Potential Pathways for Coliform Contamination Fixing Positive Coliform

Potential Pathways for Coliform Contamination

Fixing Positive Coliform Results

Fixing Positive Coliform Results • Adopt the mentality that every positive coliform result has a source. • Thoroughly investigate to determine potential sources. • Do not flush and disinfect the entire system following a positive routine result.

Fixing Positive Coliform Results • Understand that repeat samples are intended to determine whether coliform contamination is widespread or isolated. • Take repeat samples at the correct locations. • Review past monitoring results to see if there any trends.

Fixing Positive Coliform Results • If the system uses sodium hypochlorite for disinfection, review: – procedures for replacing or freshening-up the hypochlorite feed solution – chlorine residual monitoring frequency in the distribution system – locations for chlorine residual monitoring – expiration date of test kit chemicals – water usage records, particularly peak usage vs. chlorine feed and contact time

Investigative Sampling • If after thoroughly inspecting the system for potential pathways for the coliform contamination you still have not identified a source, take investigative samples of the: – water source – storage tank – each section of the distribution system • Check the box on the bacteriological sampling form that the samples are “special” or “investigative”.

If Potential Coliform Source Cannot Be Identified • Shutdown the system if a source cannot be found. • Flush and disinfect the storage tank and distribution system completely if a source cannot be identified. • If the source is determined to be contaminated, disinfect it obtaining a free chlorine residual of 100 mg/L.

If Potential Coliform Source Cannot Be Identified • Premix your chlorine solution in a container. • Pour the solution into the well through a hose which the hose is being raised and lowered through the water. • Hold the chlorine in the source for at least 24 -hours. • Pump the well or flush out the spring box until the chlorine residual is 1 mg/l or less.

Disinfection of the Distribution System • To disinfect the distribution system chlorinate the source and pump or feed the water into the system. • Let the water run out of each tap until a chlorine odor is detected. • Hold the chlorinated water in the distribution system for at least 24 -hours. • Keep the chlorinated water out of nearby surface water.

• Start your search at the well house.

Check the well casing to see if its properly sealed

An incomplete repair may be a source

Can surface water runoff infiltrate around the well casing?

• Seal any cracks in the concrete pad around the casing. • Pad should extend above grade and slope away from the casing. • Hand pump pad should have a drain that discharges to grade at least 100 feet away.

Surface water runoff into vaults associated with the water system is another potential pathway for contaminates

Surface water runoff and sediment has potentially contaminated the filter Avoid putting anything that must be maintained in a vault.

Can surface water pond about the well casing?

Is the casing sealed to prevent dirt and runoff from entering?

Is the well subject to flooding or is it under the direct influence of surface water?

Is there a septic system or other source of coliforms within 100 feet of the well?

Is there a vault toilet within 100 feet of the well?

• A vault toilet you would be proud to take Mom to.

Storage tanks are common source of contamination. If sediment accumulates in the tank, periodic cleaning and disinfecting is necessary.

• An overflow that is not properly screened provides a pathway for rodents and other small animals. • At least a #4 mesh screen sandwiched between flanges should be installed.

• If possible, overflow should terminate 12 to 24 inches above grade to make it more for rodents to tamper with the screen.

Divert surface water runoff away from storage tank access hatches

Keep access hatch locked or otherwise secured

Keep hatch covers well above grade and ensure their covers are sealed with a gasket

Remove tall vegetation around the well that your sample containers may brush against

• Debris accumulated in the well house may be a source of contamination • Maintain the structure to prevent rodents from living in it

Properly seal all abandoned wells

Stagnant water due to excessive storage volume may cause grown of heterotrophic (noncoliform) bacteria.

Corrosion inside very old tanks will affect the quality of the water

Provide a separate water line with backflow prevention on it to meet fire demands

Cross Connections • Has the water system pressure dropped below 20 psi shortly before the positive coliform result due to: – water line break – high water demand (e. g. , opening of a hydrant to fill fire engines) • Are backflow preventors installed on all potential cross connections?

A reduced pressure backflow preventor should be installed on lawn irrigation lines Backflow preventors should be tested annually to ensure they are functioning properly

• Are vacuum breakers installed on all hose bibs?

Install vacuum breakers with manual drains to prevent the tap from freezing

Do shop sink faucets have built in backflow preventors?

Springs

Check isolation and air relief valves on the line from the spring to the site to determine whether they are impacted by runoff or soil erosion

Ensure storage tank hatch is not subject to surface water runoff

Check that the access hatch is bolted closed and sealed with a gasket

The vent must be screened to keep insects out

Does the spring also supply wildlife or cattle troughs?

Are total separate water lines run for drinking vs. wildlife/cattle?