Combination of Managed Aquifer Recharge and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point Principles for Reliable Drinking Water Supply

Abstract

In this study, to address drinking water supply problems, a new drinking water supply system that combines the aquifer storage transfer and recovery (ASTR) technique and hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) was introduced. ASTR, a type of managed aquifer recharge, protects and purifies water resources using aquifers, whereas HACCP increases drinking water safety by analyzing and controlling hazards. The system was applied by installing an ASTR pilot plant in the Samrak Park in the Nakdong River delta in South Korea where the deteriorating water quality of the water supply sources has affected the drinking water supply. HACCP analysis revealed that 114 hazardous events occurred during various stages of water processing from the water intake source to the consumers. The analysis of the risks of these events revealed that nine of these risks can be considered as major hazardous events. In addition, the analysis of potential risks using a stochastic methodology revealed that the Gangseo-gu District in Busan exhibited the highest potential risk. Furthermore, critical control points were determined using a decision tree, and management criteria, management methods, verification methods, documentation, and recording methods were proposed. These results indicate that the application of HACCP to ASTR can improve drinking water safety.