Control of Disinfection By‐Products in Drinking Water

Abstract

This paper reviews the history associated with the occurrence and regulation of disinfection by‐products in finished drinking water, some of the underlying chemistry associated with their formation, technologies and strategies appropriate for their control, and conclusions concerning the current status of their regulation in the United States. Key issues and concerns, along with recommendations for further research, are identified and incorporated into the discussion. The importance of balancing risks associated with disinfection by‐products against risks associated with waterborne pathogenic microorganisms is emphasized, along with the notion that limited information concerning the occurrence and health effects of disinfection by‐products and reliable, safe, and cost‐effective strategies for their control preclude their strict regulation at this time.