Parameter Viewer

Document ID ca-gnomdw-2020-07-2 Title Guidance on natural organic matter in drinking water URL http://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/publications/healthy-living/guidance-natural-organic-matter-drinking-water.html Jurisdiction /ca Subdomain(s) Drinking water, Water treatment Language en Status completed Analyzed at 2026-03-19 08:14:04.789725+00:00 Relevance Technical guidance on NOM impacts on drinking water treatment and monitoring.

Q Qualitative Requirements (64)

Req ID Category Intent Legal Status Name Subdomain(s) Context Conditions Confidence
#Q001administrativeoperationalrecommendedImplement Risk Management Approachdrinking waterAll water utilities should implement a risk management approach, such as the source-to-tap or water safety plan approach, to ensure water safety.high
#Q002treatmenttreatmentrecommendedCharacterize and Remove NOMdrinking waterThe water system owner should strive at all times to appropriately characterize NOM and adequately remove it to achieve water quality goals.high
#Q003administrativeunknownrecommendedContact Drinking Water Authoritydrinking waterWater system owners should contact the appropriate drinking water authority in the affected jurisdiction to confirm if specific requirements will apply to their source/system.high
#Q004designtreatmentrecommendedSource-Specific Treatability Studiesdrinking waterSource-specific treatability studies are recommended to determine the most effective treatment option(s) to adequately remove NOM and to meet water quality goals related to microbial risks, DBPs, biological stability and corrosion control.high
#Q005monitoringtreatmentrecommendedTreatability Study Testing Methodsdrinking waterThe treatability study should include bench- and/or pilot-scale testing, as well as DBP formation potential tests that are representative of distribution system conditions.high
#Q006monitoringoperationalrecommendedMonitor NOM Concentration and Characterdrinking waterThe concentration and character of NOM should be monitored in raw, treated and distribution system water to ensure that: treatment is optimized for NOM and turbidity removal; DBP, lead and copper concentrations are as low as reasonably achievable; and biofilm formation is minimized.high
#Q007monitoringoperationalrecommendedDevelop Source-Specific Monitoring Plandrinking waterA source-specific monitoring plan should be developed to ensure that water utilities are aware of: raw water quality changes with respect to NOM concentration and character; the impact that NOM has on water treatment processes through all water quality conditions; the impact that treatment has on NOM concentration and character; and the impacts on distribution water quality.high
#Q008monitoringreportingrecommendedComprehensive Monitoring Plan Detailsdrinking waterThe monitoring plan should be comprehensive and include source characterization, operational and compliance monitoring; it should also demonstrate that water quality goals are consistently met for microbial risks, DBPs, biological stability and corrosion control.high
#Q009monitoringoperationalrecommendedContinuous Online Monitoring for Variable Sourcesdrinking waterIdeally, continuous online monitoring should be used for highly variable sources (i.e., those that fluctuate with precipitation/snowmelt events) and critical processes (e.g., coagulation).For highly variable sources and critical processes.high
#Q010monitoringoperationalrecommendedRoutine Source Water Assessmentsdrinking waterSource water assessments should be part of routine system assessments.high
#Q011monitoringoperationalrecommendedCharacterization of Surface and Subsurface Sourcesdrinking waterSurface and subsurface sources should be characterized with regard to NOM and inorganic compounds.high
#Q012operationaltreatmentrecommendedTreatment Determination Knowledge Requirementsdrinking waterIn order to determine the most appropriate treatment processes, water utilities should have knowledge about: the origin, occurrence and fluctuations in NOM; interactions between NOM and other water constituents (e.g., enhanced reactivity due to bromide); interactions with chemicals used during treatment...; interactions between NOM and unit processes...; and its impacts on distribution system water quality...high
#Q013monitoringhealthrecommendedRegular Monitoring of Distribution System Water Qualitydrinking waterDistribution system water quality should be regularly monitored, including DBPs and biological stability indicators (e.g., variability of disinfectant residual, biofilm formation rate, corrosion rate).high
