AWWA WSC61401

This paper discusses a study to evaluate current and emerging early detection technology capabilities and associated shortcomings in order to provide government agencies and water utilities a methodology for determining the specific competencies and value of installing these technologies. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has tasked a multi-laboratory team to evaluate current and future needs to protect the nation's water distribution infrastructure by supporting an objective evaluation of current and new technologies. The primary deliverables from this operational technology demonstration are the following: establishment of an advisory board for review and approval of testing protocols, methodologies, technology acquisition processes, and recommendations for technology testing and evaluation in laboratory and field settings; development of a technology acquisition process; creation of laboratory and field testing and evaluation capability; and, testing of candidate technologies for insertion into a water early warning system. The initial phase of this study involves the development of two separate but complementary strategies to be reviewed by the advisory board: a technology acquisition strategy; and, a technology evaluation strategy. Lawrence Livermore and Sandia National Laboratories are tasked with the first strategy (see the abstract by Glascoe et al.), while Los Alamos, Pacific Northwest, and Oak Ridge National Laboratories are tasked with the second strategy. The first goal of the evaluation strategy is the adoption of appropriate requirements for the testing and evaluation of recommended technology and the establishment of a data management system. The second goal is to provide standard protocols, quality assurance and quality control programs for the laboratory and field evaluation capabilities. The final goal is the execution of laboratory and field testing programs and the incorporation of technologies into the nation's water systems. Funding for this effort is provided by the DHS Directorate of Science and Technology as a part of the Chemical Countermeasures Portfolio.