Water Report, May 2014

Page 1

MAY 2014



WATER REPORT

a special advertising Supplement of the bermuda sun MAY 9, 2014 page 1

Need for caution in managing our water By Cory Powell Renew Ltd

There has been much discussion and information provided of late to do with water safety in one way or another. From our fresh water drinking supplies to our surrounding oceans, the level of information has sparked a well-deserved

conversation and heightened awareness on how we should all be more cautious in managing our precious resource. Within this issue I will attempt to highlight “in my opinion” what we can all do to ensure safe, clean drinking water. Ensure all tank maintenance providers are certified to carry out effec-

tive cleaning, inspection, repairs, waterproofing and sanitization of Bermuda’s water tank systems. There are many first-rate and reputable tank maintenance specialists on island today, but there is no solid foundation that provides a step-by-step guide to how tanks should be appropriately maintained. Creating a standard

method of works with certified service providers would ensure the client gets the best results possible and peace of mind that their water is safe. Having the general public follow some or all of the guidelines below would be a goal for all to strive for. However, creating a See CAUTION, page 2

Inside this supplement Need for caution in managing our water Pages 1-3 Improved sewage treatment at KEMH Page 5 Prestigious award for Spa mineral water Page 6 Reverse osmosis a natural fit for Bermuda Page 7 Coconut water proving a hit with athletes Page 9 Think global, act local, to find our own solutions Page 11 Bermuda Sun 19 Elliott Street, Hamilton, Bermuda HM 10 Tel 295-3902 Fax 292-5597 E-mail feedback@bermudasun.bm This special supplement is produced and published by Bermuda Sun Limited and printed in Bermuda by Island Press Limited.

Reflecting on 17 lessons we have learned Page 13 A glossary of water treatment terms Page 15 Publisher Randy French President Lisa Beauchamp Editorial Robyn Bardgett Editorial Layout Jack Garstang Advertising Sales Carlita Burgess (Deputy Advertising Manager), Diane Gilbert, Claire James, Larissa French, Trikeita Outerbridge

The Bermuda Sun publishes twice weekly and is a subsidiary of MediaHouse Limited. We are members of the Inland Press Association, International Newspaper Marketing Association and the Newspaper Association of America. We are located at: 19 Elliott Street, Hamilton HM 10; P.O. Box HM 1241, Hamilton HM FX Tel: 295-3902 Fax: 292-5597. Visit our website: www.bermudasun.bm

Creative Services Christina White, Colby Medeiros, Calae Steede Circulation & Distribution Michelle Furbert

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2 n MAY 9, 2014

WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

THE BERMUDA SUN

CAUTION Continued from page 1 requirement for those that rent properties would be a good start to ensuring the safety of those that may be unsure or unaware of the conditions of their water supply. Once a tank has been appropriately maintained all landlords should provide proof to a tenant upon request that their tank system has been cleaned, sanitized and approved by a certified professional within the past six years. n All landlords to provide proof that their roof and rain leaders have been cleaned, sanitized and/or re-coated within the past two to four years. n All landlords/rental properties to have a designated approved water filtration system (with an annual detailed maintenance plan or contract) installed at the point of entry within their pump location. n Tenants to be responsible for point of use systems, i.e. Brita Filters. n All home internal PVC plumbing systems to be sanitized upon tank cleaning cycle. All galvanized plumbing systems beyond

n PhotoS SUPPLIED

Tank vacuuming procedures are being developed now but do currently come with certain limitations and enhanced costs to consider. 20 years of age should be examined for erosion and possibly removed and

replaced with PVC systems if tests reveal high metal or bacteria counts.

n Water Testing reports provided yearly. Obviously cost is a major


THE BERMUDA SUN

WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

MAY 9, 2014 n 3

factor when considering conditions such as these, particularly during these challenging times, so in order to assist and bring all rental properties in line a subsidy could be provided by Government or some form of concession toward the cost of installing these systems and maintaining their water supply.

Full tank? A big question to answer is, “what if my tank is always full? I don’t want to waste thousands of gallons of water”. This is one of the main reasons, in my opinion, why people do not clean their tank as often as they should, or could, and rightfully so to some extent, as nobody should have to waste potentially good water. However, in the event that you do rent a property you are responsible for providing a fresh water supply to your tenant and as such you are responsible for ensuring that steps are put in place to do just that.