#Q014operationaloperationalrecommendedOperations/Maintenance and Hygiene Practicesdrinking waterOperations/maintenance programs should also be in place (e.g., water age control, water main cleaning, cross-connection control, asset management) and strict hygiene should be practiced during all water main construction (e.g., repair, maintenance, new installation) to ensure drinking water is transported to the consumer with minimal loss of quality.high
#Q015monitoringoperationalrecommendedRoutine Monitoring Methods and Parametersdrinking waterWater utilities should employ the most appropriate methods and parameters to routinely monitor raw, treated and distribution system water quality, establish baseline conditions and detect changes that require process modifications.high
#Q016monitoringoperationalrecommendedPreparation of DOC Samplesdrinking waterAs the filter can leach some organic carbon to the sample, it is recommended that at least 50 mL of organic-free water be passed through the filter and filter assembly before filtering the DOC samplehigh
#Q017monitoringoperationalrecommendedFiltration of UV Absorbance Samplesdrinking waterSamples should be filtered to remove particle-related variations in UV absorbancehigh
#Q018monitoringoperationalmandatoryFilter Sample for Organic Colour Measurementdrinking waterThe presence of suspended particles (e.g., clay, iron and manganese oxides) can give waters the appearance of colour and should be removed by filtering the sample through a 0.45 μm filter before measurement of NOM-related organic colourhigh
#Q019monitoringoperationalrecommendedMeasure Parameters Concurrently with DBP Samplesdrinking waterIt is recommended that parameters used to characterize NOM be measured in conjunction with DBP samples to estimate the specific DBP yield (e.g., μg DBP/mg DOC).high
#Q020monitoringoperationalrecommendedCharacterize Inorganic Compounds for DBP Reactivitydrinking waterAlso, inorganic compounds that enhance the reactivity of NOM to form DBPs should be characterized (i.e., ammonia, bromide, iodide and sulphur).high
#Q021treatmenttreatmentrecommendedSource-Specific Treatability Study Methoddrinking waterSource-specific treatability studies, including bench- and/or pilot-scale testing, should be conducted to determine the most suitable treatment alternatives for the full range of water quality conditionshigh
#Q022operationaloperationalrecommendedIntegrate Climate Change Risks into Processesdrinking waterWater utilities should integrate risks related to changes in climate (e.g., algal blooms, drought, fire, flood) into the process to maximize the reliability, robustness and resilience of their systemshigh
#Q023treatmenttreatmentrecommendedAssess Pretreatment Requirements for NOM Removaldrinking waterPretreatment requirements for NOM removal should be considered as part of a source-specific treatability study whenever the optimum MWCO for NOM removal (i.e., 0.2-0.3 kDa) is not used.Whenever the optimum MWCO for NOM removal (i.e., 0.2-0.3 kDa) is not used.high
#Q024treatmenttreatmentrecommendedPilot Testing to Assess Fouling Potentialdrinking waterPilot testing is recommended to assess fouling potential and the need for pre-treatmenthigh
#Q025operationaloperationalrecommendedRegular Backwashing and Periodic Chemical Cleaningdrinking waterA program of regular backwashing and periodic chemical cleaning, using proper foulant-based cleaning chemicals, should also be in place to remove accumulated foulantshigh
#Q026operationaltreatmentmandatoryStrict pH Control for Optimum Coagulationdrinking waterStrict pH control is necessary for optimum coagulation; pH should be kept constant from coagulant addition to after filtration to effectively remove floc particles.high
#Q027monitoringoperationalrecommendedContinuous Monitoring to Optimize Coagulant Dosedrinking waterIdeally, the raw water should be continuously monitored to optimize the coagulant dosehigh
#Q028operationaltreatmentrecommendedJar Testing for Coagulant Selectiondrinking waterJar testing is recommended to optimize coagulant selection.high
#Q029operationaltreatmentrecommendedJar Testing for PAC Optimizationdrinking waterJar testing is recommended to optimize the PAC type, dose and contact time.high
#Q030operationaltreatmentrecommendedRapid Small-Scale Column Tests for Alternative GACsdrinking waterRapid small-scale column tests should be conducted to compare the performance of alternative GACs, particularly for low SUVA sourceshigh
#Q031monitoringoperationalrecommendedQuarterly Monitoring of Raw Water Bromidedrinking waterQuarterly monitoring of raw water bromide is recommended to characterize the source water and allow correlation to bromate (and brominated DBPs).high
