Drinking Water Disinfection – A History And Improved Monitoring Techniques

By Randy Turner , Technical Director, Chemist, Swan Analytical USA

In many countries we take for granted the availability and reliability of safe drinking water.  A recent trip outside of the US reminded me of this fact when I saw notices in the hotel rooms stating the drinking water met specific standards and was safe to drink however, my friends from the country emphatically warned me to not drink the water.

The relationship between clean drinking water and health has been known for centuries.  Clear water was considered to be clean water and swamp water was associated with fever and disease.