Biology Reference
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drinking water suppliers holding the ultimate responsibility for delivering
safe drinking water.
3
There was previously no specific legislation for drink-
ing water, but in 2003 the various states passed legislation to follow the
Australian Drinking Water Guidelines efficiently.
3
Ofwat's international comparisons for drinking water quality demon-
strate that the quality of water in England and Wales in relatively very high.
England and Wales achieved slightly higher quality compliance in water
supplies in 2006-2007 than Scotland and Northern Ireland (the only two
locations that can be meaningfully compared), although all were considered
high quality.
19
11.3. THE LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK
Strict regulations and legislation regarding pathogen detection and
removal have been in place for many years in the UK. This section examines
the framework within which water companies must operate, how this is
enforced and why such regulation is necessary. The UK water industry has
gone to great lengths to ensure that pathogens are properly managed. This is
partly due to public health concerns, but public perception and the quality
of drinking water demanded by customers are additional factors.
Following the privatization of the water industry in 1989, the Water
Industry Act of 1991 was passed. The act was amended by the Water Act in
2003. Under this act, any undertaker of a water supply must follow all the
steps to minimize pollution. Similarly, Ofwat must ensure that any water
companies undertake the responsibilities given to them as updated by sec-
tion 39 of the Water Act in 2003. The legal framework for pathogen detec-
tion and removal includes the overarching role of the DWI, who have a duty
to maintain safety and quality of water through monitoring, as well as to
provide the government with advice on water supply matters. The Health
Protection Agency also plays a part in ensuring the protection of com-
munities against any infectious diseases or other dangers to public health.
The Agency also commissions research, analyzes data and provides labora-
tory services to ensure the safety of public drinking water supplies. Finally,
under the 1991 Act, local authorities also have a role to play in ensuring the
safety of both public and private water supplies within their area.
15
Local
authorities must be responsible for staying informed about the quality and
sufficiency of supplies in their area.
Regulations in the UK give specific provisions for drinking water,
requiring water companies to produce a WSP and to follow the
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