How To Get Water Quality

Transcription

1 Caledon East (Palgrave - Caledon East Drinking Water System)

2 Table of Contents Our Vision 2 1. General Drinking Water System Information The Municipal Waterworks of the Community of Caledon East, Town of Caledon Expenditure Information 5 2. How is Water Treated? 5 3. Ontario Drinking Water Compliance Information Annual Water Reports Sampling and Testing Certified Water Operators Water Quality Notification Water System Inspections How well did we do? Operation Customer Service Quality and Efficiency Drinking Water Quality Programs Municipal Drinking Water Licensing Program Source Water Protection Private Well Abandonment Program Watermain Renewal Program Community Lead Testing Program Watermain Flushing Program Watermain Swabbing Program Hydrant Inspection Program Drinking Water Sampling Station Program 23 Appendix A Summary of Water Testing Results 24 Appendix B Frequently Asked Questions 32 Water Quality at Home Tips 35 Report Accessibility 37 1

3 Our Vision To be recognized as the Industry Leader in Public Works The Regional Municipality of Peel (Peel) takes pride in ensuring that its residents are provided with clean and safe drinking water. The Region of Peel treats its source water to remove contaminants and regularly tests the water quality to ensure its consumers are provided with high quality drinking water. A number of tests were performed on thousands of water samples collected throughout the year, including testing for microbiological, inorganic and organic parameters. The results of the tests performed in 2014 confirm excellent quality of drinking water and have been consolidated in this annual report. If experiencing difficulty accessing or viewing the 2014 data results, please contact our Water Quality Team at ext or at [email protected]. 2

4 1. General Drinking Water System Information 1.1 The Municipal Waterworks of the Community of Caledon East, Town of Caledon Drinking Water Works Number: (Palgrave Caledon East Drinking Water System) The community of Caledon East, with total population served of 6287, is serviced by three municipal wells, a water storage reservoir and a distribution network of about 35.2 kilometres of watermains and 207 fire hydrants. Caledon East Well No. 2 is deemed groundwater under direct influence of surface water (GUDI) with effective in-situ filtration. Caledon East Well No. 3 is deemed groundwater. Treatment processes for Caledon East Well No. 2 are located at Caledon East Well No. 3. Raw water from Well No. 2 is pumped to Caledon East Well No. 3 treatment facility. Caledon East Well No. 2 water treatment consists of iron removal and disinfection. Iron is removed through oxidization by sodium hypochlorite followed by greensand filtration. The filtered water is treated with sodium hypochlorite and ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation for primary disinfection. Sodium hypochlorite is also used for secondary disinfection. Caledon East Well No. 3 water treatment consists of primary and secondary disinfection by sodium hypochlorite. Treated water from Well No. 3 may be blended with treated water from Well No. 2. The treatment facility for Well Nos. 2&3 is classified with the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) as a class II water treatment subsystem. 3

5 Caledon East Well No. 4 is deemed groundwater. Water treatment process includes iron removal and disinfection. Iron is removed through oxidization by sodium hypochlorite followed by greensand filtration. Sodium hypochlorite is used for primary and secondary disinfection. The facility is classified with the MOECC as a class II water treatment subsystem. The Old Church Booster Pumping Station interconnects Palgrave and Caledon East drinking water systems allowing both water systems to serve as back up water supply to each other. Because of this interconnection, Palgrave and Caledon East systems are classified with the MOECC as one drinking water system (Palgrave - Caledon East drinking water system) with one water works number and as class II water distribution subsystem. Caledon East drinking water system is monitored and controlled 24 hours per day, 7 days a week through a computerized Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. Caledon East wells are equipped with stand-by power generators to ensure treatment operation continuity in an event of a power failure. 4

6 1.2 Expenditure Information: Peel staff determines capital spending priorities to eliminate unnecessary expenditures while maintaining its infrastructure. Table 1 Caledon East Drinking Water System Significant Expenses for 2014 Activity Description Location Activity Type Approximate Expenditure SCADA wiring Well Nos. 2, 3 &4 Replacement $4,820 ICP Panel Bypass Switch Well Nos. 2, 3 &4 $3,383 Installation New Watermain Distribution $2,741, How Is Water Treated Well Nos. 2 and 3 Raw water from Caledon East Well No. 2 is pumped to the Caledon East Well No. 3 building for treatment. Sodium hypochlorite is added to oxidize the iron which is later removed through greensand filter media. The filtered water is treated with ultraviolet (UV) light for primary disinfection followed by secondary disinfection by sodium hypochlorite. Raw water from Caledon East Well No. 3 is treated with sodium hypochlorite for primary and secondary disinfection. Caledon East Well No. 3 chlorinated water may be blended with Well No. 2 treated water before entry to the distribution system. The treated water is allowed to remain in contact with sodium hypochlorite for a period of time to ensure effective disinfection before serving the first consumer. Caledon East Well Nos. 2 and 3 treatment processes and water distribution are presented in Figure 1. 5

7 Figure 1 - Caledon East Well Nos. 2 and 3 Water Treatment and Distribution Process Flow Well No. 4 Sodium hypochlorite is applied to the raw water from Caledon East Well No. 4 to oxidize iron which is later removed through greensand media filter. The filtered water is treated with sodium hypochlorite for primary and secondary disinfection. The treated water is allowed to remain in contact with sodium hypochlorite for a period of time to ensure effective disinfection before serving the first consumer. Caledon East Water Treatment Plant No. 2 has pressure booster pumps and pressure tanks to service an adjacent subdivision (Granite Stones) situated at a higher elevation. 6

