What is the first step in assessing the safety of a potential water system?

The first step in assessing the safety of a potential water system is conducting a detailed sanitary survey of the water supply. A sanitary survey is a comprehensive evaluation of the water source, treatment processes, distribution system, and any potential contaminants. It looks at factors such as the source of the water, its proximity to potential pollution sources, the integrity of the infrastructure, and compliance with regulations.

This assessment establishes a baseline understanding of the water system's current condition and potential risks. Identifying vulnerabilities and threats to the water supply is crucial for implementing proper safety measures.

In contrast, while the frequency of sample collection, standard plate counts, and results from bacterial chemical examinations are important components of ongoing water quality monitoring, they do not replace the necessity of the initial sanitary survey. These assessments are generally conducted after establishing whether the water source itself is inherently safe.