water quality report - peel region€¦ · this annual water quality report has been completed to...

WTR-0175 19/02WTR-0175 19/02

2019Water QualityReport

Brampton, Mississauga and South CaledonSouth Peel Drinking Water System

South Peel Water Quality Report | 2019 dd

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Our Commitment ......................................................................................................................... 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................... 2 1. Water Management in the Region of Peel .............................................................................. 4 2. General Drinking Water System Information ......................................................................... 6

2.1 Where does the water come from? ....................................................................................... 6 2.2 Expenditure Information ........................................................................................................ 7

3. How is Water Treated? .......................................................................................................... 10 3.1 Arthur P. Kennedy Water Treatment Plant .......................................................................... 10 3.2 Lorne Park Water Treatment Plant...................................................................................... 13 3.3 Conventional Water Treatment Process Description ........................................................... 16 3.4 Ozone, Biologically Active Carbon, and Membrane (OBM) Water Treatment Process ........ 17 Description (used at Arthur P. Kennedy WTP) .......................................................................... 17 3.5 Membrane, Ultraviolet Light, and Granular Activated Carbon (MUG) Water Treatment

Process Description (used at Lorne Park WTP) ................................................................. 18 3.6 South Peel Water Distribution System (Drinking Water System Number 260094120) ......... 19

4. Region of Peel and Drinking Water Compliance in Ontario ................................................ 21 4.1 Annual Water Reports......................................................................................................... 21 4.2 Sampling and Testing ......................................................................................................... 21 4.3 Certified Water Operators ................................................................................................... 22 4.4 Water Quality Notification ................................................................................................... 22 4.5 Water System Inspections .................................................................................................. 25 4.6 Region of Peel Water By-law .............................................................................................. 25

5. How well did we do? .............................................................................................................. 26 5.1 Operation ............................................................................................................................ 26 5.2 Customer Service - Quality and Efficiency .......................................................................... 28

6. Drinking Water Programs ...................................................................................................... 30 6.1 Municipal Drinking Water Licensing Program ...................................................................... 30 6.2 Source Water Protection ..................................................................................................... 32 6.3 Private Well Abandonment Program ................................................................................... 32 6.4 Watermain Renewal Program ............................................................................................. 35 6.5 Community Lead Testing Program...................................................................................... 36 6.6 Watermain Flushing Program ............................................................................................. 37 6.7 Hydrant Inspection Program ............................................................................................... 37 6.8 Drinking Water Sampling Station Program .......................................................................... 38 6.9 Maintenance Program and Activities ................................................................................... 38 6.10 Continual Improvement Program ...................................................................................... 39 6.11 Monitoring Equipment Calibration and Maintenance ......................................................... 40

APPENDIX A – SUMMARY OF WATER TESTING RESULTS ................................................... 41 APPENDIX B – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ON WATER QUALITY51

Water Quality at Home Tips ...................................................................................................... 55 Report Accessibility .................................................................................................................. 56

a

South Peel Water Quality Report | 2019

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The Regional Municipality of Peel (the Region) takes pride in ensuring that its residents,

businesses, and visitors are provided with clean and safe drinking water.

The Region treats its source water to remove contaminants and regularly tests the water quality

to ensure its consumers are provided with high quality drinking water.

Thousands of water samples are collected throughout the year and tested for a variety of

parameters. The results of the tests performed in 2019 confirm excellent quality of drinking water

and have been consolidated in this annual report.

If experiencing difficulty accessing or viewing the 2019 data results, please contact our Water Quality Team at 905-791-7800 ext. 4685 or at [email protected].

Our Commitment:

To supply our customers with quality drinking water and

maintain compliance with all applicable legislative

requirements

mailto:[email protected]


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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The South Peel Drinking Water System is owned by the Region and maintained and operated by

the Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA). The South Peel Drinking Water System has two

drinking water treatment plants (WTP), Arthur P Kennedy WTP and Lorne Park WTP, that supply

treated water to the South Peel Distribution System. Both Treatment Plants are Class IV water

treatment subsystems under the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks

(Ministry) Regulation 128/04, while the South Peel Distribution System is split into a Class IV

Subsystem for Transmission and Pumping and a Class II Distribution Subsystem.

The South Peel Drinking Water System supplies a population of over 1.5 million people in the

Cities of Brampton and Mississauga and the southern parts of Caledon, including the community

of Bolton. A portion of water produced is also supplied to York Region. The South Peel Drinking

Water System is operated to meet daily, seasonal, and other operational demands such as fire

fighting efforts. Municipal drinking water systems in Ontario are legislated under the provincial

government through Acts, Regulations, and system-specific legal instruments (permits and

licences).

2019 HIGHLIGHTS

Ministry inspection scores of 99.15% (Distribution System) and 95.72% (Lorne Park WTP).

99.8% of 4,762 routine laboratory analyzed samples met Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards (ODWS) and confirm the Region’s high-quality drinking water. The 0.2% of

samples that did not meet the ODWS did not pose any impact on public health, these were

resampled, and results met ODWS.

Corrective actions were completed in response to 17 events of adverse water quality, in

accordance with Ontario Regulation 170/03. These events did not pose a risk to public health,

and confirmatory tests confirmed high quality dinking water.

Action was taken in response to 4 operational process issues and control measures put in

place to prevent reoccurrence.

$88,005,700 was invested into major maintenance, repairs and upgrades.

This Annual Water Quality report has been completed to satisfy the requirements under Section

11 of Ontario Regulation 170/03 – Drinking Water Systems.

The Report summarizes drinking water performance metrics, such as:

• Water treatment and distribution process overview

• Summary of laboratory test results

• Operational challenges

• Emergency repairs and maintenance on major infrastructure

• Continual Improvement Programs

https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/040128






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1. Water Management in the Region of Peel

The Region owns and operates the water and wastewater systems that serve its population. This

includes water treatment, storage and distribution, and wastewater collection, pumping and

treatment. Figure 1, on the next page shows how these systems interact.

The Region has two drinking water sources: Lake Ontario and groundwater wells in Caledon.

The Region employs the Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) under a contract to operate,

maintain and manage the lake-based drinking water treatment facilities and its water storage and

pumping system. The Region operates the groundwater-based water treatment systems and

distribution watermain networks. Similarly, on the wastewater side, OCWA is contracted to

operate the large wastewater treatment plants on the shore of Lake Ontario, while the Region

operates the wastewater collection system, pumping stations, and the treatment facility in the

community of Inglewood.

This water cycle starts when source water is pumped into our water treatment plants and

undergoes treatment to meet the Ontario Drinking Water Standards. Treated drinking water is

distributed through a network of pipes, storage facilities and pumping stations to homes and

businesses. Used water goes down the drains into the wastewater collection system, where a

series of pipes collect and convey wastewater to the treatment plants. Although a predominantly

gravity-based network, pumping stations are needed to move wastewater from low lying areas.

Wastewater undergoes multi-stage treatment to comply with the strict provincial and federal

standards before release to the environment. The Region is committed to high standards of

treated wastewater quality since it gets discharged into Lake Ontario, which is the source of

drinking water for Peel and many neighbouring municipalities.

More information about the wastewater treatment process can be found within the Wastewater

Annual Performance Reports, which will be available online in April 2020.


http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/sewage-trtmt/

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/sewage-trtmt/


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Figure 1: Water and Wastewater Cycle


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2. General Drinking Water System Information

2.1 Where does the water come from?

Raw water from Lake Ontario is pumped into two surface water treatment plants, Arthur P.

Kennedy Water Treatment Plant (WTP) and Lorne Park WTP, from intake pipes extending as far

as two kilometres offshore. The Arthur P. Kennedy and Lorne Park WTPs are owned by the

Region and operated under contract by the Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA). In 2019,

these plants produced over 210 billion litres of water. Both plants are classified by the Ministry of

the Environment, Conservation and Parks (the Ministry) as Class IV water treatment

subsystems.

Refer to Section 3 for more details on water treatment.

Distribution System / Storage Facilities

The South Peel Distribution System is comprised of a Class IV transmission and pumping

subsystem made up of water storage facilities, large diameter feedermains and pumping stations

for bulk water movement, and a Class II distribution subsystem made up of a large network of

distribution watermains. The distribution system carries water from the treatment plants to the

Cities of Brampton and Mississauga and parts of Caledon through a series of pipes that range in

size up to 2100 mm (approximately 7 feet) in diameter. There is a total of 12 reservoirs, 4

elevated tanks, and 2 standpipes in the South Peel Distribution System. Refer to Section 3.6.

Some of the maintenance activities performed in the South Peel Distribution System include:

• watermain break repairs

• watermain flushing

• hydrant maintenance and repairs

• valve maintenance and repairs

• water service line installation/replacement/repairs

• customer service calls (water quality/quantity, turn off/on, pressure testing, etc.)

For water asset information pertaining to the South Peel Drinking Water System, please review

the infographic on page 3.

The South Peel Drinking Water System is monitored and controlled 24 hours per day, 7 days a

week through a computerized Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. Online

analyzers continuously monitor the facilities processes. Online analyzers continuously monitor

the water quality within the treatment facilities and distribution system. Any significant process

upset or potential water quality issue generates an alarm and, when applicable, the SCADA


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Figure 2: Airport Road Reservoir and Pumping Station, Pump Room

system automatically shuts down the treatment process(es) until staff investigate and appropriate

action is taken to restore normal operational conditions.

The water treatment and distribution facilities are equipped with stand-by power generators to

ensure continuity of water treatment and supply in the event of a power failure.

2.2 Expenditure Information

The Region staff determine capital spending priorities to eliminate unnecessary expenditures

while maintaining infrastructure.

Table 1: Significant Expenses for Lorne Park Water Treatment Plant Activity Type Activity Description Approximate

Expenditure

Repair Pump refurbishment $151,000 Process and mechanical systems $3,700,000

Chemical injection system $57,000

Replacement Electrical equipment $438,000 Settling plates and sludge collection system $1,500,000 Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) filter media $2,200,000


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Table 2: Significant Expenses for Arthur P. Kennedy Water Treatment Plant Activity Type Activity Description Approximate

Expenditure

Repair

Building repair/maintenance $492,400 Corrosion abatement work $237,200 Pump refurbishment $420,900 Pump modifications $61,200

Replacement

Backflow preventer $19,500 Heat exchanger $47,200 Valves $62,200 Skylights $52,700 Analyzers $120,600 Electrical panels $418,400 Electrical equipment (transformer, switch gear, MCC) $148,200

Installation Electrical upgrades – Infrared windows $89,500 Table 3: Significant Expenses for South Peel Distribution System

Activity Type Activity Description Approximate Expenditure

Repair

Valves $666,500 Hydrants $735,000 Water service line repairs/upgrades $2,165,900 Service boxes $413,000 Watermain break repairs $2,588,100 Pumping station building repairs/maintenance $1,333,100 North Brampton Pumping Station corrosion abatement work $34,900

Replacement

Water service lines $96,300 Service boxes $1,502,600 Hydrants $255,500 Watermain renewal and rehabilitation $66,505,100 Bolton North Booster Pumping Station pump variable frequency drives $23,000

Frozen services $412,700 Pumping station equipment $858,400

Remove/ Replace/

Install Valves throughout the system $289,100

Installation

System extension – new watermain $273,127,000 Flow & pressure monitors $1,273,600 Alloa Pumping Station and Reservoir construction $51,918,200 Valves, fencing, safety equipment throughout system $95,300


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Figure 3: Significant Expenditures for South Peel Drinking Water System

Figure 4: Hanlan Feedermain Construction Project

$13,056,200 3%

Repair

$74,949,500 18%

Replacement

$330,641,600 79%

Installation

Repair Replacement Installation

Total Significant Expensesin 2019 = $418,647,300


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3. How is Water Treated?

