Disinfection of Wells

This standard provides guidelines for disinfecting and testing wells for potable water service, including chlorination procedures for the gravel pack, well casing, pump, and appurtenant piping.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 255 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: American Water Works Association,US

This standard outlines the comprehensive procedures for disinfecting and conducting bacteriological testing of wells used for providing potable water services, encompassing construction, servicing, maintenance, or any other activity or event that may result in water contamination. The chlorination protocols outlined in this standard specifically cater to the gravel pack, well casing, pump, and associated piping, presenting them in the sequence typically followed during implementation.

The primary objective of disinfection is to eliminate or reduce the presence of pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, to ensure the safety and quality of the water supplied to consumers. The disinfection process involves the application of chlorine or other disinfectants at appropriate concentrations and durations to achieve the desired disinfection outcomes.

Chlorination is a widely used method for disinfecting water due to its effectiveness in killing bacteria and viruses. The standard provides detailed guidelines on the appropriate chlorine concentrations, contact times, and application methods for different components of the well system. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper chlorine residuals in the water to ensure continued protection against microbial contamination.

In addition to disinfection, bacteriological testing is also conducted to assess the effectiveness of the disinfection process and to verify the absence of specific pathogens that may pose health risks. The standard specifies the appropriate sampling techniques, sample collection procedures, and laboratory analysis methods to detect and quantify the presence of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms in the water.

Implementing these procedures is crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of potable water supplies. It helps prevent the spread of waterborne diseases and protects public health by providing clean and safe drinking water. Regular disinfection and bacteriological testing are essential components of water management practices and are required by regulatory authorities to maintain the quality and safety of drinking water.

In conclusion, this standard provides a comprehensive framework for disinfecting and testing wells for potable water service. It emphasizes the importance of proper disinfection techniques, chlorine residuals, and bacteriological testing to ensure the safety and quality of drinking water. By adhering to these guidelines, water utilities can maintain the trust and confidence of their customers while protecting public health and the environment.

ISBN-13: 9781647170837