What is the primary responsibility of water operators regarding drinking water?

The primary responsibility of water operators regarding drinking water is to provide drinking water that meets federal and state standards. This is essential because these standards are designed to ensure that the water is safe for human consumption and does not pose health risks to the community. Compliance with these standards involves regularly testing water quality, monitoring treatment processes, and maintaining distribution systems to prevent contamination.

While ensuring that water is free of contaminants is a crucial aspect of water safety, it falls under the broader obligation to meet established health standards. Similarly, performing regular maintenance on water supply systems and educating the public about water conservation are important responsibilities, but they serve to support the overarching goal of delivering safe and compliant drinking water. Thus, the primary role of operators centers on meeting the regulatory standards that protect public health.