ABSTRACT
Even in cities where water treatment facilities may be adequate, tap water can be contaminated during its storage and distribution through the piping system. Contamination in the water distribution system is likely to occur in areas of low water pressure and where operation of the water supply is intermittent. A procedure was developed to help persons living or traveling in developing countries select an appropriate drinking water treatment technology(ies) to ensure the safety of the water they drink. The need for additional water treatment will depend on the person’s concerns about chemical and other contaminants and anticipated risks associated with acute, moderate, or long-term exposures. Manufacturers of residential and personal water treatment systems apply the same basic technologies used by industry and community water systems to purify water but design them for smaller water volumes and flow. No single type of personal or residential water treatment system is available to remedy all water quality problems that may be encountered.
