obtained. If you are providing bottled water, make sure it
meets U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or state bottled water safety standards.
Repeat Notices
If this is a repeat notice (as required by your state), or if your water system's nitrate levels fluctuate around the MCL, you may wish to
include an explanation similar to the following:
• On [give date], you were also notified of high nitrate levels that occurred during the [give quarter e.g., first, second, third or
fourth] of the year. Since that time the water system has been monitoring the nitrate concentration every three months.
Seasonal fluctuations in nitrate concentrations have been observed due to nitrates contained in fertilizer. It appears the high
nitrates occur during the later summer and fall. Note that previous tests prior to [give year] show that we were meeting drinking
water standards for nitrate.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. The bullet below describes one action commonly taken by water systems with
nitrate/nitrite violations. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or develop your own:
• We are investigating water treatment and other options. These may include drilling a new well, mixing the water with low-
nitrate water from another source, or buying water from another water system.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is recommended that you notify health professionals in the area of the violation. People may call their doctors with questions about
how the violation may affect their health, and the doctors should have the information they need to respond appropriately. In addition,
health professionals, including dentists, use tap water during their procedures and need to know of potential contamination so they can
use bottled water.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved. See Template 1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice
template.
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Nitrate MCL Violation Notice - Template 1-2
DRINKING WATER WARNING
[Water System Name] water has high levels of nitrate -
DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS UNDER 6 MONTHS OLD OR USE IT
TO MAKE INFANT FORMULA
On [give date], we received notice that the sample collected on [give date] showed nitrate levels of [level and units]. This is
above the nitrate standard, or maximum contaminant level (MCL), of [state/federal MCL], Nitrate in drinking water is a
serious health concern for infants less than six months old.
Nitrate in drinking water can come from natural, industrial, or agricultural sources (including septic systems and run-off).
Levels of nitrate in drinking water can vary throughout the year.
What should I do? What does this mean?
DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS. * Infants below the age of six months who drink water containing nitrate
in excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath
and blue baby syndrome. * Blue baby syndrome is indicated by blueness of the skin. Symptoms in infants can
develop rapidly, with health deteriorating over a period of days. If symptoms occur, seek medical attention
immediately.
Ice, juice, and formula for children under six months of age should not be prepared with tap water. Bottled water
or other water low in nitrates should be used for infants until further notice.
DO NOT BOIL THE WATER. Boiling, freezing, filtering, or letting water stand does not reduce the nitrate level.
Boiling can make the nitrates more concentrated, because nitrates remain behind when the water evaporates.
Adults and children older than six months can drink the tap water (nitrate is a concern for infants because they
can't process nitrates in the same way adults can). However, if you are pregnant or have specific health concerns,
you may wish to consult your doctor.
What is being done?
[Describe all corrective actions being taken and when your water system expects to return to compliance.]
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Nitrate MCL Violation Notice in Spanish - Template 1-2A
Template on Reverse
The template on reverse is a Spanish translation of Template 1-2 for a nitrate maximum contaminant level (MCL) violation.
All the instructions of Template 1-2 apply. This template is an exact translation of the English template, so if you need to
modify the English templates, you should modify this template accordingly. Schools or universities may be able to provide
low-cost translations. See the discussion on translations in Chapter 3 for suggestions on multilingual notices
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Nitrate MCL Violation Notice in Spanish - Template 1-2A
AVISO SOBRE SU AGUA POTABLE
Agua del sistema [Water System Name] tiene altos niveles de nitratos -
NO DAR DE BEBER ESTA AGUA A BEBES MENORES DE 6 MESES DE EDAD Nl
USARLA PARA HACER LECHE DE FORMULA
Recibimos un aviso el [give date of when notice was received] que la muestra tomada el [give date of when sample was
taken] demuestra una concentracion de nitrato de [level found and units in Spanish], Este nivel esta por encima de la
norma, o nivel maximo de contaminacion (NMC) de [state/federal MCL with units in Spanish], Nitratos en agua potable
puede generar serios problemas de salud para bebes menores de 6 meses de edad.
Nitratos en el agua pueden provenir de fuentes naturales, industrials, o de la agricultura (incluyendo descargas de tanques
septicos y lluvias). Las concentraciones de nitratos en el agua potable varian a lo largo del ano.
dQue debo hacer? dQue es la significa de este?
NO LE DE ESTA AGUA A BEBES. *Bebes menores de seis (6) meses que ingieran agua con nitratos en exceso del
nivel maximo de contaminacion (NMC) se pueden enfermar seriamente y, de no ser tratados, pueden morir. Los
sintomas incluyen dificultad en respirar y sindrome de bebe azul. * El sindrome de bebe azul se refiere al color
azulado que toma la piel del bebe. Los sintomas en los bebes pueden desarrollarse con rapidez, con el deterioro de
su salud en los dias subsiguientes. Si los sintomas ocurren en infantes menores de seis (6) meses de edad, busque
atencion medica inmediatamente.
Hielo, jugo o leche en polvo para bebes menores de seis (6) meses de edad no debe prepararse con agua del grifo.
Debe emplear agua embotellada u otra agua baja en nitratos hasta proximo aviso.
No hierva el agua. Hervir, congelar, filtrar, o dejar el agua en reposo no reduce el nivel de nitratos. De hecho, al
hervir el agua puede aumentar aun mas la concentracion de nitratos, debido a que los nitratos permanecen
cuando parte del agua se evapora.
Adultos e infantes mayores de seis (6) meses de edad pueden tomar el agua del grifo. (Los nitratos son peligrosos
para los bebes debido a que ellos no pueden procesar los nitratos de la misma manera que los adultos). Sin
embargo, si usted esta embarazada o tiene algun problema de salud en particular, puede optar por hacer una
consulta con su medico.
dQue se esta haciendo al respecto?
[Describe all corrective actions being taken and when your water system expects to return to compliance in Spanish.]
Para mas informacion, favor contactar a [name of contact] al [phone number] o [mailing address],
*Por favor comparta esta informacion con otros que pueden tomar de esta agua, colocando este aviso en
lugares visibles, o remitiendolo por correo, o entregandolo manualmente. Es de particular interes distribuir
este aviso ampliamente si usted lo recibe representando un negocio, un hospital u hogar de infantes u
hogar de ancianos o comunidad residencial. *
Este aviso ha sido enviado a usted por [water system name], Numero de Identificacion: .
Fecha de distribucion: .
Public Notification Handbook
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Instructions for Nitrate Failure to Take a Confirmation Sample - Template 1-3
Template on Reverse
Since failure to take a confirmation sample for nitrate within 24 hours after learning that an initial sample exceeded the maximum
contaminant level (MCL) requires Tier 1 public notification and you must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but
no more than 24 hours from learning of the violation [40 CFR 141.202(b)!. During this time, you must also contact your state. You should
also coordinate with your local health department. This template is also applicable to missed confirmation samples for nitrite. You must
use one or more of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.202(c)!:
• Radio
• Television
• Hand or direct delivery
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Another method approved in writing by the state
You may need to use additional methods (e.g., newspaper, delivery of multiple copies to hospitals, clinics, or apartment buildings), since
notice must be provided in a manner reasonably calculated to reach all persons served. If you post or hand deliver, print your notice on
your system's letterhead, if you have it.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for hand delivery or for publication in a newspaper. However, you may wish to modify it before
using it for a radio or television broadcast. If you do modify the notice on the reverse, you must still include all required public notice
elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information. You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Alternative Sources of Water
If you are providing bottled water, your notice should say where it can be obtained. If you are providing bottled water, make sure it
meets U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or state bottled water safety standards.
Repeat Notices
If this is a repeat notice (as required by your state), you may wish to include an explanation similar to the following:
• You were initially notified of our water system's failure to take a confirmation sample following high nitrate level on [give date].
Since that time, we have taken a confirmation sample on [give date] that also resulted in a high nitrate level. We are currently
monitoring the nitrate concentration [give sampling timeframe e.g., every three months]. Seasonal fluctuations in nitrate
concentrations have been observed, due to nitrates contained in fertilizer. It appears that high nitrates occur during the later
summer and fall. Note that prior to [give year] we were meeting drinking water standards for nitrate.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. The bullet below describes one action commonly taken by water systems with
nitrate/nitrite violations. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are in the process of collecting a confirmation sample to determine if we have high nitrate levels. If the sample shows we are
meeting our drinking water standards, you will not receive another notice. However, if the sample shows that we do have high
nitrate levels in our water, another notification will be issued within 24 hours after we receive the results.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is recommended that you notify health professionals in the area of the violation. People may call their doctors with questions about
how the violation may affect their health, and the doctors should have the information they need to respond appropriately. In addition,
health professionals, including dentists, use tap water during their procedures and need to know of potential contamination so they can
use bottled water.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved. See Template 1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice
template.
Public Notification Handbook
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Nitrate Failure to Take a Confirmation Sample Notice - Template 1-3
DRINKING WATER WARNING
[Water System Name] did not take a confirmation sample to determine if
the water has high levels of nitrate -
DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS UNDER 6 MONTHS OLD OR USE IT
TO MAKE INFANT FORMULA
*We are required to monitor your drinking water for nitrate on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring are an
indicator of whether or not our drinking water meets health standards. During [compliance period] we ['did not monitor or
test' or 'did not complete all monitoring or testing'] for nitrate and therefore cannot be sure of the quality of your drinking
water during that time. *
On [give date], we received notice that the sample collected on [give date] showed nitrate levels above the nitrate
standard, or maximum contaminant level (MCL), of [give state/federal MCL], We were required to take a confirmation
sample within 24 hours. We did not complete the required confirmation sample monitoring. Nitrate in drinking water is a
serious health concern for infants less than six months old.
Nitrate in drinking water can come from natural, industrial, or agricultural sources (including septic systems and run-off).
Levels of nitrate in drinking water can vary throughout the year.
What should I do? What does this mean?
DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS. *lnfants below the age of six months who drink water containing nitrate in
excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and
blue baby syndrome. * Blue baby syndrome is indicated by blueness of the skin. Symptoms in infants can develop
rapidly, with health deteriorating over a period of days. If symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.
Ice, juice, and formula for children under six months of age should not be prepared with tap water. Bottled water
or other water low in nitrates should be used for infants until further notice.
DO NOT BOIL THE WATER. Boiling, freezing, filtering, or letting water stand does not reduce the nitrate level,
boiling can make the nitrates more concentrated, because nitrates remain behind when the water evaporates.
Adults and children older than six months can drink the tap water (nitrate is a concern for infants because they
can't process nitrates in the same way adults can). However, if you are pregnant or have specific health concerns,
you may wish to consult your doctor.
What is being done?
[Describe all corrective actions being taken and when your water system expects to return to compliance.] After receiving
the results of our first sample, we failed to collect a second sample within 24 hours to confirm the results of the first
sample. We have since collected the second sample and are waiting for the results.
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
* Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
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Special Notice: Instructions for NCWSs Allowed Up to 20 mg/L Nitrate -
Template 1-4
Template on Reverse
NCWSs that have received approval by their state to exceed the nitrate maximum contaminant level of 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L) but
no more than 20 mg/L are required to provide Tier 1 public notification. You do not incur a violation but are still required to provide
public notice to persons served as soon as practical but no more than 24 hours from learning of the situation [40 CFR 141.202(b)!. You
must use one or more of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.202(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand or direct delivery
• Radio
• Television
• Another method approved in writing by the state
You may need to use additional methods if needed to reach all persons served. If you post or hand deliver, print your notice on your
system's letterhead, if you have it.
If you do modify the notice on the reverse, you must still include all required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave
the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Continuous Notices
If you are granted permission by the state to exceed the nitrate MCL, you must provide continuous posting that the nitrate levels
exceeded 10 mg/L and of the potential health effects of exposure [40 CFR 141.209(b)!.
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
This template also includes mandatory language encouraging further distribution to persons who may not have received the notice,
where applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. However, if
you post the notice such that all possible users have access to the notice, this language is not applicable and can be omitted.
Alternative Sources of Water
If you are providing bottled water, your notice should say where it can be obtained. If you are providing bottled water, make sure it
meets U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or state bottled water safety standards.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
Public Notification Handbook
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Special Notice: NCWSs Allowed Up to 20 mg/L Nitrate Notice - Template 1-4
DRINKING WATER WARNING
[Water System Name] water has high levels of nitrate -
DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS UNDER 6 MONTHS OLD OR USE IT
TO MAKE INFANT FORMULA
Water sample results show nitrate levels of [level and units]. This is above the nitrate standard or maximum contaminant
level (MCL), of 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L). Nitrate in drinking water is a serious health concern for infants less than six
months old.
We have been given permission by [state] to provide water in excess of the standard as long as:
Nitrate levels do not exceed 20 mg/L.
The water is not made available to children under 6 months of age.
We continuously post this notice meeting all public notice requirements.
Local and state health officers are notified annually.
No adverse health effects result.
What should I do? What does this mean?
DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS. *lnfants below the age of six months who drink water containing nitrate in
excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and
blue baby syndrome. * Blue baby syndrome is indicated by blueness of the skin. Symptoms in infants can develop
rapidly, with health deteriorating over a period of days. If symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.
Ice, juice, and formula for children under six months of age should not be prepared with tap water. Bottled water
or other water low in nitrates should be used for infants until further notice.
DO NOT BOIL THE WATER. Boiling, freezing, filtering, or letting water stand does not reduce the nitrate level,
boiling can make the nitrates more concentrated, because nitrates remain behind when the water evaporates.
Adults and children older than six months can drink the tap water (nitrate is a concern for infants because they
can't process nitrates in the same way adults can). However, if you are pregnant or have specific health concerns,
you may wish to consult your doctor.
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
* Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed:
Public Notification Handbook
48
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Instructions for NCWSs Allowed > 20 mg/L Nitrate that Exceed 20 mg/L -
Template 1-5
Template on Reverse
Since exceeding the maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 20 milligrams per liter (mg/L) for NCWSs that have received approval by their
state to exceed the nitrate (MCL) of 10 mg/L but no more than 20 mg/L requires Tier 1 public notification, you must provide public notice
to persons served as soon as practical but no more than 24 hours from learning of the violation [40 CFR 141.202(b)!. During this time
period you must also contact your state. You should also coordinate with your local health department. This template is also applicable to
nitrite and total nitrate and nitrite violations. You must use one or more of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40
CFR 141.202(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand or direct delivery
• Radio
• Television
• Another method approved in writing by the state
You may need to use additional methods if needed to reach all persons served. If you post or hand deliver, print your notice on your
system's letterhead, if you have it.
If you do modify the notice on the reverse, you must still include all required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave
the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
This template also includes mandatory language encouraging further distribution to persons who may not have received the notice,
where applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. However, if
you post the notice such that all possible users have access to the notice, this language is not applicable and can be omitted.
Alternative Sources of Water
If you are providing bottled water, your notice should say where it can be obtained. If you are providing bottled water, make sure it
meets U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or state bottled water safety standards.
Repeat Notices
If this is a repeat notice (as required by your state), or if your system's nitrate levels fluctuate around the MCL, you may wish to include
an explanation similar to the following:
• You were initially notified of high nitrate levels on [give date]. Since that time, we have been monitoring the nitrate
concentration every three months. Seasonal fluctuations in nitrate concentrations have been observed, due to nitrates
contained in fertilizer. It appears that high nitrates occur during the later summer and fall. Note that prior to [give year] we were
meeting drinking water standards for nitrate.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. The bullet below describes one action commonly taken by water systems with
nitrate/nitrite violations. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or develop your own:
• We are investigating water treatment and other options. These may include drilling a new well, mixing the water with low-
nitrate water from another source, or buying water from another water system.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
Public Notification Handbook
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NCWS Allowed > 20 mg/L Nitrate that Exceed 20 mg/L Notice - Template 1-5
DRINKING WATER WARNING
[Water System Name] water has high levels of nitrate -
DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS UNDER 6 MONTHS OLD OR USE IT
TO MAKE INFANT FORMULA
Water sample results show nitrate levels of [level and units]. This is above the nitrate standard or maximum contaminant
level (MCL), of 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L). Nitrate in drinking water is a serious health concern for infants less than six
months old. We have been given permission by [state] to provide water in excess of the standard as long as:
Nitrate levels do not exceed 20 mg/L.
The water is not made available to children under 6 months of age.
We continuously post this notice meeting all public notice requirements.
Local and state health officers are notified annually.
No adverse health effects result.
On [give date], we received notice that the sample collected on [give date] showed nitrate levels of [level and units]. This is
above the 20 mg/L level allowed by [state]. Nitrate in drinking water is a serious health concern for infants less than six
months old.
Nitrate in drinking water can come from natural, industrial, or agricultural sources (including septic systems and run-off).
Levels of nitrate in drinking water can vary throughout the year.
What should I do? What does this mean?
DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS. * Infants below the age of six months who drink water containing nitrate
in excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath
and blue baby syndrome. * Blue baby syndrome is indicated by blueness of the skin. Symptoms in infants can
develop rapidly, with health deteriorating over a period of days. If symptoms occur, seek medical attention
immediately.
Ice, juice, and formula for children under six months of age should not be prepared with tap water. Bottled water
or other water low in nitrates should be used for infants until further notice.
DO NOT BOIL THE WATER. Boiling, freezing, filtering, or letting water stand does not reduce the nitrate level.
Boiling can make the nitrates more concentrated, because nitrates remain behind when the water evaporates.
Adults and children older than six months can drink the tap water (nitrate is a concern for infants because they
can't process nitrates in the same way adults can). However, if you are pregnant or have specific health concerns,
you may wish to consult your doctor.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action and when system expects to return to compliance.]
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
* Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
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Instructions for Chlorine Dioxide MRDL - Template 1-6
Template on Reverse
If a system exceeds the chlorine dioxide maximum residual disinfectant level (MRDL) when one or more of the samples taken in the
distribution system on the day after exceeding the MRDL at the entrance to the distribution system or if a system does not take required
samples in the distribution system, Tier 1 public notification is required. You must provide public notice to persons served as soon as
practical but no more than 24 hours from learning of the violation [40 CFR 141.202(b)!. During this time, you must also contact your
state. (Exceeding the chlorine dioxide MRDL at the entry point to the distribution system only, requires Tier 2 public notification; modify
this template or Template 2-2 to create a Tier 2 notice.) You should also coordinate with your local health department. You must use one
or more of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.202(c)!:
• Radio
• Television
• Hand or direct delivery
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Another method approved in writing by the state
You may need to use additional methods (e.g., newspaper, delivery of multiple copies to hospitals, clinics, or apartment buildings), since
notice must be provided in a manner reasonably calculated to reach all persons served. If you post or hand deliver, print your notice on
your system's letterhead, if you have it. The notice on the reverse is appropriate for hand delivery or for publication in a newspaper.
However, you may wish to modify it before using it for a radio or television broadcast. If you do modify the notice on the reverse, you
must still include all required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information. You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Alternative Sources of Water
If you are providing bottled water, your notice should say where it can be obtained. If you are providing bottled water, make sure it
meets U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or state bottled water safety standards.
Population at Risk
The language on the reverse lists "young children" as one of the groups at increased risk. Because the potential health effects of chlorine
dioxide are based on tests on laboratory animals, there is no way to determine at exactly what age the water is safe to drink. If your
consumers have questions, encourage them to err on the side of caution.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with chlorine
dioxide violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements, if
appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are resetting the chlorine dioxide generator to generate the correct amount of chlorine dioxide.
• We are repairing the chlorine dioxide generator.
• We have already fixed the problem, but it will take additional time for the extra chlorine dioxide to be flushed from the
distribution system (pipes).
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is recommended that you notify health professionals in the area of the violation. People may call their doctors with questions about
how the violation may affect their health, and the doctors should have the information they need to respond appropriately. In addition,
health professionals, including dentists, use tap water during their procedures and need to know of potential contamination so they can
use bottled water.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved. See Template 1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice
template.
Public Notification Handbook
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Chlorine Dioxide MRDL Notice - Template 1-6
DRINKING WATER WARNING
PREGNANT WOMEN AND YOUNG CHILDREN
SHOULD NOT DRINK THE WATER
On [give date], we received notice that the sample collected on [give date] showed chlorine dioxide levels of [level and
units]. This is above the standard, or maximum residual disinfectant level (MRDL) of 0.8 milligrams per liter (mg/L). Chlorine
dioxide is used for disinfection, but too much of it over a short period of time may harm the development of children,
infants, and fetuses.
Chlorine dioxide is used in small amounts every day to kill bacteria and other organisms that may be in your drinking water.
A problem occurred with our chlorine dioxide generator, and too much chlorine dioxide was released.
What should I do? What does this mean?
• DO NOT USE THIS WATER IF YOU ARE PREGNANT OR GIVE IT TO YOUNG CHILDREN. Bottled water should be used
until further notice. *Some infants and young children who drink water containing chlorine dioxide in excess of the
MRDL could experience nervous system effects. Similar effects may occur in fetuses of pregnant mothers who drink
water containing chlorine dioxide in excess of the MRDL. Some people may experience anemia.
The chlorine dioxide violations reported today include exceedances of the EPA standard within the distribution
system which delivers water to consumers. Violations of the chlorine dioxide standard within the distribution
system may harm human health based on short-term exposures. Certain groups, including fetuses, infants, and
young children, may be especially susceptible to nervous system effects from excessive chlorine dioxide exposure. *
There are no obvious symptoms, but chlorine dioxide can affect development of the nervous system.
Ice, juice, and formula for young children and for pregnant women should not be prepared with tap water.
Adults who are not pregnant and older children can drink the tap water because their nervous systems are already
developed. However, if you have specific health concerns, you may wish to consult your doctor.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action and when you expect to return to compliance.]
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
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Instructions for CFE Maximum Turbidity Exceedance, or Turbidity Single
Exceedance - Template 1-7
Template on Reverse
If your state has designated this turbidity single exceedance as requiring Tier 1 public notification [40 CFR 141.202(a)! and you must
provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but no more than 24 hours after it has been designated as requiring Tier 1
public notification [40 CFR 141.202(b)!. Turbidity violations require Tier 2 public notification by default but may be elevated by the state
who may require you to issue Tier 1 public notice. In addition, violations are automatically elevated to requiring Tier 1 public notification
if you are unable to consult with your state within 24 hours. In such cases, you must issue a notice within the next 24 hours. You may
elevate the violation to Tier 1 public notice yourself as well. You should also coordinate with your local health department. One or both
agencies should tell you whether to instruct consumers to boil water. You must use one or more of the following methods to deliver the
notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.202(c)!:
• Radio
• Television
• Hand or direct delivery
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Another method approved in writing by the state
You may need to use additional methods (e.g., newspaper, delivery of multiple copies to hospitals, clinics, or apartment buildings), since
notice must be provided in a manner reasonably calculated to reach all persons served. If you post or hand deliver, print your notice on
your system's letterhead, if you have it. The notice on the reverse is appropriate for hand delivery or for publication in a newspaper.
However, you may wish to modify it before using it for a radio or television broadcast. If you do modify the notice on the reverse, you
must still include all required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information. You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Alternative Sources of Water
If you are providing bottled water, your notice should say where it can be obtained. If you are providing bottled water, make sure it
meets U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or state bottled water safety standards.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe the corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with a
single turbidity exceedance. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements, if
appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are adding chemicals that reduce turbidity.
• We are sampling both untreated and treated water for the presence of coliform bacteria.
• We are inspecting and repairing the filters.
Source of the Problem
If you know why the turbidity is high, explain it in your notice. For instance, unusual conditions such as heavy rains and flooding can
overburden the water plant and treated water may therefore not meet the standards. In addition, run-off from parts of the watershed
could contain increased concentrations of sediment and animal waste.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is recommended that you notify health professionals in the area of the violation. People may call their doctors with questions about
how the violation may affect their health, and the doctors should have the information they need to respond appropriately. In addition,
health professionals, including dentists, use tap water during their procedures and need to know of potential contamination so they can
use bottled water. It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved. See Template 1-10 for a "problem
corrected" notice template.
Public Notification Handbook
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CFE Maximum Turbidity Exceedance, or Turbidity Single Exceedance Notice -
Template 1-7
DRINKING WATER WARNING
[Water System Name] has high turbidity levels
BOIL YOUR WATER BEFORE USING
We routinely monitor your water for turbidity (cloudiness). This tells us whether we are effectively filtering the water
supply. A water sample taken [give date] showed turbidity levels of [number] turbidity units. This is above the standard of
[standard] turbidity units. Because of these high levels of turbidity, there is an increased chance that the water may contain
disease-causing organisms.
What should I do? What does this mean?
• DO NOT DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST. Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let
it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing
teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the
water.
*Turbidity has no health effects. However, turbidity can interfere with disinfection and provide a medium for
microbial growth. Turbidity may indicate the presence of disease-causing organisms. These organisms include
bacteria, viruses, and parasites, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated
headaches. *
The symptoms above are not caused only by organisms in drinking water. If you experience any of these symptoms
and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice. People at increased risk should seek advice from their
healthcare providers about drinking this water.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action and when the system expects to return to compliance.]
We will inform you when turbidity returns to appropriate levels and when you no longer need to boil your water. We
anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated time frame].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address]. General guidelines on
ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at
httpsi//www,epa,gov/ground~water-and~drinking-water.
* Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Waterborne Disease Outbreak - Template 1-8
Template on Reverse
Since a waterborne disease outbreak is a situation requiring Tier 1 public notification and you must provide public notice to persons
served as soon as practical but no more than 24 hours from learning of the situation [40 CFR 141.202(b)!. During this time, you must also
contact your state. You should also coordinate with your local health department. You must also issue a public notice if you are
experiencing a waterborne emergency other than a waterborne disease outbreak, such as one caused by flooding or treatment failure.