Stirring The main concern is “stir up” or “blending” of good

FILTERS AT WORK

water and heavy sediment when water is added from rain or trucked water. When a tank collects six or more year’s worth of contaminants the sediment can get stirred when water enters the tank and this plume of sediment can enter your water supply causing a higher risk of illness to those consuming it. “Tank vacuuming procedures” are being developed now but do currently come with certain limitations and enhanced costs to consider. As this continues to be advanced it could be looked at in conjunction with the certification process. For now if you have a tank that is always full and you have not cleaned it in over six years you should consider testing the water more regularly to ensure you are maintaining safe levels and that your filtration system is up to date and regularly maintained. There is no reason our unique water collection system here in Bermuda

Renew ROV water tank inspection system coming soon. should not be a reliable source of fresh drinking water for all to enjoy.

Water testing By keeping your tank, roof and leaders maintained and your water filtered you will be getting as good as you will get in any bottledwater supply at a fraction of the cost. At the very least, people should consider having their water tested yearly at a minimum from both the

tank and tap. I personally prefer readings from both locations when you can to provide an accurate analysis of the tank contents as well as the tap as one could be carrying more or less bacteria than the other. For more information on Renew Ltd. please visit www.renewbermuda.com or call 238-3639. n

The Renew family sends its condolences to the family of Chris Merritt.

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4 n MAY 9, 2014

WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

THE BERMUDA SUN

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THE BERMUDA SUN

WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

MAY 9, 2014 n 5

Improved sewage treatment at KEMH By Robyn Bardgett rbardgett@bermudasun.bm

With the introduction of the new sewage treatment facility at the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital (KEMH) Acute Care Wing, there is expected to be at least a 17 per cent improvement to the quality of wastewater being discharged off South Shore, according to Dr Geoff Smith, environmental engineer at the Department of Environmental Protection. The improved treatment facility is welcome after recent controversy that has been swirling around the wastewater discharge at the Seabright outfall since the US Consulate reported that the water off South Shore was unfit to swim in at certain times. “The improvement of the treatment of 100,000 imperial gallons per day of wastewater from KEMH is expected to provide at least 17 per cent improvement to the quality of wastewater discharged to the Seabright outfall off South Shore,” Dr Smith said in a press release last month. The new sewage treatment facility will be using some of the most advanced treatment processes available and it is hoped that it will be a model for future treatment facilities on the island, particularly those that treat the sewage that is currently treated for the City of Hamilton, said Dr Smith, during a phone interview. “Up until recently there

n Photo Bermuda Hospitals Board

SEWAGE TREATMENT: Work is well underway on the KEMH sewage treatment facility, which is expected to provide at least 17 per cent improvement to the quality of wastewater discharged to the Seabright outfall off South Shore. was no type of straining into the outfall at Seabright,” added Dr Smith. “This process will breakdown the solids to about 2-3 milligrams and the final product will look like clear water if put into a glass.”

Microfiltration The advanced treatment, or tertiary treatment, is a step above secondary treatment. Known as microfiltration, it will remove extremely fine suspended particles that often remain after secondary treatments. Other advanced treatment systems on the island located at Wedco and Tucker’s

Point, said Dr Smith. His section licenses the plants across the island. The equipment for the new waste facility was sourced through internationally recognized manufacturers and installers of sewage treatment facilities — Watling-Hope/WPL of the United Kingdom and Evergreen Engineering from the Republic of Ireland. Installation on site was carried out by Bermudian companies BESCO Ltd and Rocon Services Ltd, according to the press release. The underground location of the hospital’s sewage treatment plant is unique

in Bermuda. The facility is under the south parking lot of the new Acute Care Wing. Another interesting feature of the hospital’s plant is that it has a specially designed ventilation system. Installed by Bermudian company Keen Ltd, the system ensures that the odours usually associated with sewage treatment are collected and filtered before being discharged from vents in the top of the new building some 150 feet above sea level. The new Acute Care Wing is set to open to the public this September. n

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6 n MAY 9, 2014

WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

THE BERMUDA SUN

Prestigious award for Spa mineral water Supplied by Goslings Tempted to pick up a bottle of water to quench your thirst but confused by the variety filling the shelves? Spa mineral water, a natural Belgian mineral water owned by Groupe Spadel and imported locally by Gosling’s Limited, was awarded the European Centre for Mineral Research (CERAM) award for Mineral Water Quality. The award of the prize is a result of a comparative scientific study carried out by CERAM’s Scientific Committee and is based on four criteria: n The intrinsic characteristics of the product. n The company’s policy relating to the protection of natural resources. n Research and development. n Marketing of the product. Spa water was awarded the prize for its exceptional quality and the company’s responsible management of the aquifer resources and environmental policy. Marc du Bois, manag-

ing director of the Groupe Spadel, dedicated this prize to all employees of the company: “This first European Quality Prize is a wonderful reward for our members of staff who are passionate about the strict protection of the natural water resources.