8 Caledon East Well No. 4 treatment process and water distribution are presented in Figure 2. Figure 2 - Caledon East Well No. 4 Water Treatment and Distribution Process Flow 7

9 3. Region of Peel and Drinking Water Compliance in Ontario Drinking water quality in Peel is regulated by the Ontario Government through the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC). The Ontario drinking water legislation sets requirements for municipal system owners and operating authorities with regards to the operation, level of treatment, sampling and testing, certification of staff and water quality notification. 3.1 Annual Water Reports To comply with the Drinking Water Systems regulation (Ontario Regulation 170/03) under the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002, every year, Peel prepares Water Quality Reports that provide information on quality of water supplied and a Summary Report regarding the operation and performance of the drinking water systems. The Summary Report under Schedule 22 of the Ontario Regulation 170/03 includes a statement of compliance with the terms and conditions of the drinking water regulations under the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002, for Peel s drinking water systems and a summary of the quantities and flow rates of water supplied. This report is made available to Regional Council by March 31 of each year. The Water Quality Reports and Summary Report are made available to the public to ensure Peel consumers are kept informed. Each year, the reports are posted on the Region of Peel s web site ( and their electronic or paper copies may be obtained upon request by ing the Region at [email protected] or calling at ext Additionally, the Region of Peel places an ad in the local newspapers to inform its consumers about the availability of the Water Quality Reports. 8

10 3.2 Sampling and Testing In compliance with the drinking water legislation, drinking water systems are required to monitor their water quality to ensure it meets provincial standards. Peel regularly samples and tests raw, treated and distribution system water for a number of microbiological, chemical and radiological parameters. Peel has always had an extensive water sampling and monitoring program to better understand the quality of source water, ensure effective treatment processes, and to diligently monitor and protect the drinking water supply. Sampling and testing is conducted by trained and qualified operators, who collect water samples from various sampling sites throughout the Region and immediately test them for first water safety indicators. As part of Peel s water quality monitoring programs, samples are also collected for laboratory analysis for more than 150 health-related and aesthetic parameters. The Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) requires that all drinking water testing laboratories be accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) based on proficiency evaluation conducted by the Canadian Association for Laboratory Accreditation (CALA) as well as licensed by the MOECC for all drinking water tests performed. All laboratories used by Peel are accredited by the SCC, licensed by the MOECC, and adhere to strict drinking water sample collection, handling and transport protocols as well as analytical and reporting procedures. 9

11 3.3 Certified Water Operators All water treatment plant, distribution system and maintenance operators and technical staff have appropriate Water Treatment, Water Distribution and Water Quality Analyst certification, as required by the Ontario drinking water legislation. The MOECC-mandated training and certification program ensures that all operators are certified to industry recognized standards. Peel has established a continuing education program for all staff responsible for operating drinking water systems. This helps operators to gain knowledge of the latest industry practices, technologies and advanced processes and to effectively maintain system water quality and quantity. 3.4 Water Quality Notification In compliance with the regulatory requirements, Peel reports every adverse water quality event to the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change and immediately initiates corrective action to address and resolve the problem and implement control measures to prevent its recurrence. Peel has established a notification protocol for reporting of adverse water quality events and makes these reports and data publicly available in the Water Quality Reports. In 2014, there were no events of adverse water quality at the Palgrave - Caledon East Drinking Water System. 3.5 Water System Inspections On an annual basis, the Region of Peel drinking water systems undergo the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) inspection program to confirm compliance with provincial drinking water legislation. The MOECC s annual inspection program is an important aspect of drinking water supply to our consumers. Through this program, the Ministry ensures that Peel meets the sampling, testing and disinfection requirements, treatment standards, and staff training requirements as stated in the Ontario Regulations 170/03, 169/03, and 128/04 under the Safe Drinking Water Act,

12 MOECC inspections provide Peel with an overview of how well our drinking water systems are doing and how well we meet the province s stringent regulations. They also provide an opportunity to review our best management practices and if necessary, implement new processes to continually improve the operation and management of Peel s drinking water systems. For an overview of all the work the MOECC is doing to protect drinking water in Ontario, please visit the MOECC website for the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change report: 4. How Well Did We Do? 4.1 Operation To protect the health of the public and to ensure consumers receive clean and safe water, the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) has established the Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards (ODWS). These standards are set to ensure water is free of disease causing organisms and hazardous chemicals. In 2014, Peel monitored water quality by undertaking tens of thousands of process samples and tests to ensure a safe and clean water supply. Appendix A provides a full summary of the water quality test results. Peel is proud to report that for the year 2014, Caledon East drinking water quality met the ODWS. The MOECC performs annual inspections on all municipal drinking water systems and based on the inspection findings, the Ministry issues score cards. The score is based upon the questions posed by the Ministry Inspector during each inspection. Palgrave - Caledon East drinking water system s overall performance has been excellent for the past four (4) inspection years. 11

13 Figure 3 - Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) Inspection Rating For more information on the MOECC inspection methodology, please visit the Ministry s website: 12

14 4.2 Customer Service Quality and Efficiency In 2014, all customer calls were responded to and resolved in a timely manner. Peel staff has made every effort to contact the consumers and satisfactorily address their questions. Records of water quality calls received are logged in Peel s data base and kept on file. Figure 4 - Water Quality Enquiries Customer Service Index Note: Higher volume of public enquiries in 2011 was due to capital improvement projects and drinking water system maintenance. 13

