4.2 Applying the Framework

The Guidelines provide a Framework for management of drinking water quality based on a preventive, risk management approach; Chapter 2 gives an overview of the Framework, and Chapter 3 details its 12 elements. Those responsible for small water supplies should adhere to this approach as far as possible; however, it may not be practical or necessary to implement all aspects of the Framework. One of the major difficulties for small communities, particularly those in remote areas, is the implementation of regular monitoring programs (both in terms of cost and the practicalities of transporting samples to testing laboratories). The advantage of the Framework is that it places emphasis on a preventive approach to managing water quality, with less reliance on water testing.

The principal risk to human health from drinking water is the presence of pathogenic microorganisms. Thus, to ensure safe water, the focus in small supplies should be on regular inspection of the system to check for any direct or potential sources of contamination, and on the use of a clean and unpolluted water source (see Box 5.4). The following sections explain how these requirements for small water supplies can be achieved in the context of the Framework.