In such cases, you may be able to modify this template to apply to your situation. Check with your state for more direction. More
information on waterborne disease outbreaks and emergencies is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/diseases.html. 1-800-232-4636). You must use one or more of the following methods to deliver the
notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.202(c)!:
• Radio
• Television
• Hand or direct delivery
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Another method approved in writing by the state
You may need to use additional methods (e.g., newspaper, delivery of multiple copies to hospitals, clinics, or apartment buildings), since
notice must be provided in a manner reasonably calculated to reach all persons served. If you post or hand deliver, print your notice on
your system's letterhead, if you have it. The notice on the reverse is appropriate for hand delivery or for publication in a newspaper.
However, you may wish to modify it before using it for a radio or television broadcast. If you do modify the notice on the reverse, you
must still include all required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information. You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. No federal
mandatory health effects language exists for waterborne disease outbreaks. You may wish to use the sentence below, if appropriate, or
contact your state or health department for other language.
• These symptoms are common to many diseases caused by microscopic organisms: Symptoms may include nausea, cramps,
diarrhea, jaundice, and associated headaches and fatigue.
Alternative Sources of Water
If you are providing bottled water, your notice should say where it can be obtained. If you are providing bottled water, make sure it
meets U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or state bottled water safety standards.
Describing the Outbreak
If known, list any organisms detected, the number of affected people, any water treatment problems contributing to the waterborne
disease outbreak, and any sources of contamination, such as flooding.
Population at Risk
Some people who contract waterborne diseases can be affected more severely than others, as described on the reverse page. The
specific language on the reverse is not mandatory, but you must provide information on the population at risk. In addition, make sure it is
clear who is served by your water system—you may need to list the areas you serve.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe the corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with
waterborne disease outbreaks. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements,
if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are repairing our filtration system.
• We are increasing sampling for disease-causing organisms.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is recommended that you notify health professionals in the area of the violation. People may call their doctors with questions about
how the violation may affect their health, and the doctors should have the information they need to respond appropriately. In addition,
health professionals, including dentists, use tap water during their procedures and need to know of potential contamination so they can
use bottled water. It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved. See Template 1-10 for a "problem
corrected" notice template.
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Waterborne Disease Outbreak Notice - Template 1-8
DRINKING WATER WARNING
Disease-causing organisms have entered [Water System Name]'s water supply.
BOIL YOUR WATER BEFORE USING
These organisms are causing illness in people served by [water system name]. We learned of a waterborne disease
outbreak from [agency] on [give date].
What should I do? What does this mean?
• DO NOT DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST. Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let
it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing
teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the
water.
[Describe symptoms of the waterborne disease.] If you experience one or more of these symptoms and they
persist, contact your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about this drinking water.
What is being done?
[Describe the corrective action and when the outbreak might end.]
We will inform you when you no longer need to boil your water.
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address]. General guidelines on
ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at
httpsi//www. epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Fecal Indicator-Positive Source Sample - Template 1-9
Template on Reverse
Since detection of a fecal indicator (E coli, enterococci or coliphage) in a ground water source sample is a situation requiring Tier 1 public
notification, you must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but no more than 24 hours from learning of the
violation [40 CFR 141.202(b)!. During this time, you must also contact your state. You should also coordinate with your local health
department. You must use one or more of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.202(c)!:
• Radio
• Television
• Hand or direct delivery
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Another method approved in writing by the state
You may need to use additional methods (e.g., newspaper, delivery of multiple copies to hospitals, clinics, or apartment buildings), since
notice must be provided in a manner reasonably calculated to reach all persons served. If you post or hand deliver, print your notice on
your system's letterhead, if you have it.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for hand delivery or for publication in a newspaper. However, you may wish to modify it before
using it for a radio or television broadcast. If you do modify the notice on the reverse, you must still include all required public notice
elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Alternative Sources of Water
If you are providing bottled water, your notice should say where it can be obtained. If you are providing bottled water, make sure it
meets U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or state bottled water safety standards.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems that have
detected a fecal indicator in their ground water source. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of
the following statements, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are increasing sampling at our sources to determine the source of the contamination.
• We are working with state officials to implement corrective actions to ensure water supplies are protected against
contamination.
• We are providing water from an alternative source until the problem is resolved.
• We have discontinued use of the contaminated well and will rely on our other sources to meet demand.
• We are abandoning the contaminated well and will replace it with a well-constructed to standards.
• We are pursuing treatment options for disinfection of the water from this source.
• We have installed temporary disinfection while we pursue long-term treatment or other options to eliminate contamination
from this source.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is recommended that you notify health professionals in the area of the violation. People may call their doctors with questions about
how the violation may affect their health, and the doctors should have the information they need to respond appropriately. In addition,
health professionals, including dentists, use tap water during their procedures and need to know of potential contamination so they can
use bottled water.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved. See Template 1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice
template.
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Fecal Indicator-Positive Source Sample Notice - Template 1-9
DRINKING WATER WARNING
[Water System Name]'s [Source] Tested Positive for Fecal Indicator
BOIL YOUR WATER BEFORE USING
Our water system recently detected a fecal indicator [give contaminant, e.g., E. coli, enterococci, coliphage] (see definition
below) in [source]. As our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we are doing to correct this
situation. On [give date], we collected a sample from [source]. The sample tested positive for [give contaminant, e.g., E. coli,
enterococci, coliphage].
What should I do? What does this mean?
• DO NOT DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST. Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let
it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing
teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the
water.
*Fecal indicators are microbes whose presence indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or
animal wastes. Microbes in these wastes can cause short-term health effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea,
headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a special health risk for infants, young children, some of the elderly,
and people with severely compromised immune systems. *
The symptoms above are not caused only by organisms in drinking water. If you experience any of these symptoms
and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice. People at increased risk should seek advice from their
healthcare providers about drinking this water.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We will inform you when tests show no [give contaminant, e.g., E. coli, enterococci, coliphage]
and you no longer need to boil your water. We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated time frame].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address]. General guidelines on
ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at
httpsi//www,epa,gov/ground~water-and~drinking-water.
* Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for "Problem Corrected" - Template 1-10
Template on Reverse
It is a good idea to issue a notice when a serious violation or situation has been resolved. Although EPA regulations do not
require such notices, your state may require you to issue one. You should coordinate with your local health department as
well. Below are some recommended methods for a "problem corrected" notice. You should use the same delivery methods
you used for the original notice.
• Radio
• Television
• Hand or direct delivery
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Another method approved in writing by the state
You may need to use additional methods (e.g., newspaper, delivery of multiple copies to hospitals, clinics, or apartment
buildings), since notice must be provided in a manner reasonably calculated to reach all persons served. If you post or hand
deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if you have it.
The notice on the reverse is very general and can be used for any violation or situation. However, to help restore
consumers' confidence in the water system, you should modify the notice to fit your situation. Although the public should
have seen your initial notice, there may be additional information you learned after the notice was issued. Therefore, you
should describe the violation or situation again and discuss how the problem was solved.
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"Problem Corrected" Notice - Template 1-10
DRINKING WATER PROBLEM CORRECTED
Customers of [water system name] were notified on [give date] of a problem with our drinking water and were advised to
[describe recommended action]. We are pleased to report that the problem has been corrected and that it is no longer
necessary to [describe recommended action]. We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience.
[Add further details here when appropriate.]
As always, you may contact [contact name] at [phone number] or [mailing address] with any comments or questions.
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not
have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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7. Tier 2 Notice Requirements and Suggestions
Tier 2 notices must meet the content, format, and multilingual requirements described in detail in Chapter 3 and
are required for the following violations or situations [40 CFR 141.2.03(a)!:
Tier 2 - Violations and Other Situations Requiring Notice Within 30 Days**
• All violations of MCL, MRDL and TT requirements except where Tier 1 public notice is required.
• Violations of monitoring requirements where the state determines that a Tier 2 public notice is required, taking
into account potential health impacts and persistence of the violation.
• Failure to comply with the terms and conditions of any variance or exemption in place.
• For ground water systems providing 4-log treatment for viruses, failure to maintain required treatment for more
than 4 hours.
• Failure to take corrective action within the required timeframe or be in compliance with a state-approved corrective
action plan and schedule for a fecal indicator-positive source sample under the Ground Water Rule (GWR).
• Failure to take corrective action within the required timeframe or be in compliance with a state-approved corrective
action plan and schedule for a significant deficiency under the GWR.
• Special public notice for repeated failure to conduct monitoring for Cryptosporidium (40 CFR 141.211).
• Special public notice for failure to determine bin classification or mean Cryptosporidium level (40 CFR 141.211).
** If the system exceeds the maximum allowable turbidity level, as identified in Appendix A to Subp , it must consult
with the state as soon as practical but no later than 24 hours after learning of the violation. Note: Consult with the state
means that the system contacts and has a discussion with the state about the violation. If the system does not have a
consultation with the state within the 24-hour period, a Tier 1 public notice requirement is automatically triggered, and
the system must issue a public notice within the next 24-hour period. This is in contrast to the term "initiate
consultation" for violations or situations requiring Tier 1 public notification, here EPA intends that the system actually
have a discussion about the violation or situation.
Violations or situations requiring Tier 2 public notification are considered less urgent than violations or
situations requiring Tier 1 public notification because there is little immediate risk to consumers, or because the
system may have already returned to compliance by the time the notice is issued. States may have more
stringent requirements.
What is the deadline for issuing a Tier 2 public notice?
Tier 2 public notices must be issued as soon as practical but within 30 days after a violation is discovered [40 CFR
141.203(b)!.
For any unresolved violation, following an initial Tier 2 public notice, you must repeat the notice every three
months for as long as the violation persists. Posted notices must remain posted for as long as the violation
persists, but in no case less than seven days, even if the violation is resolved [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Generally, a
violation or situation is considered resolved when the system has returned to compliance as defined by the
regulation in question; however, you may wish to contact your state to determine whether a violation or
situation is considered resolved.
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Required Elements of a Public Notice f40 CFR 141.205(al1
• A description of the violation or situation including contaminant of concern and contaminant level, as
applicable.
• When the violation or situation occurred.
• Potential adverse health effects, using standard health effect language in Appendix B to Subpart Q. and/or
language for monitoring and testing procedure violations in Appendix A to Subpart Q,
• Population(s) at risk including especially vulnerable subpopulations.
• Whether alternative water supplies should be used.
• Actions consumers should take, including when they should seek medical help, if known.
• What you are doing to correct the violation or situation.
• When you expect to return to compliance or resolve the situation.
• Name, business address, and phone number for additional information.
• The following standard language encouraging distribution to all persons served, where applicable:
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not
have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.
CWSs must notify new billing customers or units of any ongoing violations for which it has previously provided
notice prior to or at the time their service begins including the existence of a variance or exemption. NCWSs
must continuously post the public notice in conspicuous locations to inform new customers of any ongoing
violations, variance or exemption, or other situation requiring a public notice [40 CFR 141.2061.
Remember to send a copy of the notice and a certification statement to your state within 10 days after
providing the initial and any repeat notice to the public [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
When might a Tier 2 public notice be elevated to Tier 1?
Every violation is unique, and states will consider several factors in deciding whether a violation should be
elevated. For example, cases where a turbidity exceedance is significantly higher than the limit or exceeds the
limit over the course of multiple measurements are more likely to be elevated to Tier 1.
States may also review the amount of disinfection that occurs after filtration and the current and historical
quality of your source water. The determination may also depend on the type of filtration in place and your
system's turbidity limits.
The state may also elevate Tier 2 notices to Tier 1 based on the results of consultations required under other
rules. Some rules require you to report total coliform MCLs, E. coli MCLs, and treatment technique violations to
your state as soon as possible but no later than the end of the next business day. These reporting requirements
are separate from those in the PN Rule and are intended to allow states to oversee corrective actions, but states
may also use these conditions to elevate Tier 2 public notices to Tier 1. For example, states may be more likely
to require Tier 1 public notice for a total coliform or E. coli MCL violation if there is a high percentage of samples
testing positive, if total coliforms are present in multiple areas of the distribution system, or if total coliforms are
linked to a break in distribution system integrity.
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24-Hour Consultation for Turbidity
Systems with certain violations involving exceedance of turbidity limits must consult with their state as soon as
practical but no later than 24 hours after learning of the violation [40 CFR 141,203(b)!. This requirement applies
to: (1) treatment technique violations resulting from single exceedances of turbidity limits (5 NTU) under the
Surface Water Treatment Rule (SWTR); (2) treatment technique violations resulting from single exceedances of
turbidity limits (1 NTU) under the Interim Enhanced SWTR or the Long Term 1 Enhanced SWTR; and (3) turbidity
MCL violations determined by the average of turbidity measurements over two consecutive days (5 NTU). It does
not apply to violations of monthly turbidity requirements. As a result of this consultation, states may decide to
elevate such violations to Tier 1 public notification. If consultation does not occur, the violation automatically is
elevated and requires Tier 1 public notification. You have 24 hours from the time the violation is elevated to
issue the notice.
Remember, as the system operator, you are a guardian of the quality of your water supply and of public health.
If you believe that a violation or situation warrants a notice within 24 hours, you can issue a notice at any time,
elevating the notice to Tier 1 yourself. You do not have to wait for the state to make a determination. Depending
on the severity of the violation or situation, you may also choose to issue a Tier 2 notice in much less than 30
days.
Which methods of delivery must I use?
Unless directed otherwise by the state, if you operate a CWS, you must provide a Tier 2 notice by the following
methods l~40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
1. Mail or other direct delivery to each customer receiving a bill and other service connections to which
water is delivered; and
2. Any other method reasonably calculated to reach others regularly served, if they would not normally
be reached by the method above. Such people include those who do not pay water bills or do not
have service connection addresses, (e.g., tenants, college students, nursing home patients, prison
inmates). Methods may include publication in a local newspaper, posting in public places, delivery of
multiple copies to landlords or office building managers, or delivery to community organizations.
Unless directed otherwise by the state, if you operate a NCWS, you must provide a Tier 2 notice by the following
methods l~40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
1. Posting the notice in conspicuous locations throughout the system or by direct delivery or mail to
each customer and known service connection; and
2. Any other method reasonably calculated to reach others served, if they would not normally be
reached by the method above. Such people may include those who may not see a posted notice
because it is not in a location they routinely pass by. Methods may include publication in a local
newspaper or newsletter distributed to consumers, use of e-mail to notify employees or students, or
delivery of multiple copies in central locations (e.g., community centers).
If you are a transient system, you may also refer to the Public Notification Handbook for Transient
Noncommunity Water Systems (EPA 816-R-23-001, March 2023) for information specific to transient water
systems.
For all systems, there may be a few cases where you would be able to reach all persons served with the first
method you choose. In such cases, you may not need to use additional methods. However, the PN Rule requires
you to use additional methods if all persons served by the system will not be reached by one method. The
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internet can be used to provide notice to persons served that would not be reached by mail or similar direct
delivery methods. At an office building, a posting would probably be sufficient to reach all persons served.
University students may be reached by providing notice though email or posting on the University web site.
Consult your state if there are other delivery methods you believe would be more effective in your situation;
they may allow alternate methods of delivery.
Suggestions for Effective Public Notification Delivery
If you mail the notice, send it to all service connections and not just billing customers, if possible, since there
may be many people in addition to your billing customers who drink your water. Billing customers can be
reached via inserts in their water bills, if the bills are distributed and received within 30 days of the violation. Be
sure to tell owners or managers of businesses, homeowners' associations, apartment buildings, or resort rental
properties to pass the information along to their employees and tenants. You may wish to send multiple copies
of the notice to building managers. See Chapter 3 for a discussion of standard language to encourage
distribution to all persons served.
In addition, consider putting a notice in local area newspapers to help supplement the other required Tier 2
methods of delivery. Notice in a newspaper may be in the form of an article or a paid advertisement. Articles are
more effective than paid notices however, because they are more likely to be noticed and read. Work with the
local newspaper to write an article on the violation and what the system is doing to correct it. Be sure that
anyone at the paper who writes or edits the article knows what items are the most important to include. If your
system is located in the suburban area of a large city, you should request that your notice be placed in the
weekly community news section. Also, focus on getting articles published in smaller community newspapers,
homeowners' association newsletters, or similar publications.
E-mail may also be an effective way to contact some users, especially college or university students or a large
employer; however, e-mail should also be considered supplemental, and not the primary method of public
notice delivery since e-mail addresses change frequently, spam filters may filter out the notice, and some people
may not read the message.
Paid advertisements offer an advantage because you are guaranteed the notice will appear exactly as you write
it. Try to purchase ad space in the front section of the paper. Legal notices tend to get lost in the back of the
paper where few people read them. If your notice must appear with other paid notices, a descriptive title
becomes very important. The header "notice" may be overlooked, but the mention of the community's drinking
water supply gets people's attention.
Consider holding public meetings in neighborhoods throughout your service area. This is especially beneficial for
ongoing situations, or where additional treatment may be needed (and could impact their water rates).
Coordinate with churches, civic centers, and local politicians to secure space and recruit attendees.
Tips for Very Small Community Systems
• Compare the costs of mailing to labor for hand delivery before choosing a method.
• Hand delivery may not be necessary to meet your deadline, but it may be cheaper or less time consuming
than putting together a mailing.
• Alternatively, if your notice deadline coincides with your billing schedule, you may be able to include your
notice in the bill at no extra cost.
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• Supplement with posting in common areas and gathering places, such as banks, grocery stores, and
restaurants.
• Ask your local newspaper to write a story on the violation (let the reporter know which elements must be
included) or purchase an ad to publish the notice.
Suggestions for Layout of the Notice
Tier 2 notices should answer the most common questions people will have about the violation:
• What does this mean to me?
• What should I do?
• What happened and why?
• What is the water system doing?
The tone of a Tier 2 notice is less urgent than that of a Tier 1 notice. A question-and-answer format that
anticipates consumers' concerns is recommended for each section. Templates 2-1 through 2-27 at the end of
this chapter offer sample language and instructions for preparing Tier 2 public notices.
Ten Required Elements
You must make sure your notice includes following information:
1. Description of the Violation or Situation - The notice should have a descriptive title but should not
be overly alarming. The title "Drinking Water Notice" or "Important Information about Your Drinking
Water" would be more appropriate than "Drinking Water Alert."
a. Follow with a subtitle describing the situation, such as: "Tests Show Levels of [Contaminant]
Above Drinking Water Standards." The notice should briefly describe what happened and
give some background as to how the violation was discovered. For example, if you routinely
test the water and the most recent samples showed a violation, provide a context for the
exceedance by giving the applicable drinking water standard and whether the exceedance is
a monthly, quarterly, or other type of average.
b. The message should also vary depending on the contaminant. For instance, several inorganic
and radioactive chemicals, such as arsenic and radium, are naturally occurring. This fact can
help in explaining the options for treatment. For example, it may be difficult to drill a new
well if high contaminant levels occur throughout an aquifer. Disinfection byproducts, on the
other hand, form when naturally occurring organic matter combines with disinfectants
added to kill microorganisms. You should explain that the risk of disease from drinking water
that is not disinfected is more immediate than that of getting cancer from drinking water
containing disinfection byproducts. For turbidity exceedances, discuss the possible causes of
high turbidity. A frequent cause is heavy rain, which washes large amounts of soil into rivers
and lakes. The rain may also wash animal wastes into the water supply.
2. When the Violation or Situation Occurred - The public notice should notify consumers of the date
the violation or situation occurred.
3. Any Potential Adverse Health Effects from the Violation or Situation - Be clear that the situation is
not an emergency and that consumers would have been notified immediately if it had been.
Consumers may wonder why they are getting a notice, especially if the problem is resolved or not
serious. It may help to explain that you are informing them because you are required to do so and
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that they have the right to know about problems with their water even if there is no immediate (or
any) health threat. In the case of filtration treatment technique violations, explain that treatment is
important in preventing disease outbreaks but that there is no evidence of disease or bacteria in the
water. For turbidity exceedances, explain how high turbidity levels may be related to the presence of
organisms in drinking water.
4. The Population at Risk - Tell consumers that if they have specific health concerns, especially for the
young or old, pregnant women, or people with compromised immune systems (undergoing
chemotherapy, HIV-positive, or other immune system problems), they may wish to consult their
doctors.
5. Whether Alternate Water Supplies Should be Used - The notice should clearly state if customers
should be using an alternative water supply at this time.
6. Actions Consumers Should Take - Next, the notice should tell customers what they need to do, even
if no action is necessary. This will usually be: "You [do/do not] need to seek other sources of drinking
water." Since people's first reaction may be to boil their water, explain the effect of boiling (i.e.,
whether boiling is necessary, has no effect, or is harmful).
7. What You Are Doing to Correct the Violation or Situation - Inform consumers of the steps you are
taking to correct the problem, such as the installation of new treatment, increased frequency or type
of monitoring, or your collaboration with the appropriate state agency. Tell them when you expect
the drinking water to again meet the standard. Although you probably will be unable to give an exact
date, you can give your customers a general idea of how long it will take (e.g., a few days for a
coliform MCL violation to several months for a chemical MCL violation). Provide the name, address,
and telephone number of someone who can answer any questions.
8. When You Expect to Return to Compliance or Resolve the Situation - If the problem has already
been corrected, be sure to communicate this clearly. If this is a repeat notice, explain why the
violation continues (e.g., you are in the process of installing new treatment). If the violation is
intermittent, explain that the water is in and out of compliance with standards, or if appropriate,
that the contamination levels are only slightly above allowable standards.
9. Your Name, Business Address, and Phone Number, or those of a Designee of the Water System -
You should include your PWS ID number at the bottom of the notice. This will help your state track
compliance and prevent tracking errors among systems with similar names. Include the date you
distributed the notice.
10. A Statement Encouraging Notice Recipients to Distribute the Notice to Others - Encourage
recipients to distribute the notice to others, where applicable, using the standard language given in
this chapter.
Additional Information
Another element you may consider including in your notice is the source of the contamination, if you know it.
This helps reassure consumers that you have investigated the problem and are taking steps to address it. It also
reinforces the fact that drinking water is a vulnerable resource that must be protected. If you do not know the
actual source, you should at least provide common or possible sources such as those listed in the guidance for
Consumer Confidence Reports available at:
http://water.epa.gov/lawsregs/rulesregs/sdwa/ccr/compliancehelp.cfm.
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8. Tier 2 Public Notification Instructions and Templates
The pages that follow contain instructions and templates for issuing Tier 2 public notification. Along with each
template are instructions, including the required method of delivery and suggestions for completing individual
sections of the notice. These instructions are designed to supplement Chapter 7. so you may see much of the
information repeated here. The following templates are included:
• Chemical or Radiological MCLs -Template 2.-1
• Fluoride MCL (CWS only) - Template 2 2
• Stage 1 DBPR Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM) or Haloacetic acids (five) (HAA5) MCL Violation - Template
2-3
• Stage 2 DBPR TTHM or HAA5 MCL Violation -Template 2-3
• SWTR Failure to Filter -Template 2-4
• SWTRs Turbidity Exceedance - Template 2-5
• SWTR Disinfection Treatment - Template 2-6
• LCR Failure to Install Corrosion Control - Template 2.-7
• LCR Failure to Install Source Water Treatment -Template 2-8
• LCR Failure to Meet Reporting Requirements for Public Education - Template 2-9
• LCR Failure to Replace Lead Service Lines - Template 2-10
• LT2ESWTR Uncovered Finished Water Reservoir Treatment - Template 2-11
• LT2ESWTR Filtered System Failure to Provide or Install an Additional Level of Treatment - Template 2-12
• LT2ESWTR Unfiltered System Failure to Achieve Required Inactivation Level -Template 2-13
• LT2ESWTR Filtered System Failure to Achieve Required Treatment Credit - Template 2.-14
• LT2ESWTR Unfiltered System Failure to Maintain Required Inactivation Level -Template 2.-15
• LT2ESWTR Unfiltered System Failure to Install Second Disinfectant - Template 2-16
• Filter Backwash Recycling Rule Treatment Technique Violation -Template 2-17
• RTCR Failure of a Seasonal System to Complete Start-Up Procedures - Template 2-18
• Monitoring Violation Elevated to Tier 2 - Template 2-19
• Failure to Comply with the Conditions of an Exemption - Template 2-20
• GWR Failure to Maintain 4-log Treatment of Viruses - Template 2-21
• GWR Failure to Take Corrective Action Within Required Time Frame - Template 2-22
• RTCR Failure to Perform any Level 1 Assessment or a Level 2 Assessment that is Not Triggered by E. coli
MCL violations or the Related Corrective Actions - Template 2-23
• RTCR Failure to Perform a Level 2 Assessment Triggered by an E. coli MCL violation or the Related
Corrective Actions - Template 2-24
• Special Notice: LT2ESWTR Failure to Conduct Required Cryptosporidium Monitoring for Any Three
Months - Template 2-25
• Special Notice: LT2ESWTR Filtered System Failure to Determine and Report Bin Classification -Template
TTC
Z. Z.U
• Special Notice: LT2ESWTR Unfiltered System Failure to Calculate and Report Mean Cryptosporidium
Level - Template 2-27
Each template also includes the mandatory health effects language from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q
(presented in italics in each notice, with an asterisk on either end). This information must be included as
written; with additional violation or situation specific information added in the brackets.
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You must also include the following italicized language in all notices, where applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)1. Use
of this language does not relieve you of your obligation to take steps reasonably calculated to notify all persons
served:
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those
who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing
homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or
distributing copies by hand or mail.