15 5. Drinking Water Quality Programs 5.1 Municipal Drinking Water Licensing Program Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002 (SDWA) all municipal residential drinking water system owners in Ontario must have a Municipal Drinking Water Licence (MDWL) to operate their system. In order to be issued a Licence, the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) requires owners to have the following five prerequisites: 1. Drinking Water Works Permit (DWWP) A permit describing the drinking water system and giving authority to establish or alter a drinking water system. Peel holds valid DWWPs for all its drinking water systems. 2. Permit to Take Water (PTTW) A valid permit to take water issued under the Ontario Water Resources Act (OWRA) specifying the approved rate of water taking. Peel holds valid PTTWs for all its drinking water systems. 3. An Accepted Operational Plan The Operational Plan defines and documents the Quality Management System (QMS) for Peel s drinking water systems in accordance with the requirements of the MOECC s Drinking Water Quality Management Standard (DWQMS). The Operational Plan outlines the policy commitments and associated procedures, responsibilities and evaluation measures that ensure drinking water quality and safety in all processes for water treatment and distribution, from source to tap. 14

16 4. Accredited Operating Authority (Third-Party Audit of the QMS) Municipal residential drinking water system owners must ensure that at all times an accredited operating authority is in charge of the drinking water systems. Peel, as the operating authority of the South Peel Distribution, Palgrave-Caledon East; Caledon Village-Alton, Inglewood, and Cheltenham Drinking Water Systems has been successfully maintaining Full Scope - Entire DWQMS accredited operating authority status since first awarded in August Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA), as the operating authority for the Lakeview Water Treatment Plant, Lorne Park Water Treatment Plant, and South Peel Water Transmission and Pumping System has been successfully maintaining Full Scope Entire DWQMS accredited operating authority status since Full Scope Accreditation recognizes that the operating authority has a QMS in place that conforms to the DWQMS as documented in the Operational Plan. Continuance of accreditation is based on a three-year review cycle. This is accomplished through annual surveillance offsite audits in years one and two and an on-site verification audit for DWQMS reaccreditation in year three. Peel s on-site verification audit for reaccreditation is scheduled for early Financial Plan Ontario Regulation 453/07 Financial Plans mandates municipal drinking water system owners to prepare a long term strategy to ensure the financial sustainability of drinking water systems. The Financial Plan for the drinking water systems was first prepared and approved by Council Resolution in June 2010 and submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH). The Financial Plan forecasts a period of at least six years, and at a minimum, must be updated and approved by Council Resolution and resubmitted to the MMAH every five years prior to an application for the renewal of the municipal drinking water licence. Pursuant to the municipal drinking water licence renewal applications, an update to the Financial Plan was prepared by staff for Regional Council s endorsement. The Financial Plan ( ) was 15

17 adopted by Regional Council in April 2014 and submitted to the MMAH satisfying the requirements under Ontario Regulation 453/07. Summary of Approvals and Permits Peel has satisfied all the approvals and permits of the Municipal Drinking Water Licensing Program and has been operating all municipal drinking water systems under the new DWWPs and MDWLs since late November Municipal drinking water licences are valid for five years. Peel submitted applications for licence renewal in May 2014 and new licences were issued for each municipal drinking water system in November 2014 to ensure continued authority to operate under the SDWA. For more information on Peel s Municipal Drinking Water Licensing Program, please visit the following link Source Water Protection The Clean Water Act, 2006, came into effect on July 3, 2007 with the promulgation of the initial set of source water protection regulations. The focus of the legislation is to protect existing and future planned municipal sources of drinking water. The source protection process is driven by locally-based Source Protection Committees that consist of appointed representatives from municipal, industry, commerce and agricultural sectors and the public at large. The Region of Peel falls under the jurisdiction of three Source Protection Authorities (SPAs) as follows: Credit Valley-Toronto-Central Lake Ontario (CTC) Source Protection Authority; most of the Region of Peel s groundwater and surface water intakes fall within this SPA ( South Georgian Bay Lake Simcoe (SGBLS) Source Protection Authority; only Palgrave Well No. 3 falls within this SPA ( 16

18 Halton-Hamilton (H-H) Source Protection Authority; none of the Region s groundwater systems or surface water intakes lies within this SPA ( Region of Peel has participated in the planning phases of the source protection planning by carrying out technical studies for assessment reports and policy development through Region of Peel s representation on the Source Protection Committees and Working Groups whose work led to the development of Proposed Source Protection Plans. The amended Proposed Source Protection Plans and accompanying amended Proposed Explanatory Document for the CTC and SGBLS SPAs have been submitted for approval by the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change in H-H plans to submit their amended Source Protection Plan and accompanying amended Proposed Explanatory Document to the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change for approval. There are monitoring and reporting policies in the Source Protection Plans for all significant threats identified in the updated Assessment Reports. The Region of Peel has an obligation to comply with the Source Protection Plans once approved. Peel is currently preparing for the implementation of Part IV of the Clean Water Act, One of the major steps taken by Peel is the appointment of the Risk Management Official and Risk Management Inspector in Peel is currently finalizing business processes to review future development applications in vulnerable areas and perform risk management of existing significant drinking water threats, as identified through a Threats Verification exercise led by Peel in with updates made in 2014 to reflect significant threats counts related to sodium and chloride in Issue Contributing Areas (ICAs). A comprehensive database management, filing and records keeping system is being developed using internal resources. These business processes are expected to be fully implemented once the Source Protection Plans 17

