Stringent Safety Standards
The water SCWA delivers is produced under some of the most protective drinking water standards in the country. We comply with all requirements established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New York State Department of Health.
Testing Approach An aggressive and comprehensive monitoring program ensures water quality is maintained across our entire distribution system at all times.
Comprehensive Monitoring
We conduct water quality testing at the wellhead, at multiple stages of treatment and at numerous locations throughout the system. Testing covers bacteria, inorganic chemicals and volatile organic compounds.
While regulations require quarterly testing for volatile organic compounds, SCWA increases this frequency whenever trace levels of a regulated constituent are detected.
State-of-the-Art Laboratory
Our dedicated water quality laboratory is at the heart of our mission. By testing for far more chemicals than mandated by regulation, we provide our customers with an unparalleled level of safety and transparency.
Going beyond what is required Our laboratory produces approximately 195,000 test results
annually, analyzing water for 390 chemicals —far exceeding regulatory requirements.
From Aquifer to Tap
Understanding how water moves through our system is key to understanding its quality. The diagram below illustrates the journey from Long Island's underground aquifer system through our treatment facilities and finally to your home.
Visualizing the path from source water to distribution.
Dual Layer Oversight: In addition to SCWA's monitoring, the Suffolk County Department of Health Services independently conducts testing throughout the distribution system.