What action should be taken if turbidity levels exceed acceptable limits?

When turbidity levels exceed acceptable limits in water distribution systems, it is crucial to conduct further testing and treatment. High turbidity can indicate the presence of particles that may harbor harmful microorganisms, making the water unsafe for consumption. This step ensures that the water quality is thoroughly evaluated and that any underlying issues causing the turbidity can be identified.

Conducting further testing can provide insight into the source of the turbidity—whether it's due to natural sediment, contamination, or a failure in treatment processes. Based on the results of these tests, appropriate treatment options can be determined to ensure the water meets safety standards. This may involve sedimentation, filtration, or other treatment methods aimed at reducing turbidity to acceptable levels, thus protecting public health and maintaining the integrity of the water supply.

Taking no action or merely increasing chlorination levels without addressing the underlying turbidity issue would not effectively ensure safe water, as chlorine may not be sufficient to eliminate pathogens that could be masked by particulate matter. Shutting down the distribution system may prevent access to water but does not address the root cause or facilitate eventual restoration of safe water supplies.