SIST EN 15975-1:2011/kFprA1:2015

Overview

SIST EN 15975-1:2011/kFprA1:2015 is a European standard published by CEN that provides comprehensive guidelines for the security of drinking water supply, focusing specifically on risk and crisis management. Part 1 of this standard centers on crisis management, outlining fundamental principles and definitions required to prepare for, respond to, and recover from crises impacting drinking water safety and supply continuity. This amendment refines critical terminology and strengthens the framework for managing hazards that threaten public health via drinking water systems.

Key Topics

• Crisis Management Framework
  The standard establishes a structured approach to managing crises in water supply systems, emphasizing preparedness, response, and recovery actions. Organizations responsible for drinking water must implement clear procedures for identifying and mitigating risks to maintain supply security.

• Updated Terms and Definitions
  SIST EN 15975-1:2011/kFprA1:2015 revises key terms critical to risk and crisis management in the water sector:

  • Hazard: Defined as any biological, chemical, physical, or radiological agent or condition in water that poses potential harm to public health. This includes factors related to quantity and presence of contaminants.
  • Risk: The combination of the likelihood of a hazardous event occurring and the severity of its consequences on the drinking water supply system.

• Guidance on Hazard Identification
  The document stresses the importance of identifying a broad range of hazards-chemical spills, microbial contamination, radiological threats-that can affect water safety. Effective hazard identification enables targeted preventive measures to reduce risk exposure.

• Risk Assessment and Communication
  It specifies methods for evaluating the likelihood and impact of hazardous events, supporting informed decision-making during crises. Clear communication channels must be established both internally and with external stakeholders for efficient crisis management.

Applications

• Water Utilities and Operators
  Water supply companies can use this standard to develop and enhance their crisis management plans, ensuring robust responses to incidents such as contamination events, supply disruptions, or natural disasters.

• Regulatory Bodies and Authorities
  Regulatory organizations benefit from EN 15975-1 when setting national or regional policies for drinking water security. Implementing these guidelines helps enforce consistent risk and crisis management practices across the water sector.

• Emergency Response Teams
  Emergency planners and disaster management agencies rely on this standard to coordinate actions during water supply crises, minimizing public health risks and ensuring timely restoration of services.

• Infrastructure Planning and Maintenance
  Incorporating the standard's recommendations into infrastructure design and maintenance can prevent hazard exposure and reduce system vulnerabilities.

Related Standards

• EN 15975-2 - Guides on risk management relating to the security of drinking water supply, complementing Part 1 by focusing on preventive risk control measures.
• ISO 31000 - International standard for general risk management principles applicable across sectors including water supply.
• WHO Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality - Provides health-based targets and management protocols aligned with crisis response practices in EN 15975-1.
• EN 16798 - European standard addressing energy performance in water treatment facilities, indirectly supporting crisis resilience through infrastructure robustness.

Implementing SIST EN 15975-1:2011/kFprA1:2015 equips drinking water suppliers and stakeholders with essential tools to manage hazards and risks effectively, ensuring continuous access to safe drinking water even under crisis conditions. The standard supports enhanced public health protection by fostering proactive, organized crisis management practices throughout Europe and beyond.