2/24/2009 US EPA WATER SYSTEMS, DISINFECTION BYPRODUCTS, AND THE USE OF MONOCHLORAMINE 12) Does EPA require water utilities to use monochloramine? Who approves the decision for a water utility to use monochloramine? EPA does not require water utilities to use monochloramine or any specific treatment process. • EPA does require that water utilities comply with EPA drinking water regulations. • EPA's Regional Offices provide technical assistance2 to water utilities for complying with EPA drinking water regulations. • EPA works with States1 to ensure compliance with EPA drinking water regulations. Each water utility chooses the most effective approach for disinfecting water and meeting regulations. • Water utilities often work with States1 to decide the best way to meet EPA regulations. • Water utilities decide the best way to reduce disinfection byproducts including whether to use monochloramine.2. • States1 assure that water utilities are capable of complying with EPA regulations. Water utilities receive approval from a state agency1 or other authority for changes in disinfection processes. • Water utilities work with States1 to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of using monochloramine or other disinfectants. • Water utilities typically notify customers of plans to use monochloramine. • Contact your water utility for information about disinfection practices used to treat your water. Additional Supporting Information: 1. A State drinking water regulatory agency is also known as primacy agency. A primacy agency has the primary responsibility for administrating and enforcing federal drinking water regulations. Under the Safe Drinking Water Act; states, U.S. territories, and Indian tribes that meet certain requirements (such as setting regulations that are at least as stringent as EPA's) may also apply for, and receive, primary enforcement authority. 2. Guidance manuals are available at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/disinfection/staqe2/compliance.html. Hard copies are available by ordering publications through EPA's Water Resource Center (phone: 202-566-1729). ------- |