Using the CANARY event detection software to enhance security and improve water quality

Abstract

Public health protection and the provision of potable water are main priorities for all drinking water utilities. Over the last 10 years, the threat of contamination of the nation's drinking water infrastructure has heightened utility awareness of distribution system security. Drinking water systems face enormous challenges in meeting these goals, and in particular, small water systems, which comprise 94% of the nation's public water systems, face additional economic and operational hurdles. The CANARY event detection software was developed to enhance the detection of contamination in water distribution systems. Working in conjunction with a network of water quality sensors placed strategically throughout the distribution system, CANARY increases the likelihood and speed of detection by interpreting sensor data in near real time, identifying anomalies and alerting the operator when a contaminant might be present. Through pilot studies, CANARY has demonstrated its ability to detect unexpected «normal» events, such as sensor malfunctions or pipe breaks. This study systematically investigates how CANARY could be used to provide multiple benefits to water utilities by improving water system operations, treatment, and security. The probable causes of standard distribution system water quality issues (e.g., maintenance of an acceptable disinfectant residual, biofilm control, customer concerns) are presented and the associated changes in water quality parameters that could be detected by CANARY. The range of conditions under which CANARY could detect each of these water quality issues is evaluated. For water utilities of all sizes, the value of using this type of detection software to enhance detection and response to a wide range of water quality events is discussed. © 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.