19 are approved. Peel has also started to update its Official Plan to conform to the approved Source Protection Plans. For more information on Source Water Protection in Peel, please visit the following link: Private Well Abandonment Program The Region of Peel implemented a Private Well Abandonment Program for decommissioning of old, unused private wells within Peel. This work is performed in accordance with the requirements of the Ontario Regulation 903. The Program intends to gradually eliminate potential pathways of groundwater contamination in areas where groundwater is a source for drinking water. The Program is carried out on a first come, first serve basis, with each well decommissioning request being evaluated prior to the commencement of any decommissioning work. A total of 93 private wells throughout Peel were decommissioned under this program in The increase in program participation has grown significantly since 2011 with an 11 percent increase in participation from 2013 to The increase is attributed to Peel s efforts toward public awareness through public events, newspaper ads, mobile road signs, as well as outreach to local real estate firms to help promote the program to individuals purchasing property in rural areas of Peel. For more information on Peel s Private Well Abandonment Program, please visit, or us directly at [email protected] 18

20 5.4 Watermain Renewal Program Peel s overall infrastructure is aging, requiring more investment in preventive and planned maintenance. In response, Peel has established a comprehensive asset management program which includes the watermain assessment and renewal. The program is an ongoing plan of upgrading Peel s linear infrastructure to ensure long term integrity. The program involves repair or replacement of existing mains to improve water flow, ensure good quality water and upsize if required to meet future planning needs; all to provide higher level of service to our consumers. Peel determines priority of water mains replacement based on the following factors: Watermain age Water quality trend Watermain size and material type Watermain breaks and leak history For Caledon East, there were two (2) main break events in Hydraulic performance of watermain Future municipal and city projects and road re-construction Cost of replacement The majority of the watermain replacement projects are undertaken in partnership with road and sewer renewal projects for improved cost effectiveness and minimized public inconvenience. Using these criteria, Peel plans the watermain renewal program in a financially responsible manner. In 2014, 9.6 km of new watermains were installed in the Town of Caledon. 19

21 5.5 Community Lead Testing Program Established in 2007, Peel s Community Lead Testing Program fulfills the legislative requirements under the Ontario Regulation 170/03, Schedule Based on excellent quality water test results from the first years of sampling and the amended lead testing legislation, Palgrave - Caledon East Drinking Water System has been exempted from collecting plumbing samples and testing residential and commercial premises for lead. The Region continues to test Caledon East s drinking water supply for alkalinity and ph semiannually to ensure water chemistry is being monitored and corrosiveness of water supply system controlled. As required by the regulation, Caledon East distribution system is sampled and tested for lead every three (3) years. The water distribution system will be sampled and tested for lead in Upon request from the resident, the Region of Peel staff coordinates testing of tap water for lead at homes that qualify for the program based on the following criteria: Any homes or buildings built prior to 1960 Any plumbing connected to or suspected to be connected to lead service pipes Any plumbing made out of or suspected of being made out of lead The Community Lead Testing Program sampling is conducted semi-annually between the dates of December 15 to April 15 and June 15 to October 15 each year. Results for 2014 sampling are summarized in Appendix A of this report. For more information on Peel s Community Lead Testing Program, please contact us at , ext or visit our website: 20

22 5.6 Watermain Flushing Program The Region of Peel s watermain flushing program is another element of the multi-barrier approach to ensuring safe drinking water. The primary objective of the watermain flushing program is to maintain adequate chlorine residuals in the water distribution system. Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002, Ontario Regulation 170/03 stipulates the acceptable chlorine residual range. Certified Water Operators measure and record the chlorine residual at each flush. Flushing is conducted at locations where a low water demand may occur, such as deadends and new subdivisions. Flushing frequency is greater in areas where the water demand is lower. Flushing is also conducted following water system repairs and other situations where a check of chlorine residual is warranted. 5.7 Watermain Swabbing Program The objective of the watermain swabbing program is removal of watermain mineral and residue build up to improve water quality and restore distribution system capacity. Swabbing involves inserting a swab (most commonly used is polyurethane foam) into the main through a hydrant, and pushing it along the watermain by water pressure. As the swab passes through the pipe, it scours the sediment and residue attached to the water main, which is later flushed from the system through the hydrant. 21

23 Peel staff diligently assesses the condition of watermains and continuously monitors quality of water supply. Swabbing program activities are coordinated on basis and frequency dictated by the monitoring programs and conducted in coordination with the community residents. 5.8 Hydrant Inspection Program The Region of Peel hydrant inspection program fulfils a number of purposes. An annual inspection is necessary to determine the sustained functionality of each fire hydrant and hydrant branch valve. The flushing part of the inspection also serves to maintain chlorine residual at the hydrant. Fire hydrant components that are in need of repair are identified during the inspection. Deficiencies that affect the hydrant s operability are handled on a priority basis. Peel inspected 586 hydrants and repaired 9 hydrants in Palgrave - Caledon East drinking water system in In 2012, Peel completed the installation of hydrant flow identifiers. These flow markers are in the shape of a Maltese cross. They are colour-coded and designed to let the fire department know what the available flow is at the hydrant closest to the fire. The markers are reflective, making them highly visible at night. 22

24 5.9 Drinking Water Sampling Station Program Peel installed a number of drinking water sampling stations throughout Caledon to improve drinking water quality assessment and monitoring methods and to improve customer service. Sampling stations are located at carefully selected points within the distribution system in Alton, Caledon Village, Caledon East, Mono Mills, Skywood, Inglewood, Palgrave, Cheltenham and Terra Cotta to ensure the water samples collected accurately represent the drinking water supplied to the consumers. The use of sampling stations has reduced the impact on customers by decreasing the need to enter homes or business facilities where hours of operation can limit access. In addition to unlimited access, Water Operations also benefit by having added control over important sampling conditions such as sample site cleanliness and security. 23

