Understanding the risks to drinking water in England and Wales

Customer challenge

The aim of this project was to develop further knowledge on risks to drinking water in England and Wales from organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs). Insights into OPFR uses, sources, emissions, and occurrences were needed to assess potential human health impacts and risks to water sources. 

Ricardo solution

Ricardo consulted key manufacturers to gather insights into the usage and tonnages of OPFRs, and synthesised evidence on their sources and emissions. Ricardo also collected relevant toxicological data and through collaboration with industry experts, used this information to develop a risk-based monitoring program: a 12-month quantitative monitoring effort to gather relevant data on the presence of OPFRs in raw and treated drinking waters in England and Wales. This study provided valuable insights into the removal rates of OPFRs during drinking water treatment processes. 

Customer benefit

The customer now has not only a deeper understanding of uses, sources and emissions of OPFRs in England and Wales, but they also have real-life measured concentrations of OPFRs in raw and treated drinking waters. This information will be used to inform further actions to safeguard wholesome supply, support the development of guidance for water companies, and inform water company drinking water safety plans.