Purity “It perfectly reflects Spadel’s credo: ‘When man cares for water, water cares for man’. Guaranteeing the original purity of our natural mineral water is a duty towards the generations to come. This is our vision of sustainable development.” What this means when you enjoy a bottle of Spa water is that you can be guaranteed a refreshing and crystal clear drinking experience that can help hydrate you when you are at home or on the go. Spa mineral water is available in PET bottles in sizes 1.5 litre, 75cl, 50cl and 33cl. Spa also makes a sparkling mineral water, available in 1.5 litre PET bottles and 33cl cans. n

n Photo SUPPLIED

Spa mineral water, a natural Belgian mineral water, is imported locally by Gosling’s Limited.


THE BERMUDA SUN

WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

MAY 9, 2014 n 7

Reverse osmosis a natural fit for Bermuda Submitted By Bermuda Waterworks As summer approaches, the demand for water increases and its impact on our daily life becomes important again. Bermuda Waterworks is a leading provider of bottled water and piped drinking water. Daily we supply water to homes, businesses, hotels, cruise ships and the occasional ship or resident requiring water for specialized equipment. In Bermuda, water is a valued resource. In the absence of natural rivers, the settlers constructed tanks for water catchment and storage. It is a practice that is carried out to this day. Necessity was the mother of invention for our forefathers and they excelled in their ingenuity. Early in our company’s history, brackish water was the order of the day. Several decades later we are using advanced reverse osmosis and desalination techniques to extract and treat our source water. Approximately two-thirds of our piped water comes from treated seawater. The remaining one third comes from desalting brackish ground water extracted from the underground lens. The abundance of seawater has made reverse osmosis a natural fit for the company’s operations. The piped water supply is chlorinated after rigorous treatment so that it meets local and international quality

standards. In 2010, Bermuda Waterworks entered into an agreement with the Bermuda Government to expand its distribution to the western part of the island. The most recent phase saw the pipeline extended to the junction of Somerset Road and Soundview Road. This project will resume later on this year. This expansion will help to alleviate the temporary crisis that can result from a long spell of dry weather. The cost of the company’s piped water is quite competitive. A truckload of water now costs $90 on average and holds 1,000 imperial gallons. Bermuda Waterworks’ base rate is $24.74, once the early payment discount is applied. This entitles the customer to 1,000 imperial gallons of water. In these changing economic times, not having a piped water connection in an area that we serve is an unnecessary expense on the household budget.

Bottled water The company also manufactures bottled water under the Pure Water brand. It is packaged in three and five gallon containers. Bottled water is a healthy, convenient food product that residents use because of its refreshing taste and it is a good way to stay hydrated. It is a healthy alternative to other beverages in helping to combat the obesity epidemic. Annually our water is

n Photo SUPPLIED

Bermuda Waterworks is expanding its distribution to the western part of the island. The most recent phase saw the pipeline extended to the junction of Somerset Road and Soundview Road. subject to a detailed chemical analysis by a US-based laboratory. Locally, our bottled water is tested daily in-house and weekly by an external approved laboratory. Bottled water in reusable containers has been going green long before it became popular. Our bottles can be reused several times, once our customers do their part. Bottles are rejected if there are any leaks or if they have been contaminated with other liquids, for example, drink mix or dirty bottles. Very often schools and

organizations have coin drives or other fundraising activities. The company is quite happy to donate rejected bottles to these events. Just give us a call and save a good bottle from going bad. For the last 80 years, Bermuda Waterworks has manufactured water to meet the island’s growing needs. Our daily mission is to provide the island with a high-quality potable piped drinking water supply and internationally approved bottled water products. We are here to meet all of your water needs. n

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WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

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THE BERMUDA SUN



STOP! don’t drink well water Protect your health. Did you know it is illegal to fill a tank with untreated well water?

know the facts… an average of 15% of sewage waste gets back to ground water if you suspect that you might be drinking well water, contact Environmental Health 6 Hermitage Road, Devonshire FL 02 Phone: 278-5333 GOVERNMENT OF BERMUDA Ministry of Health and Environment Department of Health Environmental Health


