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<p>Trihalomethanes (THMs), water disinfection byproducts resulting from the reaction of chlorine with organic matter during drinking water disinfection, pose potential long-term health risks. This study investigated the challenges, opportunities, and management strategies employed by Drinking Water Service Providers (DWSPs) to minimise THM formation and concentrations in their water supplies. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with personnel from water treatment and supply agencies representing 23 Local Government Areas in Queensland, Australia. Data analysis utilised the situational analysis conceptual framework alongside the reflexive thematic analytical procedure to identify key themes and contextual factors. Occasional THM exceedances were attributed to challenges associated with extreme weather conditions, geographical location issues, staffing limitations, inadequate resources, and aging infrastructure. Current preventive and management strategies use by DWSPs included enhanced coagulation, proactive flushing, setting intervention trigger points, powdered activated carbon dosing, aeration, chlorine gas application, increased sampling, and water source blending. Opportunities for improved THM management encompassed the strategic utilisation of diverse water sources, leveraging internal expertise through knowledge sharing, modifying procedures to reduce chlorine re-dosing and water age, fostering collaboration through THM management groups, and exploring emerging technologies like nanofiltration, ion exchange, and advanced catalytic oxidation. This study provides insights into the challenges, opportunities, and existing strategies used for THM management in Queensland. The identified measures provide actionable guidance for water utilities aiming to enhance drinking water safety and reduce public health risks associated with THM exposure. By adopting these approaches, DWSPs can proactively minimise THM formation and ensure safe public water.</p>

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Challenges and opportunities for mitigating the risk of trihalomethane exposure in public water supplies in Queensland

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2025年9月30日

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  • Edmund Wedam Kanmiki,
  • Yaqoot Fatima,
  • Fran Boyle,
  • Phil Min Choi,
  • Md. Mehedi Hasan,
  • Abdullah A. Mamun

摘要

Trihalomethanes (THMs), water disinfection byproducts resulting from the reaction of chlorine with organic matter during drinking water disinfection, pose potential long-term health risks. This study investigated the challenges, opportunities, and management strategies employed by Drinking Water Service Providers (DWSPs) to minimise THM formation and concentrations in their water supplies. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with personnel from water treatment and supply agencies representing 23 Local Government Areas in Queensland, Australia. Data analysis utilised the situational analysis conceptual framework alongside the reflexive thematic analytical procedure to identify key themes and contextual factors. Occasional THM exceedances were attributed to challenges associated with extreme weather conditions, geographical location issues, staffing limitations, inadequate resources, and aging infrastructure. Current preventive and management strategies use by DWSPs included enhanced coagulation, proactive flushing, setting intervention trigger points, powdered activated carbon dosing, aeration, chlorine gas application, increased sampling, and water source blending. Opportunities for improved THM management encompassed the strategic utilisation of diverse water sources, leveraging internal expertise through knowledge sharing, modifying procedures to reduce chlorine re-dosing and water age, fostering collaboration through THM management groups, and exploring emerging technologies like nanofiltration, ion exchange, and advanced catalytic oxidation. This study provides insights into the challenges, opportunities, and existing strategies used for THM management in Queensland. The identified measures provide actionable guidance for water utilities aiming to enhance drinking water safety and reduce public health risks associated with THM exposure. By adopting these approaches, DWSPs can proactively minimise THM formation and ensure safe public water.