Abstract

A review of reliability research for water distribution systems demonstrates that, to date, little is currently available characterizing water quality reliability indices. The incidence of micro-organism-caused outbreaks of waterborne disease demonstrates a number of causes, most of which are the result of water treatment system deficiencies. However, the basis for a change in this situation is projected as a result of the increasing age of distribution system components, increasing urban populations, per capita water demands, and deterioration of water distribution infrastructure. Although there is no universal agreement on how to define, or measure, the reliability of a water distribution system, this Chapter reviews the alternatives for characterizing reliability, demonstrating some of the strengths and weaknesses, and provides areas of future research.

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