Figure: 30 TAC §290.47(h)

Appendix H: Sample Language for Notification Upon Changing from Free Chlorine to Chloramines

A public water system (PWS) must notify its customers, in writing, at least 14 days before starting to use chloramines. This notification must contain the Sample Language for Notification Upon Changing from Free Chlorine to Chloramines included below. The notification should be provided to the news media, renal disease facilities, dialysis clinics, hospitals, physicians, local health departments, pet stores, zoos, and any other facilities that may be impacted by the change.

Sample Language for Notification Upon Changing from Free Chlorine to Chloramines

"On <Date>, the <Water System Name> will be changing the disinfectant that we use from chlorine to chloramines. This change is intended to benefit our customers by reducing the levels of disinfection byproducts in the system, while still providing protection from waterborne disease.

However, the change to chloramines can cause problems to persons dependent on dialysis machines. A condition known as hemolytic anemia can occur if the disinfectant is not completely removed from the water that is used for the dialysate. Consequently, the pretreatment scheme used for the dialysis units must include some means, such as a charcoal filter, for removing the chloramine prior to this date. Medical facilities should also determine if additional precautions are required for other medical equipment. In addition, chloraminated water may be toxic to fish. If you have a fish tank, please make sure that the chemicals or filters that you are using are designed for use in water that has been treated with chloramines. You may also need to change the type of filter that you use for fish tanks."

Optional: "When the chloraminated water first flushes out the chlorinated water there may be a slight taste and odor, and possibly discoloration for a short period of time. This will not compromise the safety of the water."

Important notes:

1. The PWS may not begin using chloramines prior to the date shown in the notice.

2. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality does not require the PWS to include the name or contact telephone number of a PWS employee that the customers can contact if they have questions; however, several PWSs have included this information as a courtesy to its customers.