Problems of treatment process selection for relief agency water supplies in an emergency

Abstract

There is currently limited public information available concerning methods for the selection of appropriate water treatment technologies for application in acute phase emergency water and sanitation responses. Considering the number of available emergency water treatment and supply options, it is speculated that a framework methodology offering guidance in the form of a selection process would offer advantages. This process would relate a defined set of emergency factors to a selection of available water treatment and supply options, described by a basic, but complete, set of technical and operational characteristics. It is suggested that, whilst not a complete process, the proposed framework methodology is sufficient to lead to the identification and selection of appropriate options for deployment. Furthermore the support of critical decision making by a logical framework, could help shape and justify the actions of agencies and workers in the field.