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DEQ shuts down Aquabest
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Posted on Jun 21 1999
Water company Aquabest has been ordered closed temporarily by the Division of Environmental Quality last Friday after it exceeded the maximum level for microbiological contaminants.
Despite recommendations from DEQ, Aquabest continues to operate without an automated bottle washing machine. This is the second time that environment officials have ordered its closure by DEQ. In January, DEQ shutdown Aquabest for three days.
Immediately, DEQ ordered the water company to post signs on its building notifying the public and its employees that it will not be selling water due to the violation. According to DEQ, failure of the company to comply with the CNMI drinking water regulations will be dealt with further enforcement action including issuance of penalties.
The environment office has warned consumers against ingesting the bottled water bought from Aquabest as local health authorities asked the public to take necessary precautions.
If you bought water from Aquabest, bring it to a boil for at least one minute or add two teaspoons of near 5 percent strength sodium hypochloride solution (Clorox, Purex, etc.) per one hundred gallons of water (approximately five drops per gallon) 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 although these are not generally harmful.
The presence of these bacteria in the drinking water, however, is usually the result of a problem with the water treatment system and indicates that the water may be contaminated with organisms that can cause diseases. Symptoms of diseases may include diarrhea, cramps, nausea and possibly jaundice and associated headaches and fatigue.
