Goals look different for everyone across the world. They come in different waves and lengths – from personal, career, long-term and short-term ambitions. Here in the water world, we are focused on public health goals (PHG) because they allow us to deliver high quality and safe tap water to you every day. This is our goal, and this is our duty. 

PHG are recommendations provided by the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), while maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) are strict standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Contaminants, commonly referred to as constituents within the industry, can be naturally occurring or manmade compounds. The collaborative efforts between the OEHHA and EPA ensure the safety of public water systems, so you don’t have to stress when you sip on a refreshing glass of tap water.  

Every PHG is funneled through the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) for review and further refined based on robust testing protocols. Agencies use this research and evidence to determine the health hazards of certain constituent levels (if any) in water tested samples. Once these samples are collected, OEHHA provides a PHG recommendation that safeguards human health.  

Together, the OEHHA, EPA and SWRCB determine PHG, and water agencies across Southern California and beyond, treat and test their water to meet or exceed strict federal and state regulations before it makes its way to you. Though PHG are not legal limits, they are safety thresholds for water agencies to measure against, and they’re considered essential to continue prioritizing the health and safety of all our customers. It’s worth noting that all water agencies are required to provide public documentation, known as consumer confidence reports, outlining water quality and constituent levels each year. Here is a quick read to learn more about consumer confidence reports.  

Water testing is perhaps the most critical responsibility of your water supplier, and it’s one that Your SoCal Tap Water member agencies take extremely seriously to protect your water supply now, while planning for our region’s water future. 

We know safe water is an essential, but often overlooked, element of daily life, and that’s why our goal every minute of every day, is to use innovative technologies and operations for water treatment and testing so you can hydrate with tap water carefree.  

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