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Instructions for Chemical or Radiological MCLs - Template 2-1
Template on Reverse
Chemical or radiological maximum contaminant level (MCL) violations require Tier 2 public notification and you must provide public
notice to persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Check with your state
to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Do not use overly technical terminology when describing treatment methods.
Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with chemical or radiological violations. Depending on the corrective
action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are working with [local/state agency] to evaluate the water supply and are researching options to correct the problem. These
options may include treating the water to remove [contaminant] or connecting to [water system name]'s water supply.
• We have stopped using the contaminated well. We have increased pumping from other wells, and we are investigating drilling a
new well.
• We have increased the frequency that we will test the water for [contaminant].
• We have since taken samples at this location and had them tested. These samples show that we meet the standards.
Repeat Notices
If this is an ongoing violation and/or you fluctuate above and below the MCL, you should give the history behind the violation, including
the source of contamination, if known. List the date of the initial detection, as well as how levels have changed over time. If levels are
changing as a result of treatment, you can indicate this.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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Chemical or Radiological MCLs Notice - Template 2-1
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Has Levels of [Contaminant] Above Drinking Water Standards
Our water system recently violated a drinking water standard. Although this is not an emergency, as our customers, you
have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
We routinely monitor for the presence of drinking water contaminants. On [give date], we received notice that the sample
collected on [give date] showed that our system exceeds the standard, or maximum contaminant level (MCL), for
[contaminant]. The standard for [contaminant] is [MCL], The average level of [contaminant] over the last year has been
[provide level], OR [Contaminant] was found at [provide level].
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. Do not boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if you have
specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours. However, [Insert relevant health
effects language for the contaminant from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subp or Appendix B of this document.]
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated time frame].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Fluoride MCL - Template 2-2
Template on Reverse
Since exceeding the fluoride maximum contaminant level (MCL) requires Tier 2 public notification and you must provide public notice to
persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Check with your state to make
sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, CWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the first method [40
CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail, post, or hand
deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Do not use overly technical terminology when describing treatment methods.
Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with fluoride violations. Depending on the corrective action you are
taking, you can use one or more of the following statements, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are working with [local/state agency] to evaluate the water supply and researching options to correct the problem. These
options may include treating the water to remove fluoride or connecting to [water system name]'s water supply.
• We have adjusted the amount of fluoride added to the water so that levels are lower and we meet the standards.
• We have stopped using the contaminated well. We have increased pumping from other wells, and we are investigating drilling a
new well.
• We will increase the frequency at which we test the water for fluoride.
• We have since taken samples at this location and had them tested. They show that we meet the standards.
Repeat Notices
If this is an ongoing violation and/or you fluctuate above and below the MCL, you should give the history behind the violation, including
the source of contamination, if known. List the date of the initial detection, as well as how levels have changed over time. If levels are
changing as a result of treatment, you can indicate this.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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Fluoride MCL Notice - Template 2-2
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Has Levels of Fluoride Above Drinking Water Standards
Our water system recently violated a drinking water standard. Although this is not an emergency, as our customers, you
have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
We routinely monitor for the presence of drinking water contaminants. On [give date], we received notice that the sample
collected on [give date] showed that our system exceeds the standard, or maximum contaminant level (MCL), for fluoride.
The average level of fluoride in samples taken during the last year was [provide level and units]. The standard for fluoride is
that the average of samples taken over the last year may not exceed [MCL],
What should I do?
Children under the age of nine should use an alternative source of water that is low in fluoride. In addition, you
may want to consult your dentist about whether to avoid dental products containing fluoride. Adults and children
over age nine should consult their dentist or doctor and show him/her this notice to determine if an alternate
source of water low in fluoride should be used.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours. Fluoride in small amounts helps
prevent tooth decay. * However, some people who drink water containing fluoride in excess of the MCL over many years
could get bone disease, including pain and tenderness of the bones. Fluoride in drinking water at half the MCL or greater
may cause mottling of children's teeth, usually in children less than nine years old. Mottling, also known as dental fluorosis,
may include brown staining and/or pitting of the permanent teeth. This problem occurs only in developing teeth, before they
erupt from the gums* Although it takes many years of exposure to fluoride for bone disease to develop, mottling can occur
after a relatively short period of exposure.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated time frame].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for TTHM or HAA5 MCL Violation - Template 2-3
Template on Reverse
If your system's locational running annual average for Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM) exceeds the maximum contaminant level (MCL) of
0.080 milligrams per liter (mg/L) or the locational running annual average for Haloacetic Acid 5 (HAA5) exceeds the MCL of 0.060 mg/L at
one or more sampling locations, you must provide Tier 2 public notification to persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days after
you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Check with your state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below is one step commonly taken by water systems with TTHM or HAA5
MCL violations. You can include the following statement, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are working to minimize the formation of [TTHM or HAA5] while ensuring we maintain an adequate level of disinfectant. We
have taken additional steps to change disinfectant type/levels, remove natural organic matter, and increased flushing of water
lines to determine if our efforts have been effective.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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TTHM or HAA5 MCL Violation Notice - Template 2-3
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Contaminant, i.e., Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM) or Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)] MCL
Violation at [Water System Name]
Our water system recently violated a drinking water standard. Although this incident was not an emergency, as
our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
We routinely monitor for the presence of drinking water contaminants. Testing results from [provide date range] show that
our system exceeds the standard, or maximum contaminant level (MCL), for [TTHM/HAA5], The standard for [TTHM/HAA5]
is [MCL], It is determined by averaging all the samples collected at each sampling location for the past 12 months. The level
of [TTHM/HAA5] averaged at one of our system's locations for [provide date range] was [level].
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. If a situation
arises where the water is no longer safe to drink, you will be notified within 24 hours.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been an emergency, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
[TTHM are four volatile organic chemicals] [HAA5 are five haloacetic acid compounds] which form when disinfectants react
with natural organic matter in the water.
[*People who drink water containing trihalomethanes in excess of the MCL over many years may experience problems with
their liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer. *] OR
[*People who drink water containing haloacetic acids in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of
getting cancer. *]
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated time frame] (or the problem was
resolved on [give date]).
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for SWTR Failure to Filter - Template 2-4
Template on Reverse
Since surface water treatment technique violations require Tier 2 public notification, you must provide public notice to persons served as
soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent
requirements for treatment technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your
state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with surface
water treatment technique violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following
statements, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• Our treatment plant needs upgrades to meet the requirements.
• We are installing filtration. We expect that the filtration system will be operational by [month, year].
• We are monitoring for turbidity (cloudiness), disinfectant levels, and the presence of bacteria.
• We continue to meet the standards for these measurements.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
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SWTR Failure to Filter Notice - Template 2-4
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Does Not Meet Treatment Requirements
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this situation does not require that you take
immediate action, as our customers, you have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are
doing) to correct this situation.
On [give date], the [state] ordered us to filter the water in addition to disinfecting. We are required to install this filtration
because we do not have an adequate watershed control program in place. However, we have not yet installed a filtration
system.
What should I do?
You do not need to boil your water. However, if you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor. A home
filter will not necessarily solve the problem, because not all home filters protect against parasites. Call NSF
International at 1(800) NSF-8010 or the Water Quality Association at 1(800) 749-0234 for information on
appropriate filters.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available on the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water
Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours. We do not know of any cases of
contamination. However, until improvements are made, there is an increased chance that disease-causing organisms could
contaminate the water supply. *lnadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms
include bacteria, viruses, and parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated
headaches.* These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water. If you experience any of these
symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
Filtration is the best method for removing these organisms. [Describe corrective action.]
We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated time frame]. Until filtration is installed, you will receive a notice
similar to this every three months.
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for SWTRs Turbidity Exceedance - Template 2-5
Template on Reverse
Since surface water treatment filtration treatment technique violations require Tier 2 public notification, you must provide public notice
to persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more
stringent requirements for treatment technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check
with your state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
For Exceedances of Single Turbidity Limits
For Exceedances of Monthly Turbidity Limits
You must consult with your state as soon as practical but within 24 hours of
learning of the violation. During the consultation, the agency may choose to
elevate your turbidity exceedance to Tier 1. If consultation does not occur, the
violation is automatically elevated to Tier 1 (use Template 1-6). For a Tier 2
notice, describe your violation as follows in the second paragraph of the notice:
"Normal turbidity levels at our plant are [number] turbidity units. A water
sample taken [date] showed levels of [number] turbidity units. This was above
the standard of [standard] units. Because of these high levels of turbidity, there
is an increased chance that the water may contain disease-causing organisms."
Use the following language to describe your violation
and insert into the second paragraph of the template:
"Water samples for [month] showed that [percentage]
percent of turbidity measurements were over
[standard] turbidity units - the standard is that no
more than 5 percent of samples may exceed [standard]
turbidity units per month. The turbidity levels are
relatively low. However, their persistence is a concern.
Normal turbidity levels at our plant are [number]
units."
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information. You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with filtration
treatment technique violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements,
if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We added chemicals that reduce turbidity.
• We sampled both untreated and treated water for the presence of coliform bacteria.
• We monitored chlorine levels and adjusted them as needed to compensate for the filtration problems.
• We inspected and cleaned the filters.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!. It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the
violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template 1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
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SWTRs Turbidity Exceedance Notice - Template 2-5
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Does Not Meet Treatment Requirements
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this was not an emergency, as our customers,
you have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
We routinely monitor your water for turbidity (cloudiness). This tells us whether we are effectively filtering the water
supply. [Insert appropriate description of the violation from instructions on the previous page.]
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other actions. We do not know of any
contamination, and none of our testing has shown disease-causing organisms in the drinking water.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available on the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water
Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
* Turbidity has no health effects. However, turbidity can interfere with disinfection and provide a medium for microbial
growth. Turbidity may indicate the presence of disease causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and
parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches*
These symptoms are not caused only by organisms in drinking water. If you experience any of these symptoms and they
persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
[Describe the corrective actions and when the system returned or expects to return to compliance.]
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for SWTR Disinfection Treatment - Template 2-6
Template on Reverse
Since surface water treatment disinfection treatment technique violations require Tier 2 public notification, you must provide public
notice to persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have
more stringent requirements for treatment technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source).
Check with your state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Description of the Violation
Include one of the following descriptions of violations, and modify to fit your situation.
• Not Enough Disinfection During Treatment - In order to ensure proper disinfection, water in the treatment plant must be in
contact with enough chlorine or a similar disinfectant for a minimum amount of time. On [give date], this did not occur. Although
chlorine quickly kills most bacteria, it is less effective against organisms such as viruses and parasites. For this reason, water
needs to mix with chlorine for a longer time period to kill such organisms. The amount of time necessary, or the "contact time,"
depends on the amount of disinfectant in the water and the temperature of the water.
• Disinfectant Residual - We routinely monitor for disinfectant residual in the distribution system. This measurement tells us
whether we are effectively disinfecting the water supply. Disinfectant residual is the amount of chlorine or related disinfectant
present in the pipes of the distribution system. If the amount of disinfectant is too low, organisms could grow in the pipes.
• Monthly exceedance - During the months of [give dates], disinfectant residual was undetectable in more than 5% of samples.
The standard is that disinfectant may be undetectable in no more than 5% of samples each month for two months in a row.
• Single exceedance - On [give date], disinfectant levels dropped below 0.2 milligrams per liter (mg/L) for [give number of hours]
hours. The standard is that levels may not drop below 0.2 mg/L for more than four hours.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with
disinfection treatment technique (TT) violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the
following statements, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are sampling/we sampled both untreated and treated water for the presence of coliform bacteria.
• We are sampling/we sampled disinfectant levels and will adjust/adjusted the amount of disinfectant added as necessary to
maintain adequate levels.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!. It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the
violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template 1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
Public Notification Handbook
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SWTR Disinfection Treatment Notice - Template 2-6
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Does/Did Not Meet Treatment Requirements
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this situation does not require that you take
immediate action, as our customers, you have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are
doing) to correct this situation.
[Describe the violation - use descriptions from instructions on reverse.]
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if
you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available on the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water
Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours. Tests taken during this same time
period did not indicate the presence of bacteria in the water.
*lnadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and
parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. *
These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience
any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.]
[Disinfectant residual levels/contact times] so far this month have met all requirements.
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
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Instructions for Failure to Install Corrosion Control - Template 2-7
Template on Reverse
Since lead and copper treatment technique violations require Tier 2 public notification, you must provide public notice to persons served
as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent
requirements for treatment technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your
state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Description of the Violation
This template is written for systems which are required to install corrosion control after exceeding lead action levels. The Lead and
Copper Rule requires some large systems to install corrosion control even if they have never exceeded the lead action level. You may
need to modify the template if this applies to you. The following may help you explain the violation:
• This is a treatment violation, but it does not mean there is lead in your drinking water. However, it is important that we take
measures to control lead levels in the water, because ingesting lead can cause serious health consequences.
If the delay in installation is related to outside circumstances, such as funding, you should explain the delay. Consumers may be more
supportive of rate increases or may pressure local authorities to provide funds if they understand the circumstances.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We conducted a lead public education program in [month, year]. You should have received a brochure explaining in more detail
steps you can take to reduce exposure until corrosion control is in place.
If consumers ask for information on testing their water, you should have on hand the names of laboratories consumers can call. Tell
consumers to call NSF International at 1(800) NSF-8010 or the Water Quality Association at 1(800) 749-0234 for information on
appropriate filters. For more information on lead, have consumers visit the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at
https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
Public Notification Handbook
81
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Failure to Install Corrosion Control Notice-Template 2-7
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Water Contains High Levels of Lead
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Even though this is not an emergency, as our customers,
you have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
We routinely sample water at consumers' taps for lead. The tests show lead levels in the water above the limit, or "action
level," so we are required to install corrosion control treatment. This treatment helps prevent lead in the pipes from
dissolving into the water. Corrosion control should have been installed by [give date], but installation is incomplete.
What should I do?
Listed below are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure to lead:
Call us at the number below to find out how to get your water tested for lead.
Find out whether your pipes contain lead or lead solder.
Run your water for 15-30 seconds or until it becomes cold before using it for drinking or cooking. This flushes any
standing lead from the pipes.
Don't cook with or drink water from the hot water tap; lead dissolves more easily into hot water.
Do not boil your water to remove lead. Boiling water makes the lead more concentrated - the lead remains when
the water evaporates.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours. Typically, lead enters water supplies
by leaching from lead or brass pipes and plumbing components. New lead pipes and plumbing components containing lead
are no longer allowed for this reason. However, many older homes may contain lead pipes. Your water is more likely to
contain high lead levels if water pipes in or leading to your home are made of lead or contain lead solder.
*lnfants and children who drink water containing lead in excess of the action level could experience delays in their physical
or mental development. Children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this
water over many years could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure. *
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] Corrosion control will be in place by [give date].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
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Instructions for Failure to Install Source Water Treatment - Template 2-8
Template on Reverse
Since lead and copper treatment technique violations require Tier 2 public notification, you must provide public notice to persons served
as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent
requirements for treatment technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your
state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Description of the Violation
This template is written for systems which are required to install source water treatment after exceeding lead action levels. The following
may help you explain the violation:
• This is a treatment violation, but it does not mean there is lead in your drinking water. However, it is important that we take
measures to control lead levels in the water, because ingesting lead can cause serious health consequences.
If the delay in installation is related to outside circumstances, such as funding, you should explain the delay. Consumers may be more
supportive of rate increases or may pressure local authorities to provide funds if they understand the circumstances.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We conducted a lead public education program in [month, year]. You should have received a brochure explaining in more detail
steps you can take to reduce exposure until the source water treatment is in place.
If consumers ask for information on testing their water, you should have on hand the names of laboratories consumers can call. Tell
consumers to call NSF International at 1(800) NSF-8010 or the Water Quality Association at 1(800) 749-0234 for information on
appropriate filters. For more information on lead, have consumers visit the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at
https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
Public Notification Handbook
83
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Failure to Install Source Water Treatment Notice - Template 2-8
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Water Contains High Levels of Lead
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Even though this is not an emergency, as our customers,
you have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
We routinely sample water at consumers' taps for lead. The tests show lead levels in the water above the limit, or "action
level," so we are required to install source water treatment. This treatment removes lead found in the source water from
the water you receive. Source water treatment should have been installed by [give date], but installation is incomplete.
What should I do?
Listed below are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure to lead:
Call us at the number below to find out how to get your water tested for lead.
Find out whether your pipes contain lead or lead solder.
Run your water for 15-30 seconds or until it becomes cold before using it for drinking or cooking. This flushes any
standing lead from the pipes.
Don't cook with or drink water from the hot water tap; lead dissolves more easily into hot water.
Do not boil your water to remove lead. Boiling water makes the lead more concentrated - the lead remains when
the water evaporates.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours. Typically, lead enters water supplies
by leaching from lead or brass pipes and plumbing components. New lead pipes and plumbing components containing lead
are no longer allowed for this reason. However, many older homes may contain lead pipes. Your water is more likely to
contain high lead levels if water pipes in or leading to your home are made of lead or contain lead solder.
*lnfants and children who drink water containing lead in excess of the action level could experience delays in their physical
or mental development. Children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this
water over many years could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure. *
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] Source water treatment will be in place by [give date].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
84
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Instructions for Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) Failure to Meet Reporting
Requirements for Public Education - Template 2-9
Template on Reverse
Since lead and copper treatment technique violations require Tier 2 public notification, you must provide public notice to persons served
as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent
requirements for treatment technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your
state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Description of the Violation
This template is written for systems which have not met timing, content, delivery and/or State reporting requirements for Public
Education. The Lead and Copper Rule requires a water system that exceeds the lead action level based on tap water samples collected in
accordance with § 141.86 to deliver the public education materials to their consumers. You may need to modify the template if this
applies to you. The following may help you explain the violation:
• This is a treatment violation, but it does not mean there is lead in your drinking water. However, it is important that we take
measures to control lead levels in the water, because ingesting lead can cause serious health consequences.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We will have begun conducting a lead public education program. You should receive a brochure explaining in more detail steps
you can take to reduce exposure.
If consumers ask for information on testing their water, you should have on hand the names of laboratories consumers can call. Tell
consumers to call NSF International at 1(800) NSF-8010 or the Water Quality Association at 1(800) 749-0234 for information on
appropriate filters. For more information on lead, have consumers visit the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at
https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
Public Notification Handbook
85
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Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) Failure to Meet Reporting Requirements for Public
Education - Template 2-9
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Water Contains High Levels of Lead
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Even though this is not an emergency, as our customers,
you have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
We routinely sample water at consumers' taps for lead. (Water System Name] found elevated levels of lead in drinking
water in some homes/buildings. Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young
children. Please read this information closely to see what you can do to reduce lead in your drinking water.
What should I do?
Listed below are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure to lead:
Call us at the number below to find out how to get your water tested for lead.
Find out whether your pipes contain lead or lead solder.
Run your water for 15-30 seconds or until it becomes cold before using it for drinking or cooking. This flushes any
standing lead from the pipes.
Don't cook with or drink water from the hot water tap; lead dissolves more easily into hot water.
Do not boil your water to remove lead. Boiling water makes the lead more concentrated - the lead remains when
the water evaporates.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours. Typically, lead enters water supplies
by leaching from lead or brass pipes and plumbing components. New lead pipes and plumbing components containing lead
are no longer allowed for this reason. However, many older homes may contain lead pipes. Your water is more likely to
contain high lead levels if water pipes in or leading to your home are made of lead or contain lead solder.
*lnfants and children who drink water containing lead in excess of the action level could experience delays in their physical
or mental development. Children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this
water over many years could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure. *
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.]
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address].
For more information on reducing lead exposure around your home/building and the health effects of lead, visit EPA's Web
site at http://www.epa.gov/lead or contact your health care provider.
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
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Instructions for Failure to Replace Lead Service Lines - Template 2-10
Template on Reverse
Since lead and copper treatment technique violations require Tier 2 public notification, you must provide public notice to persons served
as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent
requirements for treatment technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your
state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Description of the Violation
This template is written for systems which are required to replace lead service lines after exceeding lead action levels. The following may
help you explain the violation:
• This is a treatment violation, but it does not mean there is lead in your drinking water. However, it is important that we take
measures to control lead levels in the water, because ingesting lead can cause serious health consequences.
If the delay in installation is related to outside circumstances, such as funding, you should explain the delay. Consumers may be more
supportive of rate increases or may pressure local authorities to provide funds if they understand the circumstances.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We conducted a lead public education program in [month, year]. You should have received a brochure explaining in more detail
steps you can take to reduce exposure until lead service lines are replaced and the system is in compliance with the Lead and
Copper Rule.
If consumers ask for information on testing their water, you should have on hand the names of laboratories consumers can call. Tell
consumers to call NSF International at 1(800) NSF-8010 or the Water Quality Association at 1(800) 749-0234 for information on
appropriate filters. For more information on lead, have consumers visit the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at
https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
Public Notification Handbook
87
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Failure to Replace Lead Service Lines Notice - Template 2-10
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Water Contains High Levels of Lead
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Even though this is not an emergency, as our customers,
you have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
We routinely sample water at consumers' taps for lead. The tests show lead levels in the water above the limit, or "action
level," so we are required to replace lead service lines in the distribution system. Lead service line replacement should have
been installed by [give date], but installation is incomplete.
What should I do?
Listed below are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure to lead:
Call us at the number below to find out how to get your water tested for lead.
Find out whether your pipes contain lead or lead solder.
Run your water for 15-30 seconds or until it becomes cold before using it for drinking or cooking. This flushes any
standing lead from the pipes.
Don't cook with or drink water from the hot water tap; lead dissolves more easily into hot water.
Do not boil your water to remove lead. Boiling water makes the lead more concentrated - the lead remains when
the water evaporates.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours. Typically, lead enters water supplies
by leaching from lead or brass pipes and plumbing components. New lead pipes and plumbing components containing lead
are no longer allowed for this reason. However, many older homes may contain lead pipes. Your water is more likely to
contain high lead levels if water pipes in or leading to your home are made of lead or contain lead solder.
*lnfants and children who drink water containing lead in excess of the action level could experience delays in their physical
or mental development. Children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this
water over many years could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure. *
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] Replacement of the lead service will be replaced [give date].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
88
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Instructions for LT2ESWTR Uncovered Finished Water Reservoir Treatment -
Template 2-11
Template on Reverse
A system's failure to cover an uncovered finished water reservoir, provide treatment of the reservoir's discharge, or be in compliance
with a state-approved schedule to cover the reservoir(s) or treat the reservoir(s) discharge by April 1, 2009, is a treatment technique
violation and requires Tier 2 public notification. You must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days
after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent requirements for treatment technique violations
(e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information. You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with this type
of LT2ESWTR treatment technique violation. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following
statements, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are currently working with state officials to revise our schedule for covering our uncovered finished water storage reservoir.
We expect to have the state-approved schedule in place by [give date] and the reservoir covered by [give date]. Until our
schedule receives state approval, you will receive a notice similar to this every three months.
• We are currently working with state officials to revise our schedule for treating the discharge from our uncovered finished water
storage reservoir. We expect to have the state-approved schedule in place by [give date] and treatment in place by [give date].
Until the schedule receives state approval, you will receive a notice similar to this every three months.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!. It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the
violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template 1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
Public Notification Handbook
89
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LT2ESWTR Uncovered Finished Water Reservoir Treatment Notice -
Template 2-11
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Uncovered Finished Water Reservoir Violation at [Water System Name]
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this situation is not an emergency, as our
customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
Water systems with uncovered finished water reservoirs are required to cover these reservoirs, treat the water from these
reservoirs, or be in compliance with a state-approved schedule to cover the reservoir(s) or provide treatment. We have
failed to meet this requirement.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if
you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available on the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water
Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
Uncovered finished water reservoirs are a pathway for contaminants to enter the drinking water supply. Therefore, it is
necessary to cover the reservoirs or treat the discharge. *lnadequately treated water may contain disease-causing
organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps,
diarrhea, and associated headaches. *
These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience
any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated time frame].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
90
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Instructions for LT2ESWTR Filtered System Failure to Provide or Install an
Additional Level of Treatment - Template 2-12
Template on Reverse
A filtered system's failure to provide or install an additional level of treatment appropriate for its LT2ESWTR bin classification by the
required date, is a treatment technique (TT) violation and requires Tier 2 public notification. You must provide public notice to persons
served as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent
requirements for treatment technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your
state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with LT2ESWTR
treatment technique violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements,
if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are currently working to [install treatment/adjust our treatment processes] to achieve the required level of additional
treatment.
• We are currently working with state officials and our engineers to finalize plans for water treatment that will satisfy this
requirement once it is installed.
• We have [installed treatment/made adjustments to our treatment processes] and are now achieving the required level of
additional treatment.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
Public Notification Handbook
91
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LT2ESWTR Filtered System Failure to Provide or Install an Additional Level of
Treatment Notice - Template 2-12
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Provide the Appropriate Level of Treatment Within
Required Time Frame
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this is not an emergency, as our customers, you
have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
Cryptosporidium is a disease-causing microorganism that has been found in our raw water source. Our water system [give
system name] was required to provide an additional level of treatment to address Cryptosporidium by [provide date]. We
failed to do this by the required date.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if
you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available on the
EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
*lnadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and
parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. *
These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience
any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We expect to achieve this additional level of treatment by [give date].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
92
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Instructions for LT2ESWTR Unfiltered System Failure to Achieve Required
Inactivation Level - Template 2-13
Template on Reverse
Based on Cryptosporidium monitoring results, an unfiltered system must meet inactivation requirements for Cryptosporidium by a
required date. Failure to do this is a treatment technique violation and requires Tier 2 public notification. You must provide public notice
to persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more
stringent requirements for treatment technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check
with your state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with LT2ESWTR
treatment technique violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements,
if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are currently working to adjust our treatment processes to achieve the required level of treatment.