3.1 Arthur P. Kennedy Water Treatment Plant

(Drinking Water Works Number 210000568)

Located on the north shore of Lake Ontario, the Arthur P. Kennedy Water Treatment Plant

(WTP) serves primarily the east side of Mississauga and Brampton, as well as parts of Caledon,

including the community of Bolton, and provides water to York Region. Arthur P. Kennedy WTP

is comprised of three treatment processes: a conventional water treatment plant with ultraviolet

(UV) light disinfection and two advanced treatment plants consisting of ozone, biologically active

carbon contactors and membrane filtration, one additionally using ultraviolet (UV) light

disinfection. The Arthur P. Kennedy WTP is capable of producing up to 1,200 million litres of

treated drinking water per day.

Conventional/UV Treatment

Conventional/UV treatment consists of the following steps: coagulation, flocculation,

sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection by both UV light and chlorination. Refer to Section 3.3

for a detailed description.

Ozone, Biologically Active Carbon Contactor and Membrane Filtration (OBM) Treatment

The OBM treatment process consists of ozone, biologically active carbon contactor (BACC)

treatment and membrane filtration. One of the two OBM processes at Arthur P. Kennedy WTP

also has UV reactors. Refer to Section 2.4 for a detailed description.

Refer to Figure 6 for the Arthur P. Kennedy WTP Process Diagram.

Figure 5: Arthur P. Kennedy Water Treatment Plant


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The chemicals used at the Arthur P. Kennedy WTP during the reporting period were:

Type of Chemical Description of Use

Aluminum sulphate (alum)

a coagulant to aid tiny particles in the water to join together to form larger particles that are easier to settle and/or filter out

Chlorine gas used to disinfect the water Citric acid and sulphuric acid used to clean the membrane filters

Sodium hydroxide used to neutralize the spent membrane cleaning solution Hydrofluorosilicic acid used to optimally fluoridate the water to prevent tooth decay

Liquid oxygen used to generate ozone gas on-site. Ozone is a strong disinfectant. Sodium bisulphite used to quench excess chlorine and ozone Anionic polymer and cationic polymer

used in the wastewater stream to settle out solids

Sodium hypochlorite

used to control mussel growth in the raw water intake structures and also to clean the membrane filters

Water softener salt used in the regeneration process of the deionization water system for the membrane cleaning process

The west side of Mississauga and Brampton is serviced primarily by the Lorne Park Water

Treatment Plant. Several watermains allow water to transfer from either east to west or west to

east. Refer to Figure 10 for the South Peel Water Distribution System Flow Chart.

(http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/water-trtmt/arthurpkennedy.htm)

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/water-trtmt/lakeview.htm


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Figure 6: Arthur P. Kennedy Water Treatment Plant Process


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3.2 Lorne Park Water Treatment Plant

(Drinking Water Works Number 210001317)

The Lorne Park Water Treatment Plant (WTP) supplies water to primarily the west side of

Mississauga and Brampton and is located on the north shore of Lake Ontario, largely

underground beneath public park land. Lorne Park WTP has two treatment processes: a

conventional treatment plant with ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection, and an advanced treatment

plant consisting of membrane filtration, UV light, and granular activated carbon contactors

(GACC). The Lorne Park WTP is capable of producing up to 500 million litres of treated drinking

water per day.

Conventional/UV Treatment

Conventional/UV treatment consists of the following steps: coagulation, flocculation,

sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection by both UV light and chlorination. Refer to Section 3.3

for a detailed description.

Membrane Filtration, Ultraviolet Light, and Granular Activated Carbon Contactor (MUG)

Treatment

The MUG treatment process consists of membrane filtration, UV light, and granular activated

carbon contactor (GACC) treatment. Refer to Section 3.5 for a detailed description.

Refer to Figure 8 for the Lorne Park Water Treatment Process flow.

Figure 7. Lorne Park Water Treatment Plant


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The chemicals used at the Lorne Park Water Treatment Plant during the reporting period were:

Type of Chemical Description of Use

Aluminum chlorohydrate (ACH)

a coagulant to aid tiny particles in the water to join together to form larger particles that are easier to settle and/or filter out

AWC UF-429 used for enhanced cleaning of the membrane filters Citric acid and sulphuric acid used to clean the membrane filters

Sodium hydroxide used to neutralize the spent membrane cleaning solution Hydrofluorosilicic acid used to optimally fluoridate the water to prevent tooth decay

hydrogen peroxide used in the UV advanced oxidation process to destroy taste and odour compounds

Polymer used in the wastewater stream to settle out solids Sodium bisulphite used to quench excess chlorine and ozone Sodium hypochlorite

used to control mussel growth in the raw water intake structures and also to clean the membrane filters

(http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/water-trtmt/lorne-park.htm)

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/water-trtmt/lorne-park.htm


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Figure 8: Lorne Park Water Treatment Plant Process


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3.3 Conventional Water Treatment Process Description

Both Arthur P. Kennedy and Lorne Park WTPs employ conventional treatment processes.

Lake Ontario is the source for the South Peel Drinking Water System. As the lake water enters

the intake pipe, it can be chlorinated. The chlorine kills bacteria and discourages

mussels from growing inside the intake pipe and obstructing the flow.

As the water enters the treatment facility, it passes through travelling screens. The screens prevent items such as fish, sticks, shells, and

aquatic plants from entering the treatment facility and damaging

equipment.

Low lift pumps draw the lake water into the treatment plant.

Coagulation assists with the removal of turbidity and suspended matter

(particles) from the water. A coagulant (Alum or ACH) is added to the water.

The rapid mixer thoroughly mixes the coagulant with the water to help form

sticky particles.

Flocculation is the process of slow mixing that helps the sticky

particles collide with each other, forming larger and heavier

particles called floc.

In the sedimentation process, floc particles are removed from the water

by inclined plate settlers (as used at Lorne Park WTP) or by slowing the

water down in large tanks (used at Arthur P. Kennedy WTP) to allow

particles to settle to the bottom. The settled solids are removed and

transferred to the wastewater treatment facility.

Conventional filtration removes particles and bacteria that were not settled out in the previous

step and filters using granular activated carbon (GAC) media

can reduce the quantity of compounds that can cause

unpleasant tastes and odours. The water filters through layers

of GAC (used at Lorne Park WTP) or anthracite (used at Arthur

P. Kennedy WTP), sand and gravel. Water starts at the top of

the filter and moves down between the granules by gravity.

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/sewage-trtmt/wastewater-trtmt.htm


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When needed, the filters are backwashed (cleaned). Clean water is pumped up and through the

filter media, in a reverse flow, lifting and flushing out the floc particles that have accumulated in

the filter. The backwash water is treated in the process wastewater treatment facility prior to

being discharged to the lake.

Filtered water then passes through ultraviolet (UV) light units,

which inactivate microorganisms, for disinfection of the water.

The process of disinfection destroys or inactivates harmful disease-causing organisms such as

E. coli and Giardia. Chlorine, used in the South Peel Drinking Water System, is the most

common disinfectant used in water treatment.

Fluoride is added to the finished water to prevent cavities in our teeth.

The finished water is then stored in a reservoir and distributed to the

customers through a series of large pipes, pumping stations and

reservoirs.

Diesel-powered generators provide auxiliary or standby power for the facility. Standby power

ensures we can provide water in case of an emergency such as a massive power failure.

The water flows through watermains to houses, apartments, schools, and commercial and

industrial premises. Refer to Figure 9 for the South Peel Water Distribution System Flow Chart.

To download a water treatment poster and to learn about the water treatment process, visit:

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/water-trtmt/water-treatment-process.htm

3.4 Ozone, Biologically Active Carbon, and Membrane (OBM) Water Treatment Process Description (used at Arthur P. Kennedy WTP)

Low lift pumps draw water from Lake Ontario into the treatment plant.

Ozone gas is generated on site from liquid oxygen and

electricity. The ozone is bubbled through the water in the

ozone contactors. Ozone kills bacteria and also helps to

break down substances that cause tastes and odours so that they are more easily removed in

the next treatment step.

The water then passes into the biologically active carbon contactors (BACC). These contactors remove the biodegradable

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/water-trtmt/water-treatment-process-backwash.htm

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/water-trtmt/water-treatment-process.htm


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organic matter produced by the activity of the ozone process. The BACCs are very good at

adsorbing organic matter from the water and this removal process keeps the water stable after

treatment by minimizing re-growth of bacteria in the distribution system.

The Arthur P. Kennedy Water Treatment Plant has two OBM

treatment plants. OBM2 has one additional treatment step that

OBM1 does not have: ultraviolet (UV) light. The specific

wavelength of light emitted by these UV units inactivates

microorganisms so that they cannot reproduce and cause infections.

In the next treatment process, water passes through the ultra filtration membrane system. These are specially designed water filters with

very small pores that the water is pulled through. The membrane filters

are so effective that they are capable of removing microorganisms and

producing water with very little turbidity.

Filtered water is directed to the weir box. The weir box stores water and is also the

location where chlorine and fluoride are added.

Chlorine and fluoride are added to the treated water from both the conventional treatment and

the OBM treatment processes as it flows by gravity into the water storage reservoir. The water

must remain in the storage reservoir until adequate disinfection has occurred. Water leaves the

reservoir by way of high lift pumps and enters the distribution system.

3.5 Membrane, Ultraviolet Light, and Granular Activated Carbon (MUG) Water Treatment Process Description (used at Lorne Park WTP)

Low lift pumps draw raw water from Lake Ontario into the treatment plant.

Raw water is pulled through ultra filtration membranes with pores small

enough to filter out particles and many microorganisms.

Filtered water then passes through ultraviolet (UV) light units, which inactivate microorganisms,

for disinfection of the water. These special UV units can also be used for a

process called advanced oxidation, which uses hydrogen peroxide, added

upstream of the UV units, and a higher intensity of UV light to oxidize

(break apart) substances that cause unpleasant tastes and odours. The

advanced oxidation process is used seasonally, when taste and odour problems are at their peak

due to lake conditions.


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The water then flows into granular activated carbon contactors (GACC), where it moves by gravity down through a matrix of carbon

granules. The GACCs eliminate any residual hydrogen peroxide

remaining from the advanced oxidation process.

Chlorine and fluoride are added to the water on its way into the on-site storage reservoir, from

which it is pumped into the distribution system.

