What is the potential outcome of a system that serves fewer than 15 service connections as defined by the SDWA?

What is the potential outcome of a system that serves fewer than 15 service connections as defined by the SDWA?

• A. It is exempt from regulations
• B. It falls under the category of a public water system
• C. It is subject to stricter regulations
• D. It must conduct regular sanitary surveys

Answer: (A)

A system that serves fewer than 15 service connections is indeed exempt from certain regulations under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). This exemption applies specifically to the definition of a public water system, which is defined as a system that provides water for human consumption to 15 or more service connections or serves at least 25 individuals for 60 days or more a year. The rationale behind this exemption is primarily focused on the scale and impact of such smaller systems. Because they serve a limited number of connections, the potential public health risks are considered to be lower compared to larger systems. As a result, these smaller systems are not required to adhere to the same comprehensive regulatory framework that governs larger public water systems. In contrast, larger systems with 15 or more connections are subject to a variety of regulations aimed at ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water. They must conduct regular monitoring, reporting, and compliance with water quality standards. Regular sanitary surveys are also mandated for these larger systems to maintain public health and safety.

A system that serves fewer than 15 service connections is indeed exempt from certain regulations under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). This exemption applies specifically to the definition of a public water system, which is defined as a system that provides water for human consumption to 15 or more service connections or serves at least 25 individuals for 60 days or more a year.

The rationale behind this exemption is primarily focused on the scale and impact of such smaller systems. Because they serve a limited number of connections, the potential public health risks are considered to be lower compared to larger systems. As a result, these smaller systems are not required to adhere to the same comprehensive regulatory framework that governs larger public water systems.

In contrast, larger systems with 15 or more connections are subject to a variety of regulations aimed at ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water. They must conduct regular monitoring, reporting, and compliance with water quality standards. Regular sanitary surveys are also mandated for these larger systems to maintain public health and safety.