• We are currently working with state officials and our engineers to finalize plans for water treatment that will satisfy this
requirement once it is installed.
• We have made adjustments to our treatment processes and are now achieving the required level of treatment.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
Public Notification Handbook
93
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LT2ESWTR Unfiltered System Failure to Achieve Required Inactivation Level
Notice - Template 2-13
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Provide the Appropriate Level of Treatment Within
Required Time Frame
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this is not an emergency, as our customers, you
have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
Cryptosporidium is a disease-causing microorganism that may be in our raw water source. Our water system [give system
name] was required to provide a specified level of treatment to address Cryptosporidium by [provide date]. We failed to do
this by the required date.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if
you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available on the
EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
*lnadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and
parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. *
These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience
any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We expect to achieve this specified level of treatment by [give date].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
94
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Instructions for LT2ESWTR Filtered System Failure to Achieve Required
Treatment Credit - Template 2-14
Template on Reverse
Based on Cryptosporidium monitoring results, some filtered systems are required to achieve additional treatment credit using a microbial
toolbox option. A filtered system's failure to achieve required treatment credit to meet the bin classification requirements, is a treatment
technique violation and requires Tier 2 public notification. You must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but
within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent requirements for treatment
technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your state to make sure you meet all
its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with LT2ESWTR
treatment technique violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements,
if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are taking steps to ensure the required level of treatment can be maintained at all times.
• The reason for the lapse in treatment has been identified and addressed.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-11 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
Public Notification Handbook
95
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LT2ESWTR Filtered System Failure to Achieve Required Treatment Credit Notice
-Template 2-14
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Maintain the Required Level of Treatment
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this is not an emergency, as our customers, you
have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
Cryptosporidium is a disease-causing microorganism that has been found in our raw water source. Our water system [give
system name] was required to maintain a specified level of additional treatment to address Cryptosporidium. During
[provide date range], our system fell below this level.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if
you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available on the
EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
*lnadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and
parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. *
These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience
any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action and when the system returned or expects to return to compliance.]
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
96
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Instructions for LT2ESWTR Unfiltered System Failure to Maintain Required
Inactivation Level - Template 2-15
Template on Reverse
Based on Cryptosporidium monitoring results, an unfiltered system must maintain specified inactivation levels to ensure adequate
treatment for Cryptosporidium. Failure to do this is a treatment technique violation and requires Tier 2 public notification. You must
provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your
state may have more stringent requirements for treatment technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an
alternate source). Check with your state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with LT2ESWTR
treatment technique violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements,
if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are taking steps to ensure the required level of treatment can be maintained at all times.
• The reason for the lapse in treatment has been identified and addressed.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
Public Notification Handbook
97
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LT2ESWTR Unfiltered System Failure to Maintain Required Inactivation Level
Notice - Template 2-15
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Maintain the Required Level of Treatment
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this is not an emergency, as our customers, you
have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
Cryptosporidium is a disease-causing microorganism that may be in our raw water source. Our water system [give system
name] was required to maintain a specified level of treatment to address Cryptosporidium. During [provide date range], our
system fell below this level.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if
you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available on the
EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
*lnadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and
parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. *
These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience
any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action and when the system returned or expects to return to compliance.]
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
Public Notification Handbook
98
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Instructions for LT2ESWTR Unfiltered System Failure to Install Second
Disinfectant - Template 2-16
Template on Reverse
An unfiltered system's failure to install a second disinfectant to treat for Cryptosporidium by the required date, is a treatment technique
violation and requires Tier 2 public notification. You must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days
after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent requirements for treatment technique violations
(e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by unfiltered water systems with
LT2ESWTR treatment technique violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following
statements, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We will install a second disinfectant by [provide date] to satisfy this requirement.
• We are currently working with state officials and our engineers to finalize plans for water treatment that will satisfy this
requirement once it is installed.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
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LT2ESWTR Unfiltered System Failure to Install Second Disinfectant Notice -
Template 2-16
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Provide the Appropriate Level of Treatment Within
Required Time Frame
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this is not an emergency, as our
customers, you have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to
correct this situation.
Our unfiltered water system [give system name] was required to use a minimum of two disinfectants to meet our
treatment requirement by [give date]. We failed to have the new [ultraviolet light (U.V.)/ chlorine dioxide/ozone]
disinfection system installed by the required date.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if
you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available on the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water
Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
*lnadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and
parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. *
These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience
any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
We expect to have the [U.V./chlorine dioxide/ozone] disinfection system installed by [give date]. We continue to disinfect
the water with chlorine as we have in the past.
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Filter Backwash Recycling Rule Treatment Technique Violation -
Template 2-17
Template on Reverse
Since failure to recycle spent filter backwash, thickener supernatant, and liquids from dewatering processes before all processes of the
direct filtration treatment train; failure to obtain state approval for the use of an alternative recycle location; or failure to pursue capital
improvements are violations that require Tier 2 public notification, you must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical
but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent requirements for treatment
technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your state to make sure you meet all
its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Do not use overly technical terminology when describing treatment methods.
Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements, if appropriate, or develop your
own text:
• On [give date], we will no longer recycle our filter backwash and will not be in violation of this requirement.
• On [give date], the filter backwash will be piped to the beginning of our water treatment process and we will no longer be in
violation of this requirement.
• On [give date], the filter backwash and all other current recycle flows will be discharged to waste as approved by the state.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
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Filter Backwash Recycling Rule Treatment Technique Violation
Notice - Template 2-17
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Meet Treatment Requirements
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this is not an emergency, as our
customers, you have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to
correct this situation.
The Filter Backwash Recycling Rule requires water systems that recycle liquids used for water treatment to recycle these
liquids through the system's existing filtration system or to an alternate location approved by the state. Our system did not
return its water treatment recycle flows to the required location or a state-approved location by the required date of [give
date].
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if
you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available on the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water
Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
*lnadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and
parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. *
These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience
any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated time frame].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Failure of a Seasonal System to Complete Start-Up Procedures -
Template 2-18
Template Below
Description of Violation or Situation
A seasonal NCWS that fails to follow state-approved start-up procedures prior to serving water to the public after the
system had been out of service has incurred a treatment technique (TT) violation. This violation requires Tier 2 public
notification. Start-up procedures are approved by the state and may include, but are not limited to, activities such as:
• Inspecting all water system components, including source(s), treatment components, distribution lines, and storage
tanks and addressing any issues.
• Activating the source and thoroughly flushing water through all pipes in the water system.
• Draining and re-filling storage tanks.
• Chlorinating the water in the system and leaving the chlorinated water in the system for at least 24 hours before
flushing the water to waste.
• Collecting water samples at key locations within the system and ensuring the water system is not contaminated by
bacteria.
You must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but no later than 30 days after you learn of the
violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent requirements for treatment technique violations (e.g., it
may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your state to make sure you meet all its
requirements.
NCWSs must use one of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141,203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.2.03(c)1. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations.
If you mail, post, or hand deliver, EPA recommends printing your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still
include all required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.2.05(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see
below). All posted notices must remain in place for as long as the violation or situation persists but in no case for less than
seven days, even if the violation or situation is resolved.
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from 40 CFR 141.205(d)(2)) must be included as written if the required start-up
procedure includes collecting coliform bacteria samples. The mandatory language is provided below and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on each end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the
appropriate information. If monitoring is not required as part of the start-up procedures the italicized mandatory language
should be omitted and language must be used to appropriately describe the violation.
*We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of
regular monitoring are an indicator of whether or not your drinking water meets health standards. During
[compliance period], we "did not complete all monitoring or testing" for [contaminant(s)], and therefore
cannot be sure of the quality of your drinking water during that time. *
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)1. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on each end.
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Corrective Action
In your notice, you must describe corrective actions you are taking [40 CFR 141.205(a}(7}1 and when you expect to return to
compliance or resolve the situation [40 CFR 141.205(a}(8)1. Do not use overly technical terminology when describing
treatment methods. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with TT violations relating to
incomplete start-up procedures. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use the following statement, if
appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We have completed the required start-up procedures and provided the appropriate certification to the state. The
procedures included [describe what you did, for example, flushed the system, disinfected the system, collected
total coliform bacteria samples, etc.],
• We have collected [number] coliform bacteria samples as required and [number] sample results were negative for
total coliform bacteria.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out
any previous notices.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification
requirements to your state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141,31(d)].
Public Notification Handbook
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Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR) Failure of a Seasonal System to Complete
Start-Up Procedures - Template 2-18
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Complete Seasonal Start-Up Procedures
Before we open each year and serve water to the public we are required to complete certain start-up procedures to make
sure the water we provide is safe to drink. This year we failed to [describe what you failed to do, for example, disinfect the
water system or collect the required number of coliform bacteria samples] before providing water. As our customers, you
have a right to know what happened and what we are doing to correct this situation.
Inadequately treated or inadequately protected water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms can cause
symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, cramps, and associated headaches.
*We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring
are an indicator of whether or not your drinking water meets health standards. During [compliance period], we "did not
complete all monitoring or testing" for [contaminant(s)], and therefore cannot be sure of the quality of your drinking water
during that time. *
What should I do?
If you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at increased risk and
should seek advice from your healthcare provider about drinking this water. You should also seek advice from your
healthcare provider about using the water if you have an infant. General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of
infection by bacteria and other disease-causing organisms are available on the EPA Ground Water and Drinking
Water Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency, as we have completed the start-up procedures. If it had been, you would have been notified
within 24 hours.
Failure to perform the required start-up procedures prior to serving water to the public has the potential to distribute
contaminated water. When our system shuts down operation, the lack of pressure in our pipes can allow the entry of
bacteria and other disease-causing microorganisms into the drinking water. By performing start-up procedures such as
flushing the pipes, disinfecting the water, and collecting a coliform bacteria sample before we open, we can be sure that we
are providing you with safe water.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action including when you returned to compliance or resolved the situation].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Monitoring Violation Elevated to Tier 2 - Template 2-19
Template on Reverse
If your state has designated a failure to monitor as a violation requiring Tier 2 public notification [40 CFR 141.203(a)!, you must provide
public notice to persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Monitoring
violations are Tier 3 by default, but may be elevated to Tier 2 by your state. You may elevate the public notice to Tier 2 yourself as well.
You must issue a repeat notice every three months for as long as the violation persists. Check with your state to make sure you meet all
its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a)and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you took or are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with
monitoring violations. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We have since taken the required samples, as described in the last column of the table above. The samples showed we are
meeting drinking water standards.
• We have since taken the required samples, as described in the last column of the table above. The sample for [contaminant]
exceeded the limit. [Describe corrective action; use information from public notice prepared for violating the limit.]
• We plan to take the required samples [expected time frame], as described in the last column of the table above.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
Public Notification Handbook
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Monitoring Violation Elevated to Tier 2 Notice - Template 2-19
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Monitoring Requirements Not Met for [Water System Name]
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this incident was not an emergency, as our
customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
*We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring
are an indicator of whether or not our drinking water meets health standards. During [compliance period] we ['did not
monitor or test' or 'did not complete all monitoring or testing'] for [contaminant(s)] and, therefore, cannot be sure of the
quality of your drinking water during that time. *
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do at this time.
The table below lists the contaminant(s) we did not properly test for, how often we are supposed to sample for [this
contaminant/these contaminants] and how many samples we are supposed to take, how many samples we took, when
samples should have been taken, and the date on which follow-up samples were (or will be) taken.
Contaminant
Required sampling
frequency
Number of
samples taken
When samples
should have been
taken
When samples
were taken
Nitrate (example)
One sample annually
0
2008
February 2009
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.]
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Failure to Comply with the Conditions of an Exemption -
Template 2-20
Template on Reverse
Since failure to comply with the conditions of an exemption requires Tier 2 public notification, you must provide public notice to persons
served as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. You must issue a repeat notice every
three months for as long as the violation persists. Your state may have more stringent or alternative requirements for exemption
violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your state to make sure you meet all its
requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below is an example of a step that might be taken in response to this
violation. You can include the following statement, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We have agreed upon a new deadline of [give date] to secure the funding needed in order to purchase [contaminant] removal
treatment equipment. Once we have secured funding, we will purchase and begin installation of the selected treatment
technology by [estimated time frame].
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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Failure to Comply with the Conditions of an Exemption Notice - Template 2-20
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Meet the Conditions of a [contaminant] Exemption
Our water system recently violated one of the conditions of our [contaminant] exemption. An exemption allows eligible
systems additional time to build capacity in order to comply with a drinking water standard. [Water System Name] was
granted an exemption for the [contaminant] standard so that we could raise funds for a new treatment process to remove
[contaminant]. As a condition of the exemption, we agreed to secure funding by [give date]. We did not meet this deadline.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. You may
continue to drink the water. If a situation arises where the water is no longer safe to drink, you will be notified
within 24 hours. We will post this information on our Web site at [system Web site].
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been an emergency, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
(Example language provided for arsenic. Enter required language from 40 CFR Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q. for your
specific contaminant.)
[*Some people who drink water containing arsenic in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of
getting cancer. *]
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated time frame] OR The problem was
resolved on [give date].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address]. You can also visit our Web
site at www.ourwatersvstem.com.
* Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for GWR Failure to Maintain 4-log Treatment of Viruses - Template
2-21
Template on Reverse
A ground water system's failure to maintain required 4-log treatment of viruses for a period greater than four hours is a treatment
technique violation that requires Tier 2 public notification. You must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but
within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent requirements for treatment
technique violations (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your state to make sure you meet all
its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with Ground
Water Rule treatment technique violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following
statements, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We are increasing disinfection to maintain our proper residual levels.
• We are pursuing improvements to our treatment system so that we can maintain required treatment at all times.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
Public Notification Handbook
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GWR Failure to Maintain 4-log Treatment of Viruses Notice - Template 2-21
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failure to Meet Treatment Requirements
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this incident was not an emergency, as our
customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
We are required to [treat/disinfect] our drinking water source [name source]. From [give date] to [give date] we did not
meet one or more of our treatment requirements [provide sufficient levels of disinfectant/provide adequate contact
time/meet alternative treatment criteria] due to [describe issue, e.g., malfunctioning equipment].
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if
you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available on the EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water
Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
*lnadequately treated or inadequately protected water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include
bacteria, viruses, and parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches.*
These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience
any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
While we have not detected any evidence of contamination in, or other health threats to, our source water, we are still
committed to restoring the required level of treatment to the water from [source] to eliminate the threat of contamination.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated time frame], OR The problem was
resolved on [give date].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for GWR Failure to Take Corrective Action Within Required Time
Frame - Template 2-22
Template on Reverse
A system's failure to take corrective action within the required timeframe or be in compliance with a state-approved corrective action
plan and schedule for a fecal indicator-positive ground water source sample or significant deficiency under GWR is a treatment technique
violation and requires Tier 2 public notification. You must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days
after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. Your state may have more stringent requirements for treatment technique violations
(e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with Ground
Water Rule treatment technique violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following
statements, if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• Although we did not meet our deadline, we are now in consultation with the state to develop a corrective action plan.
• The [source of contamination/significant deficiency] has been identified and addressed.
• We have implemented a short-term plan to address the immediate issue while we pursue the long-term solution.
Repeat Notices
For repeat notices, you should state how long the violation has been ongoing and remind consumers of when you sent out any previous
notices. If you are making progress, describe it. Alternatively, if funding or other issues are delaying progress, let consumers know.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
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GWR Failure to Take Corrective Action Within Required Time Frame
Notice - Template 2-22
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to [Correct a Significant Deficiency/Address a Fecal
Indicator-Positive Source Sample] Within Required Time Frame.
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this incident was not an emergency, as our
customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
[A sanitary survey conducted on [give date] by the [insert state] found [describe significant deficiency in our water system]]
OR
[Sampling conducted at our ground water source on [given date(s)] found indication of fecal contamination of our
source(s)].
As required by Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) Ground Water Rule (GWR), we were required to take action to
[correct this deficiency/address the fecal-indicator positive source sample]. However, we failed to take this action by the
deadline established by [insert state name].
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions, unless further
direction is received. However, if you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from on the EPA Ground Water and Drinking
Water Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
*lnadequately treated or inadequately protected water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include
bacteria, viruses, and parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches.*
These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience
any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated time frame] (or the problem was
resolved on [give date]).
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received
this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting
this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Failure to Perform any Level 1 Assessment or a Level 2
Assessment that is Not Triggered by E. coli MCL Violations or the Related
Corrective Actions - Template 2-23
Template Below
Description of Violation or Situation
A PWS triggers a Level 1 assessment when:
• For systems taking 40 or more samples (including routine and repeat samples) per month, the public water system
exceeds 5.0 percent total coliform-positive samples for the month;
• For systems taking fewer than 40 samples (including routine and repeat samples) per month, the public water
system has two or more total coliform-positive samples in the same month; or
• The PWS fails to take every required repeat sample after any single routine total coliform-positive sample.
A PWS triggers a Level 2 assessment when:
• The PWS has a second Level 1 assessment TT trigger within a rolling 12-month period unless the state has
determined a likely reason for the total coliform-positive samples that caused the initial Level 1 assessment TT
trigger, and the state establishes that the system has fully corrected the problem; or,
• For PWSs with approved reduced annual monitoring, the system has a Level 1 assessment TT trigger in two
consecutive years.
TT violations related to triggered assessments occur when any public water system has:
• Failed to conduct the triggered Level 1 or Level 2 assessment within 30 days after learning that it has exceeded the
trigger; or
• Failed to correct any sanitary defect found through a Level 1 or Level 2 assessment within 30 days or in accordance
with a schedule acceptable to the state.
TT violations related to any Level 1 assessment or to a Level 2 assessment that is not triggered by an E. coli MCL violation
require similar Tier 2 public notice. TT violations for Level 2 assessments that are triggered by E. coli MCL violations require
different mandatory health effects language and are addressed in Template 2-24.
You must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but no later than 30 days after you learn of the
violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)1. You must issue a repeat notice every three months for as long as the violation persists. Check
with your state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.2.03(c)1:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141,203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be
reached by the first method [40 CFR 141,203(c)1. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community
organizations. If you mail, post, or hand deliver, EPA recommends printing your notice on your system's letterhead, if
available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still
include all required public notice elements from 40 C 105(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see
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below). All posted notices must remain in place for as long as the violation or situation persists but in no case for less than
seven days, even if the violation or situation is resolved.
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q.) must be included as written and is
presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on each end.
*Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that
other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present or that a potential pathway exists
through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution system. We found coliforms
indicating the need to look for potential problems in water treatment or distribution. When this occurs, we
are required to conduct assessments to identify problems and to correct any problems that are found. *
You are also required to include one or both of the following statements, also presented in this notice in italics with an
asterisk on each end, as appropriate for the violation:
*We failed to conduct the required assessment. *
*We failed to correct all identified sanitary defects that were found during the assessment that we
conducted. *
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)]. This language is also provided below and presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk
on each end.
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
Corrective Action
The specific cause(s) of total coliforms in the distribution system that triggered the assessment will likely differ from system
to system. Your notice must describe the corrective action(s) you are taking [40 CFR 141.205(a}(7}1 to address the TT
violation and when you expect to return to compliance or resolve the situation [40 CFR 141.205(a)(8)]. You can use one or
more of the following statements, if appropriate, or develop your own text.
• We have begun to correct the sanitary defect(s) identified during an assessment of our water system by taking the
following corrective actions: [Describe corrective actions],
• To ensure that our water system is protected against contamination, we are working with the state to implement
the following corrective actions: [Describe corrective actions],
• We completed the required assessment and identified the cause of the sanitary defect to be addressed [describe
the issue or problem found, for example, damage to the storage tank, a missing vent screen, etc.] We are currently
correcting the problem on a schedule approved by [State Department of Public Health],
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification
requirements to your state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141,31(d)].
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved. See Template 1-6 of the Revised Public
Notification Handbook (2nd Revision of Document: EPA 816-R-09-013, March 2010) and Template NC-7 of the Public
Notification Handbook for Transient Non-community Water Systems, EPA 816-R-09-009, March 2010 for a "problem
corrected" notice template.
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Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR) Failure to Perform any Level 1 Assessment or
a Level 2 Assessment that is Not Triggered by E. coli MCL Violations or the
Related Corrective Actions - Template 2-23
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Perform Activities Required to Address Coliform
Bacteria Contamination of the Water System
During recent routine monitoring, our water system tested positive for total coliforms. *Coliforms are bacteria that are
naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens
may be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution
system. We found coliforms indicating the need to look for potential problems in water treatment or distribution.
When this occurs, we are required to conduct assessments to identify problems and to correct any problems that are found. *
[Describe the TT violation, using the mandatory language of *We failed to conduct the required assessment* by [Enter date
the assessment was due] and/or *We failed to correct all identified sanitary defects that were found during the
assessment(s)* by [Enter date correction was due].]
As our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we are doing to correct this situation.
What should I do?
You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if you have specific health concerns,
consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at increased risk and
should seek advice from your healthcare provider about drinking this water. You should also seek advice from your
healthcare provider about using the water if you have an infant. General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of
infection by bacteria and other disease-causing organisms are available on the EPA Ground Water and Drinking
Water Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
Since total coliform bacteria are generally not harmful themselves, this is not an emergency. If it had been you would have
been notified within 24 hours.
Failure to identify and correct the defects has the potential to cause continued distribution system contamination.
Inadequately treated or inadequately protected water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms can cause
symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, cramps, and associated headaches.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action including when your water system expects to return to compliance or resolve the violation].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
* Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Failure to Perform a Level 2 Assessment Triggered by an E. coli
MCL Violation or the Related Corrective Actions - Template 2-24
Template Below
Description of Violation or Situation
A PWS triggers a Level 2 assessment when:
• The PWS has an E. coli maximum contaminant level (MCL) violation;
A TT violation related to a Level 2 assessment that was triggered by an E. coli MCL violation requires Tier 2 public notice
with mandatory health effects language stating E. coli was detected in the water system. Violations of Level 2 assessments
related to E. coli require Tier 2 public notice and occur when any public water system has:
• Failed to conduct the triggered Level 2 assessment within 30 days after learning that it has exceeded the trigger; or
• Failed to correct any sanitary defect found through a Level 2 assessment within 30 days or in accordance with a
schedule acceptable to the state.
TT violations for Level 2 assessments that are triggered by more than one Level 1 assessment require different mandatory
health effects language and are addressed in Template 2-23.
You must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but no later than 30 days after you learn of the
violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. You must issue a repeat notice every three months for as long as the violation persists. Check
with your state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141,203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be
reached by the first method [40 CFR 141,203(c)1. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community
organizations. If you mail, post, or hand deliver, EPA recommends printing your notice on your system's letterhead, if
available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still
include all required public notice elements from 40 C 105(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see
below). All posted notices must remain in place for as long as the violation or situation persists but in no case for less than
seven days, even if the violation or situation is resolved.
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q.) must be included as written and is
presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on each end.
*E. coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal
wastes. Human pathogens in these wastes can cause short-term effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea,
headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a greater health risk for infants, young children, the
elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems. We violated the standard for E. coli,
indicating the need to look for potential problems in water treatment or distribution. When this occurs, we
are required to conduct a detailed assessment to identify problems and to correct any problems that are
found. *
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You are also required to include one or both of the following statements, also presented in this notice in italics with an
asterisk on each end, as appropriate for the violation:
*We failed to conduct the required assessment. *
*We failed to correct all identified sanitary defects that were found during the assessment that we
conducted. *
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)]. This language is also provided below and presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk
on each end.
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
Corrective Action
The specific cause(s) of E. coli in the distribution system will likely differ from system to system. Your notice must describe
the corrective action(s) you are taking [40 CF 35(a)(7)1 and when you expect to return to compliance or resolve the
situation [40 CFR 141.2.05(a)(8)1. You can use one or more of the following statements, if appropriate, or develop your own
text.
• We have begun to correct the sanitary defect(s) identified during an assessment of our water system by taking the
following corrective actions. [Describe corrective actions],
• To ensure that our water supplies are protected against contamination, we are working with the state to implement
the following corrective actions. [Describe corrective actions],
• We completed the required assessment and identified the cause of the sanitary defect to be addressed [describe
the issue or problem found, for example, damage to the storage tank, a missing vent screen, etc.] We are currently
correcting the problem on a schedule approved by [State Department of Public Health],
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification
requirements to your state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141,31(d)].
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved. See Template 1-6 of the Revised Public
Notification Handbook (2nd Revision of Document: EPA 816-R-09-013, March 2010) and Template NC-7 of the Public
Notification Handbook for Transient Non-community Water Systems, EPA 816-R-09-009, March 2010 for a "problem
corrected" notice template.
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Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR) Failure to Perform a Level 2 Assessment
Triggered by an E. coli MCL Violation or the Related Corrective Actions -
Template 2-24
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Correct a Problem Discovered During an Assessment
of the Water System after Testing Positive for E. coli
During recent monitoring, our water system tested positive for E. coli. *E. coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that
the water may be contaminated with human or animal wastes. Human pathogens in these wastes can cause short-term
effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a greater health risk for infants,
young children, the elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems. We violated the standard for E. coli,
indicating the need to look for potential problems in water treatment or distribution.
