Water Quality Awareness 101 1 | P a g e 1. INTRODUCTION Access to safe drinking water is a fundamental requirement for life. Water that is classified as being fit for human consumption is effectively a food grade product and is required to meet specific quality standards prior to being supplied to customers. The quality and safety of drinking water can be affected by coming into contact with various people and activities. This contact can occur both directly and indirectly and be intentional or unintentional. In extreme cases, this contact can lead to customers becoming very ill. 2. OBJECTIVE This booklet aims to provide utilities and personnel that may interact with drinking water, some basic guidance and best practice information to protect the integrity of the water supply to ensure that water remains safe and fit for human consumption. The information covers all processes from the raw water catchment through to the customer’s tap. It aims to identify potential contamination points and adverse interactions at different stages along the drinking water supply path. 3. HOW TO USE THIS BOOKLET The booklet is divided into two key sections: Section 1: General Advice - which is to be read and understood by all personnel. It provides broad knowledge, guidance and information relating to common issues that could adversely impact on drinking water quality. Section 2: Specific Advice - is aimed at individual industries and/or specific work activities in and around catchments and drinking water systems. Within each of these two sections there is information that details:  Hazards or issues associated with a particular threat to drinking water quality  Common causes of contamination or harmful interactions with drinking water  Best practice solutions/options to eliminate and/or minimise the effects of these interactions on drinking water quality