● Use of screens to remove large particulates at the intake point of the water supply.
● Reduction of turbidity and suspended matter. This part of the process is known as
“clarification” and includes the addition of chemicals and the use of filters to remove
particles larger than 25 microns.
● Reduction of the level of calcium and magnesium in a process known as “lime softening.”
The purpose of lime softening is to minimize the hardness of the water and further
clarify it.
● Use of chlorine gas to disinfect water with the objective of killing bacteria. The chlorine
level must be constantly monitored to ensure that no harmful levels reach the population.
● Adjust the water pH. Adjusted pH to between 7.5 and 8.0 prevents corrosion of water
pipes and prevents leaching of lead into the water supply.