236-4201

Ministry of Public Works – Water and Sewage Section: 278-0570 E-mail water@gov.bm


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CHOOSING ULTRA VIOLET IS THE SMART CHOICE FOR PURIFYING YOUR TANK WATER Ultra Violet (UV) radiation is a superior means of water

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THE BERMUDA SUN

WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

MAY 9, 2014 n 9

Coconut water proving a hit with athletes Supplied by BGA For athletes looking for a thirst-quenching and tasty alternative to water, coconut water has been making a big splash for sports-minded people. “Coconut water is loaded with electrolytes,” says Jarita Bassett, grocery marketing manager at BGA wholesale distributors. “Electrolytes are important for rehydration and coconut water has been really popular with athletes.” BGA has been featuring their Grace Coconut Water product at several races over the past couple of months, including the recent Lindo’s to Lindo’s run and charity walk, to introduce athletes to the flavour and hydration abilities of the drink. “Look out for us at some upcoming races,” Ms Bassett adds. Coconut water also has plenty of other excellent benefits including: n Great addition to smoothies and fruit and vegetable juices. n Helps with hair growth. n Makes skin glow. n Makes an excellent addition to cooking. Coconut water is naturally sweet and contains many vitamins and minerals that help ward off fatigue and boost energy. Grace Foods packages coconut water with or without pulp directly from the source. n

For more information, visit https://www.facebook. com/gracefoodsbermuda.

n Photo SUPPLIED

fatigue beater: Alice Lacoursiere hydrates with Grace Coconut Water while training at Studio One.

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THE BERMUDA SUN

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THE BERMUDA SUN

WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

MAY 9, 2014 n 11

Think global, act local, to find our own solutions SUPPLIED BY CLEARWATER SYSTEMS Think global. Climate change commentators warn that the quality of our drinking water will suffer as the planet’s weather patterns change. Freshwater contamination is a primary concern. Where some island populations face drastic flooding, others may experience a sea level rise, invading the freshwater supply. Bermuda is not immune to this. Forecasted fiercer storms threaten our tank water as higher-speed winds drive salt, debris and contaminants to our roofs and tanks. A two-metre rise in sea level would also significantly impact Bermuda’s fresh water supply. Chartered Environmentalist Dr Anne Glasspool reported this in an esteemed National Trust report: The Impact of Climate Change on Bermuda. To act local is to be responsible for our own solutions. The easiest place to start is within our community and in our own homes. A simple addition to a kitchen such as an undercounter water treatment system from Clearwater Systems will filter 95 per cent of impurities from tank water, while leaving precious minerals in the water. ClearWater Systems can help you think global, act local in other ways too; we’ll test your drinking water TDS levels, arrange to have your tank and plumbing checked for leaks

n Photo SUPPLIED

rising sea-levels: Some island populations face drastic flooding, others may experience a sea level rise, invading the freshwater supply. or contaminants, design and install a water treatment system with regularly scheduled, worry-free service that will fit almost any budget.

Global water shortage “The air we breathe, the water we drink and the soil that grows our food are part of a delicate global ecosystem that is increasingly under pressure from human activities”— the words of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. He calls for “a global transformation of attitude and practice”. That means making small changes locally to preserve our life-giving natural resources, including safe drinking water. The global population consumes 50 per cent more

resources than the planet can provide so you can see the urgency to act. The World Bank and UNICEF’s recent High Level meeting on Sanitation and Water reported that by 2025, 2.8 billion people would live without sufficient clean water. Even countries that have enjoyed reliable freshwater supplies for a hundred years are predicted to face water challenges in this decade. Think global. Follow global events such as the upcoming New York climate summit in September this year, where government, private sector and civil society leaders will showcase initiatives and forge alliances toward a sustainable future. Plug in and stay informed effort-

lessly with social media and spread the word. Act local. Real change happens locally, at grassroots. UN Secretary-General Ban appeals to people everywhere to “raise their voices, speak out on behalf of this planet, our only home”. At ClearWater Systems we’ll help you act local so you can make a difference to your home and your community. Start by getting your tank checked for leaks or contaminants, your drinking water tested, your plumbing inspected, your roof cleaned or your filtration system set up for regularly scheduled, worry-free service. And if you have questions, just ask us. We've been Bermuda's water treatment experts since 1997. n

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WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

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Quality water filtration products for your

BUSINESS Commercial grade water filtration for your HOME

THE BERMUDA SUN

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WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

