AWWA WQTC57094

Given the lack of specific guidance on the analytical procedures to be employed by utilities during emergencies, the Pittsburgh Water & Sewer Authority, and the University of Pittsburgh School of Engineering, conducted their own investigation to identify feasible analytical responses to security concerns. The investigation involved a search of the literature as well as extensive discussions with personnel from other water utilities, industry organizations, and regulatory agencies. This paper describes the analytical measures that PWSA has adopted for use in the event of suspected tampering with its water system, during periods of heightened security awareness, and perhaps even on a more routine basis. These techniques, which are mainly biological in nature, enhance the Authority's ability to screen for a variety of potential microbiological and chemical contaminants. The basic mechanism for each method is described along with some baseline data accumulated by the PWSA laboratory. The methods were evaluated based on their ability to detect agents as well as speed and ease of analysis. Includes 14 references, tables, figures.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. - No.

Published:

11/01/2002

Number of Pages:

28

File Size:

1 file , 390 KB