Emerging methods to monitor emerging chemicals in the drinking water production

New monitoring techniques enable a shift in monitoring chemical quality from mainly at the end
product tap water, towards monitoring during the whole process in the production chain. This is
congruent with the ‘HACCP’ system (Hazard analysis critical control points) that is fairly integrated in
food production but still less in drinking water production. This shift brings about more knowledge of
source quality, the efficiency of treatment and distribution and understanding of processes within the
production chain, and therefore can lead to a more pro-active management of drinking water
production. At present, monitoring is focused neither on emerging chemicals, nor on detection of chronic
toxicity. We discuss techniques to be used, detection limits compared to quality criteria, data
interpretation and possible interventions in the production.