THE BERMUDA SUN

MAY 9, 2014 n 13

Reflecting on 17 lessons we have learned SUPPLIED BY CLEARWATER SYSTEMS ClearWater Systems has been testing, filtering and treating Bermuda water since 1997. And they have been 17 great years. Here's a brief look back at 17 important lessons we've learned. 1. Two important times of the day to drink water are as soon as you get up in the morning, and just before you turn in at night. The former helps reactivate your sleepy internal organs and the latter helps reduce your blood pressure. 2. An estimated 75 per cent of North Americans are chronically dehydrated, or “running on empty”. “All dee way on pump 1” peeps. 3. It is possible to drink too much water, resulting in a condition known as overhydration or hyponatremia. The Institute of Medicine suggests that the adequate daily intake (total beverages) for men is roughly 3 litres. The adequate daily intake for women is 2.2 litres per day. 4. Crystal clear water brews the most heavenly coffees and teas. 5. Water is life. Make the best of both. 6. Giving someone a big, wet kiss is a wonderful thing. Hugs come a very close second. 7. Get dirty. Wash your hands. Keep smiling. 8. There will be dry spells. 9. It only takes a few drops of Scottish spring water (or filtered clear water if you don't happen to be in the

n Photo SUPPLIED

a baby‘s tears and sweating are not wastes of water. Highlands) to “open up” a single malt Scotch whisky. 10. Water is meant to be colourless, tasteless and odourless. Drink enough and you will get used to it. 11. Like time, water is precious. Waste as little as possible. 12. Neither crying nor sweating is a waste of water.

13. Say, “the glass is half full” even if it seems less than that. 14. If the world is dishing you lemons, squeeze a little in your water. Lemons have antiviral and antibacterial properties and boost your body's immune system. 15. When it rains you get wet. It's nothing personal. 16. There's nothing wrong

with a homemade popsicle now and then! Yummly.com has oodles of recipes. 17. “Water is critical for sustainable development, including environmental integrity and the alleviation of poverty and hunger, and is indispensable for human health and well-being.” ­— UN Decade “Water for Life” (2005-2015). n

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WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

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From Reverse Osmosis (RO) and Ultraviolet (UV) drinking water systems to water softeners, filters and pump products... WaterGroup/ PURA/Hydrotech manufactures Bermuda-tough, state of the art products, parts and supplies for ClearWater Systems.

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THE BERMUDA SUN


THE BERMUDA SUN

WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

MAY 9, 2014 n 15

A glossary of water treatment terms SUPPLIED BY CLEARWATER SYSTEMS Bioremediation: The technology by which microorganisms are used to break down pollutants like fats, oils and greases. Carbon block: Carbon block filters remove contaminants like cryptosporidium and giardia lamblia cysts and have been components of water treatment systems for many years. CarbonPlus: ION technology that reduces chlorine, taste, odour, lead and cysts. One CarbonPlus filter can produce the equivalent of 8,000 16oz. bottles of water. Cryptosporidium: A singlecelled microbe in the proto-

zoa family that is removed by sub-micron water filtration systems. Distillation: The act of purifying a liquid by vaporization. Effluent: The discharge from industrial or sewage treatment plants. Extended Pass Carbon Block (EPCB): A filter used in some water treatment systems to remove cryptosporidium and giardia lamblia cysts. Faecal coliform: Rodshaped bacteria that origi-

nate in faeces. The presence of a very small amount in water isn’t necessarily harmful, nor does it necessarily indicate the presence of faeces. Higher levels of faecal coliform indicate lack or failure of water treatment. Giardia lamblia: A parasite that can infect the small intestine, causing giardia-

sis, a diarrheal infection. Greywater: Household wastewater from sinks, washing machines and showers. Groundwater: Water found beneath the earth’s surface in soil or rock. Hard water: Water with high mineral content (calcium, magnesium, iron and others). Hollow fibre membrane: An extremely efficient component of a water treatment system. KwikIII: An under-thecounter system that filters water in three stages using hollow fibre technology without removing precious minerals that may be present. KwikRO4: A quick-change, 4-stage, under-counter water treatment system that is Water Quality Association certified.

