10/01/07
Interest in drinking water standards will undoubtedly increase this year, and communicating with customers will be a priority for the industry.
The Drinking Water Inspectorate will consult on amending the Water Supply (Water Quality) regulations just out, and the European Commission will begin its consultation on revision of the European Drinking Water regulations, probably in the spring.
We understand that the Commission, while incorporating the risk assessment/risk management approach for public water supplies, is unlikely to use the current WHO terminology “Water Safety Plans”. This deserves further debate given its importance for consumer perception. There is also some uncertainty about how, if the risk assessment approach is extended to buildings, it will actually involve consumers.
Water UK will be following up last year's successful collaboration with the DWI and representatives of the consumer, public health and local authorities sectors, exploring communication with consumers on drinking water quality.
Contact: Phill Mills
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