Quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) for water re-use via aquifers

Abstract

Worldwide, there is an increasing interest in the recharge of aquifers as a method for augmenting urban water supplies. Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) can utilise a variety of non-traditional source waters including urban stormwater and reclaimed water from sewage effluent. However, these alternate water sources may contain a wide range of pathogenic hazards that pose risks to human health. Hence the safe use of recycling water via aquifers requires potential risks to be reduced to acceptable levels. This article outlines the approach recommended by the draft Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling (AGWR) (Phase 2C Managed Aquifer Recharge) to quantify the aquifer treatment using a quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) approach.