When this occurs, we are required to conduct a detailed assessment to identify problems and to correct any problems that
are found.* [Describe the TT violation, using the mandatory language of *We failed to conduct the required assessment* by
[Enter date the assessment was due] and/or *We failed to correct all identified sanitary defects that were found during the
assessment(s)* by [Enter date correction was due]]
As our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we are doing to correct this situation. You were
notified of the E. coli in our water on [enter date when Tier 1 public notice of the MCL violation that triggered the
assessment was provided] and on [enter date] that no additional contamination has been identified and that you do not
need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. Although our recent sampling has indicated coliform bacteria are
absent, we are still required to assess the system and correct any defects found.
What should I do?
You still do not need to boil your water or take corrective actions. However, if you have specific health concerns,
consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at increased risk and
should seek advice from your healthcare provider about drinking this water. You should also seek advice from your
healthcare provider about using the water if you have an infant. General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of
infection by bacteria and other disease-causing organisms are available on the EPA Ground Water and Drinking
Water Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been you would have been notified within 24 hours.
Failure to identify and correct system defects has the potential to cause distribution system contamination. Inadequately
treated or inadequately protected water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms can cause symptoms
such as diarrhea, nausea, cramps, and associated headaches.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action including when you expect to return to compliance or resolve the situation].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Special Notice: Instructions for LT2ESWTR Failure to Conduct Required
Cryptosporidium Monitoring For Any Three Months - Template 2-25
Template on Reverse
A system's failure to conduct required Cryptosporidium monitoring of its source water for any three months is a monitoring violation that
requires Tier 2 public notification and special notice. (Note: failure to collect one or two of the scheduled samples requires Tier 3
notification. See Chapter 7 for an example template.) You must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but within 30
days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. You must issue a repeat notice every three months for as long as the violation
persists. Your state may have more stringent requirements for this monitoring violation (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an
alternate source). Check with your state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with LT2ESWTR
monitoring violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements, if
appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We will begin collecting the required source water monitoring samples on [give date].
• We have since taken the required samples for source water monitoring.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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Special Notice: LT2ESWTR Failure to Conduct Required Cryptosporidium
Monitoring For Any Three Months Notice - Template 2-25
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Monitoring Requirements Not Met for [Water System Name]
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this is not an emergency, as our customers, you
have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
*We are required to monitor the source of your drinking water for Cryptosporidium. Results of the monitoring are to be used
to determine whether water treatment at the [treatment plant name] is sufficient to adequately remove Cryptosporidium
from your drinking water. We are required to complete this monitoring and make this determination by [required bin
determination date]. We ["did not monitor or test" or "did not complete all monitoring or testing"] on schedule and,
therefore, we may not be able to determine by the required date what treatment modifications, if any, must be made to
ensure adequate Cryptosporidium removal. Missing this deadline may, in turn, jeopardize our ability to have the required
treatment modifications, if any, completed by the deadline required, [give date], *
Cryptosporidium is a disease-causing microorganism that may be present in our raw water source.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if
you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available on the
EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We will collect all required samples by [give date],
*Formore information, please call [name of water system contact] of [water system name] at [phone number].*
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Special Notice: Instructions for LT2ESWTR Filtered System Failure to Determine
and Report Bin Classification - Template 2-26
Template on Reverse
A filtered system's failure to determine its bin classification by the required date requires a Tier 2 public notification and special notice,
and a system's failure to report its bin classification by the required date is a treatment technique violation. The template on the reverse
meets both of these requirements. You must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days after you
learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!. You must issue a repeat notice every three months for as long as the violation persists. Your
state may have more stringent requirements for this monitoring violation (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate
source). Check with your state to make sure you meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with LT2ESWTR
treatment technique violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements,
if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We determined our bin classification on [give date] and have notified the state.
• We are in the process of determining our bin classification and will notify the state upon completion.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
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Special Notice: LT2ESWTR Filtered System Failure to Determine and Report Bin
Classification Notice-Template 2-26
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Determine Required Treatment Based on
Cryptosporidium Level
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this is not an emergency, as our customers, you
have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
*We are required to monitor the source of your drinking water for Cryptosporidium in order to determine by [give date]
whether water treatment at the [provide treatment plant name] is sufficient to adequately remove Cryptosporidium from
your drinking water. We have not made this determination by the required date. Our failure to do this may jeopardize our
ability to have the required treatment modifications, if any, completed by the required deadline of [give date], *
Cryptosporidium is a disease-causing microorganism that may be present in our raw water source.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if
you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available on the
EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at httpsi//www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
*lnadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and
parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. *
These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience
any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated timeframe] (or the problem was
resolved on [give date]).
* For more information, please call [name of water system contact] of [water system name] at [phone number].*
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Special Notice: Instructions on LT2ESWTR Unfiltered System Failure to Calculate
and Report Mean Cryptosporidium Level - Template 2-27
Template on Reverse
An unfiltered system's failure to calculate and report its mean Cryptosporidium level by the required date is a treatment technique (TT)
violation that requires Tier 2 public notification and special notice. The template on the reverse meets both of these requirements. You
must provide public notice to persons served as soon as practical but within 30 days after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(b)!.
You must issue a repeat notice every three months for as long as the violation persists. Your state may have more stringent requirements
for this monitoring violation (e.g., it may require you to provide water from an alternate source). Check with your state to make sure you
meet all its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill (if delivered within 30 days of the violation)
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you mail,
post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for mailing, posting, or hand delivery. If you modify this notice, you must still include all required
public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with LT2ESWTR
treatment technique violations. Depending on the corrective action you are taking, you can use one or more of the following statements,
if appropriate, or develop your own text:
• We determined our mean Cryptosporidium level on [give date] and have notified the state.
• We are in the process of determining our mean Cryptosporidium level and will notify the state upon completion.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
It is a good idea to inform your consumers when the violation has been resolved, especially if you have regular customers. See Template
1-10 for a "problem corrected" notice template.
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Special Notice: LT2ESWTR Unfiltered System Failure to Calculate and Report
Mean Cryptosporidium Level Notice - Template 2-27
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Determine Cryptosporidium Level
Our water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this is not an emergency, as our customers, you
have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we did (are doing) to correct this situation.
*We are required to monitor the source of your drinking water for Cryptosporidium in order to determine by [give date]
whether water treatment at the [provide treatment plant name] is sufficient to adequately remove Cryptosporidium from
your drinking water. We have not made this determination by the required date. Our failure to do this may jeopardize our
ability to have the required treatment modifications, if any, completed by the required deadline of [give date], *
Cryptosporidium is a disease-causing microorganism that may be present in our raw water source.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. However, if
you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at
increased risk and should seek advice from your healthcare providers about drinking this water. General guidelines
on ways to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available on the
EPA Ground Water and Drinking Water Website at https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours.
*lnadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and
parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. *
These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience
any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated timeframe] (or the problem was
resolved on [give date]).
* For more information, please call [name of water system contact] of [water system name] at [phone number].*
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID# .
Date distributed:
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9. Tier 3 Notice Requirements and Suggestions
Tier 3 notices must meet the content (including mandatory language), format, and multilingual requirements
described in Chapter 3. and are required for the following violations or situations [40 CFR 141.204(a)!:
Tier 3 - Violations and Other Situations Requiring Notice Within 1 Year
• Monitoring violations, except where a Tier 1 notice is required or the state determines that the violation requires a
Tier 2 notice.
• Failure to comply with an established testing procedure, except where a Tier 1 notice is required or the state
determines that the violation requires a Tier 2 notice.
• Operation under variance granted under § 1415 or exemption granted under § 1416 of the Safe Drinking Water Act.
• Special public notice for availability of unregulated contaminant monitoring results.
• Special public notice for exceedance of the secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) for fluoride (CWSs only).
• Failure to notify the state following an E. coli-positive ROUTINE OR REPEAT sample in a timely manner. [40 CFR
141.860(d)(2)!
Remember that special notices for variances or exemptions, fluoride SMCL exceedances, and availability of
unregulated contaminant monitoring data have different content requirements than notices for violations (see
Chapter 3).
What is the deadline for issuing a Tier 3 notice?
You must issue a Tier 3 public notice within 12 months of learning of the violation or situation [40 CFR
141.2.04(b)1. Keep in mind that your state may require earlier notice for some monitoring violations, especially if
it believes such violations could affect public health.
Following the initial notice, you must repeat the notice annually for as long as the violation or situation persists.
Posted notices must remain posted for as long as the violation or situation persists, but in no case less than
seven days, even if the violation or situation is resolved [40 CFR 141.204(b)1. Generally a violation or situation is
considered resolved when the system has returned to compliance as defined by the regulation in question;
however, you may wish to contact your state to determine whether a violation or situation is considered
resolved.
Requ ired Elements of a Pu blic Notice [40 CFR 141.205(a)!
• A description of the violation or situation including contaminant of concern and contaminant level, as
applicable.
• When the violation or situation occurred.
• Potential adverse health effects, using standard health effects language in Appendix B to Subpart Q and/or
language for monitoring and testing procedure violations in Appendix A to Sy bpart Q,
• Population(s) at risk including especially vulnerable subpopulations.
• Whether alternative water supplies should be used.
• Actions consumers should take, including when they should seek medical help, if known.
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• What you are doing to correct the violation or situation.
• When you expect to return to compliance or resolve the situation.
• Name, business address, and phone number for additional information.
• The following standard language encouraging distribution to all persons served, where applicable:
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not
have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.
CWS must notify new billing customers or units, prior to, or at the time their service begins, of any ongoing
violations or situations for which you have previously provided notice. NCWSs must continuously post the public
notice in conspicuous locations to notify new customers of any ongoing violations or situations [40 CFR
141.2061.
Remember to send a copy of the notice and a certification statement to your state within 10 days after
providing any initial or repeat notice to the public [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
Which methods of delivery must I use?
Unless directed otherwise by the state in writing, if you operate a CWS, you must provide notice by [40 CFR
141.2.04(c)] the following methods:
• Mail or other direct delivery to each customer receiving a bill and other service connections to which
water is delivered; and
• Any other method reasonably calculated to reach others regularly served, if they would not normally be
reached by the method above. Such people include those who do not pay water bills or do not have
service connection addresses, (e.g., tenants, college students, nursing home patients, prison inmates).
Methods may include publication in a local newspaper, posting in public places, delivery of multiple
copies to landlords or office building managers, or delivery to community organizations.
Unless directed otherwise by the state in writing, if you operate a NCWS, you must provide notice by the
following methods [40 CFR 141.204(c)]:
• Posting the notice in conspicuous locations throughout the system or by direct delivery or mail to each
customer and known service connection; and
• Any other method reasonably calculated to reach others served, if they would not normally be reached
by the method above. Such people may include those who may not see a posted notice because it is not
in a location they routinely pass by. Methods may include publication in a local newspaper or newsletter
distributed to consumers, use of e-mail to notify employees or students, or delivery of multiple copies in
central locations (e.g., community centers).
If you are a transient system, you may also refer to the Public Notification Handbook for Transient
Noncommunity Water Systems (EPA 816-R-23-001, March 2023) for information specific to transient water
systems.
If you post a notice, it must remain posted for as long as the violation or situation persists. If the violation or
situation is already resolved by the time you write the notice, you still must post the notice for at least seven
days [40 CFR 141.204(b)]. Be sure that the notice is durable. It should not blow away if posted outdoors.
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Consider laminating notices that will be placed over sinks or outside, especially if they are likely to remain there
for an extended time.
For all systems, there may be a few cases where you are able to reach all persons served with the first method
you choose. In such cases, you may not need to use additional methods. However, the PN Rule requires you to
use additional methods if all persons served by the system will not be reached by one method. For a CWS, such
as a small town, a second method would be necessary to reach non-resident employees or restaurant
customers. At a gas station, on the other hand, posting would be sufficient to reach all persons served.
Electronic methods of delivery may be used to deliver proper notice if confirmed in writing by your state.
In addition for systems that distribute the CCR following the PN delivery requirements in [40 CFR 141.204(c)!:
• EPA conducted a retrospective review for CCR to interpret "direct delivery" for electronic delivery. This
means an address that one would type to get to a webpage in one click, and the customer
communication prominently displays the link with a notice explaining the nature of the link for the CCR.
EPA issued a 2013 Delivery Options memo, https://www.epa.gov/ccr/how-water-utilities-can-
electronically-deliver-their-ccr, to allow for CCRs to be delivered electronically in accordance with
methods to include Tier 3 PN. This interpretation for "directly deliver" was limited to the CCR Rule.
States may approve alternate delivery methods for PN in writing if customers are unable to receive the
chosen electronic method. These methods can be found in [40 CFR 141.202(c)(4). 40 CFR 141.203(c).
and 40 CFR 141.204(c)!.
Suggestions for Effective Public Notification Delivery
If you mail the notice, send it to all service connections, if possible, and not just billing customers since there are
many people in addition to your billing customers who drink your water. Billing customers can be reached via
inserts in their water bills, if it is delivered within 12 months of the violation. E-mail may be appropriate to
contact most of the students at a college or university or large employer.
CWS whose consumers do not have service connections, such as nursing homes or prisons, should notify all
those drinking the water.
Notices in newspapers may be in the form of an article or a paid advertisement. Also, try to get articles
published in smaller community newspapers, homeowners' association newsletters, or similar publications.
Paid advertisements offer an advantage because you are guaranteed the notice will appear exactly as you write
it. Try to purchase ad space in the front section of the paper. Legal notices tend to get lost in the back of the
paper where few people read them.
May I combine notices for multiple Tier 3 public notices?
If you have multiple monitoring or testing procedure violations or other situations within the same 12-month
period, you should strongly consider combining notification for them into a single annual Tier 3 notice [40 CFR
141.204(d)]. An annual notice can help you save preparation, delivery, and printing costs. You can issue such a
notice at any time, as long as the earliest violation included occurred less than 12 months before the notice is
provided to consumers. For example, if your water system violates the monitoring requirement for volatile
organic contaminants (VOCs) on March 31 and also violates the monitoring requirements for the Revised Total
Coliform Rule in January, August, and December, you may issue a single notice on January 1 of the subsequent
year listing all the violations since the previous January 1. Be sure to include all the required elements for each
public notice.
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Tips for Very Small Community Systems
• Consider combining notices for multiple violations and situations requiring Tier 3 public notification into one
annual notice.
• Compare mailing and labor costs before selecting a delivery method. Hand delivery may be cheaper and
faster than preparing a mailing. However, you may be able to include your notice with the bill at little to no
extra cost.
• Supplement your chosen delivery method by posting in banks, grocery stores, town halls, and restaurants,
or by publishing in a newspaper.
If you are a CWS, you may also wish to consider using your CCR for Tier 3 notices. Unlike a separate annual
notice, however, using the CCR to meet the public notification obligation requires that you tailor the release of
your CCR to meet the unique public notification requirements. Using the CCR may reduce some production costs
and may reduce redundancy since the violations and situations requiring public notice must also eventually be
included in the CCR.
Including your Tier 3 public notice as part of the CCR could also provide the context that more accurately
describes what has happened. Before you decide, however, remember that the timing and delivery
requirements for CCRs differ from those for public notification. If you use the CCR for public notification, be
very careful to adhere to the public notification requirement that Tier 3 public notice must be completed no
later than 12 months from the date the violation occurred. In addition, if you use the CCR to satisfy your Tier 3
public notification requirements, it must be provided to all persons served, not only those who would normally
receive the CCR. Keep in mind, small CWSs that have a mailing waiver for CCR will not satisfy the PN Rule
delivery requirements. If you include Tier 3 public notice in your CCR you still must include all 10 required
elements of a public notice. This could make your CCR longer.
An example illustrates the coordination challenge that water systems will face in using the CCR as the vehicle for
an annual Tier 3 notice. CCRs must be published by July 1 of every year and must include information from the
previous calendar year, according to the CCR regulation at 40 CI .52. A CCR published by July 1, 2011,
must include violations or situations that occurred between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2010. Under this
schedule, violations or situations that require Tier 3 public notice that occurred between January and June 2010
could not be met since the CCR would reach consumers more than a year after they occurred. Any violations or
situations that occur more than one year before the CCR is published must be reported in a separate public
notice. To minimize the timing conflict, you can:
• Publish the CCR early-as soon after the end of the calendar year as possible; or
• Mail a separate public notice for the violations occurring in January through June of the current year in
the same envelope as your CCR covering the previous calendar year's violations.
In addition, for systems that distribute the CCR following the PN delivery requirements in 40 CI i 04(c) and
40 CF 04(d):
• EPA conducted a retrospective review for CCR to interpret "direct delivery" for electronic delivery. This
means an address that one would type to get to a webpage in one click, and the customer
communication prominently displays the link with a notice explaining the nature of the link for the CCR.
EPA issued a 2013 Delivery Options memo, https://www.epa.gov/ccr/how-water-utilities-can"
electronically-deliver-their-ccr, to allow for CCRs to be delivered electronically in accordance with
methods to include Tier 3 PN. This interpretation for "directly deliver" was limited to the CCR Rule.
States may approve alternate delivery methods for PN in writing if customers are unable to receive the
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chosen electronic method. These methods can be found in [40 CFR 141.202(c)(4). 40 O !03(c).
and 40 CFR 141.204(c)!.
Suggestions for the Layout of the Notice
The format of a Tier 3 notice depends on your circumstances and on the number of violations or situations you
are reporting. If you have multiple monitoring violations, it may be simpler and shorter to list them in a table.
The table could include columns for the required sampling frequency, the number of samples taken, when the
samples should have been taken, and when the samples were or will be taken. However, not all monitoring
violations are the same. For example, a coliform monitoring violation in which one of 100 samples were missed
is less serious than missing one of two required chemical samples. You may feel it is more appropriate to
describe each violation in a paragraph. Templates 3-1A. 3-1B. and 3~1€ at the end of this chapter offer sample
language and instructions for preparing public notices for monitoring violations.
In a notice for monitoring violations, it is important to explain to consumers the implications of the violation.
They may wonder why they weren't told earlier, whether there is any health risk, and why the samples were not
taken. You should respond to their concerns. A statement clarifying that no emergency exists, that the notice is
for informational purposes, and that subsequent monitoring showed no problems will help reassure consumers.
For a CWS, if one fluoride sample result is between 2 mg/L and 4 mg/L a special notice for a fluoride SMCL
exceedance is required. The special notice need only contain the mandatory language found in Template 3-7
with the blanks filled in appropriately [40 CFR 141.2.081. You should also include the language that encourages
distribution. Notices must be provided as soon as practical but no later than 12 months after you learn of the
exceedance. Due to the staining effect of fluoride at levels above the SMCL on the teeth of children under nine,
consider issuing these notices quickly to prevent damage to their teeth.
A notice of the availability of unregulated contaminant data need only state that the monitoring results are
available and provide a phone number to call to obtain them [40 CFR 141.207], You may use an annual notice or
insert this notice into your CCR, provided public notification timing and delivery requirements can be met. You
do not need to include the results themselves, unless you are a CWS using the CCR to provide the notice. CCR
regulations require systems to include data on all detected contaminants.
You should include your PWS ID number at the bottom of any notice. This will help your state track compliance
and prevent tracking errors among systems with similar names. Also include the date on which you distributed
the notice. If you post your CCR online you may want to include that as well.
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10. Tier 3 Public Notification Instructions and Templates
The pages that follow contain instructions and templates for issuing Tier 3 public notification. Along with each
template are instructions, including the required method of delivery and suggestions for completing individual
sections of the notice. These instructions are designed to supplement Chapter 9. so you may see much of the
information repeated here. The following templates are included:
• Monitoring Violations Annual Notice -Template 3-1A
• Monitoring Violations Annual Notice - Template 3-1B
• Monitoring Violations Annual Notice - Template 3-1C
• Failure to Develop a Profile and/or Calculate a Benchmarking Notice - Template 3-2
• Failure to Comply with a Testing Procedure Notice - Template 3-3
• Operating Under a Variance or Exemption Notice - Template 3-4
• RTCR Failure to Report E. coli-positive Sampling Events to the State - Template 3-5
• RTCR Failure to Report Monitoring Events to the State that are Not Related to E. coli-positive Sample
Results - Template 3-6
• RCTR Failure to Provide the State a Certificate that Confirms Seasonal System Start-up Procedures have
been Completed - Template 3-7
• RCTR Failure to do Recordkeeping - Template 3-8
• Special Notice Template: Availability of Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Data -Template 3-9
• Special Notice Template: Fluoride SMCL Notice - Template 3-10
Mandatory language on unknown risks for monitoring violations [40 CFR 141.205(d)1. which must be included as
written with blanks filled in, is presented in italics in each notice. All the language in the fluoride SMCL template
(except the language discussed below) is mandatory (40 CFR 141.208).
You must also include the following italicized language in all notices, where applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)]. Use
of this language does not relieve you of your obligation to take steps reasonably calculated to notify all persons
served:
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those
who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing
homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or
distributing copies by hand or mail.
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Instructions for Monitoring Violations Annual - Template 3-1A
Template on Reverse
If you are required to provide Tier 3 notification, you must provide public notice to persons served within one year after you learn of the
violation [40 CFR 141.204(b)!. Multiple monitoring violations can be serious, and your state may have more stringent requirements.
Check with your state to make sure you meet its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.204(c)(1)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.204(c)(2)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you post
the notice, it must remain posted until the violation is resolved. If the violation has already been resolved, you must post the notice for at
least seven days [40 CFR 141.204(b)!. If you mail, post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for insertion in an annual notice or the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) (CWSs only), as long
as public notification timing and delivery requirements are met [40 CFR 141.204(d)!. You may need to modify the template for a notice
for individual monitoring violations. This example presents violations in a table; however, you may write out an explanation for each
violation if you wish. For any monitoring violation for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or other groups, you may list the group name in
the table, but you must provide the name of every chemical in the group on the notice, e.g., in a footnote.
You may need to modify the notice if you had any monitoring violations for which monitoring later showed a maximum contaminant level
(MCL) or other violation. In such cases, you should refer to the public notice you issued at that time. If you do modify the notice, you
must still include all required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a)and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Action
In your notice, describe corrective actions you took, or are taking. Listed below are some steps commonly taken by water systems with
monitoring violations. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or develop your own:
• We have since taken the required samples, as described in the last column of the table above. The samples showed we are
meeting drinking water standards.
• We have since taken the required samples, as described in the last column of the table above. The sample for [contaminant]
exceeded the limit. [Describe corrective action; use information from public notice prepared for violating the limit.]
• We plan to take the required samples soon, as described in the last column of the table above.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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Monitoring Violations Annual Notice - Template 3-1A
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Monitoring Requirements Not Met for [Water System Name]
Our water system violated drinking water requirements over the past year. Even though these were not emergencies, as
our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we are doing (did) to correct these situations.
*We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring
are an indicator of whether or not our drinking water meets health standards. During [compliance period] we ['did not
monitor or test' or 'did not complete all monitoring or testing'] for [contaminant(s)] and therefore cannot be sure of the
quality of your drinking water during that time. *
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do at this time.
The table below lists the contaminant(s) we did not properly test for during the last year, how often we are supposed to
sample for [this contaminant/these contaminants], how many samples we are supposed to take, how many samples we
took, when samples should have been taken, and the date on which follow-up samples were (or will be) taken.1
Contaminant
Required sampling
frequency
Number of samples
taken
When samples should
have been taken
When samples were
taken
VOCs (example)
1 sample every three
years
0
2009-2011
February 2012
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.]
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .Date distributed: _
1 VOCs, also know as volatile organic compounds, are tested by collecting one sample and testing that sample for all the regulated VOCs.
VOCs are commonly used in industrial and manufacturing processes. Regulated VOCs include benzene, carbon tetrachloride,
chlorobenzene, 1,2-dichlorobenzene, 1,4-dichlorobenzene, 1,2-dichloroethane, cis-dichloroethane, trans-dichloroethane,
dichloromethane, 1,2-dichloropropane, ethylbenzene, styrene, tetrachloroethylene, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, trichloroethylene, toluene,
1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, 1,1-dichloroethylene, 1,1,2-trichloroethane, vinyl chloride, and xylene.
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Instructions for Monitoring Violations Annual - Template 3-1B
Template on Reverse
The template on the reverse is another example of a monitoring violation. The example in this template is for bromate
under the DBPR. All of the instructions of Template 3-1A apply.
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Monitoring Violations Annual Notice - Template 3-1B
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Monitoring Requirements Not Met for [Water System Name]
On [give date] we became aware that our system recently failed to collect the correct number of drinking water samples.
Although this incident was not an emergency, as our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did
(are doing) to correct this situation.
*We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring
are an indicator of whether or not our drinking water meets health standards. During [compliance period] we ['did not
monitor or test' OR 'did not complete all monitoring or testing'] for bromate and therefore cannot be sure of the quality of
your drinking water during that time. *
We were allowed to take 1 sample per quarter rather than 1 sample per month. In [give date], we no longer qualified for
reduced quarterly bromate monitoring. Beginning in [give date], we failed to begin monitoring monthly for bromate.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do at this time. You may continue to drink the water. If a situation arises where the water is no
longer safe to drink, you will be notified within 24 hours.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We began monitoring monthly for bromate on [give date] and will continue to monitor on this
schedule [until/unless] we qualify for reduced monitoring.
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Monitoring Violations Annual - Template 3-1C
Template on Reverse
The template on the reverse is another example of a monitoring violation. The example in this template is for
Cryptosporidium monitoring under LT2ESWTR. If a system fails to conduct Cryptosporidium monitoring of its source water
for one or two months, they are required to issue Tier 3 public notification. (Note: failure to conduct required
Cryptosporidium monitoring for any three months or more requires Tier 2 public notification and special notice. See
Template 2-25.) All the instructions of Template 3-1A apply.
