What risks we cover: Drinking water quality
The supply of safe clean public drinking water supplies is the responsibility of water companies in England & Wales.
The Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) acts on behalf of Defra and the National Assembly for Wales to ensure that water companies meet their regulatory obligations in terms of drinking water quality. DWI carries out technical audits of water company activities and can also initiate enforcement action and prosecutions.
The Drinking Water Inspectorate is also the focal point within Defra for any incident that affects, or is likely to affect, the wholesomeness and sufficiency of drinking water supplies.
In this capacity DWI provides technical advice on drinking water quality issues to policy colleagues and others involved in the management of an emergency. In the event of incidents, these arrangements become a key part of the Disruption to Water Supply plan.
Further information:
Page last modified: 13 February 2008
Page published: 13 February 2008