Threats and Investment Options to Protect Our Drinking Water Distribution Networks

Abstract

This article is a summary of conclusions derived from the 2006 analysis and report, “Reference Scenario – Systems Study of Priority Threat Contaminants in Water Venues,” published by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Science and Technology Directorate. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency was a cooperating partner. The report chose three realistic terrorism scenarios for a detailed, end‐to‐end assessment of threat, vulnerability, and consequences. A qualitative selection process for determining relevant priority water contaminants included the following elements: physical characteristics (e.g., taste, odor, color), route of exposure (e.g., oral, dermal), toxicity, stability in water, and the availability of medical treatment. In the end, three venues were chosen and analyzed with one contaminant of concern.

Point‐of‐Use Devices for Attenuation of Trace Organic Compounds in Water

“…Advanced oxidation is particularly attractive but can lead to formation of toxic and uncharacterized by-products (Heringa et al 2011, Andrzejewski et al 2008, Von Gunten & Holgne 1994. Moreover, even the highest purity of produced drinking water can be compromised in the distribution system through cross-connections, infrastructure failure, or intentional perturbations (Cleland 2010).…”