How has Health Canadas investment increased First Nations capacity to sample and test drinking water quality?
Since 2003, Health Canada has increased its own capacity and the capacity of First Nations communities to sample and test drinking water quality at tap from a public health perspective. Both the number of Environmental Health Officers dedicated to drinking water quality and the number of community sites with access to a trained Community-Based Water Monitor increased significantly under the previous First Nations Water Management Strategy. In all areas of monitoring – chemical, bacteriological and their analysis – there were measurable improvements. Health Canada has also developed drinking water communication products, such as: • Protecting the Water in your Pipes • Procedure for Addressing Drinking Water Advisories in First Nations Communities South of 60° • Procedure Manual for Safe Drinking Water in First Nations Communities South of 60°. To obtain an electronic or print copy of this publication, please contact the Environmental Public Health Division. If you order a print copy, pl
