Study of public perception on water suspension or “do not drink” advisory in abnormal drinking water quality situation

Abstract

Objectives: To acquire the basic data for decision-making for continuation of water supply in case of water quality accidents when water suppliers have to release “Do Not Drink” alert or to suspend water supply.

Methods: An internet questionnaire survey was conducted on public perception. Sequential questionnaire and their answers were statistically analyzed on the cases with or without precedent conditions.

Results: The answers and properties of 1,104 respondents were collected. They preferred water supply continuity more likely when the information was provided on health effects or alternative drinking water than when the exceedance of the water quality standards was just announced.

Conclusions: The preference of water supply suspension was more likely affected by the information provided than the respondents’ properties. Therefore, water suppliers need to consider the way of the information provision in advance and subsequently in the alert.