3.6 South Peel Water Distribution System (Drinking Water System Number 260094120)

The drinking water in the South Peel Distribution System is re-chlorinated using sodium hypochlorite (liquid chlorine) at the North Brampton Pumping Station, Airport Road Pumping

Station, and Bolton Recholorination Facility and chlorine gas at the Beckett Sproule Pumping

Station. Drinking water being directed to York Region is chloraminated at the Airport Road

Pumping Station by adding sodium hypochlorite and aqua ammonia at a specific ratio.

Figure 9: Herridge Reservoir and Pumping Station


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Figure 10: Process Flow Chart - South Peel Water Transmission System


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4. Region of Peel and Drinking Water Compliance in Ontario Drinking water quality in the Region is regulated by the Ontario Government through the Ministry.

Ontario drinking water legislation sets requirements for municipal water system owners and

operating authorities with regards to operation and management, level of treatment, sampling

and testing, training and certification of staff, and water quality notification.

4.1 Annual Water Reports

To comply with the Drinking Water Systems Regulation (Ontario Regulation 170/03) under the

Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002, every year, the Region prepares Water Quality Reports that

provide information on quality of water supplied and a Summary Report covering the operation

and overall performance of the drinking water systems.

The Summary Report under Schedule 22 of Ontario Regulation 170/03 includes a statement of

compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002, the regulations, and the terms and

conditions of all the approvals for the Region’s drinking water systems. It also includes a

summary of the quantities and flow rates of water supplied to assess the capability to meet the

existing and planned uses of the water systems. This report is made available to Regional

Council by March 31 of each year.

The Water Quality Reports and the Summary Report are made available to the public to ensure

that our consumers are kept informed. Each year, the reports are posted on the Region’s website

(http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/quality/reports/) and their electronic or paper copies may be

obtained upon request by emailing the Region at [email protected] or calling

at 905-791-7800 ext. 4685.

Additionally, an ad is placed in the local newspapers to inform the consumers about the

availability of the Region’s Water Quality Reports.

4.2 Sampling and Testing

In compliance with legislation, quality of drinking water must be monitored to ensure it meets

provincial standards.

The Region regularly samples and tests raw, treated and distribution system water for a number

of microbiological, chemical, physical, and radiological parameters. The Region has an extensive

water sampling and monitoring program extending beyond the minimum regulatory requirements

to better understand the quality of source water, to ensure effectiveness of treatment processes,

and to diligently monitor and protect the drinking water supply. Sampling and testing are

conducted by trained and qualified operators, who collect water samples from various sampling


https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/02s32



http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/quality/reports/



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sites throughout the Region and immediately test them for first indicators of water safety. As part

of the Region’s water quality monitoring programs, samples are collected for laboratory analysis

for a vast number of health-related and aesthetic parameters.

The Ministry requires that all drinking water testing laboratories be accredited by the Standards

Council of Canada (SCC) based on proficiency evaluation conducted by the Canadian

Association for Laboratory Accreditation (CALA) as well as licensed by the Ministry for all

drinking water tests performed. All laboratories used by the Region are accredited by the SCC,

licensed by the Ministry, and adhere to strict drinking water sample collection, handling and

transport protocols as well as analytical methods and reporting procedures.

4.3 Certified Water Operators

All water treatment plant, distribution system and maintenance operators and technical staff have

appropriate Water Treatment, Water Distribution and Water Quality Analyst certification, as

required by the Ontario drinking water legislation. The Ministry mandated training and

certification program ensures that all operators are certified to industry recognized standards.

The Region has established a continuing education program for all staff responsible for operating

drinking water systems and whose role has an impact on drinking water quality . The program

features in-house training that addresses the Region’s specific needs with focus on the operation

and management of Region-owned drinking water systems and that offers the benefits of

increased staff engagement through a custom designed training toolkit tailored to our business

mandates. This helps the operators to gain knowledge of the latest industry practices,

technologies and advanced processes and to effectively maintain system water quality and

quantity.

4.4 Water Quality Notification

In compliance with the regulatory requirements, the Region reports every event of adverse water

quality to the Medical Officer of Health and the Ministry and initiates timely corrective action to

address and resolve the issue and implement control measures to prevent its reoccurrence. The

Region has established a notification protocol for reporting of adverse water quality events and

makes these reports and data publicly available in the Water Quality Reports.

During the period of January 1 through December 31, 2019, the events that were reported to the

Medical Officer of Health and the Ministry for the South Peel Drinking Water System are

summarized in Tables 4, 5, and 6.


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TABLE 4: Summary of 2019 Reportable Events at the Arthur P. Kennedy WTP (Waterworks # 210000568) AWQI# Event

Date(s) Parameter/

Process Upset Corrective Action

145425 May 15 Total Coliform of 4 CFU/100mL

Re-sampled at WTP and downstream. Re-samples met microbiological standards

AWQI = Adverse Water Quality Incident Reportable = Reportable to the Medical Officer of Health and Ministry under O. Reg. 170/03 CFU/100mL = colony forming units per 100 millilitres TABLE 5: Summary of 2019 Reportable Events at the Lorne Park WTP (Waterworks # 210001317) AWQI# Event

Date(s) Parameter/

Process Upset Corrective Action

144758 Feb 7 Sodium of 23 mg/L Confirmatory resample. Results were sent to Peel Public Health.

145042 Mar 20 Total Coliform of 1 CFU/100mL

E. coli of 1 CFU/100mL

Re-sampled at WTP and downstream. Re-samples met microbiological standards

145673 Jun 12 Chemical coagulant feed interruptions exceeded 15

consecutive minutes

Treated water turbidity was satisfactory throughout and following the event and treated water sample results met microbiological

standards. SCADA programing was revised to prevent a reoccurrence.

146172 Jul 8 Continuous monitoring loss for membrane filter

#42 effluent turbidity; sample line valve found

closed

Turbidity value satisfactory when flow re-established. During the period, filter was cleaned regularly, and combined effluent turbidity

and membrane integrity tests remained within regulatory limits. Four routine bacteriological samples collected during this period yielded

satisfactory results. 146231 Jul 9 Continuous monitoring

loss for membrane filter #45 effluent turbidity; no flow through sample line

Turbidity value satisfactory when flow re-established. During the period, filter was cleaned regularly, and combined effluent turbidity

and membrane integrity tests remained within regulatory limits. Staff directed to check for flow through turbidimeters during each routine

round (4 times daily). 149176 Dec 5 Continuous monitoring

loss for conventional filter #10 effluent turbidity;

sample line valve found closed

Immediate manual turbidity test value was satisfactory. During the period, filter was cleaned regularly and combined effluent turbidity remained within regulatory limits. Bacteriological samples yielded

satisfactory results. All sample line valve handles have been removed to prevent reoccurrence and rotameters are being installed for visual

flow verification. AWQI = Adverse Water Quality Incident Reportable = Reportable to the Medical Officer of Health and Ministry under O. Reg. 170/03 CFU/100mL = colony forming units per 100 millilitres mg/L = milligrams per litre


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TABLE 6: Summary of 2019 Reportable Events in the South Peel Distribution System (Waterworks # 260094120)

AWQI# Event Date(s)

Event Location Parameter Result Unit of Measure

Corrective Action

144758 Feb 19 Hydrant at 18 John St. S, Mississauga

Sodium 26 mg/L Confirmatory resample. Results were sent to Peel Public Health.

145081 Mar 27 Hydrant at 7645 Wildfern Dr, Mississauga

Total Coliform

1 CFU/100mL Flushed system and re-sampled. Re-samples met microbiological standards.

145645 Jun 6 Sampling Station at 61 Maybeck Dr, Brampton

Total Coliform E. coli

1 1

CFU/100mL Flushed system and re-sampled. Re-samples met microbiological standards.

146143 Jul 5 Hydrant Dead End at Orr Rd, Mississauga

Free Chlorine Residual

0.00 mg/L Flushed to restore residual. Samples collected met

microbiological standards 146570 Jul 17 Blow-off at 830

Hollowtree Cres, Mississauga

Total Coliform


146645 Jul 20 Hydrant at 1939 Lincoln Green Way,

Mississauga

Total Coliform


146753 Jul 23 Sample Station at 114 Falconer Dr, Mississauga

Total Coliform

6 CFU/100mL Flushed system and re-sampled. Re-samples met microbiological standards

146933 Jul 29 Sample Station at Cramer St,

Mississauga

Total Coliform


147041 Jul 31 Sample Station at Christie Dr and Kennedy Rd. N,

Brampton

Total Coliform


147377 Aug 13 Private Side Hose Bib at 1180 Mississauga

Valley Blvd, Mississauga

Total Coliform E. coli

NDOGT NDOGT

CFU/100mL Flushed system/private side and re-sampled. Re-samples

met microbiological standards.

147551 Aug 21 Hydrant at 2250 Hurontario St, Mississauga

Total Coliform

12 CFU/100mL Flushed system and re-sampled. Re-samples met microbiological standards

147880 Sep 5 Hydrant at Winchester Dr, Mississauga



microbiological standards 148554

Oct 11

Hydrant at 2895 Lakeshore Rd, Mississauga



microbiological standards 149321 Dec 17 Hydrant at 72 Prouse

Dr, Brampton Lead 120 µg/L Flushed and re-sampled. Re-

samples met the lead standard. AWQI = Adverse Water Quality Incident Reportable = Reportable to the Medical Officer of Health and Ministry under O. Reg. 170/03 CFU/100mL = colony forming units per 100 millilitres mg/L = milligrams per litre NDOGT = No Data; Overgrown with Target organisms ODWS = Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards


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4.5 Water System Inspections

On an annual basis, the Region’s drinking water systems undergo the Ministry inspection

program to confirm compliance with provincial drinking water legislation. The Ministry’s annual

inspection program is an important aspect of drinking water supply to our consumers. Through

these inspections, the Ministry ensures that the Region meets the sampling, testing and

disinfection requirements, treatment standards, terms and conditions of all Ministry approvals

and staff certification and training requirements as stated in the Ontario Regulations 170/03,

169/03, and 128/04 under the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002.

Ministry inspections provide the Region with an overview of how well our drinking water systems

are doing and how well we meet the province’s stringent regulations. They also provide an

opportunity to review our best management practices and, if necessary, implement new practices

to continually improve the operation and management of the Region’s drinking water systems.

For an overview of all the work the Ministry is doing to protect drinking water in Ontario, please

visit the Ministry website for the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks report:

https://www.ontario.ca/page/ministers-annual-report-drinking-water-2018

4.6 Region of Peel Water By-law

Water By-law 6-2017, in effect since April 1, 2017, manages and enforces the use of the

Region’s municipal drinking water systems. It aligns with drinking water legislation such as the

Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002, and the Region’s operational management practices current

operations management by ensuring the uses and conditions of the water system and do not

adversely impact on the operation, repair, supply or maintenance of the water works. The Water

By-law also covers financial information on the billing of water for all customers by setting fixed

rates and charges.

