What are the initial steps to control organic chemicals in drinking water?

The initial steps to control organic chemicals in drinking water primarily involve conducting sanitary surveys to identify potential sources of contamination. This process is crucial because it provides a comprehensive understanding of the environment surrounding water sources. By identifying sources such as agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, or improperly managed waste, water supply officials can assess the risks these sources pose to drinking water quality.

Sanitary surveys are effective tools that gather data on land use, sewage systems, and existing water treatment practices, all of which can reveal pathways through which organic chemicals may enter water supplies. By pinpointing these sources, interventions can be better targeted, whether that means implementing control measures, improving existing infrastructure, or enhancing treatment processes.

The other options, while relevant to water quality management, do not serve as the appropriate initial steps. For instance, measuring pH is a valuable analysis but does not directly address the sources of organic contamination. Installing treatment systems without first understanding the specific contaminants risks misallocating resources or implementing ineffective solutions. Lastly, increasing chlorine concentration is primarily effective for disinfection but does not specifically target organic chemicals, which may require different treatment methods depending on their nature and concentration.