What happens during the on-site survey?

• A. Review files only.
• B. Interview personnel, inspect system components, discuss deficiencies, and use a checklist.
• C. Prepare post-survey report.
• D. Analyze lab results.

Answer: (B)

The on-site survey is a field, hands-on evaluation of the drinking water system. It involves actively engaging with operations by interviewing personnel to understand how the system is run and trained, inspecting the physical components of the system such as treatment units, storage facilities, pumps, and piping, and discussing any deficiencies or potential risks with staff. A structured checklist guides this process so nothing is missed and findings are documented consistently. This combination captures how the system actually operates in practice and what needs attention, rather than focusing solely on documents, lab data, or post-survey paperwork. Reviewing files, preparing a post-survey report, or analyzing lab results are important steps in the overall process, but they occur outside the core on-site inspection.