What is required from water systems according to the Surface Water Treatment Rule?

The Surface Water Treatment Rule (SWTR) is a key regulation under the Safe Drinking Water Act that is designed to ensure the safety of drinking water. One of the primary requirements of this rule is that water systems must treat surface water sources to remove pathogens and other contaminants that could pose risks to public health. This treatment typically encompasses both filtration and disinfection processes.

Filtration is crucial for removing particulate matter, microorganisms, and other substances from surface water sources. After filtration, disinfection is necessary to eliminate any remaining pathogens that might have survived the filtration process. The combination of these two methods helps ensure that the water is safe for consumption, significantly reducing the potential for waterborne diseases.

By requiring both filtration and disinfection, the SWTR establishes a comprehensive approach to water treatment that protects public health and ensures the reliability of safe drinking water.