25 Appendix A Summary of Water Testing Results Terms you need to know when reviewing the water testing results in this paper: Term MAC IMAC Aesthetic Objectives (AO) Operational Guidelines (OG) Definition Maximum Acceptable Concentration Interim Maximum Acceptable Concentration AO are established for substances that affect the taste, smell and colour of water or interfere with water quality control practices. These substances do not affect health. OG are established for substances that need to be controlled to ensure the efficient treatment and distribution of water. NTU Nephelometric Turbidity Unit ND Not Detected TCU True Colour Units CFU/mL Colony Forming Units per millilitre CFU/100mL Colony Forming Units per 100 millilitres µmho/cm micro ohm per centimetre L litre µg/l micrograms per litre. This is a measure of concentration of a parameter in water, also called parts per billion (ppb) mg/l milligrams per litre. This is a measure of concentration of a parameter in water, also called parts per million (ppm) < less than > greater than BQ/L Bequerels per Litre Note: Palgrave and Caledon East water systems serve as back up water supply to each other. Water quality would be a blend from the two supply systems from time to time. Please refer to the 2014 Water Quality Report for Palgrave at: 24

26 Water Safety Indicators Information Escherichia coli (E.coli) Escherichia coli is a fecal coliform that can be detected using approved lab methods. Escherichia coli is present in fecal matter and prevalent in sewage, but is readily destroyed by chlorine. It is a strong indicator of recent fecal pollution. Presence of E. coli bacteria in a sample of drinking water signifies potentially inadequate treatment. If E.coli is detected in a sample of drinking water, corrective action needs to be taken and confirmatory samples collected. Total Coliform Total Coliform bacteria are part of a family of bacteria called Enterics. Coliform bacteria grow under the same conditions as disease causing bacteria. That allows us to use them as indicator organisms. Presence of coliform bacteria in a sample of drinking water signifies inadequate treatment and is unacceptable. If coliforms are detected, corrective action needs to be taken and confirmatory samples collected. Heterotrophic Plate Count Heterotrophic plate count (HPC) results give an indication of overall water quality in drinking-water systems. HPC results are used as a tool for monitoring the overall quality of the water immediately following treatment and in the distribution system. A HPC result is not an indicator of water safety but is used as an indicator of water integrity within the water system. Disinfection By-products Disinfection of drinking water is essential to protect the public from waterborne infectious and parasitic diseases. Disinfection inactivates bacteria in the water and protects the water pipes from any subsequent contamination during storage or distribution. The most commonly used disinfectant is chlorine. The use of chlorine may lead to the formation of by-products, including trihalomethanes (THMs). THMs are formed when the chlorine combines with naturally-occurring organic compounds in the water. 25

27 Summary of Microbiological Testing For the Reporting Period January 1 to December 31, 2014 Test Location Number of Samples Range of E. Coli Results (CFU/100mL) (Min - Max) Range of Total Coliform Results (CFU/100mL) (Min - Max) Number of HPC Samples Range of HPC Results (CFU/mL) (Min - Max) Caledon East Well #2 Raw NA - Caledon East Well #3 Raw Caledon East Well#2&3 Treated Caledon East Well #4 Raw Caledon East Well #4 Treated Caledon East Distribution Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards: E. coli = 0 CFU/100mL; Total Coliform = 0 CFU/100mL NA not applicable 1 Number of samples <52: Caledon East Well No. 2 was taken out of service since June Number of samples <52: Caledon East Well No. 4 was taken out of service for maintenance 3 Number of samples <52: Caledon East Well Nos. 3&4 HPC testing for raw water samples (not required by Provincial Regulation) started in June 2014 Summary of Results for Inorganic Parameters per Schedule 23 of O. Reg. 170/03 Tested At an Accredited, Licensed Laboratory on Annual Grab Samples of Treated Water Collected from Caledon East Wells During the Reporting Period January 1 to December 31, 2014 Test Result Units* MAC Parameter Information Parameter (Min - Max) Antimony, Sb µg/l 6 < 0.50 Rarely detected in Ontario drinking water Arsenic, As µg/l 25 < 1.0 Sometimes found in high concentration in ground water in hard rock areas through the natural dissolution of arseniccontaining minerals Barium, Ba µg/l Common in sedimentary rocks. Hard water contains small amounts of Barium Boron, B µg/l Normally found in very small levels on drinking water Cadmium, Cd µg/l 5 < 0.10 Rare element unlikely to be present as natural contaminant in drinking water Chromium, Cr µg/l 50 < 5.0 Trivalent chromium naturally occurs and is not considered toxic Mercury, Hg µg/l 1 <0.10 Sources in drinking water can be air pollution, waste incineration and metal refining operations Selenium, Se µg/l 10 < 2.0 Naturally occurs in water at trace levels Uranium, U µg/l Normally present in biological systems and aqueous media *1000 µg/l= 1 mg/l 26

