ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the relationships between Standard Methods and the forerunner of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) drinking water regulations, namely the Public Health Service Drinking Water Standards. The consumer himself, the supplier of water, and local, state, and federal health officials and regulatory agencies all have a role in the surveillance of water supply systems to ensure their continued safe operation and the protection of public health. The immediate result of the Act was the development and publication by the EPA of National Interim Primary Drinking Water Regulations. The foremost responsibility for supplying safe drinking water and protecting the health of water consumers rests with the operators of the water system. When a customer phones the water utility with a complaint about the quality of his water, this may be the first indication that something is amiss in the water system.
