AWWA WQTC52889

The protozoan parasites Cryptosporidium and Giardia have the potentialto pose a significant public health risk if they are allowed to progress into the potable water distribution system. The need to minimize the risk of contamination in the water supply has, in recent years, taken a high profile, as a result of a number of well documented and high profile waterborne disease outbreaks. In response to this and in recognition of the general need to continue to minimize the risk of pathogen breakthrough in water filtration processes, a filtration review project was performed in Adelaide, South Australia. The aim of the study was to review, using particle counters, the impact of different treatment plant operational events on filtered water particle counts, and determine methodologies for optimizing the operation of rapid gravity filters through the minimization of particle breakthrough. This paper describes the trials performed, outlines the results obtained, and discusses experiences from the trials. The paper also considers the benefits of using particle counters in research and as an audit-based diagnostic tool, versus the potential use of counters as an ongoing operational tool, and the limitations of such an application. Includes 14 references, tables, figures.