Industry Expert Addresses Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Association (NSWCA):  Bill Merklin Speaks On I,4 Dioxane

Franklin Square, NY USA: As part of its Educational Series, the Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Associationrecently received a detailed presentation on one of the biggest issues facing Long lsland residents and water suppliers today, 1, 4 Dioxane. Guest speaker Mr. Bill Merklin, Senior Vice President in charge of D&B Engineers & Architects (Woodbury, NY) Water Supply Division addressed a full house of commissioners with a combination of in depth background information and real life solutions.

In discussing the origins of 1,4 dioxane, Mr. Merklin noted “World War II, the Korean and Vietnam wars, and the space race all contributed to the concentrations of 1,4 dioxane that we now see. In addition, the chemical can be found in everyday products ranging from shampoos, cosmetics and detergents to inks and food packaging.”

Mr. Merklin discussed regulatory status, typical treatment processes and timeline realities. “One of the most promising treatments is Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) which involves ultraviolet light and a strong oxidizing agent like hydrogen peroxide followed by Granular Activated Carbon (GAC).”  Mr. Merklin cautioned that pilot testing and other evaluations are required before design and eventual integration with other existing treatments.

Left: Michael F. Rich III, NSWCA President and Oyster Bay Water Commissioner. Right: D&B Senior Vice President Water Supply Division, and guest speaker Bill Merklin.

 

Michael F. Rich III, NSWCA President and Oyster Bay Water Commissioner commented, “As all of our member districts await further direction from the New York State Department of Health, we truly appreciate Bill Merklin’s incisive presentation about the realities of 1,4 Dioxane and potential treatment. This sheds light on a rapidly widening subject and assists commissioners and superintendents in developing strategies for addressing 1,4 dioxane contamination within individual water districts.”

 

 

 

L2R: Carle Place Water Commissioner Larry Zaino; Oyster Bay Water Commissioner and NSWCA President Michael F. Rich III; Plainview Water Commissioner Amanda Field; D&B Senior Vice President Water Supply Division, Bill Merklin; Hicksville Water Commissioner Bill Schuckmann.