WEYBURN – The City of Weyburn is changing its water treatment process as part of system improvements at the treatment plant.
Currently, the city’s potable water distribution system uses free chlorine for disinfection. Starting this summer, combined chlorine and ammonia (chloramines) will now be used.
“The City of Weyburn takes the quality and safety of our treated water very seriously,” said Shabbir Sakrani, water treatment plant superintendent.
“Residents will not visibly see a change in the water that comes out of their taps, chloramines remain in the water longer than chlorine for effective disinfection and prevent contamination growth as well as to improve other water quality parameters, ensuring that Weyburn's treated water is safer for customers to consume."
Chloramines reduce the amount of disinfection byproduct within the potable water, while also reducing the amount of chlorine boosting required. In Saskatchewan, the City of Saskatoon, Estevan and Meadow Lake use chloramines for disinfection.
It is important for residents and customers to note:
• Water treated with chloramines is safe for drinking, washing, bathing and other household use.
• Chloramine residual must be removed from water prior to use in kidney dialysis machines. The local health authority is aware of this change and will take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of all patients. Contact your physician for more information.
• A filter or de-chlorinator, available at any pet store, is recommended for aquarium water to remove chloramine residual from tank water, due to the potential toxicity to some species of fish. Look for a typical granular activated carbon filter and/or de-chlorinator.
The safety of the public is held in the highest regard by the City of Weyburn. At no time will safety be compromised. All provincial standards are either met or exceeded by the city’s qualified experts in the field of water treatment.
“We test our water four times daily, every single day of the year to make sure the water is safe to consume,” added Sakrani.
Water Security Agency (WSA) approves the use of chloramines. The City of Weyburn will adhere to the strict monitoring and sampling required by WSA to ensure the safety of its water supply.
