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EPA Documents to Help Public Water Systems Address Drinking Water

November 20, 2007

Regulations for chronic contaminants, such as arsenic and uranium, can create a public relations challenge for public water system owners and operators. EPA is releasing "Talking to your Customers about Chronic Contaminants," a best-practices guide that helps public water systems communicate with the public about drinking water risks. Chronic contaminants are those that can cause health effects after continuous long-term exposure. The fact sheet discusses the importance of communicating with the public about chronic contaminants — both regulated and unregulated — and describes effective strategies for getting the message out.

EPA has been emphasizing the importance of testing for lead in drinking water provided at schools and child care facilities through its 3Ts of Training, Testing and Telling. The initiative stresses the importance of communicating before testing programs are developed and after testing occurs. A new case study describes the award-winning strategy used by the Stoughton, Massachusetts School District for carrying out a testing program with a strong communication component.