Water quality in distribution systems
The quality of our water supply faces multiple hazards from the point of abstraction to the customer’s tap
These hazards can come from the natural environment because of a changing climate and through current or previous actions by industrial or commercial operations. Water utilities face a daily challenge to maintain excellent water quality in the face of these external hazards, as well as working hard to manage the ageing infrastructure that can impinge on water quality when things go wrong.
The primary concern of the water sector is the protection of human health through the supply of safe drinking water. It is also important to consumers that their drinking water be aesthetically acceptable. As well as the regulatory and public health imperatives, it is damaging reputationally for operators if they supply non-wholesome water. Water utilities therefore take any threats to water quality extremely seriously, particularly as at any stage in the treatment, storage and supply of water may impact on the quality of the water received by consumers.
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Collaborative approach to improve water quality
Our water quality and environmental scientists, process engineers and data science team are regularly called upon to work together to diagnose and recommend solutions to network water quality issues using a blend of engineering and scientific knowledge and analytical techniques, including computational fluid dynamics, data science and statistical methods.
We are well-versed in the principles of the WHO water safety planning approach to safeguarding public health and customer acceptability of drinking water.
View network water quality brochureImproving water quality projects
- Understanding root causes of discoloration contacts in water networks (United Utilities, Bristol Water, South East Water)
- Long-term strategies for mitigating lead in drinking water (Defra)
- Water quality system assessment (Authority for Public Services Regulation, Oman)
- Investigation of THM in water networks (various clients in UK and Ireland)
- Water safety plan review (Portsmouth Water, Slough Heat & Power)
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