What is the purpose of the Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT1-ESWTR)?

The Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT1-ESWTR) was established primarily to address public health concerns related to microbial pathogens in drinking water. Its main focus is on improving the treatment processes used by public water systems to ensure that they effectively remove or inactivate harmful microorganisms, which can pose significant health risks to consumers.

The rule sets specific requirements for filtration and disinfection processes, targeting improvements in water treatment systems that utilize surface water sources, which are more susceptible to contamination by microorganisms. By enhancing the control of microbial pathogens, the LT1-ESWTR aims to reduce the incidence of waterborne diseases and ensure the safety of drinking water supplied to the public.

This focus on microbial contamination is crucial because pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and protozoa can lead to severe health issues. The LT1-ESWTR encourages water systems to adopt better treatment practices and technologies, thereby improving overall water quality for consumers.