Nitrate, nitrogen, bacteria, and viruses are potential _____ from a drinking water well near an improperly functioning subsurface wastewater system.

• A. Health hazards
• B. Chemical contaminants
• C. Economic costs
• D. Structural damage

Answer: (A)

When assessing water quality from a well near a failed wastewater system, the primary concern is the threat to human health. Nitrate and nitrogen compounds can interfere with oxygen transport in the body, especially in infants, while bacteria and viruses from sewage can cause gastroenteritis and other infections. The presence of these substances signals potential exposure to pathogenic organisms and nutrient-related health risks, making them health hazards in drinking water. While some of these contaminants can be described as chemical (nitrate) or biological (bacteria and viruses) agents, the overarching issue for someone drinking the water is the danger to health, not just cost or structural effects.