Why should all storage facilities be sampled regularly?

Regular sampling of all storage facilities is crucial primarily to evaluate the quality of the water that enters and leaves the facility. This practice ensures that any contaminants or quality issues are identified promptly, allowing for corrective actions to be taken before the water is distributed to consumers. Monitoring water quality helps in detecting potential issues such as contamination from external sources, changes in water chemistry, or the development of harmful microorganisms within the storage system.

Additionally, sampling can aid in verifying that the treatment processes applied to the water are effective throughout its time in storage. By keeping a close eye on water quality, water distribution managers can maintain the safety and palatability of the water supplied to the public, ultimately protecting public health.

While the other options—monitoring structural integrity, ensuring regulatory compliance, and verifying storage capacity—are important aspects of facility management, they do not specifically address the primary concern of protecting the water quality that is being stored and subsequently distributed.