What must a water system do if it receives a positive E coli repeat sample?

When a water system receives a positive E. coli repeat sample, it is crucial to trigger a violation notice and take further actions in accordance with federal and state regulations. A positive E. coli result indicates that there may be contamination with pathogenic bacteria, which poses a serious health risk to consumers.

Notifying relevant authorities and stakeholders is essential for ensuring public health safety. Triggering a violation notice allows the water system to implement the necessary response measures, which may include notifying the public, conducting additional testing, and possibly taking corrective actions such as disinfection processes or repairs to infrastructure to address the contamination source.

This response is part of a broader system of monitoring and responding to water quality to maintain safe drinking water standards and protect public health.