#Q032monitoringoperationalmandatoryCollect Water Quality Information for Optimizationdrinking waterWater system owners should collect water quality information to optimize their water treatment processes, meet regulatory requirements related to DBPs, lead and copper, as well as minimize biofilm formation.high
#Q033monitoringoperationalrecommendedRaw Water Monitoring Implementationdrinking waterRaw water monitoring should be conducted to characterize the source and better understand the conditions that lead to changes in the concentrations and/or character of NOM... and the factors that enhance the reactivity of NOM to form DBPs...high
#Q034operationaloperationalrecommendedAnalyze Collected Datadrinking waterOnce data is collected, it should be analyzed to assess the following... if, and how, source water quality is changing... if a correlation exists... how NOM is impacting... how treatment is impacting... distribution system impacts... biological stability... and if a correlation exists between treated water NOM surrogates and distribution system water qualityhigh
#Q035operationaloperationalrecommendedImplement Continuous Improvement Processdrinking waterA continuous improvement process should be in place to ensure water treatment is optimized to achieve water quality goals and maximize public health protection for the full range of water quality conditions.high
#Q036treatmenttreatmentrecommendedTreat Reactive Sources to Stringent Requirementsdrinking waterFor more reactive sources and extensive distribution systems, water should be treated to more stringent requirements, as there is a greater potential for DBP formation.For more reactive sources and extensive distribution systems.high
#Q037designoperationalmandatoryPre-Design Monitoring Requirementdrinking waterSource-specific monitoring prior to facility design is necessary to assess seasonal variations in NOM and forecast extreme conditions due to changes in climate.Prior to facility designhigh
#Q038monitoringoperationalrecommendedSource Water Assessment Requirementsdrinking waterThey should include an understanding of NOM sources in the watershed/aquifer, the conditions that lead to changes in the concentration and/or character of NOM (e.g., precipitation/snowmelt events, algal blooms, drought, fire), and the factors that enhance the reactivity of NOM to form DBPs (e.g., reaction conditions, water age, and inorganic compounds such as ammonia, bromide, iodide, and sulphur).As part of routine source water assessmentshigh
#Q039designtreatmentrecommendedTreatment Selection Considerationsdrinking waterThe appropriate type and level of treatment should take into account source-specific fluctuations in water quality, including seasonal and/or short-term degradation, variability in treatment performance and distribution system conditions.high
#Q040operationaloperationalrecommendedMembrane Interaction Knowledgedrinking waterWater utilities should have a good understanding of how the NOM in their source water will interact with membranes to avoid configurations that incur significant fouling.For utilities utilizing membrane treatmenthigh
#Q041operationaltreatmentrecommendedIon Exchange Efficacy Awarenessdrinking waterWater utilities that use ion exchange for the removal of other anions (e.g., arsenic, chromium, nitrate, uranium) should be aware that NOM competes for ion exchange sites and can decrease process efficacy.When using ion exchange for non-NOM anion removalhigh
#Q042operationaltreatmentrecommendedActivated Carbon Process Efficacydrinking waterWater utilities that use activated carbon for the removal of pesticides or other trace contaminants should be aware that NOM competes for adsorption sites and can decrease process efficacy.When using GAC/PAC for pesticide or contaminant removalhigh
#Q043operationaltreatmentrecommendedOzone Residual Quenching Requirementdrinking waterThe ozone residual should also be quenched before it reaches the schmutzdecke; otherwise the biomass becomes inactive, and biologically unstable water will be produced.When using ozone with slow sand filtrationhigh
#Q044monitoringoperationalmandatorySUVA Sampling Site Selectiondrinking waterit is important to select appropriate sampling sites when measuring UV absorbance to calculate SUVA.When using oxidation processeshigh
#Q045monitoringreportingguidanceReduced Monitoring Optiondrinking waterSystems that exhibit low DBP concentrations, have stable biological water quality (e.g., biostability) and baseline data indicating that NOM does not influence corrosion may consider reduced monitoring.Exhibit low DBP concentrations, stable biological water quality, and baseline data indicating NOM does not influence corrosionhigh
