Sanitary Surveys

A sanitary survey involves inspection and review of a public water system to assess its capability to supply safe drinking water. Sanitary surveys are a proactive public health measure and an important component of Safe Drinking Water Act requirements.  The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is responsible for completing sanitary surveys for public water supplies in the state. Any questions regarding sanitary surveys may be directed here.

A sanitary survey includes the following eight areas:

• Source

Review of a raw water source’s features for the purpose of preventing potential contamination or water quality degradation

• Treatment

Identification of existing or potential sanitary risks by evaluating the design, operation, maintenance, and management of water treatment plants

• Distribution System

Review of the design, operation, maintenance, and management of distribution systems to prevent contamination of the drinking water as it is delivered to customers

• Finished Water Storage

Review of the design and major components of finished water storage facilities in order to prevent water quality problems from arising during storage

• Pumps

Review of the design and use of water supply pumping facilities in order to determine overall reliability and identify potential sanitary risks

• Monitoring and Reporting

Determining water system conformance with regulatory requirements through the review of water quality monitoring plans and system records; verification that data reported to the EPA and DEQ are consistent with system records

• Management and Operation

Evaluation of water system performance in terms of management and operation, including its long-term viability in meeting water quality goals

• Operator Compliance

Ensuring water systems have qualified professionals that meet all applicable operator certification requirements