Pillars of Governmental Environmental Public Health | A Guide to Scalable Environmental Public Health Programs
Potable Water
Program Overview and Core Services/Activities
PROGRAM
RECOMMENDED WORKLOAD 3–4 field activities per week
EDUCATION AND CREDENTIALS
EQUIPMENT
KEY METRICS
Potable Water
• Bachelor’s in science • REHS/RS credential • Drinking water operator certification
• Water quality kits and
• Number of well inspections • Safety of water samples • Number of waterborne
sampling supplies
• Cameras • Measuring tapes and rulers • Mobile technology and inspection forms • Educational materials
illnesses associated with drinking water
• Number of
educational events • Number of voluntary well water samples submitted • Number of plan reviews completed
Definition Potable water programs in EPH departments can include public drinking water systems; ground or well water disinfection, construction, testing, sealing, and repair; chemical runoff; leaking or failing sewage sys- tems; and severe weather effects (e.g., drought, severe cold, severe heat). These programs work to ensure safe drinking water through oversight of water systems. Programs perform activities such as approving new water systems and wells through permitting processes, conducting testing for con- taminants, performing inspections for compliance with health and safety standards, and implementing enforce- ment actions when necessary. Programs also issue water safety advisories and provide education on water safety practices to protect public health.
Characteristics of a Successful Potable Water Program
A potable water program generally works to ensure safe locations for wells and onsite wastewater systems through sanitary surveys. The program ensures that wells are properly constructed, and that the groundwater source is safe through appropriate sampling to test for coliforms and other contaminants in drinking water.
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