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Monitoring Violations Annual Notice - Template 3-1C
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Monitoring Requirements Not Met for [Water System Name]
Our water system violated a drinking water requirement over the past year. Even though this was not an emergency, as our
customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did to correct the situation.
*We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring
are an indicator of whether or not our drinking water meets health standards. During [compliance period] we ['did not
monitor or test' or 'did not complete all monitoring or testing'] for Cryptosporidium and therefore cannot be sure of the
quality of your drinking water during that time. *
Cryptosporidium is a disease-causing microorganism that may be present in our raw water source.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do at this time. You may continue to drink the water. If a situation arises where the water is no
longer safe to drink, you will be notified within 24 hours.
What is being done?
[Describe corrective action.] We began collecting our monthly samples for Cryptosporidium on [give date] and will continue
to follow our required monitoring schedule.
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Failure to Develop a Profile and/or Calculate a Benchmark -
Template 3-2
Template on Reverse
Failure to develop a disinfection profile for Giardia lamblia and viruses (a profile for viruses may be applicable under LT1ESWTR and is
required under LT2ESWTR) or calculate a benchmark prior to making a significant change to your disinfection practice, requires Tier 3
notification. You must provide public notice to persons served within 12 months after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.204(b)!.
Failure to develop a profile or calculate a benchmark can be serious and your state may have more stringent requirements. Check with
your state to make sure you meet all requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.204(c)(1)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.204(c)(2)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you post
the notice, it must remain posted until the violation is resolved. If the violation has already been resolved, you must post the notice for at
least seven days [40 CFR 141.204(b)!. If you mail, post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for insertion in an annual notice or the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) (CWSs only), as long
as public notification timing and delivery requirements are met [40 CFR 141.204(d)!. If you do modify the notice, you must still include all
required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a)and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Actions
In your notice, describe corrective actions you took, or are taking. Listed below is a step commonly taken by water systems with a
profiling and benchmarking violation. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or develop your own that is specific to your
violation:
• We are in the process of developing our disinfection profile and will calculate a benchmark as soon as the profile is complete.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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Failure to Develop a Profile and/or Calculate a Benchmark Notice - Template 3-2
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Monitoring Requirements Not Met for [Water System Name]
We violated a drinking water requirement. [Prior to making any change to our disinfection practices, we are required to
develop a year-long profile of our disinfection system to determine our inactivation levels for certain pathogenic organisms.
Development of a profile requires monitoring disinfection parameters. We did not meet this requirement.] AND/OR
[Since we [are making/made] a change to our disinfection practice, we [are/were] required to calculate a benchmark to
determine our lowest monthly inactivation level over the year. We did not calculate a benchmark.]
*We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring
are an indicator of whether or not our drinking water meets health standards. During [compliance period] we did not
complete all monitoring or testing for the profile parameters and therefore cannot be sure of the quality of our drinking
water during that time. *
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do at this time. You may continue to drink the water. If a situation arises where the water is no
longer safe to drink, you will be notified within 24 hours.
What is being done?
We [collected /will collect] all required samples on [give date], [Describe corrective action.]
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID# .
Date distributed:
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Instructions for Failure to Comply with a Testing Procedure - Template 3-3
Template on Reverse
Failure to comply with a testing procedure requires Tier 3 notification. You must provide public notice to persons served within 12
months after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141.204(b)!. Multiple testing violations can be serious, and your state may have more
stringent requirements. Check with your state to make sure you meet its requirements.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.204(c)(1)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.204(c)(2)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you post
the notice, it must remain posted until the violation is resolved. If the violation has already been resolved, you must post the notice for at
least seven days [40 CFR 141.204(b)!. If you mail, post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for insertion in an annual notice or the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) (CWSs only), as long
as public notification timing and delivery requirements are met [40 CFR 141.204(d)!. If you do modify the notice, you must still include all
required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Actions
In your notice, describe corrective actions you took, or are taking. Listed below is a step commonly taken by water systems with a holding
time violation. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or develop your own that is specific to your testing violation:
• On [give date] we [collected/will collect] a new sample of our finished water in order to have it analyzed for [contaminant]. We
[sent/will send] the sample to the certified laboratory via courier to ensure that the sample arrived within the allowed holding
time.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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Failure to Comply with a Testing Procedure Notice - Template 3-3
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] Failed to Comply With a Testing Procedure
Our water system [Water System Name] recently failed to comply with a required testing procedure. Even though this was
not an emergency, as our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did to correct the situation.
*We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring
are an indicator of whether or not our drinking water meets health standards. During [compliance period], we did not
complete all monitoring or testing for [contaminant(s)], and therefore cannot be sure of the quality of your drinking water
during that time. *
Any sample we collect must be sent to and analyzed by a certified laboratory within a specified amount of time. We
collected the sample on [give date], but did not get our sample to the laboratory within the allowed holding time.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do at this time. You may continue to drink the water. If a situation arises where the water is no
longer safe to drink, you will be notified within 24 hours.
What is being done?
On [give date] we [collected/will collect] a new sample of our finished water in order to have it analyzed for [contaminant].
We [sent/will send] the sample to the certified lab via courier to ensure that the sample [arrived/arrives] within the allowed
holding time. The sample was analyzed and [contaminant] was not found at detectable levels.
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Operating Under a Variance or Exemption - Template 3-4
Template on Reverse
If you are operating under a variance or exemption, you are required to provide Tier 3 notification. You must provide public notice to
persons served within one year after you begin operating under a variance or exemption [40 CFR 141.204(b)]. Systems operating under a
variance or exemption are required to include the following information in their notice [40 CFR 141.205(b)]:
• An explanation for the reasons for the variance or exemption;
• The date on which the variance or exemption was issued;
• A brief status report on the steps the system is taking to install treatment, find alternative sources of water, or otherwise comply
with the terms and schedules of the variance or exemption; and
• A notice of any opportunity for public input in the review of the variance or exemption.
Your state may require additional information. Check with your state to make sure you meet its requirements. Failure to comply with a
variance or exemption is a violation that requires Tier 2 public notification. Use Template 2-18 for this type of violation.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)]:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)]:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)]. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you post
the notice, it must remain posted until the violation is resolved. If the violation has already been resolved, you must post the notice for at
least seven days [40 CFR 141.204(b)]. If you mail, post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for insertion in an annual notice or the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) (CWSs only), as long
as public notification timing and delivery requirements are met [40 CFR 141.204(d)]. If you do modify the notice, you must still include all
required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language on health effects (from Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q) must be included as written and is presented in this
notice in italics with an asterisk on either end. You will need to update the information presented in brackets with the appropriate
information.
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where applicable [40
CFR 141.205(d)]. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on either end.
Corrective Actions
In your notice, describe corrective actions you took, or are taking. Listed below is one action commonly taken by water systems that have
been granted an exemption. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or develop your own:
• We have begun the process to secure the necessary funding for a new treatment process. We have [explain steps taken thus far]
and anticipate having funding secured by [give date]. At that time we will [explain your next steps, such as purchase and begin
installation of the selected treatment technology].
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)].
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Operating Under a Variance or Exemption Notice - Template 3-4
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
[Water System Name] is Operating Under an Exemption
Our water system has been granted an exemption from [state] for [contaminant] on [give date]. An exemption allows
eligible systems additional time to comply with a drinking water standard. [Water System Name] was granted an exemption
for (contaminant) so that we could raise funds for a new treatment process to remove [contaminant] from our drinking
water.
What should I do?
[Provide information about any actions customers or you are required to take as a condition of the exemption. For example
if you are required to provide bottled water explain where, when and how customers will receive bottled water. If you are
not required to provide bottled water or there are no corrective actions customers should take, you may state that here].
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been informed within 24 hours.
[Consider including health effects language from 40 CFR Appendix B to 40 CFR 141 Subpart Q. specific to the contaminant
for which the exemption applies].
What is being done?
We have begun the process to secure the necessary funding for a new treatment process. We have [explain steps taken
thus far] and anticipate having funding secured by [give date]. At that time we will [explain your next steps, such as
purchase and begin installation of the selected treatment technology].
Our exemption will be reviewed by [state] on [date]. As our customer you have the opportunity to provide input if you wish.
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
* Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Failure to Report E. coli-positive Sampling Events to the State
-Template 3-5
Template on Reverse
Description of Violation or Situation
Failure to notify the state of events that are related to E. coli-positive sample results are reporting violations that require
Tier 3 public notification. The reporting violations addressed by this Tier 3 template require similar public notification
content and include:
• Failure to notify the state within 24 hours of an E. coli MCL violation.
• Failure to notify the state within 24 hours of an E. coli-positive sample result.
You must provide public notice to persons served within one year after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141,204(b)!.
Check with your state to make sure you meet all requirements.
CWSs must use all of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.204(c)!:
• Mail or hand delivery (public notice delivery may be provided by CCR if the one year requirement is met), and
• Another method as needed to reach consumers not likely to receive a notice from methods noted above and
approved in writing by the state. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community
organizations.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for insertion in an annual notice or the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) (CWSs
only), as long as public notification content, timing and delivery requirements are met [40 CFR 141,2Q4(d)1. If you do modify
the notice, you must still include all 10 required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory
language unchanged (see below).
NCWSs must use all of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.2.04(c)1:
• Posting in a conspicuous place throughout the system, or by hand delivery or mail, and
• Another method as needed to reach consumers not likely to receive a notice from methods noted above and
approved in writing by the state. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community
organizations.
If you:
• Post the notice, it must remain posted until the violation is resolved.
• Post the notice and the violation has already been resolved, you must still post the notice for at least seven days [40
CFR 141.204(b)!.
• Mail, post, or hand deliver, EPA recommends printing your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
Repeat notice(s) are required annually if the violation or situation persists, unless otherwise directed by the state.
Mandatory Language
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on each end.
Corrective Actions
In your notice, you must describe corrective actions you took, or are taking [40 CFR 141.205(a)(7)! and when you expect to
return to compliance or resolve the situation [40 CFR 141.205(a)(8)!. You can use the following language, if appropriate, or
develop your own:
• We have provided the missing reports to the state and have revised our procedures to ensure we comply with
reporting requirements in the future. We are no longer in violation.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification
requirements to your state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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Failure to Report E. co//-positive Sampling Events to the State Notice - Template
3-5
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Reporting Requirement(s) Not Met for [Water System Name]
Our system failed to notify the state drinking water program that we [enter either "detected E. coli bacteria in a water
sample" or "have incurred an MCL violation for E. coli bacteria"]. We are required to notify the state of this information
within 24 hours of when we learned of the situation but we failed to do so.
[If applicable, enter, "We notified you of the E. coli MCL violation on [enter date] and resolved the contamination problem
on [enter date]"].
Although this situation does not create a risk to public health, as our customers you have a right to know what happened
and what we did to correct the situation.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do at this time. If a situation arises where the water is no longer safe to drink, you will be
notified within 24 hours. We will announce any emergencies on [media source].
What is being done?
[Describe your corrective actions including when your water system expects to return to compliance or resolve the
violation].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID# .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Failure to Report Monitoring Events to the State that are Not
Related to E. coli-positive Sample Results - Template 3-6
Template Below
Description of Violation or Situation
Failure to notify the state of RTCR events that are not related to E. coli-positive sample results are reporting violations that
require Tier 3 public notification. The reporting violations addressed by this Tier 3 template require similar public
notification content and include:
• Failure to provide total coliform-positive or total coliform-negative sample results to the state in a timely manner.
• Failure to notify the state that an RTCR monitoring violation occurred with 10 days of when the violation occurred.
• Failure to notify the state within 24 hours of a Treatment Technique (TT) violation resulting from failure to perform
assessments or corrective actions.
• Failure to submit the completed assessment form or monitoring report within 30 days of triggering the assessment.
• Failure to notify the state when each scheduled corrective action is completed based on the state-approved
timeframe.
You must provide Tier 3 public notice to persons served within one year after you learn of the violation [40 CFR 141,204(b)1.
Check with your state to make sure you meet all requirements.
CWSs must use all of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141,204(c)1:
• Mail or hand delivery (public notice delivery may be provided by CCR if the one year requirement is met), and
• Another method as needed to reach consumers not likely to receive a notice from methods noted above and
approved in writing by the state. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community
organizations.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for insertion in an annual notice or the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) (CWSs
only), as long as public notification content, timing, and delivery requirements are met [40 CFR 141,204(d)!.
NCWSs must use all of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.2.04(c)1:
• Posting in a conspicuous place throughout the system, or by hand delivery or mail, and
• Another method as needed to reach consumers not likely to receive a notice from methods noted above and
approved in writing by the state. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community
organizations.
If you:
• Post the notice, it must remain posted until the violation is resolved.
• Post the notice and the violation has already been resolved, you must still post the notice for at least seven days [40
CFR 141.204(b)!.
• Mail, post, or hand deliver, EPA recommends printing your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
• Modify the notice, you must still include all required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the
mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Repeat notice(s) are required annually if the violation or situation persists, unless otherwise directed by the state.
Mandatory Language
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on each end.
Corrective Actions
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In your notice, you must describe corrective actions you took, or are taking [40 CFR 141.205(a}(7}1 including when your
water system expects to return to compliance or resolve the violation [40 CFR 141.205(a}(8)1. You can use the following
language, if appropriate, or develop your own:
• We have provided the missing reports to the state and have revised our procedures to ensure we comply with
reporting requirements in the future. We are no longer in violation.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification
requirements to your state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141,31(d)!.
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Failure to Report Monitoring Events to the State that are Not Related to E. coli-
positive Sample Results - Template 3-6
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Reporting Requirement(s) Not Met for [Water System Name]
We are required to report [describe the information not reported, such as "the results of monitoring of your drinking water
for specific contaminants on a regular basis" or "the results of our water system's assessment by [enter date]]. Results of
[enter applicable text, such as "regular monitoring" or "the assessment", as applicable] are an indicator of whether or not
your drinking water meets health standards. During [compliance period], we did not [describe what you did not report,
such as "report the results of monitoring or of the assessment] for [contaminant(s)]"].
Our system failed to notify the state drinking water program as required by [enter date]. Although public health was not
impacted, as our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did to correct the situation.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do at this time. You do not need to boil your water or take other actions.
What is being done?
While we did not notify the state as quickly as we should have, we have [enter your corrective action] on [enter date]. We
are no longer in violation.
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID# .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Failure to Provide the State a Certificate that Confirms Seasonal
System Start-up Procedures have been Completed - Template 3-7
Template on Reverse
Description of Violation or Situation
Failure of a seasonal NCWS to certify to the state that they have completed all state-approved start up procedures before
serving water to the public is a reporting violation that requires Tier 3 public notification.
You must provide public notice to persons served within one year after you learn of the reporting violation [40 CFR
34(b)!. Check with your state to make sure you meet all requirements.
NCWSs must use all of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.2.04(c}1:
• Posting in a conspicuous place throughout the system, or by hand delivery or mail, and
• Another method as needed to reach consumers not likely to receive a notice from methods noted above and
approved in writing by the state. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community
organizations.
If you:
• Post the notice, it must remain posted until the violation is resolved.
• Post the notice and the violation has already been resolved, you must still post the notice for at least seven days [40
CFR 141.204(b)!.
• Mail, post, or hand deliver, EPA recommends printing your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
• Modify the notice, you must still include all required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the
mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Repeat notice(s) are required annually if the violation or situation persists, unless otherwise directed by the state.
Mandatory Language
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on each end.
Corrective Actions
In your notice, you must describe corrective actions you took, or are taking [40 CFR 141.205(a)(7)! including when your
water system expects to return to compliance or resolve the violation [40 CFR 141.205(a)(8)!. You can use the following
language, if appropriate, or develop your own:
• We have provided the missing certification to the state and have revised our procedures to ensure we comply with
reporting requirements in the future. We are no longer in violation.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification
requirements to your state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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Failure to Provide the State a Certificate that Confirms Seasonal System Start-up
Procedures have been Completed - Template 3-7
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Reporting Requirement(s) Not Met for [Water System Name]
[Water System Name] failed to notify the state drinking water program that we completed the steps required to start-up
our water system after we'd been shut down for the off-season. We are required to notify the state that we completed the
required steps before we served water to the public.
Although this situation does not create a health risk, as our customers you have a right to know what happened and what
we did to correct the situation.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do at this time. If a situation arises where the water is no longer safe to drink, you will be
notified within 24 hours.
What is being done?
[Describe your corrective actions including when your water system expects to return to compliance or resolve the
violation].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID# .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR) Failure to do Recordkeeping
-Template 3-8
Template on Reverse
Description of Violation or Situation
Failure to keep records of any assessment forms completed by you or a third-party, documentation of corrective actions, or
summary reports of sanitary defects, as well as records of repeat samples taken that meet the criteria of an extension for
the 24-hours of collecting repeat samples are recordkeeping violations that require Tier 3 public notification [40 CFR
34(a)(6)!
You must provide public notice to persons served within one year after you learn of the recordkeeping violation [40 CFR
34(b)!. Check with your state to make sure you meet all requirements.
CWSs must use all of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141,203(c)!:
• Mail or hand delivery (public notice delivery may be provided by CCR if the one year requirement is met), and
• Another method as needed to reach consumers not likely to receive a notice from methods noted above and
approved in writing by the state. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community
organizations.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for insertion in an annual notice or the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) (CWSs
only), as long as public notification content, timing and delivery requirements are met [40 CFR 141.204(d)!.
NCWSs must use all of the following methods to deliver the notice to consumers [40 CFR 141.2.03(c)!:
• Posting in a conspicuous place throughout the system, or by hand delivery or mail, and
• Another method as needed to reach consumers not likely to receive a notice from methods noted above and
approved in writing by the state. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community
organizations.
If you:
• Post the notice, it must remain posted until the violation is resolved.
• Post the notice and the violation has already been resolved, you must still post the notice for at least seven days [40
CFR 141.204(b)!.
• Mail, post, or hand deliver, EPA recommends printing your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
• Modify the notice, you must still include all required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the
mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Repeated notices are required annually if the violation or situation persists, unless otherwise directed by the state.
Mandatory Language
You must also include standard language to encourage the distribution of the public notice to all persons served, where
applicable [40 CFR 141.205(d)!. This language is also presented in this notice in italics with an asterisk on each end.
Corrective Actions
In your notice, you must describe corrective actions you took, or are taking [40 CFR 141.205(a)(7)! including when your
water system expects to return to compliance or resolve the violation [40 CFR 141.205(a)(8)!. You can use the following
language, if appropriate, or develop your own:
• We have contacted the laboratories that performed the water testing and requested copies of the missing reports. We are no
longer in violation.
• We have revised our procedures to ensure we comply with the recordkeeping requirements in the future. We are
no longer in violation.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification
requirements to your state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR) Failure to do Recordkeeping-Template 3-8
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Recordkeeping Requirement(s) Not Met for [Water System Name]
[Water system name] failed to keep records of [describe the information not kept, such as "our water system's assessment
conducted on [enter date]" or "monitoring following a sample with coliform bacteria in which we received an extension to
collect the sample from the state"]. We realize the importance of keeping complete records to document the quality of the
water we provide and the efforts we take to ensure the water is safe to drink.
Although this situation does not create a risk to public health, as our customers you have a right to know what happened
and what we did to correct the situation.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do at this time. If a situation arises where the water is no longer safe to drink, you will be
notified within 24 hours. We will announce any emergencies on [media source].
What is being done?
[Describe your corrective actions including when your water system expects to return to compliance or resolve the
violation].
For more information, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing address],
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID# .
Date distributed: .
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Instructions for Special Notice for Availability of Unregulated Contaminant
Monitoring Data - Template 3-9
Template on Reverse
If you are required to monitor under 40 CFR 141.40 for unregulated contaminants, you must provide Tier 3 public notification to persons
served within one year after you receive the monitoring results [40 CFR 141.207(a)!. Check with your state to make sure you meet its
requirements.
CWSs may include this information in an annual notice or in your CCR. See Chapter 7 for more information. If you include this information
in your CCR, the CCR must be issued within 12 months of receiving the monitoring results. Please note that any detected unregulated
contaminant monitoring must be reported in a separate table in the system's CCR.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.204(c)(l)l:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill
• Another method approved in writing by the state
NCWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.204(c)(2)!:
• Posting in conspicuous locations
• Hand delivery
• Mail
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, both CWSs and NCWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the
first method [40 CFR 141.203(c)l. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you post
the notice, it must remain posted until the violation is resolved. If the violation has already been resolved, you must post the notice for at
least seven days [40 CFR 141.204(b)!. If you mail, post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for insertion in an annual notice or the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) (CWSs only), as long
as public notification timing and delivery requirements are met [40 CFR 141.204(d)!.
Mandatory Language
There is no mandatory language required for notifying consumers of the availability of unregulated contaminant monitoring data.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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Special Notice for Availability of Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Data -
Template 3-9
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Availability of Monitoring Data for Unregulated Contaminants for [Water System
Name]
Our water system has sampled for a series of unregulated contaminants. Unregulated contaminants are those that don't
yet have a drinking water standard set by EPA. The purpose of monitoring for these contaminants is to help EPA decide
whether the contaminants should have a standard. As our customers, you have a right to know that these data are
available. If you are interested in examining the results, please contact [name of contact] at [phone number] or [mailing
address].
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Special Notice Instructions for Fluoride SMCL -Template 3-10
Template on Reverse
For any exceedance of the fluoride secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL), you must provide Tier 3 notification to persons served
as soon as practical, but within 12 months after you learn of the exceedance [40 CFR 141.2081, using the provided mandatory language
and filling in the blanks. Your state may have more stringent deadlines or other requirements. Because fluoride at levels above the SMCL
can permanently discolor children's teeth, you are urged to issue this notice as soon as practical. NCWSs that monitor for fluoride (federal
law does not require NCWSs to monitor) are encouraged to notify their consumers if they exceed the SMCL, especially at water systems
serving children. If you exceed the maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 4 milligrams per liter (mg/L), you must provide Tier 2 public
notification within 30 days of learning of the violation [40 CFR 141.203(a)!. See Template 2-2.
You must provide the special public notice as soon as practical but no later than 12 months after you learn of the exceedance and a copy
must be sent to your state's public health officer. A copy of the special public notice must be sent to all new billing units and new
customers at the time their water service begins, if the exceedance still exists. If you post the special public notice, it must be posted for a
minimum of 7 days or for as long as the SMCL is exceeded. You must repeat the notice annually as long as the exceedance persists. States
may require earlier initial notification or more frequent repeat notification on a case-by-case basis.
CWSs must use one of the following methods [40 CFR 141.203(c)!:
• Hand or direct delivery
• Mail, as a separate notice or included with the bill
• Another method approved in writing by the state
In addition, CWSs must use another method reasonably calculated to reach others if they would not be reached by the first method [40
CFR 141.203(c)!. Such methods could include newspapers, e-mail, or delivery to community organizations. If you post the notice, it must
remain posted until the violation is resolved. If the violation has already been resolved, you must post the notice for at least seven days
[40 CFR 141.204(b)!. If you mail, post, or hand deliver, print your notice on your system's letterhead, if available.
The notice on the reverse is appropriate for insertion in an annual notice or the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) (CWSs only), as long
as public notification timing and delivery requirements are met [40 CFR 141.204(d)!. If you do modify the notice, you must still include all
required public notice elements from 40 CFR 141.205(a) and leave the mandatory language unchanged (see below).
Mandatory Language
Mandatory language for fluoride SMCL exceedances [40 CFR 141.2081 must be included as written (with information in brackets filled in)
and is presented in this notice in italics and with an asterisk on either end.
Explaining the Situation
Use the following language, if applicable:
• Fluoride contamination is rarely due to human activity. Fluoride occurs naturally in some areas and is found in high
concentrations in the aquifer of our source water.
If the fluoride levels in the water have returned to below the SMCL, be sure to make this clear in your notice.
Corrective Actions
In your notice, you should describe corrective actions you took or are taking, if any. The bullet below describes one action commonly
taken by water systems with fluoride SMCL exceedances. You can use this language, or develop your own:
• We are continuing to monitor fluoride levels. We will inform you if they exceed the limit of 4 mg/L.
After Issuing the Notice
Make sure to send a copy of each type of notice and a certification that you have met all the public notification requirements to your
state within 10 days after the original or any repeat notice(s) [40 CFR 141.31(d)!.
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Special Notice for Fluoride SMCL - Template 3-10
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Elevated Fluoride Levels Detected in [Water System Name]
*This is an alert about your drinking water and a cosmetic dental problem that might affect children under nine years of
age. At low levels, fluoride can help prevent cavities, but children drinking water containing more than 2 milligrams per liter
(mg/L) of fluoride may develop cosmetic discoloration of their permanent teeth (dental fluorosis). The drinking water
provided by your community water system [name] has a fluoride concentration of [insert value] mg/L.
Dental fluorosis in its moderate or severe forms, may result in a brown staining and or pitting of the permanent teeth. This
problem occurs only in developing teeth, before they erupt from the gums. Children under nine should be provided with
alternative sources of drinking water or water that has been treated to remove the fluoride to avoid the possibility of
staining and pitting of their permanent teeth. You may also want to contact your dentist about proper use by young children
of fluoride-containing products. Older children and adults may safely drink the water.
Drinking water containing more than 4 mg/L of fluoride (the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's drinking water
standard) can increase your risk of developing bone disease. Your drinking water does not contain more than 4 mg/L of
fluoride, but we're required to notify you when we discover that the fluoride levels in your drinking water exceed 2 mg/L
because of this cosmetic dental problem.
For more information, please call [name of water system contact] of [name of community water system] at [phone number].