Leaching: As water percolates through the earth's top layer, it takes water-soluble plant nutrients, minerals and pesticides with it into underground soil and water. Lens: A natural underground water pocket. Lentic water: Standing water, like that found in ponds or lakes. Lotic water: Flowing water, as in streams or rivers. Membrane: A thin structure that acts as a boundary to prevent some molecules or ions from passing through RO systems. Microfiltration: A way to physically separate small particles from liquids or gasses through a microporous membrane. Microorganism: Any organism that is microscopic or too small for the eye to see — often bacteria or viruses. Nitrate (NO3): A naturally occurring chemical in soil and water. The WHO has set a standard of 10 milligrams of NO3/litre for drinking water to be safe. Untreated groundwater in Bermuda exceeds this level 0oby virtue of our concentration of cesspits. PH: A measure of alkalinity or acidity. A pH of 7 is considered neutral; lower than 7 is acidic, like vinegar; and higher than 7 is alkaline or basic. Point of entry: Systems that treat water as it enters a building. Point of use: Systems that treat water at a location of use, like a faucet. Pre-filtration: The act of filtering out larger particles

before processes that filter out microscopic particles. Reverse osmosis (RO): A process of purifying water by forcing it through a semipermeable membrane. Salmonella: An American scientist named Salmon discovered the salmonella pathogen, the cause of salmonellosis, 100 years ago. Ultrafiltration, RO and UV systems provide effective protection. Basic filtration is not an adequate defence. Sediment filter: Part of a water filtration system designed to filter larger particles. Soft water: Water with a lower concentration of calcium, magnesium and other ions than hard water. Total dissolved solids (TDS): Minerals, salts and even nitrates or other toxic ions found in untreated or sometimes “treated” water. ClearWater Systems can test TDS levels. Ultrafiltration membrane: Mechanism to remove viruses and bacteria without requiring chemical treatment. Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection: A chemical-free method of eliminating microorganisms. Water from air: Appliances that produce clean, clear, filtered water from humidity in the air. Zone of aeration: The dry soil located between the surface of the earth and the top of the water table. Zone of saturation: The layer of the earth that is filled with water. The top level of this zone is the water table. n

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WATER REPORT: a special advertising supplement

16 n MAY 9, 2014

THE BERMUDA SUN

Safe Tank Water Regular maintenance of your roof water catchment and tank is important to keep your water safe, clean and fresh. Conduct a survey of your water system and check the following: ROOF CATCHMENT • Trim any overhanging tree branches and cover open rainwater down pipes with wire screens. •

Keep your roof and gutters clean and free of fungal growth.

Tightly seal all rain water down pipes when cleaning and painting the water catchment. Do not remove until after the first rain shower.

WATER TANK • Clean your tank as often as necessary to prevent sediment accumulation (by law every six years). •

Disinfect your tank supply using one of the following methods: o Chlorination o Boiling (for at least five minutes) o Distillation o Filtration/UV light treatment

All overflow pipes should be above ground and screened with fine mesh wire. Ensure that the tank top is tight fitting and kept free of sources of contamination. Avoid refilling and chlorinating tanks that are low in water and high in sediment. The water may become unsafe to drink because contaminates contained in the sludge can be reintroduced into the water. For more information contact Environmental Health 6 Hermitage Road, Devonshire FL 02 Phone: 278-5333

GOVERNMENT OF BERMUDA Ministry of Health and Environment Department of Health Environmental Health


Waterproofing CERTIFIED DISTRIBUTORS / INSTALLERS / CONSULTANTS

Mobile Pressure Washing Restoration Works Water & Tank Maintenance

BEFORE AFTER

CLEAN / DISINFECT / SEAL / WATERPROOF

COMMERCIAL | INDUSTRIAL | RESIDENTIAL | MARINE

Abrasive Blasting Non-Slip Treatments Premium Grade Sealer Applications Pre & Post Hurricane Works Roof Works Confined Space Works Certified Flood Control Certified Awning Cleaning Construction EquipmentSteam Cleaning & Degreasing

238-3639

renew@northrock.bm

www.renewbermuda.com


On Sunday, April 27, 2014 ClearWater Systems lost a dear friend. Chris Merritt, our G.M., was with the company almost since day one. He stood up for, cared for and worked as hard for his staff as they did for him. He was kind, fair, understanding, resourceful, resilient and above all, he had a smile that could melt your heart and a joie de vivre extraordinaire. He was a proud Canadian, a proud father, a very, very proud grandfather and an institution in Bermuda. May the Gosling’s and single malt be plentiful wherever the winds carry you sir. Farewell, farewell to your Nova Scotian charms. We miss you and love you man! Christopher Merritt March 6, 1949 - April 27, 2014

CWS_SunWaterReport_OBC_2014_2.indd 1

4/28/14 7:12 PM


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