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Water Security Resources for Small SystemsAbout PDF Files
Why Focus on Security? Security practices should be incorporated into a utility's every day business functions. Activities such as fence cutting and lock picking, often dismissed as harmless, may be indications of more serious threats to a water or wastewater system. Utilities must be prepared to respond to this type of threat, as well as a wide range of other emergencies, including natural disasters. Improved security preparations provide for a more effective and efficient response. Water and wastewater utilities are responsible for taking action to protect their infrastructure. The federal government and EPA are helping utilities to accomplish these actions by providing tools, trainings, and technical assistance. Several resources designed specifically to help small drinking water and wastewater utilities better protect their systems are available through this site. Small Systems Requirements Under the Bioterrorism Act The Bioterrorism Act defines small community drinking water systems as those serving a population of more than 3,300 but less than 50,000. If a community drinking water system serves more than 3,300 people, that utility must:
The Bioterrorism Act sets the following due dates for certifying and submitting vulnerability assessments and certifying emergency response plans for small water systems:
Resources Available for Small Water Systems
Helpful Links American Water Works Association (AWWA) Association of State Drinking Water Administrators (ASDWA) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention EPA's Office of Wastewater Management: Small Communities National Environmental Services Center National Rural Water Association Rural Community Assistance Program (USDA Water Environment Federation (WEF) |
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