Some home water treatment units are also available to remove fluoride from drinking water. To learn more about available
home water treatment units, you may call NSF International at 1-877-8-NSF-HELP. *
*Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may
not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. *
This notice is being sent to you by [water system name]. State Water System ID#: .
Date distributed: .
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Appendix A: NPDWR Violations and Other Situations Requiring
Public Notice1
Contaminant
MCL/MRDiyTT
violations2
Tier of public
notice required
MCiyMRDL/TT
violations2
Citation
Monitoring & testing
procedure violations
Tier of public notice
required
Monitoring &
testing procedure
violations
Citation
1. Violations of National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations (NPDWR):3
A. Microbiological Contaminants
l.a Total coliform bacteria*
2
141.63(a)
3
141.21(a)-(e).
l.b Total coliform (TT violations resulting
from failure to perform assessments or
corrective actions, monitoring violations,
and reporting violations)*
2
141.860(b)(1)
3
141.860(c)(1).
141.860(d)(1).
l.c Seasonal system failure to follow
State-approved start-up plan prior to
serving water to the public or failure to
provide certification to State*
2
141.860(b)(2)
3
141.860(d)(3).
2.a Fecal coliform/f. co//+
1
141.63(b)
41,3
141.21(e)
2.b E. coli (MCL, monitoring, and
reporting violations)*
1
141.860 (a)
3
141.860(c)(2)
141.860(d)(1).
141.860(d)(2).
2.c E. coli (TT violations resulting from
failure to perform level 2 Assessments or
corrective action)*
2
141.860(b)(1)
3. Turbidity MCL
2
141.13(a)
3
141.22
4. Turbidity MCL (average of 2 days'
samples >5 NTU)
52, 1
141.13(b)
3
141.22
5. Turbidity (forTT violations resulting
from a single exceedance of maximum
allowable turbidity level)
62, 1
141.71(a)(2),
141.71(c)(2)(i),
141.73(a)(2),
141.73 (b)(2),
141.73 (c)(2),
141.73(d),
141.173(a)(2),
141.173(b),
141.551(b)
3
141.74(a)(1),
141.74(b)(2),
141.74(c)(1),
141.174,
141.560(a)-(c),
141.561.
6. Surface Water Treatment Rule
violations, other than violations resulting
from single exceedance of max.
allowable turbidity level (TT)
2
141.70-141.73
3
141.74
7. Interim Enhanced Surface Water
Treatment Rule violations, other than
violations resulting from single
exceedance of max. turbidity level (TT)
72
141.170-
141.173,
141.500-
141.553
3
141.172, 141.174,
141.530-141.544,
141.560-141.564.
8. Filter Backwash Recycling Rule
violations
2
141.76(c)
3
141.76(b), (d)
Public Notification Handbook
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Contaminant
MCL/MRDiyTT
violations2
Tier of public
notice required
MCiyMRDL/TT
violations2
Citation
Monitoring & testing
procedure violations
Tier of public notice
required
Monitoring &
testing procedure
violations
Citation
9. Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water
Treatment Rule violations
2
141.500-
141.553
3
141.530-141.544,
141.560-141.564.
10. LT2ESWTR violations
2
141.710-
141.720
222, 3
141.701-141.705
and 141.708-
141.709.
11. Ground Water Rule violations
2
141.404
3
141.402(h),
141.403(d).
B. Inorganic Chemicals (lOCs)
1. Antimony
2
141.62(b)
3
141.23(a), (c)
2. Arsenic
2
8141.62(b)
3
11141.23(a), (c)
3. Asbestos (fibers >10 nm)
2
141.62(b)
3
141.23(a)-(b)
4. Barium
2
141.62(b)
3
141.23(a), (c)
5. Beryllium
2
141.62(b)
3
141.23(a), (c)
6. Cadmium
2
141.62(b)
3
141.23(a), (c)
7. Chromium (total)
2
141.62(b)
3
141.23(a), (c)
8. Cyanide
2
141.62(b)
3
141.23(a), (c)
9. Fluoride
2
141.62(b)
3
141.23(a), (c)
10. Mercury (inorganic)
2
141.62(b)
3
141.23(a), (c)
11. Nitrate
1
141.62(b)
121, 3
141.23(a), (d),
141.23(f)(2)
12. Nitrite
1
141.62(b)
121, 3
141.23(a), (e),
141.23(f)(2)
13. Total Nitrate and Nitrite
1
141.62(b)
3
141.23(a)
14. Selenium
2
141.62(b)
3
141.23(a), (c)
15. Thallium
2
141.62(b)
3
141.23(a), (c)
C. Lead and Copper Rule (Action Level for
lead is 0.015 mg/L, for copper is 1.3
mg/L)
1. Lead and Copper Rule (TT)
2
141.80-141.85
3
141.86-141.89
D. Synthetic Organic Chemicals (SOCs)
1. 2,4-D
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
2. 2,4,5-TP (Silvex)
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
3. Alachlor
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
4. Atrazine
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
5. Benzo(a)pyrene (PAHs)
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
6. Carbofuran
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
7. Chlordane
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
8. Dalapon
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
9. Di (2-ethylhexyl) adipate
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
10. Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
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Contaminant
MCL/MRDL/TT
violations2
Tier of public
notice required
MCiyMRDL/TT
violations2
Citation
Monitoring & testing
procedure violations
Tier of public notice
required
Monitoring &
testing procedure
violations
Citation
11. Dibromochloropropane
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
12. Dinoseb
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
13. Dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD)
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
14. Diquat
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
15. Endothall
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
16. Endrin
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
17. Ethylene dibromide
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
18. Glyphosate
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
19. Heptachlor
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
20. Heptachlor epoxide
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
21. Hexachlorobenzene
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
22. Hexachlorocyclo-pentadiene
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
23. Lindane
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
24. Methoxychlor
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
25. Oxamyl (Vydate)
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
26. Pentachlorophenol
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
27. Picloram
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
28. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
29. Simazine
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
30. Toxaphene
2
141.61(c)
3
141.24(h)
E. Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOCs)
1. Benzene
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
2. Carbon tetrachloride
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
3. Chlorobenzene (monochlorobenzene)
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
4. o-Dichlorobenzene
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
5. p-Dichlorobenzene
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
6. 1,2-Dichloroethane
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
7. 1,1-Dichloroethylene
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
8. cis-l,2-Dichloroethylene
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
9. trans- 1,2-Dichloroethylene
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
10. Dichloromethane
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
11. 1,2-Dichloropropane
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
12. Ethylbenzene
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
13. Styrene
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
14. Tetrachloroethylene
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
15. Toluene
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
16. 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
17. 1,1,1-Trichloroethane
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
18. 1,1,2-Trichloroethane
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
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Contaminant
MCL/MRDL/TT
violations2
Tier of public
notice required
MCiyMRDL/TT
violations2
Citation
Monitoring & testing
procedure violations
Tier of public notice
required
Monitoring &
testing procedure
violations
Citation
19. Trichloroethylene
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
20. Vinyl chloride
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
21. Xylenes (total)
2
141.61(a)
3
141.24(f)
F. Radioactive Contaminants
1. Beta/photon emitters
2
141.66(d)
3
141.25(a)
141.26(b)
2. Alpha emitters
2
141.66(c)
3
141.25(a)
141.26(a)
3. Combined radium (226 and 228)
2
141.66(b)
3
141.25(a)
141.26(a)
4. Uranium
92
141.66(e)
103
141.25(a)
141.26(a)
G. Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs),
Byproduct Precursors, Disinfectant
Residuals. Where disinfection is used in
the treatment of drinking water,
disinfectants combine with organic and
inorganic matter present in water to
form chemicals called disinfection
byproducts (DBPs). EPA sets standards
for controlling the levels of disinfectants
and DBPs in drinking water, including
trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic
acids (HAAs).13
1. Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
2
14141.64(b)
3
141.132(a)-(b),
141.600-141.605,
141.620-141.629
2. Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)
2
141.64(b)
3
141.132(a)-(b),
141.600-141.605,
141.620-141.629
3. Bromate
2
141.64(a)
3
141.132(a)-(b)
4. Chlorite
2
141.64(a)
3
141.132(a)-(b)
5. Chlorine (MRDL)
2
141.65(a)
3
141.132(a), (c)
6. Chloramine (MRDL)
2
141.65(a)
3
141.132(a), (c)
7. Chlorine dioxide (MRDL), where any 2
consecutive daily samples at entrance to
distribution system only are above MRDL
2
141.65(a),
141.133(c)(3)
215, 3
141.132(a), (c),
141.133(c)(2)
8. Chlorine dioxide (MRDL), where
sample(s) in distribution system the next
day are also above MRDL
16 ^
141.65(a),
141.133(c)(3)
1
141.132(a), (c),
141.133(c)(2)
9. Control of DBP precursors—TOC (TT)
2
141.135(a)-(b)
3
141.132(a), (d)
10. Bench marking and disinfection
profiling
N/A
N/A
3
141.172 141.530-
141.544.
11. Development of monitoring plan
N/A
N/A
3
141.132(f)
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Contaminant
MCL/MRDiyTT
violations2
Tier of public
notice required
MCiyMRDL/TT
violations2
Citation
Monitoring & testing
procedure violations
Tier of public notice
required
Monitoring &
testing procedure
violations
Citation
H. Other Treatment Techniques
1. Acrylamide (TT)
2
141.111
N/A
N/A
2. Epichlorohydrin (TT)
2
141.111
N/A
N/A
II. Unregulated Contaminant
Monitoring:17
A. Unregulated contaminants
N/A
N/A
3
141.40
B. Nickel
N/A
N/A
3
141.23(c), (k)
III. Public Notification for Variances and
Exemptions:
A. Operation under a variance or
exemption
3
181415, 1416,
N/A
N/A
B. Violation of conditions of a variance or
exemption
2
1415, 1416,
19142.307
N/A
N/A
IV. Other Situations Requiring Public
Notification:
A. Fluoride secondary maximum
contaminant level (SMCL) exceedance
3
143.3
N/A
N/A
B. Exceedance of nitrate MCL for non-
community systems, as allowed by state
1
141.11(d)
N/A
N/A
C. Availability of unregulated
contaminant monitoring data
3
141.40
N/A
N/A
D. Waterborne disease outbreak
1
141.2,
141.71(c)(2)(ii)
N/A
N/A
E. Other waterborne emergency20
1
N/A
N/A
N/A
F. Source Water Sample Positive for GWR
Fecal indicators: E. coli, enterococci, or
coliphage
1
141.402(g)
N/A
N/A
G. Other situations as determined by
state
211, 2, 3
N/A
N/A
N/A
Appendix A—Endnotes
t Until March 31, 2016.
t Beginning April 1, 2016.
1. Violations and other situations not listed in this table (e.g., failure to prepare Consumer Confidence Reports),
do not require notice, unless otherwise determined by the primacy agency. Primacy agencies may, at their
option, also require a more stringent public notice tier (e.g., Tier 1 instead of Tier 2 or Tier 2 instead of Tier 3) for
specific violations and situations listed in this Appendix, as authorized under §141.202(a) and §141.203(a).
2. MCL—Maximum contaminant level, MRDL—Maximum residual disinfectant level, TT—Treatment technique
3. The term Violations of National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWR) is used here to include
violations of MCL, MRDL, treatment technique, monitoring, and testing procedure requirements.
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4. Failure to test for fecal coliform or E. coli is a Tier 1 violation if testing is not done after any repeat sample
tests positive for coliform. All other total coliform monitoring and testing procedure violations are Tier 3.
5. Systems that violate the turbidity MCL of 5 NTU based on an average of measurements over two consecutive
days must consult with the primacy agency within 24 hours after learning of the violation. Based on this
consultation, the primacy agency may subsequently decide to elevate the violation to Tier 1. If a system is
unable to make contact with the primacy agency in the 24-hour period, the violation is automatically elevated to
Tier 1.
6. Systems with treatment technique violations involving a single exceedance of a maximum turbidity limit
under the Surface Water Treatment Rule (SWTR), the Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule
(IESWTR), or the Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT1ESWTR) are required to consult with
the primacy agency within 24 hours after learning of the violation. Based on this consultation, the primacy
agency may subsequently decide to elevate the violation to Tier 1. If a system is unable to make contact with the
primacy agency in the 24-hour period, the violation is automatically elevated to Tier 1.
7. Most of the requirements of the Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (63 FR 69477) (§§141.170-
141.171, 141.173-141.174) become effective January 1, 2002 for Subpart H systems (surface water systems and
ground water systems under the direct influence of surface water) serving at least 10,000 persons. However,
§141.172 has some requirements that become effective as early as April 16, 1999. The Surface Water Treatment
Rule remains in effect for systems serving at least 10,000 persons even after 2002; the Interim Enhanced Surface
Water Treatment Rule adds additional requirements and does not in many cases supersede the SWTR.
8. The arsenic MCL citations are effective January 23, 2006. Until then, the citations are §141.11(b) and
§141.23(n).
9. The uranium MCL Tier 2 violation citations are effective December 8, 2003 for all community water systems.
10. The uranium Tier 3 violation citations are effective December 8, 2000 for all community water systems.
11. The arsenic Tier 3 violation MCL citations are effective January 23, 2006. Until then, the citations are
§141.23(a), (I).
12. Failure to take a confirmation sample within 24 hours for nitrate or nitrite after an initial sample exceeds the
MCL is a Tier 1 violation. Other monitoring violations for nitrate are Tier 3.
13. Subpart H community and non-transient non-community systems serving >10,000 must comply with new
DBP MCLs, disinfectant MRDLs, and related monitoring requirements beginning January 1, 2002. All other
community and non-transient non-community systems must meet the MCLs and MRDLs beginning January 1,
2004. Subpart H transient non-community systems serving 10,000 or more persons and using chlorine dioxide as
a disinfectant or oxidant must comply with the chlorine dioxide MRDL beginning January 1, 2002. Subpart H
transient non-community systems serving fewer than 10,000 persons and using only ground water not under
the direct influence of surface water and using chlorine dioxide as a disinfectant or oxidant must comply with
the chlorine dioxide MRDL beginning January 1, 2004.
14. §§141.64(b)(1) 141.132(a)-(b) apply until §§141.620-141.630 take effect under the schedule in §141.620(c).
15. Failure to monitor for chlorine dioxide at the entrance to the distribution system the day after exceeding the
MRDL at the entrance to the distribution system is a Tier 2 violation.
16. If any daily sample taken at the entrance to the distribution system exceeds the MRDL for chlorine dioxide
and one or more samples taken in the distribution system the next day exceed the MRDL, Tier 1 notification is
Public Notification Handbook
164
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required. Failure to take the required samples in the distribution system after the MRDL is exceeded at the entry
point also triggers Tier 1 notification.
17. Some water systems must monitor for certain unregulated contaminants listed in §141.40.
18. This citation refers to §§1415 and 1416 of the Safe Drinking Water Act. §§1415 and 1416 require that "a
schedule prescribed. . . for a public water system granted a variance [or exemption] shall require compliance by
the system. . ."
19. In addition to §§1415 and 1416 of the Safe Drinking Water Act, 40 CFR 142.307 specifies the items and
schedule milestones that must be included in a variance for small systems.
20. Other waterborne emergencies require a Tier 1 public notice under §141.202(a) for situations that do not
meet the definition of a waterborne disease outbreak given in 40 CFR 141.2 but that still have the potential to
have serious adverse effects on health as a result of short-term exposure. These could include outbreaks not
related to treatment deficiencies, as well as situations that have the potential to cause outbreaks, such as
failures or significant interruption in water treatment processes, natural disasters that disrupt the water supply
or distribution system, chemical spills, or unexpected loading of possible pathogens into the source water.
21. Primacy agencies may place other situations in any tier they believe appropriate, based on threat to public
health.
22. Failure to collect three or more samples for Cryptosporidium analysis is a Tier 2 violation requiring special
notice as specified in §141.211. All other monitoring and testing procedure violations are Tier 3.
Public Notification Handbook
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Appendix B: Standard Health Effects Language for Public
Notification
Contaminant
MCLG1
mg/L
MCL2 mg/L
Standard health effects language for public notification
National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
(NPDWR)
A. Microbiological
Contaminants
la. Total coliform +
Zero
See footnote3
Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the
environment and are used as an indicator that other,
potentially-harmful, bacteria may be present. Coliforms were
found in more samples than allowed and this was a warning of
potential problems.
lb. Fecal coliform/f. coli +
Zero
Zero
Fecal coliforms and E. coli are bacteria whose presence
indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or
animal wastes. Microbes in these wastes can cause short-term
effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other
symptoms. They may pose a special health risk for infants,
young children, some of the elderly, and people with severely
compromised immune systems.
lc. Fecal indicators (GWR):
i. E. coli
ii. enterococci
iii. coliphage
Zero
None
None
TT
TT
TT
Fecal indicators are microbes whose presence indicates that
the water may be contaminated with human or animal
wastes. Microbes in these wastes can cause short-term health
effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other
symptoms. They may pose a special health risk for infants,
young children, some of the elderly, and people with severely
compromised immune systems.
Id. Ground Water Rule
(GWR) TT violations
None
TT
Inadequately treated or inadequately protected water may
contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms can cause
symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, cramps, and associated
headaches.
le. Subpart Y Coliform
Assessment and/or
Corrective Action
Violations t
N/A
TT
Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the
environment and are used as an indicator that other,
potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present or
that a potential pathway exists through which contamination
may enter the drinking water distribution system. We found
coliforms indicating the need to look for potential problems in
water treatment or distribution. When this occurs, we are
required to conduct assessments to identify problems and to
correct any problems that are found.
[THE SYSTEM MUST USE THE FOLLOWING APPLICABLE
SENTENCES.]
We failed to conduct the required assessment.
We failed to correct all identified sanitary defects that were
found during the assessment(s).
Public Notification Handbook
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Contaminant
MCLG1
mg/L
MCL2 mg/L
Standard health effects language for public notification
If. Subpart Y E. coli
Assessment and/or
Corrective Action
Violations t
N/A
TT
E. coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the water
may be contaminated with human or animal wastes. Human
pathogens in these wastes can cause short-term effects, such
as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms.
They may pose a greater health risk for infants, young
children, the elderly, and people with severely compromised
immune systems. We violated the standard for E. coli,
indicating the need to look for potential problems in water
treatment or distribution. When this occurs, we are required
to conduct a detailed assessment to identify problems and to
correct any problems that are found.
[THE SYSTEM MUST USE THE FOLLOWING APPLICABLE
SENTENCES.]
We failed to conduct the required assessment.
We failed to correct all identified sanitary defects that were
found during the assessment that we conducted.
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Contaminant
MCLG1
mg/L
MCL2 mg/L
Standard health effects language for public notification
lg. E. coli t
Zero
In compliance
unless one of the
following
conditions
occurs:
(1) The system
has an E. coli-
positive repeat
sample following
a total coliform-
positive routine
sample.
(2) The system
has a total
coliform-positive
repeat sample
following an E.
coli- positive
routine sample.
(3) The system
fails to take all
required repeat
samples
following an E.
coli- positive
routine sample.
(4) The system
fails to test for E.
coli when any
repeat sample
tests positive for
total coliform.
E. coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the water
may be contaminated with human or animal wastes. Human
pathogens in these wastes can cause short-term effects, such
as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms.
They may pose a greater health risk for infants, young
children, the elderly, and people with severely compromised
immune systems.
lh. Subpart Y Seasonal
System TT Violations t
N/A
TT
When this violation includes the failure to monitor for total
coliforms or E. coli prior to serving water to the public, the
mandatory language found at 141.205(d)(2) must be used.
When this violation includes failure to complete other actions,
the appropriate elements found in 141.205(a) to describe the
violation must be used.
2a. Turbidity (MCL)4
None
1 NTU5/5 NTU
Turbidity has no health effects. However, turbidity can
interfere with disinfection and provide a medium for microbial
growth. Turbidity may indicate the presence of disease-
causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses,
and parasites that can cause symptoms such as nausea,
cramps, diarrhea and associated headaches.
2b. Turbidity (SWTRTT)6
None
TT7
Turbidity has no health effects. However, turbidity can
interfere with disinfection and provide a medium for microbial
growth. Turbidity may indicate the presence of disease-
causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses,
and parasites that can cause symptoms such as nausea,
cramps, diarrhea and associated headaches.
Public Notification Handbook
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Contaminant
MCLG1
mg/L
MCL2 mg/L
Standard health effects language for public notification
2c. Turbidity (IESWTRTT
and LT1ESWTRTT)8
None
TT
Turbidity has no health effects. However, turbidity can
interfere with disinfection and provide a medium for microbial
growth. Turbidity may indicate the presence of disease-
causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses,
and parasites that can cause symptoms such as nausea,
cramps, diarrhea and associated headaches.
B. Surface Water
Treatment Rule (SWTR),
Interim Enhanced Surface
Water Treatment Rule
(IESWTR), Long Term 1
Enhanced Surface Water
Treatment Rule
(LT1ESWTR) and the Filter
Backwash Recycling Rule
(FBRR) violations
3. Giardia lamblia
(SWTR/IESWTR/LT1ESWTR)
Zero
TT10
Inadequately treated water may contain disease-causing
organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and
parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps,
diarrhea, and associated headaches.
4. Viruses
(SWTR/IESWTR/LT1ESWTR)
5. Heterotrophic plate
count (HPC) bacteria9
(SWTR/IESWTR/LT1ESWTR)
6. Legionella
(SWTR/IESWTR/LT1ESWTR)
7. Cryptosporidium
(IESWTR/FBRR/LT1ESWTR)
C. Inorganic Chemicals
(lOCs)
8. Antimony
0.006
0.006
Some people who drink water containing antimony well in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience increases
in blood cholesterol and decreases in blood sugar.
9. Arsenic11
0
0.010
Some people who drink water containing arsenic in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience skin damage or
problems with their circulatory system, and may have an
increased risk of getting cancer.
10. Asbestos (10 nm)
7 MFL12
7 MFL
Some people who drink water containing asbestos in excess of
the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of
developing benign intestinal polyps.
11. Barium
2
2
Some people who drink water containing barium in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience an increase in their
blood pressure.
12. Beryllium
0.004
0.004
Some people who drink water containing beryllium well in
excess of the MCL over many years could develop intestinal
lesions.
Public Notification Handbook
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Contaminant
MCLG1
mg/L
MCL2 mg/L
Standard health effects language for public notification
13. Cadmium
0.005
0.005
Some people who drink water containing cadmium in excess
of the MCL over many years could experience kidney damage.
14. Chromium (total)
0.1
0.1
Some people who use water containing chromium well in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience allergic
dermatitis.
15. Cyanide
0.2
0.2
Some people who drink water containing cyanide well in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience nerve
damage or problems with their thyroid.
16. Fluoride
4.0
4.0
Some people who drink water containing fluoride in excess of
the MCL over many years could get bone disease, including
pain and tenderness of the bones. Fluoride in drinking water
at half the MCL or more may cause mottling of children's
teeth, usually in children less than nine years old. Mottling,
also known as dental fluorosis, may include brown staining
and/or pitting of the teeth, and occurs only in developing
teeth before they erupt from the gums.
17. Mercury (inorganic)
0.002
0.002
Some people who drink water containing inorganic mercury
well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience
kidney damage.
18. Nitrate
10
10
Infants below the age of six months who drink water
containing nitrate in excess of the MCL could become
seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include
shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome.
19. Nitrite
1
1
Infants below the age of six months who drink water
containing nitrite in excess of the MCL could become seriously
ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of
breath and blue baby syndrome.
20. Total Nitrate and
Nitrite
10
10
Infants below the age of six months who drink water
containing nitrate and nitrite in excess of the MCL could
become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms
include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome.
21. Selenium
0.05
0.05
Selenium is an essential nutrient. However, some people who
drink water containing selenium in excess of the MCL over
many years could experience hair or fingernail losses,
numbness in fingers or toes, or problems with their
circulation.
22. Thallium
0.0005
0.002
Some people who drink water containing thallium in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience hair loss, changes
in their blood, or problems with their kidneys, intestines, or
liver.
D. Lead and Copper Rule
23. Lead
Zero
TT13
Infants and children who drink water containing lead in excess
of the action level could experience delays in their physical or
mental development. Children could show slight deficits in
attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this
water over many years could develop kidney problems or high
blood pressure.
Public Notification Handbook
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Contaminant
MCLG1
mg/L
MCL2 mg/L
Standard health effects language for public notification
24. Copper
1.3
IT14
Copper is an essential nutrient, but some people who drink
water containing copper in excess of the action level over a
relatively short amount of time could experience
gastrointestinal distress. Some people who drink water
containing copper in excess of the action level over many
years could suffer liver or kidney damage. People with
Wilson's Disease should consult their personal doctor.
E. Synthetic Organic
Chemicals (SOCs)
25. 2,4-D
0.07
0.07
Some people who drink water containing the weed killer 2,4-D
well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience
problems with their kidneys, liver, or adrenal glands.
26. 2,4,5-TP (Silvex)
0.05
0.05
Some people who drink water containing silvex in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience liver problems.
27. Alachlor
Zero
0.002
Some people who drink water containing alachlor in excess of
the MCL over many years could have problems with their
eyes, liver, kidneys, or spleen, or experience anemia, and may
have an increased risk of getting cancer.
28. Atrazine
0.003
0.003
Some people who drink water containing atrazine well in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems
with their cardiovascular system or reproductive difficulties.
29. Benzo(a)pyrene (PAHs)
Zero
0.0002
Some people who drink water containing benzo(a)pyrene in
excess of the MCL over many years may experience
reproductive difficulties and may have an increased risk of
getting cancer.
30. Carbofuran
0.04
0.04
Some people who drink water containing carbofuran in excess
of the MCL over many years could experience problems with
their blood, or nervous or reproductive systems.
