Checklist 1: Raw Water Assessment
1. Source Identification
☐ Water source clearly identified
The type of source (groundwater, spring, river, lake, reservoir, or desalination) must be documented, as each source has different contamination risks and treatment needs.
2. Physical Water Quality
☐ Turbidity measured
Turbidity indicates suspended particles in water. High levels may reduce disinfection efficiency, indicate contamination, and increase filtration requirements.
3. Microbiological Quality
☐ Microbiological analysis completed
Testing for bacteria and other indicators is essential to assess health risks and determine the required level of disinfection.
4. Dissolved Metals
☐ Iron analyzed
☐ Manganese analyzed
Iron and manganese are common in groundwater and may cause discoloration, taste issues, and operational problems in pipelines and distribution systems.
5. Nutrients
☐ Nitrate tested
Nitrate is often linked to agricultural activity. Elevated concentrations may require targeted treatment to ensure drinking water safety.
6. Organic Contaminants
☐ Organic contaminants assessed
Pesticides, herbicides, industrial compounds, and natural organic matter should be evaluated where relevant, as they influence the need for activated carbon or advanced treatment processes.
7. Seasonal Variability
☐ Seasonal variations evaluated
Water quality changes over time due to rainfall, temperature, land use, and groundwater recharge. These variations must be considered in treatment design.