Model development for predicting changes in DBP exposure concentrations during indoor handling of tap water.

Disinfection by-products (DBPs) in municipal drinking water are a matter of concern because of their possible risks to human health. Risk assessment studies often use measurements of DBPs in water distribution systems, whereas populations are typically exposed to the indoor tap water. Further to this, consumers often employ several indoor strategies to handle tap water (e.g., storing in a refrigerator, boiling, filtering, etc.) prior to use. The indoor handling of municipal water may have implications on DBPs' exposure assessment. This study investigates and develops models to predict the effects of various indoor handling strategies on trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs). Linear and nonlinear models are developed to predict changes in THM and HAA concentrations due to various indoor water manipulation strategies. The models are capable of assessing representative exposure concentrations of THMs and HAAs as a result of indoor handling, which might be useful in gaining a better understanding of exposure and risks from DBPs in municipal drinking water. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.