Here is a high-level overview of activities governed by the Water By-law:

Installation and maintenance of water services

Use of fire hydrants and control valves

Installation and maintenance of water meters

Prohibits unauthorized use of and tampering with the drinking water system

Access to property for inspection and maintenance of the Region’s assets

Prohibits obstruction of fire hydrants and water meters

Protection of the distribution system integrity






https://www.peelregion.ca/council/bylaws/2010s/2017/bl-6-2017.pdf



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How does bylaw affect me?

Since the passing of this bylaw, it is basically “business as usual” for most current customers.

Those who are in violation of the provisions of the by-law (e.g. obstruction or unauthorized use of

a fire hydrant) are expected to take corrective action as soon as reasonably possible or be

subjected to monetary penalty.

Who is affected by this bylaw?

This bylaw does apply to all water customers, including builders, developers, landscapers and

contractors who are involved with the Region in the construction and maintenance works and

whose work directly impacts the integrity of our drinking water systems and quality our drinking

water.

5. How well did we do?

5.1 Operation

To protect the health of the public and to ensure clean and safe drinking water, the Ministry has

established the Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards that make up Ontario Regulation

169/03. These standards are set to ensure the water is free of disease-causing organisms and

harmful or radioactive chemicals and they are reviewed from time to time based on new science

and to keep them aligned with the Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines.

Ontario Regulations 169/03 and 170/03 were amended in 2015 including updates to parameters

and their limits. Amendments are being phased-in gradually until 2020 to allow drinking water

system owners and operating authorities time to collect baseline information and to prepare for

the implementation of treatment process upgrades.

In 2019, the Region monitored water quality by undertaking tens of thousands of process

samples and tests to ensure a safe and clean water supply. Appendix A of this report provides

a full summary of the water quality test results.

The Ministry performs annual inspections on all municipal drinking water systems, comprised of

physical inspection of the facilities and review of information and data for the inspection period.

Score cards are issued by the Ministry based on the inspection findings in the scope of

documentation, staff competency, process operation and monitoring, water quality monitoring

https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/030169?search=169%2F03





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and corrective actions in response to events. The South Peel drinking water systems’ overall

performance is high, as presented in Figure 11.

Figure 11: South Peel Drinking Water System Ministry Inspection Score Graph

Note: 2019 Inspection of the Arthur P. Kennedy Water Treatment Plant was still underway at the time of this report

being issued. Scores below 100% generally reflect inspection findings that are administrative in nature and did not

compromise the quality of the water supply.

For more information on the Ministry inspection methodology, please visit the Ministry’s website:

https://www.ontario.ca/page/application-risk-methodology-used-measuring-municipal-drinking-

water-system-inspection-results

https://www.ontario.ca/page/application-risk-methodology-used-measuring-municipal-drinking-water-system-inspection-results

https://www.ontario.ca/page/application-risk-methodology-used-measuring-municipal-drinking-water-system-inspection-results


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5.2 Customer Service - Quality and Efficiency

In 2019, all customer calls were responded to and resolved in a timely manner. Region staff have

made every effort to contact the customers and satisfactorily address their questions. Records of

water quality calls received are logged in the Region’s database and kept on file. Figure 12

below illustrates the water quality enquiries over the past five years as compared with the

population served. In 2019, the Region received 1,583 enquiries, which is a slight incline from

2018. On November 4th, 2019, the media released news articles across Canada regarding lead

in drinking water. This caused an influx of enquiries and requests related to lead testing. Figure 13 breaks down the enquiries by category.

Figure 12: Water Quality Enquiries Customer Service Index Note: High volume of public enquiries in 2015 due to frozen water services and watermain breaks caused by severe cold winter weather.

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

3,000

3,500

1,000,000

1,050,000

1,100,000

1,150,000

1,200,000

1,250,000

1,300,000

1,350,000

1,400,000

1,450,000

1,500,000

2015 2016 2017 2018 2019C

usto

mer

Enq

uirie

s

Reg

ion

of P

eel

Popu

latio

n Se

rved

YearTotal Population Served Customer Enquiries


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Figure 13: 2019 Customer Enquiries by Category


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6. Drinking Water Programs

6.1 Municipal Drinking Water Licensing Program

Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002 (the Act), all municipal residential drinking water

system owners in Ontario must operate their system(s) under a valid Municipal Drinking Water

Licence (the Licence). In order to be issued a Licence, the Ministry requires owners to have the

following five prerequisites:

I. Drinking Water Works Permit (DWWP) A permit describing the drinking water system and giving authority to establish or alter a drinking

water system. The Region holds a valid DWWP for each of its five (5) drinking water systems.

II. Permit to Take Water (PTTW) A valid permit to take water issued under the Ontario Water Resources Act specifying the

approved rate of water taking. The Region holds a valid PTTW for each of its drinking water

sources.

III. An Accepted Operational Plan The Operational Plan defines and documents the Quality Management System (QMS) for the

Region’s drinking water systems in accordance with the requirements of the Ministry’s Drinking

Water Quality Management Standard (DWQMS). The Operational Plan outlines the policy

commitments and associated procedures, responsibilities and evaluation criteria that ensure

drinking water quality and safety in all processes for water treatment and distribution, from

source to tap.

IV. Accredited Operating Authority (Third-Party Audit of the QMS) Municipal residential drinking water system owners must ensure that, at all times, an accredited

operating authority is in charge of the drinking water systems. The Region owns five (5) large

municipal residential drinking water systems. As the operating authority of the Caledon Village -

Alton, Cheltenham, Inglewood, Palgrave - Caledon East drinking water systems and the South

Peel Distribution System, the Region became an accredited Operating Authority in August 2011,

and has been successfully maintaining this mandatory accreditation. The Ontario Clean Water

Agency (OCWA), under contract, operates the Arthur P. Kennedy and Lorne Park Water

Treatment Plants as well as the South Peel Transmission and Pumping System. OCWA is an

accredited Operating Authority since July 2013.


https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90o40

https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontarios-drinking-water-quality-management-standard-pocket-guide

https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontarios-drinking-water-quality-management-standard-pocket-guide


31 | P a g e

Full Scope Accreditation recognizes that the operating authority has a QMS in place that

conforms to the DWQMS as documented in the Operational Plan.

The Region has worked with the third-party agency, SAI Global, that provides accreditation

auditing services. Continuance of accreditation is based on a three-year review cycle comprised

of annual offsite surveillance audits in years one and two; and an offsite systems audit followed

by an onsite accreditation audit in year three. An offsite verification audit for DWQMS

reaccreditation was completed by SAI Global in February 2019, which included procedural

documentation and records review. The Region achieved full conformance to DWQMS, and we

have been issued a certificate of accreditation that expires March 22, 2021.

V. Financial Plan Ontario Regulation 453/07 Financial Plans mandates municipal drinking water system owners to

prepare a long-term strategy to ensure the financial sustainability of drinking water systems. The

Financial Plan for the Region’s drinking water systems was first prepared and approved by

Council Resolution in June 2010 and submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing

(MMAH). The Financial Plan forecasts a period of at least six years and, at a minimum, must be

updated and approved by Council Resolution and resubmitted to the MMAH every five years

prior to an application for the renewal of the Licence. Pursuant to the Licence renewal

applications, an update to the Financial Plan was prepared by staff for Regional Council’s

endorsement. The Financial Plan (2019-2024) was adopted by Regional Council on March 28th

2019 and submitted to the MMAH, satisfying the requirements under Ontario Regulation

453/07.

Summary of Approvals and Permits The Region holds valid approvals and permits, has satisfied all DWQMS accreditation

requirements of the Municipal Drinking Water Licensing Program, and has been operating all its

municipal drinking water systems in accordance with the approvals framework under the Act.

The Licences are valid for five years. To ensure continued authority to operate, owners are

required to renew the Licences before the expiry date and renewal application deadline. The

Region’s current Licences were renewed in November 2019, and their next expiry date is

November 7, 2024.

To ensure a Licence remains current, amendments and reissues occur from time to time to

reflect alterations to the drinking water system and/or changes to system-specific conditions.





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For more information on the Region’s Municipal Drinking Water Licensing Program, please visit

the following link: www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/quality/dwqms-peel

6.2 Source Water Protection

In May 2000, the safety of Ontario’s drinking water became the focus of concern when the

municipal drinking water supply in Walkerton became contaminated with E. coli and

campylobacter bacteria. A public inquiry, led by Justice Dennis O’Connor, reviewed the events

in Walkerton and in response, made 121 recommendations to ensure clean and safe municipal

drinking water, including bringing new laws and regulations, such as the Safe Drinking Water

Act, 2002 and the Clean Water Act, 2006.

The Clean Water Act, 2006 and associated regulations aim to protect existing and future sources

of drinking water from contamination or overuse. Source water protection is intended to be a

shared responsibility of all stakeholders and is a key element of the Province’s safety net and

multi-barrier approach from source to tap. The source protection process is driven by locally

based source protection committees comprised of municipal, industrial, commercial, agricultural

and public representation. The Region is a stakeholder across three Source Protection

Regions, including Halton-Hamilton (H-H), Credit Valley-Toronto and Region-Central Lake

Ontario (CTC) and South Georgian Bay Lake Simcoe (SGBLS) and is responsible for

implementing various policies in the approved source protection plans.

Technical studies on both groundwater (wells) and surface water (Lake Ontario) vulnerable areas

and threats to municipal drinking water sources are summarized in science-based assessment

reports which are used to support the development of local source protection plans and policies.

Both assessment reports and source protection plans are “living documents” expected to be

amended as new information becomes available or as necessary to reflect changes to drinking

water supply sources.

For more information on the Region’s Source Protection Program, please visit

www.peelregion.ca/sourcewater.

6.3 Private Well Abandonment Program

The Region implemented a Private Well Abandonment Program for decommissioning of old,

unused private wells within the Region. This work is performed in accordance with the

requirements of the Ontario Regulation 903. The Program intends to gradually eliminate potential

pathways of groundwater contamination in areas where groundwater is a source for drinking

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/quality/dwqms-peel.htm#2



https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/06c22

https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/06c22

http://www.peelregion.ca/sourcewater

https://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/water-trtmt/wellhead-abandon.htm



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water. The Program is carried out on a first come, first served basis, with each request being

evaluated for program eligibility prior to the commencement of any decommissioning work.

A total of 44 private wells throughout the Region were decommissioned under this program in

2019 (see Figure 14), and a number of wells waitlisted for completion in spring of 2020.

Participation in this program is promoted through public events, newspaper ads, electronic

newsletters, mobile road signs, as well as outreach to local community centers and local real

estate firms to help communicate the program to individuals living within or moving into rural

areas of the Region. Effective internal outreach to groups within the Region help to maximize

opportunities for rural Region residents to take advantage of the program. Successes of the

program over the last 5 years, with total number of wells decommissioned, have been presented

in Figure 15.