#Q046operationalhealthrecommendedConjunctive DBP Managementdrinking waterThus, THMs and HAAs should be managed conjunctively.high
#Q047treatmenthealthrecommendedSSF Effluent Bacteria Removaldrinking waterThe filtered effluent may also contain high concentrations of heterotrophic bacteria that should be removed/inactivated.When using slow sand filtrationhigh
#Q048operationalhealthrecommendedSecondary Disinfectant Capability Awarenessdrinking waterWater utilities should be aware that, when applied as secondary disinfectants, free chlorine and chloramines possess different capabilities in terms of disinfectant power, reactivity with organic and inorganic material, biofilm penetration, potential for DBP formation and potential for nitrification.high
#Q049operationaloperationalrecommendedOxidant-BOM Awarenessdrinking waterWater utilities should be aware that all oxidants, including chlorine, produce biodegradable products upon reaction with NOM.high
#Q050administrativeoperationalmandatoryOperator Training Requirementdrinking waterOperator training is also required to ensure the effectiveness of the water safety plan at all times.high
#Q051monitoringoperationalrecommendedSource-Specific NOM Correlationsdrinking waterIt is important that correlations be developed on a source-specific basis, because the relationship between NOM and UV absorbance is unique to each source.high
#Q052monitoringoperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency for Variable Sourcesdrinking waterHighly variable water sources and critical processes should therefore be monitored on a more frequent basis.For highly variable water sources and critical processeshigh
#Q053monitoringoperationalrecommendedOzone Source Characterization Parametersdrinking waterWater utilities using ozone should characterize their source water to assess water quality parameters (i.e., bromide, temperature, pH, alkalinity, NOM, ammonia) and how these change on a seasonal basis.When using ozone treatmenthigh
#Q054operationaloperationalrecommendedTreated Water SUVA Calculation Methoddrinking waterTo calculate the treated water SUVA, UV absorbance at 254 nm (UV254) should be measured in filtered water pre-disinfectant addition and divided by the treated water DOC, then multiplied by 100.high
#Q055designtreatmentrecommendedMembrane Pretreatment Customizationdrinking waterPretreatment should be customized to each individual source, as effectiveness is source-specificFor membrane treatment systemshigh
#Q056designtreatmentrecommendedTreatability Study Design Criteriadrinking waterTo ensure that an effective NOM control strategy is implemented, the treatability study should be specifically designed to: 1) assess seasonal variations in NOM; and 2) be representative of distribution system conditions.When conducting a treatability studyhigh
#Q057prohibitionhealthmandatoryPriority of Disinfection Efficacydrinking waterIt is critical that efforts made to minimize DBP formation not compromise the effectiveness of disinfection.When implementing DBP minimization strategieshigh
#Q058operationaloperationalrecommendedIon Exchange Residuals Managementdrinking waterThe handling and disposal of residuals generated by ion exchange processes should also be considered.When utilizing ion exchange processeshigh
#Q059administrativeoperationalrecommendedOperator Understanding of NOM Removal Mechanismsdrinking waterIt is important that water treatment operators understand the NOM removal mechanisms, since changes in treatment practices can significantly impact water quality.high
#Q060operationaltreatmentrecommendedUtility Knowledge of NOM Reactivitydrinking waterIt is important that water utilities understand the source-specific reactivity of NOM when selecting a disinfectant, in order to mitigate the formation of potentially harmful DBPs.When selecting a disinfectant for DBP mitigationhigh
#Q061monitoringtreatmentmandatoryMonitor pH and Alkalinity for Coagulationdrinking waterStrict pH control is critical for NOM removal. As alkalinity affects pH control, pH and alkalinity are other important coagulation process monitoring parameters.During the coagulation process for NOM removalhigh
#Q062operationalhealthmandatoryMaintain Distribution System Integritydrinking waterMaintaining the physical/hydraulic integrity of the distribution system and minimizing negative- or low-pressure events are other key components of a source-to-tap or water safety plan approach.As part of a source-to-tap or water safety plan approachhigh
#Q063operationaloperationalrecommendedAwareness of Oxidant Effect on SUVAdrinking waterWater utilities should also be aware that all oxidants reduce UV absorbance, which affects SUVA without an associated reduction in NOM concentration.When using chemical oxidants (e.g., chlorine, ozone)high
