Coliform Bacteria Safety
Preventive methods, such as: proper well site selection and construction are the best way to safeguard water supplies from bacterial and other contamination.
Well location
The risk of water contamination is higher if the well is drilled close to potential contamination sources as: septic systems, livestock yards, or manure storage facilities.
The livestock yard should be located in a significant distance form a well, and manure and all runoff from the facility should be collected and stored to avoid groundwater contamination.
On-site water systems as holding tanks and septic tanks should be regularly cleaned at least every two years. It should also be ensured if the tank is not cracked or broken, and that the pump is functioning properly.
Well
constructionTo prevent contamination of the well, the following design guidelines should be followed:
- the top of the well casing should be approx. 0.6-0.9 m above ground level,
- the area around the well should be built up with good clay soil and slopped away from the well;
- a watertight well lid should be installed to prevent water and living creatures from entering the well.
Water Well Maintenance
Water can get contaminated when equipment is placed back in the well without being properly disinfected. This may happen during maintenance or repairs when well equipment is laid on the ground.
To
minimize the likelihood of water contamination, the well cap should be
checked regularly to ensure that it is securely in place and water
resistant. Cracks, connections and joints in the well casing should be
sealed. Pumps and pipes should be checked on a regular basis. Surface drainage should be directed away from the well and surface water should not collect near the well. Water from a lake or pond should never be used in your well.
