The Sanitary Quality Seal Program (PSCS) is a recognition program of the Costa Rican Institute of Aqueducts and Sewers (AyA), administered by the National Water Laboratory (Laboratorio Nacional de Aguas). Its objective is to incentivize Community Water Supply Associations (ASADAS) and other water operators to provide high-quality drinking water sustainably and with proper sanitary management. The program began in 2001 and participation is voluntary.
Main Requirements for an ASADA:
To participate and receive the award, an ASADA should demonstrate compliance in areas such as:
Protection of water sources.
Maintenance of tanks, networks, and structures.
Disinfection program with operational control.
Monitoring of residual chlorine and turbidity.
Compliance with the Drinking Water Quality Regulations (Decree 38924-S).
Health risk assessment of system structures.
Environmental education and community involvement.
Rating System:
ASADAS can obtain different recognitions based on their performance:
White Stars: compliance with mandatory parameters. Gold Stars: Excellence in service delivery.
Blue Star: Implementation of a Water Safety Plan (WSP).
Benefits for the ASADA:
Demonstrates to the community that the water meets quality and sanitary safety standards.
Strengthens the operational and administrative management of the water system.
Promotes the protection of water sources and environmental education.
Builds trust among users and regulatory institutions.