Figure 14: Total Number of Wells Decommissioned in 2019


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Figure 15: Historical Number of Wells Decommissioned

In 2019, most participants were made aware of the program through word of mouth which would

prompt them to visit our website to gather further program information. Annually, the program is

advertised using various methods such as mobile sign locations in Caledon, publishing

advertisements in local newspapers, distributing program brochures throughout high traffic areas

such as community centers and real estate firms, and sharing program knowledge internally

within Peel so others can help promote the program where necessary. Majority of our advertising

initiatives are rolled out in the Town of Caledon where majority of our program participation

occurs. Figure 16 illustrates our various methods of advertisement and the proportion of client

awareness.

Figure 16: Program Knowledge Results for 2019


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For more information on the Region’s Private Well Abandonment Program, please visit:

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/water-trtmt/wellhead-abandon.htm or e-mail us directly at zzg-

[email protected]

6.4 Watermain Renewal Program

The Region’s overall infrastructure is aging, requiring more investment in preventive and planned

maintenance. In response, the Region has established a comprehensive asset management

program, which includes watermain assessment and renewal. The program is an ongoing plan of

upgrading watermains to ensure long term integrity and sustainability. The program involves

repair or replacement of existing water pipes and water services to improve water flow, ensure

good quality water and upsize if required to meet future planning needs; all to provide higher

level of service to our consumers.

The Region determines priority of watermains replacement based on the following factors:

• Watermain age

• Water quality trend and customer feedback

• Watermain size and material type

• Watermain breaks and leak history

• Hydraulic performance of watermain

• Planned municipal and city projects related to water, wastewater and road assets

• Cost of replacement

• Operational demands

The majority of the watermain replacement projects are undertaken in partnership and

coordination with road re-construction and sanitary sewer renewal projects for improved cost

effectiveness and minimized public inconvenience. Using these criteria, the Region plans the

watermain renewal program in a financially responsible manner.

Every year, the watermain renewal program is allocated funding to replace a significant length of

watermain with nearly $36.5 million being allocated to this in 2019.

In 2019, 34.5 km of watermain was replaced in the South Peel Distribution System.

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/water-trtmt/wellhead-abandon.htm




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6.5 Community Lead Testing Program

Established in 2007, the Region’s Community Lead Testing Program fulfills the legislative

requirements under the Schedule 15.1 of Ontario Regulation 170/03. The scope of the program

includes sampling and testing of drinking water in Brampton, Mississauga and South Caledon for

lead from private residential and non-residential locations as well as municipal water hydrants.

The Community Lead Testing Program is conducted semi-annually between the dates of

December 15 to April 15 and June 15 to October 15 each year. Every sampling period, the

Region staff recruits volunteers of homes and businesses to participate in the program.

Sampling appointments are booked with volunteers over the phone. Upon completion of sample

analysis at a fully accredited and licensed laboratory, the test results reports are sent to their

respective participants and assistance is provided in interpretation of the data.

The Region’s water supplies are regularly tested to ensure the ongoing health and safety of our

community. The Region’s water supply is consistently below Ontario’s lead standard of 10 ug/L.

On the rare occasion that a higher lead concentration is found, the Region investigates to

determine the type of pipe material. If the pipe is found to be lead, the municipal portion is

immediately replaced and property owner is advised on the appropriate steps to reduce

exposure. This can include implementing a daily flushing regimen, installing a point-of-use water

filter or, most effectively, replacing the privately-owned service pipe. Risk of exposure to lead

ranking from highest to lowest includes:

• Dwellings built prior to 1960

• Dwellings built between 1960 to 1986 (lead piping was banned in 1975 and lead solder

for was banned in 1986)

• Dwellings built after 1986

The Region welcomes the public to participate in our lead testing program, as results of this

program also aid in the asset management and water main renewal initiatives. Results for 2019

sampling are summarized in Appendix A of this report.

For more information on the Region’s Community Lead Testing Program and to check if your

residence meets the criteria of our lead testing program, please contact us at 905-791-7800 ext.

4685 or visit our website: http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/quality/lead-in-water.htm


http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/quality/lead-in-water.htm


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6.6 Watermain Flushing Program

The Region’s watermain flushing program is another element of the multi-barrier approach to

ensuring safe drinking water. The primary objective of the watermain flushing program is to

maintain adequate chlorine residuals in the

water distribution system. Flushing is also

conducted to improve water aesthetics by

removing any mineral deposits that may have

settled on the bottom of the watermains over

time. Under the Safe Drinking Water Act,

2002, Ontario Regulation 170/03 and

Procedure for Disinfection of Drinking Water

in Ontario stipulate the acceptable chlorine

residual range. Certified Water Operators measure and record the chlorine residual at each

flush. Flushing is conducted at locations where a low water demand may occur, such as dead-

ends and new subdivisions and at greater frequency in areas where the water demand is lower.

Flushing is also conducted following water system repairs and other situations where a check of

chlorine residual is warranted.

6.7 Hydrant Inspection Program

The Region’s hydrant inspection program fulfils a number of purposes.

An annual inspection is necessary to determine the sustained

functionality of each fire hydrant and hydrant branch valve to ensure they

are operable for fire suppression needs. Fire hydrant components that

need repair are identified during the inspection. Deficiencies that affect

the hydrant’s operability are handled on a priority basis due to their

primary function of fire protection.

The Region’s hydrants are installed with hydrant flow identifiers. These

flow identifiers are in the shape of a Maltese cross. They are colour-coded based on the

recommended colour coding scheme by the National Fire Prevention Association and designed

to let the fire department know what the available flow is at the hydrant closest to the

fire. The markers are reflective, making them highly visible at night.




https://www.ontario.ca/page/procedure-disinfection-drinking-water-ontario

https://www.ontario.ca/page/procedure-disinfection-drinking-water-ontario

https://www.nfpa.org/


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6.8 Drinking Water Sampling Station Program

In 2019, the Region continued with its program to maintain drinking water sampling stations

throughout Caledon, Mississauga and Brampton to improve drinking water

quality assessment and monitoring methods and to improve customer

service. Sampling stations are located at strategically selected points within

the distribution systems to ensure the water samples collected accurately

represent the drinking water supplied to the consumers. The use of sampling

stations has reduced the impact on customers by decreasing the need to

enter homes or business facilities where hours of

operation can limit access. In addition to unlimited

access, Water Operations also benefit by having

added control over important sampling conditions such

as sample site cleanliness and security.

A number of sampling stations were installed in South Peel in 2019, and

that initiative continues, with sampling stations being installed during water

infrastructure expansion, watermain replacement, and other opportunities.

6.9 Maintenance Program and Activities

Planned maintenance can be either predictive or preventative. Under predictive maintenance,

early warning signs of potential equipment failure are used to identify and correct problems to

reduce that risk. Preventive maintenance consists of scheduled maintenance activities performed

on a regular basis to maintain assets in good working order.

Unplanned maintenance is either corrective or emergency driven and can draw heavily on the

available resources and potentially affect drinking water quality. Corrective maintenance consists

of scheduled repairs to problems identified under planned maintenance. Emergency

maintenance includes repairs performed in response to critical equipment failure where

immediate action is required.

At the Region, a Planned Maintenance program has been implemented to reduce breakdowns

and the need for corrective or emergency maintenance thereby minimizing system costs. The

program improves reliability by minimizing the time equipment is out of service, increases the

useful life of equipment; thereby avoiding costly premature replacement, improves personnel

utilization, and can prevent potential non-compliance and adverse drinking water conditions.

Many major maintenance activities were carried out in the South Peel DWS in 2019, as listed in

Section 2.2.


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6.10 Continual Improvement Program

Through implementation of a Continual Improvement Program (CIP), the Region strives to

enhance the operations of its drinking water systems by identifying best practices and

opportunities. Tools such as root cause analysis, after action reviews and risk assessments are

strategically utilized after notable events occur in order to identify the gaps and what went well,

share the outcomes with the stakeholders, and implement changes to reduce risk. CIP helps

ensure the Region maintains compliance with applicable drinking water regulations as well as

conformance to the DWQMS through the application of inventive solutions and employment of

new technologies. CIP also encourages integration of ideas, helps facilitate adaptation to

change, promotes transparency, increases staff engagement and communication as well as

improves reliability of services.

Some of the Region’s CIP highlights for 2019 include:

• Optimizing processes through modern day technologies by replacing aging water

monitoring equipment. New flow meters and turbidity analyzers that include self-

diagnostic, self-cleaning and self-calibration have replaced some of the more outdated

versions. This reduces the downtime of the equipment and reduces labour costs for

preventative maintenance activities and calibrations.

• A Root Cause Analysis (the Analysis) was conducted as a response to an increased

number of deficient test results during watermain construction projects. The Analysis

included stakeholders from multiple teams in Public Works who collaboratively assessed

the opportunities, set clear objectives and targets, and implemented the necessary

changes. Review of testing data verified our control measures being effective, resulting in

significantly better outcomes from previous years with a 72% decrease in deficient results

from 2018 to 2019, indicating a successful CIP outcome.

• Pressure loggers were strategically installed throughout the distribution system in areas

of low and high water pressure. These loggers are connected wirelessly to our network

with data, trending and reporting available through the Region’s SCADA system. This

provides staff with real time feedback which helps assure adequate fire flow protection

and water supply. Operator response and investigation may be undertaken depending on

the severity and duration of the pressure event.

• The Region is shifting towards electronic based forms for data entry on specific activities.

The benefits include improved legibility, elimination of risk of lost papers, reduced

environmental impact, and the functional opportunity of results being shared

instantaneously.


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• In early 2019, Arthur P. Kennedy Water Treatment Plant experienced a failure of the

reservoir inlet gates while conducting a draw down test of the reservoir to verify flow

meter calibrations. The Region conducted a root cause analysis to review the actions

taken and identified what went well and areas for improvement. To prevent reoccurrence,

numerous changes were made including asset maintenance program changes,

equipment modifications, health and safety requirements and communication plan

updates.

• Utilizing the Region’s Energy Dashboard electricity numbers (kWh) and volumes of water

produced (m3), it is possible to demonstrate how much energy is required to pump water

from source, treat and deliver it to customers. An overall reduction in energy consumption

indicates movement towards the goal of reducing greenhouse gas production. Recent

efforts include upgrades to more energy efficient lighting (LED bulbs) and HVAC units,

installation of variable frequency drive pump motors and overall building rehabilitations.

Energy usage is monitored and the Region continues to research ways to optimize and

reduce energy usage, such as identifying energy-saving opportunities during design of

capital improvement and construction projects.

6.11 Monitoring Equipment Calibration and Maintenance

Calibration and maintenance of field instruments and monitoring equipment is undertaken by

certified operators, or third-party specialists, at a frequency specified by the regulatory

requirements and equipment manufacturer manuals. Each piece of equipment or instrument has

a unique asset identification number such that all calibrations are tracked and performed at the

appropriate frequency. Monitoring equipment that are considered “critical” as they relate to

regulated parameters and pose risk of non-compliance when not managed properly, include:

• Chlorine analyzers (primary and secondary disinfection)

• pH and temperature meters (primary disinfection)

• Turbidity analyzers (primary disinfection effectiveness)

• Flow meters (raw water pumping and treated water limits)

• UV monitoring parameters (primary disinfection)

o UV transmittance analyzers

o UV intensity sensors

o Dose calculations

• Ozone analyzers (primary disinfection effectiveness)


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APPENDIX A – SUMMARY OF WATER TESTING RESULTS Water Safety Indicators Information Escherichia coli (E. coli) Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a species of fecal coliform bacteria that can be detected using

approved lab methods. E. coli is present in fecal matter and prevalent in sewage but is easily

inactivated by chlorine. It is a strong indicator of recent fecal pollution. If E. coli is detected in a

sample of drinking water, immediate corrective action needs to be taken including confirmatory

sampling. Total Coliform Total Coliforms are part of a family of bacteria called Enterics. Coliform bacteria grow under the

same conditions as disease-causing bacteria, which makes them useful indicator organisms.

