ID:
publications-4266
Type:
article
Year:
2003
Authors:
LeChevallier, Mark W. and LeChevallier, Mark W. and Gullick, Richard W. and Gullick, Richard W. and Karim, Mohammad Rezaul and Karim, Mohammad R. and Friedman, Melinda and Friedman, Melinda J. and Funk, James E. and Funk, James E.
Title:
The potential for health risks from intrusion of contaminants into the distribution system from pressure transients
Venue/Journal:
Journal of Water and Health
DOI:
10.2166/wh.2003.0002
Research type:
Water System:
Technical Focus:
Abstract:
The potential for public health risks associated with intrusion of contaminants into water supply distribution systems resulting from transient low or negative pressures is assessed. It is shown that transient pressure events occur in distribution systems; that during these negative pressure events pipeline leaks provide a potential portal for entry of groundwater into treated drinking water; and that faecal indicators and culturable human viruses are present in the soil and water exterior to the distribution system. To date, all observed negative pressure events have been related to power outages or other pump shutdowns. Although there are insufficient data to indicate whether pressure transients are a substantial source of risk to water quality in the distribution system, mitigation techniques can be implemented, principally the maintenance of an effective disinfectant residual throughout the distribution system, leak control, redesign of air relief venting, and more rigorous application of existing engineering standards. Use of high-speed pressure data loggers and surge modelling may have some merit, but more research is needed.
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