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DEQ finds drinking water at COP unsafe
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Posted on Mar 11 1999
The Division of Environmental Quality has found the water at Coral Ocean Point unsafe to drink after it exceeded the maximum level for microbiological contaminants.
A notice of violation has been served to Coral Ocean Point as DEQ and local health authorities recommend that consumers take the necessary precautions before ingesting water from this hotel resort.
DEQ has ordered Coral Ocean Point to immediately post signs on all company buildings that serve water notifying guests, employees and the general public of the infraction.
DEQ warned that it will take further enforcement action including the issuance of penalties if the company fails to respond to the notice of violation.
To make sure that it is safe to drink, health authorities advice clients to bring the water to boil for at least one minute or add two teaspoons of near 5 percent strength sodium hypochlorite solution per one hundred gallons of water and let stand for 30 minutes before using.
DEQ sets drinking water standards and has determined that the presence of total coliform is a serious health concern. Total coliform are common in the environment and are generally not harmful themselves.
The presence of these bacteria in drinking water, however, is usually the result of a problem with the water treatment system and indicates the water may be contaminated with organisms that can cause disease.
DEQ was mandated by US Environmental Protection Agency to conduct regular test on various companies on the island. The CNMI has adopted a Safe Drinking Water Act and regulations which are as stringent as the rules imposed by the EPA.
Due to the introduction of many chemicals in the CNMI, the Safe Drinking Water Branch is currently implementing new regulations to monitor contaminants such as nitrates, asbestos and mercury.
Recently, DEQ and EPA held a seminar for various companies in the CNMI to explain the importance of following the safe water regulations.
