What is a key measure to prevent contamination of drinking water?

Routine monitoring for bacteria is crucial in preventing contamination of drinking water because it allows for the early detection of harmful microorganisms that can pose significant health risks. Regular testing of water sources ensures that any bacterial presence is identified and addressed promptly, thereby preventing potential outbreaks of waterborne diseases. Monitoring can include methods such as sampling and laboratory analysis, which provide essential data regarding the safety of the water supply.

In contrast, while limiting staff access to water sources can offer some level of protection, it does not actively identify or mitigate existing contamination risks. Increasing water temperature may kill some bacteria, but it's not a feasible long-term solution for preventing contamination and could affect water quality adversely. Employing more filtration systems can improve water quality, but without regular monitoring, there is no way to confirm that the filtration is effective or that new contaminants have been introduced post-filtration. Routine monitoring serves as a proactive approach to ensure that drinking water remains safe for consumption.