28 Summary of Community Lead Testing Program Results per Schedule 15.1 of O. Reg. 170/03 Tested At an Accredited, Licensed Laboratory on Distribution Water Samples Collected from Caledon East Wells During the Reporting Period January 1 to December 31, 2014 Test Parameter Alkalinity ph Number of Samples Result /Range (Min - Max) Unit of Measure mg/l Parameter Information Water resistance to effects of acids added to water ph unit Indicates water acidity Summary of Results for Other Parameters Tested At an Accredited, Licensed Laboratory on Grab Samples of Raw and Treated Water Collected from Caledon East Wells During the Reporting Period January 1 to December 31, 2014 Test Parameter Units MA C Result/Range (Min - Max) Parameter Information Fluoride, F mg/l 1.5 < 0.10 Any fluoride found in water is naturally occurring. Lead, Pb µg/l 10 < Present as a result of corrosion of lead solder, lead containing brass fittings, or lead pipes Nitrate, NO3 mg/l as N 10.0 < Present in groundwater as a result of plant or animal < material decay, fertilizers, sewage or treated < wastewater < < <0.020 Nitrite, NO2 mg/l as N 1.0 <0.020 <0.020 <0.020 Usually present in groundwater, and is oxidized to Nitrate when chlorinated Gross Alpha Bq/L Most common in groundwater where natural Radionuclides Gross Beta Bq/L - < radionuclides are present at low concentrations in all Tritium Bq/L 7000 <15 rocks and soils Note: Nitrate and Nitrite are sampled quarterly 27

29 Summary of Results for Organic Parameters Tested per Schedule 24 Of O. Reg. 170/03 At an Accredited, Licensed Laboratory on Annual Grab Samples of Treated* Water Collected from Caledon East Wells During the Reporting Period January 1 to December 31, 2014 Note: Organic parameters are present to some degrees in all water supplies. The Region of Peel tests these parameters to ensure the water meets the Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards. Test Parameter Units MAC Results Parameter Information 1,1-Dichloroethene Used in the food packaging industry and the textile µg/l 14 < 0.10 (vinylidene chloride) industry for furniture and automotive upholstery 1,2-Dichlorobenzene µg/l 200 < 0.20 Used in chemical blends 1,2-Dichloroethane µg/l 5 < 0.20 Used as a solvent and fumigant 1,4-Dichlorobenzene µg/l 5 < 0.20 Was widely used in toilet pucks and mothballs, banned in ,3,4,6-Tetrachlorophenol µg/l 100 < 0.5 Was normally used to preserve wood 2,4,5-Trichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4,5-T) µg/l 280 < 1.0 Herbicide 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol µg/l 5 < 0.50 Pesticide 2,4-Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid µg/l 100 < 1.0 Herbicide for cereal crop and lawn weed control (2,4-D) 2-4 Dichlorophenol µg/l 900 < 0.50 Present in drinking water only as a result of industrial contamination Alachlor µg/l 5 < 0.50 Herbicide for weed control banned in 1985 Aldicarb µg/l 9 < 5.0 Insecticide used in low quantities for control of specified insects. Banned in 1980s Aldrin + Dieldrin µg/l 0.7 < Pesticides for insect control banned in 1969 Atrazine + N-dealkylated Herbicide on corn crops for annual grass control. It is µg/l 5 < 1.0 metobolites highly persistent and moderately mobile in soil Azinphos-methyl µg/l 20 < 2 Insecticide against foliage-feeding insects Bendiocarb µg/l 40 < 2.0 Insecticide used in buildings and greenhouses Benzene µg/l 5 < 0.10 Present in gasoline and other refined petroleum products Benzo(a)pyrene µg/l 0.01 < Formed during the incomplete burning of organic matter and poorly adjusted diesel exhaust Bromoxynil µg/l 5 < 0.50 Herbicide for control of specific weeds Carbaryl µg/l 90 < 5.0 Insecticide used in agriculture and forestry Carbofuran µg/l 90 < 5.0 Insecticide used in agriculture Carbon Tetrachloride µg/l 5 < 0.10 Only found in ground water from old chlorinated solvent industry sites 28

30 Chlordane (Total) µg/l 7 < Insecticide once used in agriculture, banned in 1994 Chlorobenzene µg/l 80 < 0.10 Industrial solvent Chlorpyrifos µg/l 90 < 1.0 Common insecticide for insect control Cyanazine µg/l Herbicide for control of weeds in crop and 10 < 1.0 non-crop areas Diazinon µg/l 20 < 1.0 Insecticide for dwelling pests, flies, ants and cockroaches. Dicamba µg/l 120 < 1.0 Herbicide for weed control in grain crops Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) + metabolites µg/l 30 < DDT use was banned in Ontario in 1988 Dichloromethane µg/l 50 < 0.50 Industrial solvent for paint and degreasing agent Diclofop-methyl µg/l 9 < 0.90 Herbicide grass control in grains and vegetables Dimethoate µg/l 20 < 2.5 Miticide and insecticide Dinoseb µg/l 10 < 1.0 Contact herbicide and desiccant. No longer used in Ontario Diquat µg/l 70 < 7 Herbicide used as a crop desiccant in seed crops Diuron µg/l 150 < 10 Herbicide for control of vegetation in crop and non-crop areas Ethyl Parathion µg/l 50 < 1.0 Insecticide for foliar pests and adult stage of root maggots Glyphosate µg/l 280 < 30 Herbicide for weed control Heptachlor + Heptachlor Epoxide µg/l 3 < Insecticide once used in agriculture, banned in 1969 Lindane (Total) µg/l 4 <0.006 Insecticide used for seed treatment Malathion µg/l 190 < 5.0 Insecticide used in fruits and vegetables Methoxychlor µg/l Insecticide Metolachlor µg/l 50 < 0.50 Selective herbicide for pre-emergence and pre-plant broad leaf weed control Metribuzin µg/l 80 < 5.0 Herbicide for control of weed and grasses Paraquat µg/l 10 < 1 Highly toxic herbicide used for desiccation of seed crops Pentachlorophenol µg/l 60 < 0.50 It is rarely found today but was extensively used as a pesticide and wood preservative Phorate µg/l 2 < 0.50 Insecticide for sucking insects and larvae s Picloram µg/l 190 < 5.0 Herbicide for broad leaf weed and brush control on roads Prometryne µg/l 1 < 0.25 Herbicide used on select grass and weeds Simazine µg/l 10 < 1.0 Herbicide for pre-emergence weed control 29