Presence of coliform bacteria in a sample of drinking water signifies potential contamination. If

coliforms are detected in a sample of drinking water, corrective action needs to be taken

including confirmatory sampling.

Heterotrophic Plate Count Heterotrophic plate count (HPC) results give an indication of the overall quality of the water

immediately following treatment and in the distribution system. HPC is not an indicator of water

safety but is used as an indicator of water integrity within the distribution system.

Disinfection By-products Disinfection of drinking water is essential to protect the public from waterborne infectious and

parasitic diseases. Disinfection inactivates bacteria and other microorganisms in the water and

protects the water pipes from any subsequent contamination during storage and distribution.

The most commonly used drinking water disinfectant is chlorine. Chemical disinfectants can

combine with naturally occurring organic compounds in the water, potentially leading to the

formation of disinfection by-products, including trihalomethanes (THMs), haloacetic acids (HAAs)

and bromate.


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Terms you need to know when reviewing the water testing results in this report:

Term Definition

MAC Maximum Acceptable Concentration

IMAC Interim Maximum Acceptable Concentration

Aesthetic Objectives (AO)

AO are established for substances that affect the taste, odour and appearance of water or may interfere with water quality control practices. These substances do not affect health.

Operational Guidelines (OG)

OG are established for substances that need to be controlled to ensure the efficient treatment and distribution of water

NTU Nephelometric Turbidity Unit

CFU/mL Colony Forming Units per millilitre

CFU/100mL Colony Forming Units per 100 millilitres

µmho/cm micro mhos per centimetre (equivalent to microSiemens per centimetre)

L litre

µg/L micrograms per litre. This is a measure of concentration of a substance in water, also called parts per billion (ppb). 1000 µg/L = 1 mg/L

mg/L milligrams per litre. This is a measure of concentration of a substance in water, also called parts per million (ppm).

< less than laboratory analytical detection limit

> greater than

Bq/L Becquerels per litre

Running Annual Average (RAA) The 12-month running average of quarterly results


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What are my raw (source) water characteristics?

Source: Lake Ontario Water

Parameters Units Arthur P.

Kennedy Result/Range

Lorne Park Result/Range

Parameter Information

Conductivity @25°C µmho/cm 290 – 370 310 – 370

Related to inorganics such as minerals dissolved in water

Fluoride mg/L 0.10 – 0.15 0.10 – 0.46 Naturally occurring; related to mineral content

Hardness mg/L (CaCO3) grains/US Gallon

120 – 140 7.0 – 8.2

120 – 130 7.0 – 7.6

Naturally occurring; related to mineral content

pH1 pH units 7.30 – 8.54 7.28 – 8.58 Indicates water acidity

Sulphate (SO4) mg/L 23 – 27 23 – 26 Naturally occurring

Temperature1 oC 1.2 – 25.0 2.1 – 24.6 Varies seasonally

Turbidity1,2 NTU 0.11 – 100 0.10 – 100 Tiny suspended particles of organic or inorganic matter

1 Data from continuous monitoring analyzers 2 Raw water turbidity analyzers at Arthur P. Kennedy and Lorne Park record to a maximum of 100 NTU. The 100 NTU lasted approximately 15 minutes and a manual test was not collected during this period.

Summary of Routine Microbiological Testing for South Peel (Arthur P. Kennedy, Lorne Park, and Distribution) Drinking Water System

Sample Type Number of Samples

Range of E. coli Results (CFU/100mL) (Min – Max)

Range of Total Coliform

Results (CFU/100mL) (Min – Max)

Number of HPC

Samples

Range of HPC Results

(CFU/mL) (Min – Max)

Raw 314 0 – NDOGT a 0 – NDOGT b 314 0 – 1900 Treated† 484 0 – 1 c 0 – 4 d 475 0 – 47 c

Distribution† 3964 0 – 1 e 0 – 6 f 3964 0 – 210 † Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards: E. coli = 0 CFU/100mL; Total Coliform = 0 CFU/100mL NDOGT – No data due to overgrowth of total coliforms and/or E. coli. a Aside from three (3) results of NDOGT, the raw water E. coli ranged from 0 – 15 CFU/100mL. b Aside from three (3) results of NDOGT, the raw water Total Coliform ranged from 0 – 220 CFU/100mL. c E. coli = 1 CFU/100mL, Total Coliform = 1 CFU/100mL, and HPC = 47 CFU/100mL on a single treated water sample collected from the Lorne Park WTP on March 20, 2019. Reported under AWQI #145042. d Total Coliform = 4 CFU/100 mL on a treated water sample collected on May 15, 2019 from the Arthur P. Kennedy North Reservoir Cell. Reported under AWQI #145425. e There was 1 instance of E. coli during routine sampling at a distribution sampling station. There was an E. coli NDOGT result at a private-side (non-routine) sample location. Refer to Table 6 in Section 4.4 of this report for all routine and non-routine AWQI reporting and corrective action details. f There were 4 instances of detected Total Coliforms during routine sampling at distribution sampling stations. Refer to Table 6 for details.


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Summary of Results for Inorganic Parameters per Schedule 23 of O. Reg. 170/03 Tested at an Accredited, Licensed Laboratory on Annual Grab Samples of Treated Water

Test Parameter

Units MAC AP Kennedy Result(s)*

Lorne Park

Result


Antimony (Sb) µg/L 6 <0.50 <0.50 Naturally occurring metalloid rarely detected

in Ontario Drinking Water

Arsenic (As) µg/L 10 <1.0 <1.0

Sometimes found in high concentrations in ground water in hard rock areas through the natural dissolution of arsenic-containing minerals

Barium (Ba) µg/L 1000 23, 22 25 Common in sedimentary rocks

Boron (B) µg/L 5000 25, 25 22 Normally found in very small levels in drinking water

Cadmium (Cd) µg/L 5 <0.10 <0.10 Rare element unlikely to be present as

natural contaminant in drinking water Chromium

(Cr) µg/L 50 <5.0 <5.0 Trivalent chromium naturally occurs and is not considered toxic

Mercury (Hg) µg/L 1 <0.10 <0.10

Sources in drinking water can be air pollution, waste incineration and metal refining operations

Selenium (Se) µg/L 50 <2.0 <2.0 Naturally occurs in water at trace levels

Uranium (U) µg/L 20 0.37, 0.35 0.31 Normally occurring in granite and other mineral deposits, leaches into water

*There are two sampling locations at Arthur P. Kennedy (AP Kennedy), one from each of the two reservoir cells. If the analytical test results are the same for each reservoir cell, then only one value is reported in the above table.


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Summary of Community Lead Testing Program Results per Schedule 15.1 of O. Reg. 170/03 Tested at an Accredited, Licensed Laboratory on Plumbing and Distribution Water Samples

Test and Location

Units MAC Range of Results

Min – Max

Number of Samples a

Number of Exceedances


Lead in Residential Plumbing b

µg/L 10 <0.50 – 66c 68 1 Present as a result of corrosion of lead solder, lead containing brass fittings or lead pipes

Lead in Non-Residential Plumbing b

µg/L 10 <0.50 – 0.86 26 0

Lead in Distribution

System µg/L 10 <0.50 – 9.20 45 0

pH in Residential Plumbing b

pH units N/A 7.40 – 8.40 34 N/A

Indicates water acidity

pH in Non-Residential Plumbing b

pH units N/A 7.81 – 8.26 13 N/A

pH in Distribution

System pH

units N/A 7.13 – 8.32 45 N/A

Alkalinity in Distribution

System mg/L N/A 89 – 98 45 N/A

Water resistance to effects of acids added to water

a Sample count includes some samples from December 2018 that were not included in the 2018 Annual Report. b Plumbing represents samples collected from a tap within a residential home or commercial building c Aside from one residential address that had high lead concentration as a result of a lead service pipe, the highest lead result was 7.40 ug/L N/A – not applicable Note: Alkalinity and pH are operational parameters. Alkalinity aesthetic objective is set at 500mg/L. Optimal range for drinking water pH is 6.5 – 8.5.


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Summary of Results for Organic Parameters Tested per Schedule 24 of O. Reg. 170/03 at an Accredited, Licensed Laboratory on Annual Grab Samples of Treated a Water

Note: Organic parameters are present to some degree in all water supplies. The Region tests these parameters to ensure the water meets the Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards.

Test Parameter Units MAC AP Kennedy Result(s) a

Lorne Park Result


Alachlor µg/L 5 <0.50 <0.50 Herbicide for weeds control banned in 1985

Atrazine + N-dealkylated metabolites

µg/L 5 <1.0 <1.0 Herbicide on corn for annual grass control. It is highly persistent and moderately mobile in soil

Azinphos-methyl (Guthion) µg/L 20 <2.0 <2.0 Insecticide against foliage-feeding

insects

Benzene µg/L 1 <0.10 <0.10 Present in gasoline and other refined petroleum products

Benzo(a)pyrene µg/L 0.01 <0.0090 <0.0090 Formed during the incomplete burning of organic matter and poorly adjusted diesel exhaust

Bromoxynil µg/L 5 <0.50 <0.50 Herbicide for control of specific weeds

Carbaryl µg/L 90 <5.0 <5.0 Insecticide used in agriculture and forestry

Carbofuran µg/L 90 <5.0 <5.0 Insecticide used in agriculture

Carbon Tetrachloride µg/L 2 <0.10 <0.10 Only found in ground water from old chlorinated solvent industry sites

Chlorpyrifos µg/L 90 <1.0 <1.0 Common insecticide for insect control

Diazinon µg/L 20 <1.0 <1.0 Insecticide for dwelling pests, flies, ants and cockroaches

Dicamba µg/L 120 <1.0 <1.0 Herbicide for weed in grains 1,2-Dichlorobenzene µg/L 200 <0.20 <0.20 Used in chemical blends

1,4-Dichlorobenzene µg/L 5 <0.20 <0.20 Was widely used in toilet pucks and mothballs, banned in 1988

1,2-Dichloroethane µg/L 5 <0.20 <0.20 Used as a solvent and fumigant

1,1-Dichloroethylene (vinylidene chloride) µg/L 14 <0.10 <0.10

Used in the food packaging industry and the textile industry for furniture and automotive upholstery

Dichloromethane (Methylene Chloride) µg/L 50 <0.50 <0.50 Industrial solvent for paint and

degreasing agent

2-4 Dichlorophenol µg/L 900 <0.25 <0.25 Present in drinking water only as a result of industrial contamination