#Q064treatmenttreatmentguidanceStabilize Treated Water with Biological Filtrationdrinking waterAs a result, biologically active filtration may be necessary to stabilize treated waterWhen using oxidants (like chlorine or ozone) that produce biodegradable products (BOM) upon reaction with NOMhigh

P Quantitative Requirements (52)

Req ID Category Intent Legal Status Name Subdomain(s) Limit Type Limit Value Context Conditions Confidence
#P001physicaltreatmentguidanceOrganic colourdrinking watertreatment_goal5-10 TCUSuggested treated water quality targets. These are suggested as guidance only.Source with high specific DBP yield or extensive distribution systemhigh
#P002physicaltreatmentguidanceOrganic colourdrinking watertreatment_goal< 15 TCUSuggested treated water quality targets. These are suggested as guidance only.Source with low specific DBP yieldhigh
#P003physicaltreatmentguidanceUV absorbance (at 254 nm)drinking watertreatment_goal0.02-0.04 cm-1Suggested treated water quality targets.Source with high specific DBP yield or extensive distribution systemhigh
#P004physicaltreatmentguidanceUV absorbance (at 254 nm)drinking watertreatment_goal0.02-0.07 cm-1Suggested treated water quality targets.Source with low specific DBP yieldhigh
#P005physicaltreatmentguidanceUV transmittancedrinking watertreatment_goal90-95 PercentSuggested treated water quality targets.Source with high specific DBP yield or extensive distribution systemhigh
#P006physicaltreatmentguidanceUV transmittancedrinking watertreatment_goal85-95 PercentSuggested treated water quality targets.Source with low specific DBP yieldhigh
#P007chemicaltreatmentguidanceChemical oxygen demand (COD)drinking watertreatment_goal< 5 mg/L O2Suggested treated water quality targets.Applicable regardless of specific DBP yieldhigh
#P008chemicaltreatmentguidanceDOC-for DBP controldrinking watertreatment_goal< 2 mg/L CSuggested treated water quality targets for DBP control.Source with high specific DBP yield or extensive distribution systemhigh
#P009chemicaltreatmentguidanceDOC-for DBP controldrinking watertreatment_goal< 4 mg/L CSuggested treated water quality targets for DBP control.Source with low specific DBP yieldhigh
#P010chemicaltreatmentguidanceDOC-for biological stabilitydrinking watertreatment_goal< 1.8 mg/L CSuggested treated water quality targets for biological stability.Applicable regardless of specific DBP yieldhigh
#P011chemicaloperationalunknownAssimilable organic carbon (AOC)drinking watertreatment_goal10 μg/LDutch approach to safe drinking water includes targets to control microbial activity.In distributed water in the absence of a disinfectant residualmedium
#P012chemicaltreatmentmandatoryTotal Organic Carbon (TOC) Treatment Triggerdrinking waterrequirement> 2 mg/LUS EPA requirement for surface water facilities using conventional or lime softening.TOC levels in source water above this valuehigh
#P013chemicaltreatmentguidelineTotal Organic Carbon (TOC) Guidelinedrinking waterrequirement2 mg/LFrench regulations for treated water intended for human consumption.high
#P014chemicaltreatmentguidelineOxidizability (Chemical Oxygen Demand)drinking waterrequirement5 mg/L O2French regulations for treated water intended for human consumption.high
#P015chemicaltreatmentguidelineChemical Oxygen Demand (COD) / Oxidizabilitydrinking waterrequirement5 mg/L O2European Union drinking water regulations parametric guideline value.high
#P016designtreatmentguidanceOptimum Molecular Weight Cutoff (MWCO)drinking watertreatment_goal0.2-0.3 kDaOptimal range for NOM and DBP precursor removal by membranes.high
#P017operationalreportingmandatoryWater Supply Volume Monitoring Thresholddrinking waterrequirement>= 10000 m3/dEU regulations requirement for TOC as a general water quality indicator.Applies to supplies meeting this volume thresholdhigh
#P018operationaltreatmentguidanceDOC Definition Filtration Pore Sizedrinking waterrequirement0.45 μmOperational definition of dissolved organic carbon (DOC).high
#P019operationaltreatmentrecommendedFilter Assembly Flush Volumedrinking waterrequirement50 mLVolume of organic-free water to pass through filter to prevent carbon leaching.high
#P020microbiologicalhealthguidanceAOC target for Legionella pneumophila controldrinking watertreatment_goal< 5 μg/LGene copies of L. pneumophila were not observed in systems with AOC levels below this threshold.Unchlorinated distributed waterhigh
#P021chemicaltreatmentguidancePotential TOC removal (High SUVA)drinking watertreatment_goal60-80 %Relationship between SUVA and potential TOC removal.SUVA > 4 L/mg·m (Mostly hydrophobic and high molecular weight compounds)high
