Features of an Active and Effective Protective Program Update and Real World Application

A secure drinking water and wastewater infrastructure (water sector) is critical to protecting public health and ensuring public confidence. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA's) Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water (OGWDW) Water Security Division (WSD) is promoting active and effective protective program features (basic elements) for utility owners and operators to consider as they develop all-hazards approaches for guaranteeing continuity of service and enhancing overall preparedness. To support the water sector's state of readiness, USEPA conducted a community case study in Seattle-King County, Washington to document existing practices that help make local drinking water and wastewater utilities safer, more secure, and more resilient. The case study documented more than 20 practices currently in use in Seattle-King County that incorporate elements of active and effective protective program features and support preparedness programs.