The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has revised the 1989 Total Coliform Rule (TCR), a national primary drinking water regulation (NPDWR). The purpose of the 1989 TCR is to protect public health by ensuring the integrity of the drinking water distribution system and monitoring for the presence of microbial contamination. EPA anticipates greater public health protection under the revised requirements, which are based on recommendations by a federal advisory committee and the agency’s consideration of public comments. The final Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR):
• Requires public water systems that are vulnerable to microbial contamination to identify and fix problems; and
• Establishes criteria for public water systems to qualify for and stay on reduced monitoring, which could reduce water system burden and provide incentives for better system operation.
The 1989 TCR remains effective until March 31, 2016. PWSs and primacy agencies must comply with the requirements of the RTCR beginning April 1, 2016.
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