#P022chemicaltreatmentguidancePotential TOC removal (Medium SUVA)drinking watertreatment_goal40-60 %Relationship between SUVA and potential TOC removal.SUVA 2-4 L/mg·m (Mixture of hydrophilic and hydrophobic compounds)high
#P023chemicaltreatmentguidancePotential TOC removal (Low SUVA)drinking watertreatment_goal0-40 %Relationship between SUVA and potential TOC removal.SUVA < 2 L/mg·m (Mostly hydrophilic and low molecular weight compounds)high
#P024operationaltreatmentunknownGAC reactivation frequencydrinking waterrequirement120 daysReported reactivation frequency for community water systems using GAC for TOC control.Systems with TOC of < 6 mg/L using an empty bed contact time (EBCT) of 10 minhigh
#P025physicaltreatmentunknownBiopolymer concentration fouling thresholddrinking waterrequirement0.1 mg/LConcentration threshold at which biopolymers cause membrane fouling.Drinking water treatment using low-pressure membraneshigh
#P026physicaltreatmentguidanceUV-absorbing particle size thresholddrinking waterrequirement>= 25 µmThreshold for 'large' particles (e.g., NOM) that can shield pathogens from UV light.UV disinfection of drinking waterhigh
#P027operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - Organic colour (Variable Source)drinking waterrequirementDaily frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for variable sources.Variable sourcehigh
#P028operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - Organic colour (Stable Source)drinking waterrequirementWeekly frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for stable sources.Stable sourcehigh
#P029operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - UV absorbance/transmittance (Variable Source)drinking waterrequirementDaily frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for variable sources.Variable sourcehigh
#P030operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - UV absorbance/transmittance (Stable Source)drinking waterrequirementWeekly frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for stable sources.Stable sourcehigh
#P031operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - Organic Carbon (DOC or TOC) (Variable Source)drinking waterrequirementWeekly frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for variable sources.Variable sourcehigh
#P032operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - Organic Carbon (DOC or TOC) (Stable Source)drinking waterrequirementMonthly frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for stable sources.Stable sourcehigh
#P033operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - Disinfection by-products (DBPs)drinking waterrequirementQuarterly frequencyMeasure DOC and inorganic compounds on same day to calculate specific DBP yields.Distribution systemhigh
#P034operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - Disinfectant residualdrinking waterrequirementWeekly frequencyBiological stability monitoring in the distribution system.Distribution systemhigh
#P035physicaltreatmentguidanceUV dose reduction per UVT decreasedrinking waterunknown50 %For every 10% decrease in UV transmittance.UV disinfection of drinking waterhigh
#P036chemicaloperationalrecommendedRapid disinfectant decay thresholddrinking waterunknown>= 2 mg/LDOC concentration at which disinfectant (chlorine, chlorine dioxide) concentration decays rapidly.DOC concentrations >= 2 mg/Lhigh
#P037chemicalhealthguidanceSoluble lead increase sensitivity rangedrinking waterunknown0-3.5 mg/LDOC range where the sharpest increases in soluble lead concentrations were observed.high
#P038chemicalhealthguidanceCopper release increase sensitivity rangedrinking waterunknown0.1-0.2 mg/LDOC concentrations at which NOM has been observed to increase copper release.high
#P039designtreatmentunknownGAC Empty Bed Contact Time (EBCT)drinking waterrequirement10 minDesign parameter for GAC systems associated with a 120-day reactivation frequency.Systems with TOC < 6 mg/Lhigh
#P040physicaltreatmentguidanceChlorine efficacy interference thresholddrinking waterunknown1 NTULevel of organic turbidity (generated by 2 mg/L humic acids) that interfered with chlorine efficacy.Water disinfection with chlorinehigh
#P041physicaltreatmentguidanceUV disinfection turbidity limitdrinking waterrequirement<= 10 NTUUV dose-response of microorganisms is not affected by variations in turbidity up to this level.high
#P042operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - COD (Variable Source)drinking waterrequirementDaily frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for variable sources.Variable sourcehigh
