According to the Safe Water Drinking Act, what is the basic definition of a public water supply system?

The definition of a public water supply system under the Safe Drinking Water Act is indeed framed around the criteria of service connections and the number of individuals served. The correct choice outlines that a public water system is any water system that serves a minimum of 15 service connections or serves over 25 individuals for more than 60 days during the year.

This definition is significant because it sets the threshold for when a water system is regulated under federal and state drinking water standards, ensuring the safety and quality of water provided to the public. By specifying both the number of service connections and the number of people served, the law aims to include a wide array of community systems, making sure all individuals have access to safe drinking water no matter the system's structure or size.

The other options do not accurately reflect this comprehensive definition. While some may reference certain operational elements, such as needing chemical treatment, or simply serving a certain number of people or connections, they fail to include the crucial timeframe and thresholds that categorize a system specifically as a public water supply. Understanding these regulations is vital for ensuring compliance and safeguarding public health.