What regulation is intended to protect drinking water consumers from health consequences related to residual disinfectants and disinfection by-products?

The regulation that specifically addresses the protection of drinking water consumers from health risks associated with residual disinfectants and disinfection by-products is the Disinfectants and Disinfection By-Products Rule. This rule was established to control the levels of certain contaminants that can form when disinfectants used to treat drinking water react with naturally occurring organic and inorganic matter in the water.

By setting acceptable limits for these residual disinfectants and their by-products, the rule aims to minimize health risks such as cancer and reproductive issues that may arise from prolonged exposure. This regulation mandates regular monitoring and reporting requirements to ensure that water systems maintain safe levels of these compounds, thus directly safeguarding public health.

The other regulations mentioned have different focuses. For instance, the Filter Backwash Recycling Rule pertains to the management of filter backwash water in treatment facilities, while the Ground Water Rule focuses on safeguarding drinking water sources from fecal contamination. The Surface Water Treatment Rule aims primarily at reducing pathogens in surface water supplies. Therefore, it is the Disinfectants and Disinfection By-Products Rule that specifically addresses concerns related to health effects from disinfectants and their by-products.