31 Temephos µg/l 280 < 10 Insecticide for mosquito and black fly larvae control Terbufos µg/l 1 < 0.50 Insecticide Tetrachloroethylene µg/l 30 < 0.10 Industrial solvent Total Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB) µg/l 3 < 0.05 Primarily produced by the reaction of chlorine and natural organics Total Trihalomethanes (THM)* µg/l Primarily produced by the reaction of chlorine and natural organics Triallate µg/l 230 < 1 Herbicide for wilds oat control in crops Trichloroethylene µg/l 5 < 0.10 Industrial solvent Trifluralin µg/l 45 < 1.0 Herbicide for summer weed control Vinyl Chloride µg/l 2 < 0.20 Synthetic chemical used in making PVC * THM: Running Annual Average of samples collected quarterly from the Palgrave Caledon East water distribution system Note: During the reporting period, no test parameters included in Schedules 23 and 24 of O. Reg. 170/03 were subject to increased sampling frequency as a result of exceeding half of the Maximum Acceptable Concentration. Operational Parameters Annual Minimum, Maximum and Mean (Average) Results During the Reporting Period January 1 to December 31, 2014 Operational Parameter/ Test Results Number of Samples Location Units Minimum Maximum Mean (Average) Raw Water Turbidity Caledon East Well # 2 30 NTU Raw Water Turbidity Caledon East Well # 3 80 NTU Raw Water Turbidity Caledon East Well # 4 71 NTU Free Chlorine Residual Primary Disinfection Caledon East Wells # 2 and 8760* mg/l #3 Free Chlorine Residual Primary Disinfection 8760* mg/l Caledon East Well # 4 Free Chlorine Residual Secondary Disinfection 611** mg/l * - number of samples based on continuous monitoring for a year 611** - number of samples from Palgrave Caledon East DWS: O. Reg. 170/03 Schedule 7 section 7-2(3) to (4) Note: Occasional outlying results occur due to equipment maintenance, programming updates, or signal anomalies. 30

32 What Are My Raw (Source) Water Characteristics? Source: Groundwater Test Parameter Units Result/Range (Min - Max) Parameter Information Total Ammonia - N mg/l < Natural decay of organic material Chloride mg/l Non-toxic material naturally present in drinking water 25 C µmho/cm Related to inorganics such as minerals dissolved in water Hardness mg/l (CaCO3) grains/gallon ph ph unit Indicates water acidity Sulphate (SO4) mg/l Naturally occurring Temperature C Varies seasonally TKN I, Colourimetric mg/l < Natural decay of organic material Turbidity NTU What Are My Drinking Water Characteristics? Test Parameter Type of Objective* Acceptable Range/Upper Limit Units Naturally occurring; related to mineral content Tiny suspended particles of organic or inorganic matter Result (Min- Max) Parameter Information Alkalinity OG mg/l Water resistance to effects of acids added to water Conductivity Related to inorganics such as N/A N/A µmho/cm 25 C minerals dissolved in water Hardness OG mg/l (CaCO3) Naturally occurring; related to grains/gallon mineral content In ground water as a result of Iron AO 300 µg/l < 100 mineral deposits and chemically reducing underground conditions Manganese AO 50 µg/l < In ground water as a result of mineral deposits and chemically reducing underground conditions ph OG ph unit Indicates water acidity Sodium* AO 200 mg/l Naturally occurring or due to water softening Total Dissolved Solids AO 500 mg/l Refers mainly to inorganic substances dissolved in water Sulphate AO 500 mg/l Naturally occurring Caused by corrosion taking place Zinc AO 5000 µg/l < in galvanized pipes * The Medical Officer of Health is notified when sodium concentration exceeds 20 mg/l if a report has not been made in the preceding 57 months. 31

33 Appendix B Frequently Asked Questions and Answers on Water Quality Is my water safe to drink? To protect public health, the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change has established the Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards (ODWS). These standards help ensure that water used by the public is free from disease-causing organisms, hazardous amounts of toxic chemicals and radioactive materials. Why do we use chlorine? Chlorine is used to kill bacteria, viruses and other organisms that can cause illness. Ontario Regulation 170/03 regulates the amount of chlorine that must be added. The regulation states that we must maintain chlorine residual at a minimum level of 0.05 mg/l and should not exceed a maximum level of 4.0 mg/l. Is the water in Caledon East hard? Hardness is typically dissolved calcium and magnesium in water measured as calcium carbonate. Upon heating, hard water has a tendency to form scale deposits and can form excessive scum with regular soaps. Conversely, soft water may result in accelerated corrosion of water pipes. Although Caledon East water is considered hard it is still acceptable for domestic purposes. Should I buy a water softener? The purchase of a water softener is based mostly on personal preference. Soap suds are formed more readily with soft water, therefore less detergent is used. The use of a water softener also reduces the formation of hardness scale in pipes and hot water tanks. Some consumers do not like the feel of soft water. For example, after rinsing you may still feel a soap film on your skin if you used soft water. 32

