Kajaanin Vesi First Water Supply Company in Finland to Adopt Proactive Drinking Water Quality Assurance

Kajaanin Vesi, the water utility of the Finnish town of Kajaani, is the first water supply company in Finland to implement real-time water quality monitoring in its water distribution network to ensure drinking water security. Real-time water quality information complements water supply companies’ monitoring investigation plans, as the understanding of water quality variations in different seasons increases.

Currently, utilities’ monitoring investigation plans require water samples to be taken from the water distribution network at intervals, providing information that is accurate only at the moment the sample is collected, and with a delay. Real-time monitoring of water quality improves situational awareness and enables proactive responses.

Extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall, flooding, and temperature fluctuations, combined with aging water infrastructure, increase the risk of water quality issues that can escalate within a matter of hours. Incidents ranging from pipe breaks to power outages and cyber threats mean that real-time water quality monitoring and Early Warning alerts are more important than ever. Evolving legislation underlines the need for risk-based control, better preparedness for disruptions and the ability to manage threats.

By implementing LIQUM 6th Sense technology, Kajaanin Vesi will now be able to confirm water quality up to 1,440 times per day at several points in the water distribution network. 6th Sense works as an Early Warning system that detects any changes in water quality immediately, allowing the utility to respond before disruption or contamination affects consumers.

The benefits of real-time water quality monitoring are clear, in terms of both water security and operational efficiency. Continuous monitoring, supported by Early Warning alerts, enables a faster response to water quality changes and means that water samples are taken in a timely manner.

Kajaanin Vesi is a pioneer in advanced water supply risk management, serving as an example to water supply companies, municipalities and cities around the world. Real-time water quality monitoring is a strategic investment in business continuity as well as in people's health and well-being.

The image is owned by the City of Kajaani.

Further Information:

General Manager Richard Booth, phone +44 7775 871482, info@liqum.com