#P043operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - COD (Stable Source)drinking waterrequirementWeekly frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for stable sources.Stable sourcehigh
#P044operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - SUVA (Variable Source)drinking waterrequirementWeekly frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for variable sources.Variable sourcehigh
#P045operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - SUVA (Stable Source)drinking waterrequirementMonthly frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for stable sources.Stable sourcehigh
#P046operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - Inorganic DBP precursors (Ammonia, Bromide, Iodide, Sulphur)drinking waterrequirementQuarterly frequencyQuarterly frequency for both variable and stable sources.high
#P047operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - Coagulant demanddrinking waterrequirementDaily frequencyApplicable to coagulation process for both variable and stable sources.high
#P048operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - Zeta potential / streaming currentdrinking waterrequirementOnline frequencyWhen NOM controls or influences coagulant dose.high
#P049operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - Biofilm formation rate (Variable Source)drinking waterrequirementEvery two weeks frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for variable sources.Variable sourcehigh
#P050operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - Biofilm formation rate (Stable Source)drinking waterrequirementMonthly frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for stable sources.Stable sourcehigh
#P051operationaloperationalrecommendedMonitoring Frequency - Corrosion ratedrinking waterrequirementMonthly frequencySuggested monitoring frequency for both source types.high
#P052microbiologicaltreatmentguidancePathogen log removal deterioration (suboptimal coagulation)drinking waterrequirement2.0-3.4 logsReported level of deterioration in Cryptosporidium removal by clarification/filtration during suboptimal conditions.high

D Definitions (79)

Req ID Category Name Context Confidence
#D001Natural organic matter (NOM)Natural organic matter (NOM) is an extremely complex mixture of organic compounds varying in polarity, acidity, charge density, and molecular mass; NOM can also range from biodegradable (i.e., labile or semi-labile) to less biodegradable (i.e., recalcitrant or refractory).high
#D002Biological stabilityThe biological stability of drinking water refers to the concept of maintaining microbiological water quality from the point of production to the point of consumptionhigh
#D003CorrosionCorrosion is the deterioration of a material that results from a reaction with its environment.high
#D004DOCDOC is operationally defined as the organic carbon that has passed through a 0.45 μm filterhigh
#D005true coloura filtered sample is operationally defined as "true colour"high
#D006BDOCBDOC refers to the portion of DOC available to be utilized by heterotrophic bacteriahigh
#D007AOCAOC represents the most readily degradable portion of the BDOC that can be taken up by bacteria and converted into organic biomasshigh
#D008ACUapparent colour unitshigh
#D009AOCassimilable organic carbonhigh
#D010ATPadenosine triphosphatehigh
#D011BDOCbiodegradable organic carbonhigh
#D012BOMbiodegradable organic matterhigh
#D013CODchemical oxygen demandhigh
#D014CUcolour unitshigh
#D015DAFdissolved air flotationhigh
#D016DCAAdichloroacetic acidhigh
#D017DBPdisinfection by-producthigh
#D018DOCdissolved organic carbonhigh
#D019EPAEnvironmental Protection Agency (United States)high
#D020EUEuropean Unionhigh
#D021GACgranular activated carbonhigh
#D022GLUMRBGreat Lakes - Upper Mississippi River Boardhigh
#D023H2O2hydrogen peroxidehigh
#D024HAAhaloacetic acidhigh
#D025HAA5haloacetic acid 5high
#D026LC-OCDliquid chromatography-organic carbon detectionhigh
#D027LC-ONDliquid chromatography-organic nitrogen detectionhigh
#D028MDLmethod detection limithigh
#D029MFmicrofiltrationhigh
#D030MWCOmolecular weight and cutoffhigh
#D031N-DBPsnitrogenous-DBPshigh
#D032NFnanofiltrationhigh
#D033NOMnatural organic matterhigh
#D034NTUnephelometric turbidity unithigh
#D035OPPPopportunistic premise plumbing pathogenhigh
#D036PACpowdered activated carbonhigh
#D037peCODphotoelectrochemical oxygen demandhigh
#D038POCparticulate organic carbonhigh
#D039RBFriverbank filtrationhigh
#D040ROreverse osmosishigh
#D041SSFslow sand filtrationhigh
#D042SUVAspecific UV absorbancehigh
#D043THMtrihalomethanehigh
#D044TCAAtrichloroacetic acidhigh
#D045TCUtrue colour unitshigh
#D046TOCtotal organic carbonhigh
