Under the Surface Water Treatment Rule, disinfection residuals must be collected at the same location in the distribution system as what?

Disinfection residuals must be collected at the same location in the distribution system as coliform samples due to the critical relationship between the two in ensuring water safety and compliance with regulations. The Surface Water Treatment Rule emphasizes the importance of maintaining a certain level of disinfectant in the water supply, as this disinfection process is essential for inactivating pathogens, including bacteria like coliforms that are indicators of fecal contamination.

By collecting disinfection residuals at the same points where coliform samples are taken, water utilities can ensure that they are adequately monitoring both the efficacy of their disinfection process and the potential presence of harmful microorganisms in the distributed water. This helps to provide a comprehensive picture of water quality and safety, ensuring that the water meets health standards and protects public health effectively.