31. Chlordane
Zero
0.002
Some people who drink water containing chlordane in excess
of the MCL over many years could experience problems with
their liver or nervous system, and may have an increased risk
of getting cancer.
32. Dalapon
0.2
0.2
Some people who drink water containing dalapon well in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience minor
kidney changes.
33. Di(2-ethylhexyl)
adipate
0.4
0.4
Some people who drink water containing di(2-ethylhexyl)
adipate well in excess of the MCL over many years could
experience toxic effects such as weight loss, liver enlargement
or possible reproductive difficulties.
34. Di(2-ethylhexyl)
phthalate
Zero
0.006
Some people who drink water containing di(2-ethylhexyl)
phthalate well in excess of the MCL over many years may have
problems with their liver, or experience reproductive
difficulties, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
35. Dibromochloropropane
(DBCP)
Zero
0.0002
Some people who drink water containing DBCP in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience reproductive
difficulties and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
Public Notification Handbook
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Contaminant
MCLG1
mg/L
MCL2 mg/L
Standard health effects language for public notification
36. Dinoseb
0.007
0.007
Some people who drink water containing dinoseb well in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience
reproductive difficulties.
37. Dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD)
Zero
3xl0"8
Some people who drink water containing dioxin in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience reproductive
difficulties and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
38. Diquat
0.02
0.02
Some people who drink water containing diquat in excess of
the MCL over many years could get cataracts.
39. Endothall
0.1
0.1
Some people who drink water containing endothall in excess
of the MCL over many years could experience problems with
their stomach or intestines.
40. Endrin
0.002
0.002
Some people who drink water containing endrin in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience liver problems.
41. Ethylene dibromide
Zero
0.00005
Some people who drink water containing ethylene dibromide
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience
problems with their liver, stomach, reproductive system, or
kidneys, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
42. Glyphosate
0.7
0.7
Some people who drink water containing glyphosate in excess
of the MCL over many years could experience problems with
their kidneys or reproductive difficulties.
43. Heptachlor
Zero
0.0004
Some people who drink water containing heptachlor in excess
of the MCL over many years could experience liver damage
and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
44. Heptachlor epoxide
Zero
0.0002
Some people who drink water containing heptachlor epoxide
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience liver
damage, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
45. Hexachlorobenzene
Zero
0.001
Some people who drink water containing hexachlorobenzene
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience
problems with their liver or kidneys, or adverse reproductive
effects, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
46. Hexachlorocyclo-
pentadiene
0.05
0.05
Some people who drink water containing
hexachlorocyclopentadiene well in excess of the MCL over
many years could experience problems with their kidneys or
stomach.
47. Lindane
0.0002
0.0002
Some people who drink water containing lindane in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience problems with
their kidneys or liver.
48. Methoxychlor
0.04
0.04
Some people who drink water containing methoxychlor in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience
reproductive difficulties.
49. Oxamyl (Vydate)
0.2
0.2
Some people who drink water containing oxamyl in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience slight nervous
system effects.
50. Pentachlorophenol
Zero
0.001
Some people who drink water containing pentachlorophenol
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience
problems with their liver or kidneys, and may have an
increased risk of getting cancer.
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Contaminant
MCLG1
mg/L
MCL2 mg/L
Standard health effects language for public notification
51. Picloram
0.5
0.5
Some people who drink water containing picloram in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience problems with
their liver.
52. Polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs)
Zero
0.0005
Some people who drink water containing PCBs in excess of the
MCL over many years could experience changes in their skin,
problems with their thymus gland, immune deficiencies, or
reproductive or nervous system difficulties, and may have an
increased risk of getting cancer.
53. Simazine
0.004
0.004
Some people who drink water containing simazine in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience problems with
their blood.
54. Toxaphene
Zero
0.003
Some people who drink water containing toxaphene in excess
of the MCL over many years could have problems with their
kidneys, liver, or thyroid, and may have an increased risk of
getting cancer.
F. Volatile Organic
Chemicals (VOCs)
55. Benzene
Zero
0.005
Some people who drink water containing benzene in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience anemia or a
decrease in blood platelets, and may have an increased risk of
getting cancer.
56. Carbon tetrachloride
Zero
0.005
Some people who drink water containing carbon tetrachloride
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience
problems with their liver and may have an increased risk of
getting cancer.
57. Chlorobenzene
(monochloro- benzene)
0.1
0.1
Some people who drink water containing chlorobenzene in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems
with their liver or kidneys.
58. o-Dichlorobenzene
0.6
0.6
Some people who drink water containing o-dichlorobenzene
well in excess of the MCL over many years could experience
problems with their liver, kidneys, or circulatory systems.
59. p-Dichlorobenzene
0.075
0.075
Some people who drink water containing p-dichlorobenzene
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience
anemia, damage to their liver, kidneys, or spleen, or changes
in their blood.
60. 1,2-Dichloroethane
Zero
0.005
Some people who drink water containing 1,2-dichloroethane
in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased
risk of getting cancer.
61. 1,1-Dichloroethylene
0.007
0.007
Some people who drink water containing 1,1-dichloroethylene
in excess of the MCL over many years could experience
problems with their liver.
62. cis-1,2-
Dichloroethylene
0.07
0.07
Some people who drink water containing cis-1,2-
dichloroethylene in excess of the MCL over many years could
experience problems with their liver.
63. trans-1,2-
Dichloroethylene
0.1
0.1
Some people who drink water containing trans-1,2-
dichloroethylene well in excess of the MCL over many years
could experience problems with their liver.
Public Notification Handbook
173
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Contaminant
MCLG1
mg/L
MCL2 mg/L
Standard health effects language for public notification
64. Dichloromethane
Zero
0.005
Some people who drink water containing dichloromethane in
excess of the MCL over many years could have liver problems
and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
65. 1,2-Dichloropropane
Zero
0.005
Some people who drink water containing 1,2-dichloropropane
in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased
risk of getting cancer.
66. Ethylbenzene
0.7
0.7
Some people who drink water containing ethylbenzene well in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems
with their liver or kidneys.
67. Styrene
0.1
0.1
Some people who drink water containing styrene well in
excess of the MCL over many years could have problems with
their liver, kidneys, or circulatory system.
68. Tetrachloroethylene
Zero
0.005
Some people who drink water containing tetrachloroethylene
in excess of the MCL over many years could have problems
with their liver, and may have an increased risk of getting
cancer.
69. Toluene
1
1
Some people who drink water containing toluene well in
excess of the MCL over many years could have problems with
their nervous system, kidneys, or liver.
70. 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene
0.07
0.07
Some people who drink water containing 1,2,4-
trichlorobenzene well in excess of the MCL over many years
could experience changes in their adrenal glands.
71. 1,1,1-Trichloroethane
0.2
0.2
Some people who drink water containing 1,1,1-
trichloroethane in excess of the MCL over many years could
experience problems with their liver, nervous system, or
circulatory system.
72. 1,1,2-Trichloroethane
0.003
0.005
Some people who drink water containing 1,1,2-
trichloroethane well in excess of the MCL over many years
could have problems with their liver, kidneys, or immune
systems.
73. Trichloroethylene
Zero
0.005
Some people who drink water containing trichloroethylene in
excess of the MCL over many years could experience problems
with their liver and may have an increased risk of getting
cancer.
74. Vinyl chloride
Zero
0.002
Some people who drink water containing vinyl chloride in
excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk
of getting cancer.
75. Xylenes (total)
10
10
Some people who drink water containing xylenes in excess of
the MCL over many years could experience damage to their
nervous system.
G. Radioactive
Contaminants
76. Beta/photon emitters
Zero
4 mrem/yr15
Certain minerals are radioactive and may emit forms of
radiation known as photons and beta radiation. Some people
who drink water containing beta and photon emitters in
excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk
of getting cancer.
Public Notification Handbook
174
-------
Contaminant
MCLG1
mg/L
MCL2 mg/L
Standard health effects language for public notification
77. Alpha emitters
Zero
17 pCi/L17
Certain minerals are radioactive and may emit a form of
radiation known as alpha radiation. Some people who drink
water containing alpha emitters in excess of the MCL over
many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
78. Combined radium (226
& 228)
Zero
5 pCi/L
Some people who drink water containing radium 226 or 228 in
excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk
of getting cancer.
79. Uranium16
Zero
30 ixg/l
Some people who drink water containing uranium in excess of
the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of
getting cancer and kidney toxicity.
H. Disinfection Byproducts
(DBPs), Byproduct
Precursors, and
Disinfectant Residuals:
Where disinfection is used
in the treatment of
drinking water,
disinfectants combine with
organic and inorganic
matter present in water to
form chemicals called
disinfection byproducts
(DBPs). EPA sets standards
for controlling the levels of
disinfectants and DBPs in
drinking water, including
trihalomethanes (THMs)
and haloacetic acids
(HAAs)18
80. Total trihalomethanes
(TTHMs)
N/A
0.08019 20
Some people who drink water containing trihalomethanes in
excess of the MCL over many years may experience problems
with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, and may
have an increased risk of getting cancer.
81. Haloacetic Acids (HAA)
N/A
0.06021
Some people who drink water containing haloacetic acids in
excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk
of getting cancer.
82. Bromate
Zero
0.010
Some people who drink water containing bromate in excess of
the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of
getting cancer.
83. Chlorite
0.08
1.0
Some infants and young children who drink water containing
chlorite in excess of the MCL could experience nervous system
effects. Similar effects may occur in fetuses of pregnant
women who drink water containing chlorite in excess of the
MCL. Some people may experience anemia.
Public Notification Handbook
175
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Contaminant
MCLG1
mg/L
MCL2 mg/L
Standard health effects language for public notification
84. Chlorine
4
(MRDLG)22
4.0 (MRDL)23
Some people who use water containing chlorine well in excess
of the MRDL could experience irritating effects to their eyes
and nose. Some people who drink water containing chlorine
well in excess of the MRDL could experience stomach
discomfort.
85. Chloramines
4
(MRDLG)
4.0 (MRDL)
Some people who use water containing chloramines well in
excess of the MRDL could experience irritating effects to their
eyes and nose. Some people who drink water containing
chloramines well in excess of the MRDL could experience
stomach discomfort or anemia.
86a. Chlorine dioxide,
where any 2 consecutive
daily samples taken at the
entrance to the
distribution system are
above the MRDL
0.8
(MRDLG)
0.8 (MRDL)
Some infants and young children who drink water containing
chlorine dioxide in excess of the MRDL could experience
nervous system effects. Similar effects may occur in fetuses of
pregnant women who drink water containing chlorine dioxide
in excess of the MRDL. Some people may experience anemia.
Add for public notification only: The chlorine dioxide violations
reported today are the result of exceedances at the treatment
facility only, not within the distribution system which delivers
water to consumers. Continued compliance with chlorine
dioxide levels within the distribution system minimizes the
potential risk of these violations to consumers.
86b. Chlorine dioxide,
where one or more
distribution system
samples are above the
MRDL
0.8
(MRDLG)
0.8 (MRDL)
Some infants and young children who drink water containing
chlorine dioxide in excess of the MRDL could experience
nervous system effects. Similar effects may occur in fetuses of
pregnant women who drink water containing chlorine dioxide
in excess of the MRDL. Some people may experience anemia.
Add for public notification only: The chlorine dioxide violations
reported today include exceedances of the EPA standard
within the distribution system which delivers water to
consumers. Violations of the chlorine dioxide standard within
the distribution system may harm human health based on
short-term exposures. Certain groups, including fetuses,
infants, and young children, may be especially susceptible to
nervous system effects from excessive chlorine dioxide
exposure.
87. Control of DBP
precursors (TOC)
None
TT
Total organic carbon (TOC) has no health effects. However,
total organic carbon provides a medium for the formation of
disinfection byproducts. These byproducts include
trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs). Drinking
water containing these byproducts in excess of the MCL may
lead to adverse health effects, liver or kidney problems, or
nervous system effects, and may lead to an increased risk of
getting cancer.
1. Other Treatment
Techniques
88. Acrylamide
Zero
TT
Some people who drink water containing high levels of
acrylamide over a long period of time could have problems
with their nervous system or blood, and may have an
increased risk of getting cancer.
Public Notification Handbook
176
-------
Contaminant
MCLG1
mg/L
MCL2 mg/L
Standard health effects language for public notification
89. Epichlorohydrin
Zero
TT
Some people who drink water containing high levels of
epichlorohydrin over a long period of time could experience
stomach problems, and may have an increased risk of getting
cancer.
Appendix B—Endnotes
t Until March 31, 2016.
t Beginning April 1, 2016.
1. MCLG—Maximum contaminant level goal
2. MCL—Maximum contaminant level
3. For water systems analyzing at least 40 samples per month, no more than 5.0 percent of the monthly samples
may be positive for total coliforms. For systems analyzing fewer than 40 samples per month, no more than one
sample per month may be positive for total coliforms.
4. There are various regulations that set turbidity standards for different types of systems, including 40 CFR
141.13, and the 1989 Surface Water Treatment Rule, the 1998 Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule
and the 2002 Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule. The MCL for the monthly turbidity average
is 1 NTU; the MCL for the 2-day average is 5 NTU for systems that are required to filter but have not yet installed
filtration (40 CFR 141.13).
5. NTU—Nephelometric turbidity unit
6. There are various regulations that set turbidity standards for different types of systems, including 40 CFR
141.13, and the 1989 Surface Water Treatment Rule, the 1998 Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule
and the 2001 Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule. Systems subject to the Surface Water
Treatment Rule (both filtered and unfiltered) may not exceed 5 NTU. In addition, in filtered systems, 95 percent
of samples each month must not exceed 0.5 NTU in systems using conventional or direct filtration and must not
exceed 1 NTU in systems using slow sand or diatomaceous earth filtration or other filtration technologies
approved by the primacy agency.
7. TT—Treatment technique
8. There are various regulations that set turbidity standards for different types of systems, including 40 CFR
141.13, the 1989 Surface Water Treatment Rule (SWTR), the 1998 Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment
Rule (IESWTR) and the 2002 Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT1ESWTR). For systems
subject to the IESWTR (systems serving at least 10,000 people, using surface water or ground water under the
direct influence of surface water), that use conventional filtration or direct filtration, after January 1, 2002, the
turbidity level of a system's combined filter effluent may not exceed 0.3 NTU in at least 95 percent of monthly
measurements, and the turbidity level of a system's combined filter effluent must not exceed 1 NTU at any time.
Systems subject to the IESWTR using technologies other than conventional, direct, slow sand, or diatomaceous
earth filtration must meet turbidity limits set by the primacy agency. For systems subject to the LT1ESWTR
(systems serving fewer than 10,000 people, using surface water or ground water under the direct influence of
surface water) that use conventional filtration or direct filtration, after January 1, 2005, the turbidity level of a
system's combined filter effluent may not exceed 0.3 NTU in at least 95 percent of monthly measurements, and
Public Notification Handbook
177
-------
the turbidity level of a system's combined filter effluent must not exceed 1 NTU at any time. Systems subject to
the LT1ESWTR using technologies other than conventional, direct, slow sand, or diatomaceous earth filtration
must meet turbidity limits set by the primacy agency.
9. The bacteria detected by heterotrophic plate count (HPC) are not necessarily harmful. HPC is simply an
alternative method of determining disinfectant residual levels. The number of such bacteria is an indicator of
whether there is enough disinfectant in the distribution system.
10. SWTR, IESWTR, and LT1ESWTR treatment technique violations that involve turbidity exceedances may use
the health effects language for turbidity instead.
11. These arsenic values are effective January 23, 2006. Until then, the MCL is 0.05 mg/L and there is no MCLG.
12. Millions fibers per liter.
13. Action Level = 0.015 mg/L
14. Action Level = 1.3 mg/L
15. Millirems per years
16. The uranium MCL is effective December 8, 2003 for all community water systems.
17. Picocuries per liter
18. Surface water systems and ground water systems under the direct influence of surface water are regulated
under subpart H of 40 CFR 141. Subpart H community and non-transient non-community systems serving
>10,000 must comply with subpart L DBP MCLs and disinfectant maximum residual disinfectant levels (MRDLs)
beginning January 1, 2002. All other community and non-transient non-community systems must comply with
subpart L DBP MCLs and disinfectant MRDLs beginning January 1, 2004. Subpart H transient non-community
systems serving >10,000 that use chlorine dioxide as a disinfectant or oxidant must comply with the chlorine
dioxide MRDL beginning January 1, 2002. All other transient non-community systems that use chlorine dioxide
as a disinfectant or oxidant must comply with the chlorine dioxide MRDL beginning January 1, 2004.
19. Community and non-transient non-community systems must comply with subpart V TTHM and HAA5 MCLs
of 0.080 mg/L and 0.060 mg/L, respectively (with compliance calculated as a locational running annual average)
on the schedule in §141.620.
20. The MCL for total trihalomethanes is the sum of the concentrations of the individual trihalomethanes.
21. The MCL for haloacetic acids is the sum of the concentrations of the individual haloacetic acids.
22. MRDLG—Maximum residual disinfectant level goal.
23. MRDL—Maximum residual disinfectant level.
Public Notification Handbook
178
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Appendix C: Translated Phrases
As part of the Washington State Department of Health Office of Drinking Water's implementation of the Public
Notification Rule, they have developed a Web site to provide information to assist water systems in
communicating important water system information to non-English speaking populations. It consists of four
basic drinking water messages, which have been translated into 27 different languages. Image files of the
translated phrases are available on their Web site at:
http://www.doh.wa.gov/CommunitvandEnvironment/DrinkingWater/DrinkingWaterEmergencies/PublicNotifica
tion/TranslationsforPublicNotification
Public Notification Handbook
179
-------
(h
r i Mumngiim diuk utfrnrnrmi vj
0 Health
Division of tmnnvimenial Health
Office of Drmk.w.g Water
Translated Drinking
Water Warnings
DOH PUB. #331-246
July 2004
English
'litis report contains important information
about your drinking water.
[lave someone translate it Ibr you.
or speak with someone who understands it.
1 ioi 1 your water
before using.
Don't drink the water.
Children under 12 months old should not
drink the water.
Don't use the water to make formula.
Amharic
jeu inn iW^mfivV «>-M v
je.l.l.ft :: t\A I
m9° .e£T> ::
<»'W titrf'm+^y
fW.t -
©-Man h.e,(nrn- "
fttnff®- hi2 ®£+ nj-T pir\. ftFt
tJDmirit Pftai5®-^ » i^Tfl
(CfOD^) ®-vl®-'\ ft£m+0»- ::
Arabic
f. L» (jB Ka^a CiLJjjtA
.ti A i. A A >4 , .A , /•
4jtiS » J
t™JuLx^ l\ pLalt lull *jf sc.Lali iJiA
.(JiLVi
Cambodian
(Khmer)
rcntijfrimmB: HiSMii:W3iswiiw iifjjmiSnftuuuinn
rniflsnms i qtmtisanimftsjtf nfjntiBtfmn-gn
pstmtndismtiBnmriii fHwrntusismtsstyiMmiM i
Biuisnajtisftis
tJSSMJtJJpft} 1
ain8|(U8issn m
tnat{fnHinq9l3{3 SsgiBjgiSnts t
tsimf imnnmtfigmt^lsmths i
Chinese
Simplified
1,„ itAfftffliffcBiffe,
mmmt
mm.
Chinese
Traditional
&&&M f
m •
Farsi
. V x«f . V..«l. t ft i. Vt fll ..«i
y ¦ """
1 4f ^ ^ 3 4J*
. Jvja+a**
coLzXw! jl
4; |j ^jUy^hX*J6lw1
fj w»l
lj t_j| 4ftLe \ T jij
tSlkVc . kXi^su
.«xJXi (Vijjaji )4s>u
-------
English
Hi is report contains important information
about your drinking water.
Have someone translate it for yon.
or speak with someone who understands it.
Boil your water
before using.
Don't drink the water.
Children under 12 months old should not
drink the water.
Don't use the water to make formula.
French
Ce rapport contient des informations
importantes apropos de votre eau potable.
Demander a quelqu'un de traduire ces
informations pour vous ou discuter avec line
personne qui comprend ces informations.
I-aire bouillir feau
avant de l'utiliser.
Ne pas boire feau.
Les en fonts des moins de 12 mois ne
doivent pas boire 1'eau. Ne pas utiliser
l'eau dans une preparation lactee pour
nourrisson.
Greek
Auxri t] ava\y m>n\yn yjm awn mo dt nn
mnw ik ,odtoj) miK onrpvy mw>nn wpa
-1JD1TI TIN 1>3BW w>a Oil
o>on Jin rr>mn> vy>
.\yw\yn
.D'nn Jin mnwb *pn
.12 >t> nnrio d>t» o-niw o>nn
ON-abn T>>nn n»nb o>m i>n
.ropnjrrt?
Hindi
4J6 if 3tmI 3ij=lid.
mIsp! 3«im Si
miii -qtisyl mii * [mi< mi-o *i
311(11 6l
-------
"O
c
Cr
§
o
Q
o"
a:
Q
=3
&
O
O
h-A
Oo
Nj
English
This report contains important information
about your drinking water.
Have someone translate it for you.
or speak w ith someone w ho understands it.
Boil your water
before using.
Don't drink the water.
Children under 12 months old should not
drink the water.
Don't use the water to make formula.
Oromo
Gabaasii kun odeellanno barbacliisa wa'ee
bisaan dhugaatii qaba, Akkaa isinii
turjumaa'uu gaafadhaa yokaan nama afaan
keessan dubbatuu dubbisaa.
Bisaan oso
hindhuggneen duraa
akka danffisttan.
Bisaan kan
hindhuginaa.
Daa'imman baatii(ji'aa) 12 hingahiin bisaan
kan dhuguun isaan irra hinjiru. Bisaan kana
foormmulaa(Nyaata Ijoolee) qopheessuf itii
hinfayyadamina.
Polish
Xastfpuj^cy raport zawiera waznq,
inIbrmaeje na temat wody pitnej. Proszf
poprosic kogos o przetlumaczenie lub
porozmawiac z kims kto rozumie.
Nalezy przegotowac
wod§ przed
spozyciem.
Proszf nie pic wody.
Dzieci w wieku ponizej 12 miesi^cy nie
powinny pic tej wody. Proszf nie uzywac
tej wody do przygotowywania formuly.
Punjabi
few Jludd fet) du'i U16 H'fel yd tW#
rll4o('J| 3) fo!$3F«", frIHf Wty ni'Qril 5^ ftiH
tTtyft'S't; ofvJ'S1 *t> 8h 6'
-------
"O
c
Cr
§
o
Q
o"
a:
Q
=3
&
O
O
h-A
Oo
Oj
English
This report contains important information
about your drinking water.
Have someone translate it lor you.
or speak with someone who understands it.
Roil your water
before using.
Don't drink the w ater.
Children under 12 months old should not
drink the water.
Don't use the water to make formula.
Spanish
I'.ste infbrme eontiene infbrmaeion
importante acerca de su agua potable. Haga
que alguien lo traduzca para listed, o hable
con alguien que lo entienda.
Ilaga liervir el agua
antes de usarla.
No beba el agua.
Los niiios menores de 12 meses de edad no
deben beber el agua. No use el agua para
preparar la formula para bebes (biberon).
Tagalog
Xaglalaman ang report na ito ng
importanteng impormasyon tungkol sa
iyong iniinom na tubig. Magkaroon ng
isang tao na isasalin ito sa iyong wika para
sa iyo, o makipag-usap sa isang tao na
nakakaintindi dito.
Pakuluin ang inyong
tubig bago
gagamitin.
Huwag inumin ang
tubig.
Ang mga bata na kulang sa 12 na buwan
ang gulang ay hindi dapat na iinumin ang
tubig. Huwag gagamitin ang tubig sa
paggawa ng pormula.
Thai
Yi1eiJTninJru4'"ite$8fmiJU
Bshwwiriif
i«rmfn!J«hrm 12 tlau m-alufluwiu
euiWiSi&mTOmmiJtia-JiiTi
Tigrigna
ML -flilfta ne AT5A.
hftfP" ®£ A-fl
AtF»
h-ntl. «ll.e ftjEtrt+P"
12 ©ca m Mrt ii-on ne. turn
rat wii an "\Fwn8-
hJEtm+0®*"
Ukrainian
lie noBiflOMJieHHH mIcthtb Baaanroy
incj)opMan,iio npo Bony, fixy bh n'eTe.
IlonpociTB Koro-HeSyjiK nepeKjiacTH rem ii,e
11 o b i ji, o m j le h h h a6o noroBopin. 3 juoid(hhoio,
HKH p03VMie ftoro 3MicT.
Knn'aTiTb Bo/iy no
KOpHCTyBaHHM.
He ntiHTe BOfly.
Aira y uiiii RO 12 MicMiy b hb noBHrai iihth
Bojty. He KopiicTyiiTeca boaoio hot
npHroTyBaHHa ananTOBaHO'i flWTsrro'i cyMinii
("c}iopMyJin").
Vietnamese
Tai lidu nay co tin tut quan trong vfc nxfdc
uong cua quy vi. Hay nhd ngiidi dich cho
quy vi, hofc hoi ngifdi nao hieu tai lieu
nay.
Dun soi nufcte tnfdc
khi dung.
Difng uong nurdc
nay.
Tre em difdi 12 thang khong nen uong
ntfdc nay. Dufng dung nifdc nay de pha sffa
formula.
The water glass and faucet may be useful in a posted notice
that would be seen by many non-English speaking people AlJJA i
to illustrate that they should not drink the water. f I f P^~j 1
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