Well water:

Some pharmaceutical manufacturers need to draw water from wells or bore holes. Some manufacturers feel they have better control of water from their own wells than from a municipal source. The aquifer that the well taps into may be contaminated, or the construction materials of the well could contribute to contamination.

1. The exposed parts of the well should be inspected periodically for cracked, corroded, or damaged casing, broken or missing well caps, and settling and cracking of surface seals.

2. The depth of the well should also be determined - the shallower the well the greater is the chance of contamination from surface contaminants.

Check:

1. The use of nearby septic systems (which could contribute coliforms or faecal bacteria).

2. If there are hazardous materials used nearby. Sometimes these are disposed of in nearby septic systems. Hazardous materials include: Pesticides - farmers in areas near the well could use pesticides, which can permeate through the aquifer. Fertilizers, such as nitrates and phosphates, can be troublesome to remove and can encourage the proliferation of micro-organisms, especially algae if there is any light available. Herbicides - organophosphates can enter the aquifer. Fuels, such as diesel and petrol spills can also be problematic.

3. Testing records to show water is “potable”.

4. Records of well maintenance. The manufacturer must have procedures such as disinfection procedures or sediment removal, together with the use of any chemicals in the well. Chemicals that can leach include the oils used to lubricate the pumps.