Water Utility Safety Checklist

The U.S. government at the federal and state levels closely watched contamination levels in the water supply. Officials look for contaminants that will cause public illness and other effects. Our drinking water goes through a decontamination process that cleans and readies it for our consumption. 

The Environmental Protection Agency regulates contaminants in our drinking water and dictates acceptable levels of toxins. By-products of the chemicals used to clean the water need to stay extraordinarily low as well. The EPA follows a strict strategy in providing clean water, including developing new technologies to remove contaminants and building better partnerships at the state level. As a current strategy, four carcinogens that show up in our water supply have gained the attention of the EPA, which strives to completely remove them.

Currently the EPA prohibits any levels of bacteria like E. Coli and Fecal Coliform. Parasites, such as Cryptosporidium and Guardia, must be removed before tap water is considered safe. Contaminants, including chlorine and arsenic, are strictly controlled, but show up either in the pipes or as a result of water disinfection methods. Rigorous testing procedures allow officials to look at the bigger picture and decide if the contaminant picture threatens public health.

Some groups of people may put themselves at risk by consuming tap water. Pregnant, elderly or very young people should discuss tap water consumption with their doctor. Some doctors require that water for these sensitive groups be boiled or filtered before use to remove remaining contaminants. You may request a copy of your city’s annual water report to view levels of toxins in your water supply.