West Palm Beach to change water disinfection method temporarily starting July 7 – Palm Beach Daily News

Report on Temporary Change in Water Disinfection Process in West Palm Beach

Overview

West Palm Beach’s Public Utilities Department will implement a temporary change in the disinfection process used to treat drinking water supplied to the town of Palm Beach. From July 7 to July 28, the department will switch from the current chloramine disinfection to chlorine disinfection. This measure is part of an annual proactive effort to ensure the safety and quality of drinking water, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.

Details of the Disinfection Process Change

1. Current Process: Chloramine disinfection, which combines chlorine and ammonia, offers longer-lasting protection with fewer byproducts and less taste impact.
2. Temporary Process: Chlorine disinfection, known for fast and strong disinfection capabilities but with a more noticeable taste and potential for more byproducts.

Purpose and Benefits

• Chlorine disinfection is used temporarily to flush water lines and perform system maintenance, effectively cleaning biofilm and sediment from pipes.
• This proactive action supports SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being by maintaining water quality and protecting public health, especially during warmer summer months.
• Enhances water flow in mains and tests fire hydrant performance, contributing to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by ensuring resilient infrastructure.

Impact on Residents and Recommendations

• Residents may notice a slight chlorine odor in their drinking water during the treatment period; however, the change is not harmful and complies with Florida Department of Environmental Protection guidelines.
• Allowing water to stand in an open container for a few hours before consumption may help dissipate the chlorine odor.
• Water utility personnel will open fire hydrants during this period to improve water quality and system performance.
• Individuals on kidney dialysis and owners of tropical fish or restaurants with aquatic holding tanks should consult professionals to safely manage chlorine removal, as it differs from chloramine removal.

Contact and Additional Resources

• For further information, customers can contact the West Palm Beach Public Utilities Department at 561-221-2100.
• Additional resources are available from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection at www.Floridadep.gov.

Conclusion

The temporary switch to chlorine disinfection in West Palm Beach exemplifies a commitment to sustainable water management practices, supporting SDG 6 by ensuring access to safe and clean drinking water. This initiative also contributes to public health protection and infrastructure resilience, reflecting integrated efforts toward achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • The article discusses water disinfection processes to ensure safe drinking water, directly relating to SDG 6, which aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The focus on safe drinking water and health protection through disinfection supports SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The article highlights urban water management practices in West Palm Beach, contributing to SDG 11, which promotes inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 6 Targets
   • Target 6.1: Achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all.
   • Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution, minimizing release of hazardous chemicals, and substantially increasing water recycling and safe reuse.
2. SDG 3 Targets
   • Target 3.9: Reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
3. SDG 11 Targets
   • Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Water Quality Indicators
   • Use of chlorine and chloramine disinfection methods to maintain water quality and safety.
   • Monitoring of chlorine odor and byproducts in drinking water as a measure of disinfection effectiveness and consumer experience.
   • Testing of water quality in the microbiology lab at the Water Treatment Plant.
2. Health and Safety Indicators
   • Compliance with Florida Department of Environmental Protection guidance on safe chlorine levels.
   • Advisories for sensitive populations (e.g., kidney dialysis patients) and aquatic life to mitigate health risks.
3. Infrastructure and Maintenance Indicators
   • Fire hydrant performance testing and water main flushing to improve water flow and quality.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: palmbeachdailynews.com