The failure of a public water system to comply with NM Drinking Water Regulations must be reported within how many hours?

The appropriate timeframe for reporting a failure of a public water system to comply with New Mexico Drinking Water Regulations is 48 hours. This requirement exists to ensure timely communication and action regarding potential risks to public health and safety. When a violation occurs, such as a contamination incident or a failure in the treatment process, it is critical that the information is conveyed quickly to allow for necessary corrective measures and to inform the public effectively. Compliance with this reporting timeframe allows regulatory agencies to respond promptly to safeguard water quality, thereby minimizing potential negative impacts on community health.