Examining the facilitators and barriers to public health inspector oversight of small drinking water systems in Ontario, Canada: A frontline perspective

The provision of safe drinking water depends on regular system maintenance and strict compliance with public health regulations. In Ontario, Canada, Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) are responsible for enforcing standards for small drinking water systems (SDWS), which often serve rural and resource-limited communities. This study examined the facilitators and barriers influencing the effectiveness of SDWS oversight from the perspective of frontline PHIs. An online survey was distributed to all 29 public health units in Ontario, yielding 28 responses (n = 28). The survey data underwent inductive thematic analysis to identify the key factors affecting program delivery and public health protection. Five principal themes were identified: (1) PHI knowledge and training, (2) operational and program support, (3) technological and field capacity, (4) challenges encountered by system owners and operators, and (5) legislative and regulatory compliance. Respondents indicated that, although regulations provide a helpful framework, limited training, resource constraints, and inconsistent enforcement hinder effective oversight. The findings indicate that improvements in inspector training, technological and field resources, and inter-jurisdictional coordination are fundamental for advancing the SDWS program. Strengthening SDWS effectiveness requires focused interventions in training, infrastructure, and coordination. Practitioner-identified priorities should inform future policy and funding allocation, stressing the importance of integrated, decentralized water governance.