What does the Health and Safety Code require regarding water quality tests?

The Health and Safety Code mandates that drinking water providers conduct regular testing and reporting of water quality. This requirement is crucial for ensuring the safety and potability of municipal water systems. Regular testing ensures that contaminants are monitored consistently, enabling quick responses to any water quality issues that may arise, thus protecting public health.

Drinking water providers must adhere to specific testing schedules to verify that water quality standards set by regulatory bodies are met. This ongoing monitoring helps to maintain trust in public water systems, as continuous assessments provide evidence that the water is safe for consumption. Additionally, the requirement for reporting ensures transparency, allowing the public to be informed about the quality of the water they consume.

The other options suggest less frequent or conditional testing, which would not adequately safeguard public health. For example, reducing the testing frequency significantly or only testing when complaints are received could result in undetected contamination and potential health risks. Similarly, testing every five years would be insufficient to comply with health standards, as water quality can change rapidly and require more frequent checks to ensure safety at all times.