2,4-Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) µg/L 100 <1.0 <1.0 Herbicide for cereal crop and lawn

weed control

Diclofop-methyl µg/L 9 <0.90 <0.90 Herbicide grass control in grains and vegetables

Dimethoate µg/L 20 <2.5 <2.5 Miticide and insecticide

Diquat µg/L 70 <7.0 <7.0 Herbicide used as a crop desiccant in seed crops

Diuron µg/L 150 <10 <10 Herbicide for control of vegetation in crop and non-crop areas

Glyphosate µg/L 280 <10 <10 Herbicide for weed control Continued on next page


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Test Parameter Units MAC AP Kennedy Result(s) a

Lorne Park Result


Haloacetic acids (HAA) b µg/L 80 c 9.2 Primarily produced by the reaction

of chlorine and natural organics

Malathion µg/L 190 <5.0 <5.0 Insecticide used in fruits and vegetables

2-Methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic

acid (MCPA) µg/L 100 <10 <10

Herbicide used on agriculture sites, fine turf, forestry applications and at industrial sites

Metolachlor µg/L 50 <0.50 <0.50 Selective herbicide for pre-emergence and pre-plant broad leaf weed control

Metribuzin µg/L 80 <5.0 <5.0 Herbicide for control of weed and grasses

Monochlorobenzene µg/L 80 <0.10 <0.10 Industrial solvent

Paraquat µg/L 10 <1.0 <1.0 Highly toxic herbicide used for desiccation of seed crops

Pentachlorophenol µg/L 60 <0.50 <0.50 It is rarely found today but was extensively used as a pesticide and wood preservative

Phorate µg/L 2 <0.50 <0.50 Insecticide for sucking insects and larvae

Picloram µg/L 190 <5.0 <5.0 Herbicide for broad leaf weed and brush control on roads

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)

(Total) µg/L 3 <0.05 <0.05 Primarily produced by the reaction


Prometryne µg/L 1 <0.25 <0.25 Herbicide used on select grass and weeds

Simazine µg/L 10 <1.0 <1.0 Herbicide for pre-emergence weed control

Picloram µg/L 190 <5.0 <5.0 Herbicide for broad leaf weed and brush control on roads

Total Trihalomethanes

(THM) b µg/L 100 26.0 Primarily produced by the reaction


Terbufos µg/L 1 <0.50 <0.50 Insecticide Tetrachloroethylene µg/L 10 <0.10 <0.10 Industrial solvent

2,3,4,6-Tetrachlorophenol µg/L 100 <0.50 <0.50 Was normally used to preserve

wood

Triallate µg/L 230 <1.0 <1.0 Herbicide for wilds oat control in crops

Trichloroethylene µg/L 5 <0.10 <0.10 Industrial solvent 2,4,6-

Trichlorophenol µg/L 5 <0.50 <0.50 Pesticide

Trifluralin µg/L 45 <1.0 <1.0 Herbicide for summer weed control

Vinyl Chloride µg/L 1 <0.20 <0.20 Synthetic chemical used in making PVC plastic

a There are two sampling locations at Arthur P. Kennedy (AP Kennedy), one from each of the two reservoir cells. If the analytical test results are the same for each reservoir cell than only one value is reported in the above table. b Running annual average of samples collected quarterly in the water distribution system c This MAC became effective on January 1, 2020 During the reporting period, no test parameters included in Schedules 23 and 24 of O. Reg. 170/03 were subject to increased sampling frequency as a result of exceeding half of the Maximum Acceptable Concentration.




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Summary of Results for Radiological Parameters Tested at an Accredited, Licensed Laboratory on Annual Grab Samples of Treated Water

Operational Parameters - Annual Minimum, Maximum, and Mean (Average) Treated Water Results

Parameter Number of

Samples

Units Acceptable Range /

Upper Limit

Results Minimum, Maximum, Mean (Average) AP Kennedy Lorne Park

Min Max Mean Min Max Mean Treated Water

Turbidity 8760* NTU 1.0 0.01 7.32d 0.03 0.01 0.77 0.03

Free Chlorine Residual Primary Disinfection 8760* mg/L 0.05 – 4.00 0.11c 2.14 1.25 0.90 1.85 1.46

Treated Water Fluoride 8760* mg/L 1.5 0.20 0.99 0.66 0.20 0.88 0.68 Conventional Filter Effluent Turbidity 8760* NTU 0.3 / 1.0 a 0.02 0.60 0.03 0.02 0.96 0.048

Membrane Filter Effluent Turbidity 8760* NTU 0.1 / 1.0 b 0.005 1.000e 0.023 0.012 1.000e 0.015

Note: Occasional outlying results occur due to equipment maintenance, programming updates, or signal anomalies. * 8760 represents continuous monitoring, recorded at a frequency that meets the legislated requirements a Conventional filter effluent turbidity must not exceed 1.0 NTU for greater than 15 minutes and must be below 0.3 NTU in 95% of the readings each month. These requirements were met throughout the 2019 year. b Membrane filter effluent turbidity must not exceed 1.0 NTU for greater than 15 minutes and must be below 0.1 NTU in 99% of the readings each month. These requirements were met throughout the 2019 year. c Treated water free chlorine residual dropped during start-up of OBM2 plant on October 16. OBM2 had been offline for 3 weeks for capital work. During start-up of OBM2, low chlorine residual in OBM2 Weir Box caused North Reservoir Cell to drop to 0.11 mg/L. North reservoir cell was isolated shortly after chlorine drop, chlorine dosages to Conventional plant and OBM1 plant were increased to maintain normal chlorine residual. d Treated water turbidity spiked to > 1 NTU for 6 minutes intermittently during the process of isolating High Lift North Suction Line (Header #1) on May 21. Operations closely monitored and manually tested treated water turbidity during the time of spikes. e Brief turbidity spikes occur occasionally due to air bubbles in the continuous monitoring equipment.

Distribution System Parameter Number of

Samples Units Acceptable

Range Range of Results

Minimum – Maximum Average Result

Free Chlorine Residual Secondary

Disinfection 3964* mg/L 0.05 – 4.00 0.45 – 2.00 1.07

*represents the number of samples collected per O. Reg. 170/03 Schedule 7 Section 7-2 (3) to (4)

Test Parameter Units MAC AP Kennedy Result(s)

Lorne Park Result


Gross Alpha Bq/L - <0.10 <0.10

Most common in groundwater where natural radionuclides are present at low concentrations in all rocks and soils. Also monitored in areas near nuclear facilities.

Gross Beta Bq/L - <0.10 <0.10

Tritium Bq/L 7000 <15 <15


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Summary of Results for Bromate testing on Treated Water at the Arthur P. Kennedy Water Treatment Plant, as Required by the Municipal Drinking Water Licence, Tested at an Accredited, Licensed Laboratory

Sampling Location

Units Licence Requirement Range of Results

(Min - Max)

Annual Mean (Average)

Arthur P. Kennedy WTP Treated Water

mg/L ≤ 0.01 as a running annual average of

monthly results <0.003 – 0.006 <0.003

Note: Bromate is a disinfection by-product of ozone disinfectant in the presence of bromide in the source water. Refer to description of By-Products at the beginning of Appendix A.

Summary of Results for Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and Total Chlorine Residual on Process Wastewater (filter backwash residue management) at the Arthur P. Kennedy and Lorne Park Water Treatment Plants, as Required by the Municipal Drinking Water Licence, Tested at an Accredited, Licensed Laboratory

Sampling Location Units Licence Requirement

Range of Results

(Min – Max)

Annual Mean (Average)

Total Suspended Solids (TSS) Arthur P. Kennedy WTP

Off-Shore Primary Discharge mg/L ≤25 as an annual average 1 – 39 6

Lorne Park WTP Wastewater Supernatant mg/L ≤15 as an

annual average 3 – 22 10 Total Chlorine Residual*

Arthur P. Kennedy WTP Off-Shore Primary Discharge mg/L ≤ 0.03 0.00 – 0.23 0.01

Lorne Park WTP Wastewater Supernatant mg/L ≤ 0.03 0.00 – 0.03 0.00

Note: The Municipal Drinking Water Licence provides approval for discharge to additional locations to which no discharge was directed during this reporting period. * Data from continuous monitoring analyzers


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Summary of Results for Other Parameters Tested at an Accredited, Licensed Laboratory on Grab Samples of Treated Water

Test Parameter

Units Type of Objective

Acceptable Range /

Upper Limit

Arthur P. Kennedy Result(s)/

Range

Lorne Park Result / Range


Alkalinity mg/L OG 30 – 500 84 – 95 91 – 98 Water resistance to effects of acids added to water

Chloride mg/L AO 250 25 – 39 27 – 38 Non-toxic material naturally present in drinking water.

Conductivity @25oC µmho/cm N/A N/A 310 – 390 320 – 400

Related to inorganics such as minerals dissolved in water

Copper (Cu) µg/L AO 1000 1.3 11 – 23 Naturally occurring and also used extensively in domestic plumbing

Fluoride (F) a mg/L MAC 1.5 0.47 – 0.59, 0.54 – 0.56 0.39 – 0.59

Added to water in optimum level for control of tooth decay

Hardness b mg/L (CaCO3) grains/US Gallon OG 80 – 100

4.7 – 5.8 120 – 130 7.0 – 7.6

120 – 130 7.0 – 7.6

Naturally occurring; related to mineral content

Iron (Fe) µg/L AO 300 <100 <100 Naturally occurring in mineral deposits and from sediment decay

Lead (Pb) µg/L MAC 10 <0.50 <0.50 Present as a result of corrosion of lead solder, lead-containing brass fittings or lead pipes

Manganese (Mn) µg/L AO 50 <2.0 <2.0

Naturally occurring in mineral deposits and from sediment decay

Nitrate (NO3) a,c

mg/L as N MAC 10.0

0.62, 0.62 0.64 Present in ground water as a result of plant or animal material decay, fertilizers, sewage or treated wastewater

0.41, 0.40 0.47 0.34, 0.33 0.41 0.21, 0.20 0.21

Nitrite (NO2) a ,c

mg/L as N MAC 1.0

<0.01, <0.01 <0.01 Present in ground water, and is oxidized to nitrate when chlorinated

<0.01, <0.01 <0.01 <0.01, <0.01 <0.01 <0.01, <0.01 <0.01

pH* pH units OG 6.5-8.5 7.16 – 7.96 7.84 – 8.33 Indicates water acidity

Sodium a,e mg/L AO 200 14 – 22, 14 – 21 16 – 24 Naturally occurring or due

to water softening Temperature d oC AO 15 0.7 – 21.3 2.6 – 21.7 Varies seasonally

Total Dissolved

Solids mg/L AO 500 160 – 190 170 – 200

Refers mainly to inorganic substances dissolved in water

a There are two sampling locations at Arthur P. Kennedy, one from each of the two reservoir cells, reported separately here. b Hardness levels between 80 and 100 mg/L are considered to provide an acceptable balance between corrosion and incrustation. Water supplies with hardness greater than 200 mg/L are considered tolerable while those in excess of 500 mg/L are unacceptable for most domestic uses. c Nitrate and Nitrite are sampled quarterly. d Data from continuous monitoring analyzers e The Medical Officer of Health is notified when sodium concentration exceeds 20 mg/L (MAC), per O. Reg. 170/03


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APPENDIX B – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ON WATER QUALITY Is my water safe to drink? Why do we use chlorine? Why does my water sometimes smell earthy/musty in the summer months? Is my water hard? Should I buy a water softener? Why does my kettle get a white film inside? Why does the water sometimes look “cloudy” or “milky”? Is fluoride added to my water? Why does the water sometimes look “rusty”, yellow or tea-like? Does the Region of Peel knock on the door to test water or leave a bottle to fill? Will you come to my house and take a sample? Why is lead sometimes present in water? How does lead affect my health? To view our Lead Pamphlet Is my water safe to drink? To protect public health, the Ministry has established the Ontario Drinking Water Quality

Standards. These standards help ensure that water used by the public is free from disease-

causing organisms, harmful amounts of toxic chemicals and radioactive materials.

