A methodology for identifying vulnerable locations to taste and odour problems in a drinking water system

In this research, methodology was developed to identify locations vulnerable to taste and odour problems in a distribution system. The methodology was based on a multicriteria procedure combining spatial information on consumer complaints and popular perception of tap water. The first step in the described methodology consisted of mapping complaints regarding tap water made by the population between 2002 and 2004 using a geographical information system (GIS). The second step consisted of analysing results of a questionnaire-based mail survey, also through GIS. The information generated using the above steps was integrated using a multicriteria and spatial approach allowing segregation of the distribution system into delineated zones, according to their vulnerability to occurrences of taste and odour problems. The identification of vulnerable sectors in a distribution system will help water managers to implement a better-targeted water quality monitoring programme--one that considers odours and tastes of drinking water--within the management process.