#D047UFultrafiltrationhigh
#D048UVultraviolethigh
#D049UV254ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm wavelengthhigh
#D050WHOWorld Health Organizationhigh
#D051Allochthonousderived from the terrestrial ecosystemhigh
#D052Autochthonousderived from the plants and microorganisms growing in the water bodyhigh
#D053TOCTOC quantifies all organic carbon in a water sample and is the sum of particulate and dissolved organic carbon.high
#D054UV transmittanceUV transmittance is a relative measure of how much light passes through a water sample (at a wavelength of 254 nm typically through a 1 cm path length) compared with how much light passes through pure deionized waterhigh
#D055Riverbank filtration (RBF)Riverbank filtration (RBF) involves locating vertical or horizontal water supply wells near a river to use the riverbank and adjacent aquifer as a natural filter to remove contaminants, including BOM.high
#D056Slow sand filtration (SSF)Slow sand filtration (SSF) generally consists of untreated water flowing by gravity at a slow rate through a bed of submerged porous sand.high
#D057schmutzdeckethe layer of solids and biological growth that forms on top of a slow sand filter.high
#D058Apparent colourApparent colour applies to unfiltered samples and is a useful measure to assess the presence of iron and manganese oxides in the distribution systemhigh
#D059Engineered biological filtrationEngineered biological filtration involves the use of granular media filters (i.e., anthracite/sand or GAC) without the maintenance of a disinfectant residual across the bed.high
#D060Ion exchangeIon exchange is a process in which ions from the raw water are exchanged with ions within the solid phase of a resin.high
#D061Activated carbonActivated carbon is an absorbent material that provides a surface on which ions or molecules in the raw water can concentrate.high
#D062Jar testingJar testing is one of the most commonly used techniques to simulate coagulation treatment and to determine the coagulation potential for a water sourcehigh
#D063Guidance documentsGuidance documents are developed to provide operational or management guidance related to specific drinking water-related issues (e.g., boil water advisories), to make health risk assessment information available when a guideline is not deemed necessary.high
#D064GuidelinesGuidelines are established under the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality specifically for contaminants that meet all of the following criteria: 1. exposure to the contaminant could lead to adverse health effects; 2. the contaminant is frequently detected or could be expected to be found in a large number of drinking water supplies throughout Canada; and 3. the contaminant is detected, or could be expected to be detected, at a level that is of possible health significance.high
#D065Low-pressure membranesMF and UF are referred to as low-pressure membranes and are used for particle/pathogen removal. The predominant removal mechanism is straining or size exclusion.high
#D066High-pressure membranesNF and RO are referred to as high-pressure membranes and are used for the removal of NOM and inorganics (e.g., sodium, chloride, calcium, magnesium). The predominant removal mechanism is differences in solubility or diffusivity.high
#D067Specific DBP yieldμg DBP/mg DOChigh
#D068ozone-BACwhen biologically active carbon (BAC) filters are used after ozonation, the process is referred to as ozone-BAC.high
#D069Specific colourtrue colour divided by mg/L DOChigh
#D070Sweep coagulationadsorption onto aluminum or ferric hydroxide flochigh
#D071transphilic NOMHydrophilic acidshigh
#D072specific dose or demandmg/L per mg/L DOChigh
#D073Recalcitrantnot easily biodegradedmedium
#D074amphipathicSome compounds can exhibit both hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties (i.e., amphipathic)high
#D075amphotericpossess both negative- and positive-charged functional groups (i.e., amphoteric)high
#D076biopolymershydrophilic neutral fraction of NOM, comprising polysaccharides and proteins in macromolecular and/or colloidal form (i.e., biopolymers)high
#D077CoagulationThe goal of coagulation is to destabilize (i.e., neutralize the charge of) colloidal particles (including pathogens) so that they effectively aggregate during flocculation and are subsequently removed by clarification and/or filtration.high
#D078Specific UV absorbance (SUVA)UV254 divided by the mg/L of DOChigh
#D079Heterotrophic organismsHeterotrophic organisms make up the majority of bacteria in drinking water and draw their energy for growth, multiplication and production of biofilm matrix materials from the degradation of organic carbon compoundshigh