34 Why does my kettle get a white film inside? When water is boiled, calcium and manganese precipitate out of the water and deposits on the heating element and inner surfaces of the kettle. This does not pose a health risk. The deposit can be prevented by regular rinsing with vinegar or lemon juice. Why does the water sometimes look cloudy or milky? Tiny bubbles of air in the water cause the cloudiness. Those bubbles may also cause the water to appear white or foamy, similar to the appearance of water in a rushing stream. This does not indicate any problem and clears when the water is left to sit for a few minutes. This is just an aesthetic not a health concern. If cloudy water does persist, please notify the Region of Peel so that the matter can be investigated. Is fluoride added to my water? The Region of Peel does not add fluoride to the water in the Caledon East area. Any fluoride found in the water is naturally occurring. Why does the water sometimes look rusty, yellow or tea-like? Yellow water is a common occurrence. Excessive levels of iron in drinking water may impart a brownish colour, often seen on laundered clothes, plumbing fixtures, and the water itself. Running your tap for a few minutes can clear the colour. No health risks are associated with this discolouration. If you are experiencing problems and your neighbours are not, the hot water tank or the pipes in your home are likely causing the problem. Does the Region of Peel knock on the door to test water or leave a bottle to fill? Some of our water programs require testing on private premises, such as residential homes or businesses. This would only be done by Peel with prior arrangements with the owner or tenant of the premise. Based on the stringent provincial guidelines, drinking water samples must be 33

35 collected and handled by qualified persons and analysed at an accredited laboratory; therefore, Peel staff would not leave a bottle at the door requesting a sample of water for testing, and will always carry a Region of Peel identification card. There are many responsible home water treatment businesses that offer products that live up to their claims. Unfortunately, some companies and salespersons resort to grabbing the public s attention and misinforming them about the safety of the municipal drinking water supplies in an effort to sell their products. To ensure that you are informed about the water quality in Peel and less likely to become a target of a company trying to sell you costly and inappropriate water treatment equipment, or if you have questions or concerns, please contact our Water Quality Team at ext or via to [email protected] Why is lead sometimes present in water? Lead is a metal substance that can dissolve in water. Traditionally, lead compounds were used in plumbing fittings and in solder to join pipes together in water distribution systems. If water stays in a piping system that contains lead for long periods of time, lead may dissolve into the water. How does Lead affect my Health? For more information, contact Peel Public Health at To view our Lead in Water Pamphlet, please visit 34

36 Water Quality at Home Tips Water Quality Concern Chorine Odour and Taste Musty/Earthy /Sour/Grassy/ Foul Odour Milky/Cloudy Water Blue/Green Stains on Fixtures Possible Cause Chlorine getting combined with organics Chlorination of new water mains Effects of new plumbing Change of residency as chlorine concentration varies from location to location Algae that bloom in the lake in the summer produces a metabolite called geosmin, which causes musty/earthy odour Dead-end water mains or areas with low water demand Poorly maintained hot water tanks Faucet aerators/screens and sink drains Air trapped in water due to water main breaks, water temperature or pressure change, plumbing work, construction work in the area, water shut-offs Hot water tank temperature may be set too high Copper in water due to copper plumbing Suggested Solutions Chlorine is necessary to control diseasecausing organisms. To minimize the chlorine taste and smell in water; Fill a pitcher and let it stand in the refrigerator overnight Blend the water for 5 minutes or pour between containers about 10 times Boil the water, let it cool down and then refrigerate Home plumbing may be flushed for a minute before water use (especially in the mornings, after water stands in the lines overnight) The algae are harmless and although the water may not be aesthetically pleasing, it is safe. Clean faucet aerators and screens on frequent basis Hot water tanks should be flushed periodically (every 2 to 3 years) to remove rust and scale Refrain from flushing solids/organics down the drain; stagnant wastewater in the drain may generate foul odours and potentially plug the drain Run all cold water taps at once for a couple of minutes to flush the lines and release the air Lower the hot water tank temperature if above 140F (60 C) Run water for 30 seconds to reduce the effects of local plumbing (metal concentration) prior to water consumption Keep fixtures dry and drip-free 35

37 Brown/Dirty Water White Flakes/Particles Pink Staining on Fixtures Change in water flow due to: o Water main break o Hydrant use o Local Fire o Dead ends o Poorly maintained hot water tanks or Originated in hot water tank No water use for a longer period of time; return from vacation Flakes are scale caused by hardness Faulty or disintegrating hot water tank tubing or lining Pink pigmented bacteria called Serratia marcescens Airborne bacteria; not originating from the water Open cold water faucets and flush water for 5 to 10 minutes, until clear Refrain from doing laundry to prevent clothes staining Hot water tank should be flushed periodically (every 2 to 3 years) Run cold and hot water separately to verify the cause; if hot water is the cause - tank needs a flush Open several faucets and flush the water standing in pipes that may have dissolved pipe scale material Can be reduced by frequent cleaning of faucet aerators/screens and/or frequent flushing of hot water tanks Contact the hot water tank company Scrub surfaces with a brush Disinfect with a strong bleach solution Allow disinfectant to penetrate for minutes Rinse 36

38 Report Accessibility The 2014 Annual Reports can be viewed by the public online at: or picked up at the Region of Peel Office at 10 Peel Centre Drive, Brampton. Other sources from which you can get more information about drinking water and related issues: For information on Water Quality: Region of Peel 10 Peel Centre Dr. Brampton ON L6T 4B9 Phone: ext Website: For information on Lead Testing of Drinking Water: Region of Peel 10 Peel Centre Dr. Brampton ON L6T 4B9 Phone: ext Website: Region of Peel Public Health 7120 Hurontario St., 8th Floor Mississauga, ON L5W 1N4 Phone: Website: Advance Blvd. Brampton, ON L6T 4T6 Phone: ext Web Site: Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change Public Information Centre Phone: Toll-Free: Web site: Environment Canada Inquiry Centre Phone: Toll-Free: Web Site: 37