Why do we use chlorine? Chlorine is used to destroy viruses and kill bacteria and other organisms that can cause illness.

Ontario Regulation 170/03 regulates the amount of chlorine that must be added. The regulation

states that we must maintain free chlorine residual at a minimum level of 0.05 mg/L and should

not exceed 4.0 mg/L.

Why does my water sometimes smell earthy/musty in the summer months? The odour that some Region residents experience is due to seasonal changes in Lake Ontario

during warmer months. It can cause unpleasant odours but it does not negatively affect your

health in any way.

Is the water hard? The water in the South Peel system is considered to be moderately hard. Hardness is typically

dissolved calcium and magnesium in the water measured as calcium carbonate. Upon heating,





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hard water has a tendency to form scale deposits or a white film and can form excessive scum

with regular soaps. Conversely, soft water may result in accelerated corrosion of water pipes.

Should I buy a water softener? The purchase of a water softener is based mostly on personal preference. Soap suds are

formed more readily with soft water, therefore less detergent is used. The use of a water

softener also reduces the formation of hardness scale in pipes and hot water tanks. Some

consumers do not like the feel of soft water. For example, after rinsing with soft water you may

still feel a soap film on your skin.

Why does my kettle get a white film inside? When water is boiled, calcium and magnesium precipitate out of the water and deposit on the

element and inner surfaces of the kettle. This does not pose a health risk. The deposit can be

controlled by regular rinsing with vinegar or lemon juice.

Why does the water sometimes look “cloudy” or “milky”? Tiny bubbles of air in the water cause the cloudiness. Those bubbles may also cause the water

to appear white or foamy, similar to the appearance of water in a rushing stream. This does not

indicate any problem and clears when the water is left to stand for a few minutes. This is an

aesthetic issue, not a health concern. If cloudy water persists, please notify the Region so that

the matter can be investigated.

Is fluoride added to my water? Fluoride is added to the South Peel drinking water supply, which serves the cities of Brampton

and Mississauga and southern parts of Caledon, including the communities of Bolton and

Mayfield West. The amount of fluoride in the drinking water supply is regulated and is

maintained at an optimal level to prevent tooth decay.

Why does the water sometimes look “rusty”, yellow or Tea-like? Yellow water is a common occurrence. Excessive levels of iron in drinking water may impart a

yellow to brownish colour, often seen on laundered items, plumbing fixtures and in the water

itself. Running your tap for a few minutes can clear the colour. No health risks are associated

with this discolouration. If you are experiencing problems and your neighbours are not, the hot

water tank or the pipes in your home are likely causing the problem.


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Does the Region of Peel knock on the door to test water or leave a bottle to fill? Some of our water programs require testing on private premises, such as residential homes or

businesses. This would only be done by the Region with prior arrangements with the owner or

tenant of the premise. Based on the stringent provincial guidelines, drinking water samples must

be collected and handled by qualified persons and analysed at an accredited laboratory;

therefore, the Region staff would not leave a bottle at the door requesting a sample of water for

testing, and will always carry a Region of Peel identification card.

There are many responsible home water treatment businesses that offer products that live up to

their claims. Unfortunately, some companies and salespersons resort to grabbing the public’s

attention and misinforming them about the safety of the municipal drinking water supplies in an

effort to sell their products.

As of March 1, 2018, door to door sales of water heaters and treatment devices are prohibited by

the Government of Ontario. To ensure that you are informed about the water quality in the

Region and less likely to become a target for a company trying to sell you costly and

inappropriate water treatment equipment, or if you have questions or concerns, please contact

our Water Quality Team at 905-791-7800 ext. 4685 or via e-mail to

[email protected]. You can find more information on our website at

http://www.peelregion.ca/articles/door-to-door-agents.asp

Will you come to my house and take a sample? If your water is supplied by the Region, then you have no reason for concern about the safety of

your drinking water. The Region operates, maintains and monitors its municipal drinking water

systems in accordance with stringent provincial regulations and the Region’s drinking water

continually meets the established water quality standards.

Some of our water programs require testing on private premises, such as the Community Lead

Testing Program. This testing would only be done by a certified Region of Peel operator with

prior arrangements made with the owner or tenant. More information about the Community Lead

Testing Program can be found in Section 6.5 of this report.

The Region collects a large number of samples from its drinking water systems to demonstrate

high quality water supply. The Region will only respond to a customer enquiry/request by

undertaking sampling at private taps if there is reason to believe that water quality has been

compromised that impacts both the tap water and municipal supply system. Region staff

occasionally sample at residential or commercial taps in conjunction with nearby work in the

private or municipal water system. Region staff will carry a Region of Peel identification card.


http://www.peelregion.ca/articles/door-to-door-agents.asp


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Why is lead sometimes present in water? Lead is a metal that can dissolve in water. Historically, lead compounds were used in plumbing

fittings and in solder to join pipes together in water distribution systems. If water stays in a piping

system that contains lead for long periods of time, lead may dissolve into the water.

How does lead affect my health? For more information contact Peel Health at http://www.peelregion.ca/health/

To view our Lead Pamphlet, please visit: https://www.peelregion.ca/health/environNew/athome/lead.pdf

Please visit the Region’s Water and Wastewater website for information regarding all the services we provide: http://www.peelregion.ca/water/

http://www.peelregion.ca/health/

https://www.peelregion.ca/health/environNew/athome/lead.pdf

http://www.peelregion.ca/water/


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Water Quality at Home Tips

Water Quality Concern

Possible Cause Suggested Solutions

Chlorine Odour and Taste

• Chlorine combining with organics • Chlorination of new water mains • Effects of new plumbing • Change of residency, as chlorine

concentration varies from location to location

Chlorine is necessary to control disease-causing organisms. To minimize chlorine taste and odour in drinking water: • Fill a pitcher and let it stand in the refrigerator overnight • Blend the water for 5 minutes or pour between containers

about 10 times • Boil the water, let it cool, then refrigerate • Home plumbing may be flushed for a minute before water

use (especially in the mornings, after water has remained in pipes overnight)

Musty/Earthy Odour

• Algae that bloom in the lake in the summer produce a metabolite called ‘geosmin’, which causes musty/earthy odour

• The algae are harmless and although the water may not be aesthetically pleasing, it is safe

Rotten Egg/Septic

Odour

• Sink and floor drains • Faucet aerators/screens • Poorly maintained hot water tanks • Dead-end water mains or areas with low

water demand

• Refrain from flushing solids/organics down the drain; stagnant wastewater in the drain may generate foul odours and potentially plug the drain

• Clean faucet aerators and screens on frequent basis • Hot water tanks should be flushed periodically (every 2 to 3

years) to remove rust and scale

Milky/Cloudy Water

• Air trapped in water due to water main breaks, water temperature or pressure change, plumbing work, construction work in the area, water shut-offs

• Hot water tank temperature may be set too high

• Water is safe to drink • Run all cold water taps at once for a couple of minutes to

flush the lines and release the trapped air • Lower the hot water tank temperature if above 140°F(60°C)

Blue/Green Stains on Fixtures

• Copper in water due to copper plumbing • Run water for 30 seconds prior to consumption to reduce the effects of local plumbing (metal concentration)

• Keep fixtures dry and drip-free Brown/Dirty

Water • Change in water flow due to:

o Water main break o Hydrant use o Local Fire o Dead ends

• Poorly maintained hot water tank • No water use for a longer period of time;

return from vacation

• Open cold water faucets and flush water for 5 to 10 minutes, until clear

• Refrain from doing laundry to prevent clothes staining • Hot water tank should be flushed periodically (every 2 to 3

years) • Run cold and hot water separately to verify the cause; if hot

water is the cause - tank needs a flush • Open several faucets and flush the water standing in pipes

that may have dissolved pipe scale material White

Flakes/Particles • Flakes are scale caused by hardness • Faulty or disintegrating hot water tank tubing

or lining

• Can be reduced by frequent cleaning of faucet aerators/screens and/or regular flushing of hot water tanks

• Contact the hot water tank company Pink Staining on Fixtures

• Pink pigmented bacteria called Serratia marcescens

• Airborne bacteria; not originating from the water

• Scrub surfaces with a brush, disinfect with a strong bleach solution, allow disinfectant to penetrate for 10-20 minutes, rinse


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Report Accessibility

The 2019 Annual Reports can be viewed by the public on-line at:

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/quality/reports or picked up at the Region of Peel office

located at 10 Peel Centre Drive, Brampton.

Other sources from which you can get more information about drinking water and related issues:

For information on Water Quality: Region of Peel 10 Peel Centre Dr. Brampton ON L6T 4B9 Phone: 905-791-7800 Ext. 4685 Website: http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/quality/ E-mail: [email protected]

For information on Lead Testing of Drinking Water: Region of Peel 10 Peel Centre Dr. Brampton ON L6T 4B9 Phone: 905-791-7800 Ext. 4685 Website: www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/quality/lead-in-water E-mail: [email protected]

Region of Peel Public Health 7120 Hurontario St., 8th Floor Mississauga, ON L5W 1N4 Phone: 905-799-7700 Website: http://www.peelregion.ca/health/

230 Advance Blvd. Brampton, ON L6T 4T6 Phone: 905-791-7800 Ext. 4409 Web Site: http://www.peelregion.ca/watersmartpeel/

Ministry of the Environment, Conservation & Parks Public Information Centre Phone: 416-325-4000 Toll-Free: 1-800-565-4923 Web site: www.ontario.ca/environment

Environment and Climate Change Canada Inquiry Centre Phone: 819-997-2800 Toll-Free:1-800-668-6767 Web Site: http://www.ec.gc.ca

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/quality/reports

http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/quality/


http://www.peelregion.ca/pw/water/quality/lead-in-water.htm


http://www.peelregion.ca/health/

http://www.peelregion.ca/watersmartpeel/

http://www.ontario.ca/environment

http://www.ec.gc.ca/

http://www.peelregion.ca/watersmartpeel/index.htm

water quality report - peel region€¦ · this annual water quality report has been completed to...

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