Routine water well system inspection is vital to assuring proper operation of the well, prolong its operational expectancy, and monitor the quality of the ground water it supplies, according to the National Ground Water Association (NGWA). In addition, just as important as the inspection itself, are the qualifications of those hired to perform the inspection.

To this end, NGWA’s recently issued Water Well Systems Inspection Best Suggested Practice serves as a guide to contractors, pump installers, well owners, water systems managers and regulators, as well as those who perform and depend upon well inspections.

This best suggested practice document recommends that any individual or group hired to conduct ground water system inspections possess the following skills and experience to operate within the following parameters:

• Knowledge of local, regional, state and federal code and regulations relative to water well construction, well inspection, pump installation, electrical systems, ground water quality, etc.
  
• Safety protocol awareness for situations applicable to the work being conducted.
  
• Basic understanding of natural and anthropogenic threats to drinking water quality.
  
• Technical awareness of pumps and related electrical systems.

Water Well Systems Inspection Best Suggested Practice also covers items a qualified inspector should perform including, but not limited to:

• Determining the water well use parameters such as its purpose, e.g., human consumption, irrigation, industrial; estimated ground water usage per day; any known water quality issues.
  
• Visually inspecting the wellhead to ensure proper siting.
  
• Visually and physically inspecting the water well system components, including testing the pump, checking valves, and conducting electrical testing.
  
• Visually inspecting any other equipment such as pressure tanks, storage tanks, water heaters, softeners, filtration equipment, etc.
  
• Documenting for the well owner/manager the system specifications observed, any suggested recommendations for remedial work, and a recommended schedule for future routine inspection, testing, cleaning and rehabilitation.

Download a copy of the document by visiting the “industry best practices” section at www.ngwa.org.