Health Based Targets members circle series
by Water Source
Following the introduction of Health Based Target (HBT) into the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines 2011 Version 3.8 (ADWG) in November 2023, the AWA Water Quality Specialist Network ran a series of HBT member circles with the aim of creating a space for discussion and knowledge sharing on HBTs.
Member circle 1 – Introduction to HBTs was held in November 2023. This members circle took an interactive approach and aimed to promote engagement. Dr Yulia Shutova (co-chair of the WQSN committee) presented an introductory session covering basic principles of pathogen control, a high-level overview of the HBTs, and implications associated with HBT implementation.
An interactive discussion followed in break out rooms facilitated by a WQSN committee member on topics such as organisational awareness of HBTs, where organisations are in their HBT journey, implications of HBT, options for support, and impacts on planning and delivery.
Engagement in the breakout rooms was high, with lively discussion and varied questions. A highlight was the collaboration within each breakout room, where attendees could answer each other’s questions provide insights. Topics that mostly came through were difficulty in the practical implementation, and how other utilities / organisations handled particular scenarios.
A closing poll revealed that attendees would like more training and / or resources within their organisation to enhance the support of HBTs. There was also a preference for a second members circle that focused on the practical implementation of HBTs with real world examples from utilities.
Members circle 2 - The Practical Implementation of HBT: Case studies and strategies, was held in August 2024. This session featured case study presentations from three organisations followed by a Q&A session and discussion time.
Andrew Bath, Emily White and Lucy Parsons from Water NSW and Sydney Water presented on implementing HBT in blended source drinking water system. Doug Moorby from Narromine Shire / Council presented on their treatment solution to meeting health regulator guidelines with an insecure water source. Phil Fasham and David Sheehan from Coliban Water shared valuable lessons learnt and strategies for implementing HBTs within their organisation. Each speaker gave a different viewpoint and valuable insight into their implementation with HBTs, the challenges they had faced and the strategies they chose to overcome this.
The HBT member circle series provided a good opportunity for sharing of information and knowledge around what members want to know, and to present some real utility knowledge and experience on this.
The Water Quality Specialist network thanks all attendees and contributors for their participation. We would love to hear from you – what would you like us to do next? We welcome further questions, feedback and suggestions on topics you wish to explore in the future.
Head to our Water Quality Specialist network page and use the contact us form Specialist Network - Water Quality
