Gary Giambattista, facilities director at Hyde Schools in Woodstock, Conn., knows that problems don't just disappear. Giambattista's school was recently dealing with a water contamination issue and he was faced with finding the best solution to correct the issue. We spoke with Giambattista to find out how he navigated his purchasing decision and the determining factors that played a role in treating the school's water.

Water Technology: Please explain the recent water contamination issue at your school.

Gary Giambattista: The water contamination we dealt with was arsenic exceedance, as Connecticut calls it. We run about 22 ppb and the acceptable level was lowered from 50 ppb to 10 ppb nationwide in 2007 by the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

WT: How did you resolve the issue?

GG: We resolved the issue by researching remediation alternatives and decided upon adsorptive media as Connecticut does not allow any of the remediation alternatives that require back-flushing. We were assisted in this process by Lenard Engineering of Glastonbur, Conn.

WT: What preventative measures have you implemented to lower risk?

GG: We now have a state-of-the-art removal system made by [a reputable manufacturer]. The system was installed with a new water storage and VFD pumping system for a complete upgrade to our community water system.

WT: What advice would you give to fellow facilities managers with similar arsenic issues?

GG: My best advice is to do your research using guidance from your state Department of Health and a qualified PE firm that is knowledgeable in the issue you are attempting to remedy.

WT: How important is choosing a good manufacturer to partner with?

GG: A good manufacturer is vitally important. Choose one that has vast experience and expertise in the remediation you require.

WT: How did this issue impact your school and the community?

GG: This issue had a very positive impact upon our school community. This total system upgrade vastly improved water quality and system pressure. The overall impact was very positive and made our school community very aware of the importance of water quality and the hard work that goes on behind the scenes every day to provide quality services to the school community.