The Chlorine Free tool consists of a quick scan and a comprehensive manual. The transition from a traditional distribution of chlorinated water to doing without the chlorine residual is complicated process. However, in theory every water company can reach the state in which chlorine-free water is distributed. The feasibility of such an objective depends greatly on the current technical state of affairs as well as on the commitment to doing without the chlorine residual.

In each step of the quick scan, the state of affairs is “established” on the basis of documents, data and other information sources. For example, these could include process descriptions, quality control procedures and actual series of measurements, showing the performance of the various treatment and distribution elements. But organisational features are also taken into account, like the commitment to change. The manual describes the kind of information required and suggests how it should be collected.

Software & downloads

The software used is basically a filing system that keeps track of the documents that should be uploaded to complete the information needed to assess the current state of affairs. Based on the complete set of information, you can give an expert judgement on the state of affairs.

The fields are colour-coded: in the information collection, orange is the default setting and means the item has not yet been completed, green indicates completion. After the information processing, the items are coded green or red. Each red item is commented upon and evaluated on the feasibility of its achieving green status.

Chlorine Free implementation steps:

1. Information collection:
   the tool requires an inventory of information on the current state of affairs of the treatment and distribution stability. It also involves information on the commitment to change and technical understanding within the organisation.
2. Information processing:
   after the data are complete, an assessment can be made, for each field, regarding the degree to which the company satisfies the conditions for a transition to chlorine-free water.
3. Information presentation: based on the colours in the tool, you can reach an expert judgement on the current state of affairs and advise your clients on how to proceed.

There are several forms of support available to ensure that you optimize your use of the Chlorine Free tool, and that you are updated on all the latest developments. Specifically, you can make use of the following options to suit your particular situation:

• A short introductory – or more elaborate - course on a chlorine-free drinking water distribution system for you and your clients.
• Expanded or modified Chlorine Free tool functionalities to create tailored solutions.
• Consultancy services, including technical and organisational process management and reporting.
• Access to chlorine-free water related projects or research.

Mentioned in: 2 Publications
Enrolled in: 1 Case in 1 Country

Publications

• Smeets, P.W.M.H., Medema, G.J., and Van Dijk, J.C.,
  “The Dutch Secret: how to provide safe drinking water without chlorine in the Netherlands”,
  Drinking Water Engineering and  Science, 2(2) (2009), 1-14.
• Vreeburg, J.H.G., Schippers, D., Verberk, J.Q.J.C., and Van Dijk, J.C.,
  “Impact of particles on sediment accumulation in a drinking water distribution system”,
  Water Research, 42(16) (2008), 4233-4242.