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State board pilots point-of-use and point-of-entry treatments, seeks device certification and local workforce training
Summary
Staff outlined a multi-pronged pilot program to test household-level treatment devices, develop certification standards for contaminant removal, and create local training and workforce pathways to install and maintain devices in disadvantaged communities.
Board staff presented the findings and planned next steps from a report on point-of-use (POU) and point-of-entry (POE) treatment options for small systems, domestic wells and households that lack access to reliable centralized treatment.
The presentation — led by division technical staff — described the difference between POU devices (installed at a single tap) and POE systems (installed at the service entry so all household water is treated). Staff noted that POE provides broader protection within a home but can be more complex and costly to install and maintain. The briefing summarized six recommended pilots that would test device performance, workforce-training strategies and community outreach materials.
Technical priorities presented included: (1) developing certification tests and performance standards for specific contaminants (nitrate, hexavalent chromium, uranium, certain disinfection byproduct precursors and PFAS), (2) working with manufacturers to increase availability of certified devices where no certified product now exists, and (3) running pilots that include sustained sampling, operator/installer training and user-education modules. Staff said they are already working with a contractor (Stentech) on education materials and with industry to scope certification needs.
Speakers emphasized that community trust and a local, trained workforce are critical to sustained success. The proposed workforce component aims to develop curricula and a training pipeline so community members can install, sample and maintain household treatment devices and serve as trusted local liaisons.
Staff are planning pilot evaluations through early 2026 and will return to the advisory group with lessons learned and recommendations on scale-up and funding.
