Canadian Drinking Water Guidelines

The Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality deal with microbiological, chemical and radiological contaminants. They also address concerns with physical characteristics of water, such as taste and odour. A multi-barrier approach is taken to protect water quality. 

This multi-barrier approach takes all threats into account and makes sure there are "barriers" in place to either eliminate them or minimize their impact. It includes selecting the best available source (e.g., lake, river, aquifer) and protecting it from contamination, using effective water treatment, and preventing water quality deterioration in the distribution system. 

More information is available at: 

 http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/water-eau/drink-potab/guide/index-eng.php

Canadian Drinking Water Guidelines May 2008 (PDF)