Water is a local product. It cannot be transported over long distances, as this would make costs prohibitive. However, the quality of natural water varies depending on the region, i.e. on what natural habitat it passes through, soil types etc . This is the reason why Veolia Water regularly carries out studies into possible health risks. It can then adapt its water quality monitoring procedure accordingly.
The assessments carried out by Veolia Water use recognized methodologies from the food and beverages industry, such as HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point). Possible dangers affecting food safety can be identified, assessed and controlled by using HACCP. It takes into account biological risks (bacteria, for example), chemical risks (pesticides) and physical risks (presence of extraneous material).
In Germany, Veolia Water complies with very strict criteria as regards the quality of the water discharged into the natural environment after use. In Berlin, the goal is to have water of good enough quality that people are able to bathe in the lakes around the city. This would mark a major achievement in the treatment of wastewater.