What is the purpose of a sanitary seal at a well?

The purpose of a sanitary seal at a well is primarily to prevent contamination from surface sources. This seal serves as a barrier that helps safeguard the groundwater supply by preventing surface water, which may carry pathogens, chemicals, or debris, from entering the well. The sanitary seal is an essential component in the design of water wells, as a compromised seal can lead to significant health risks due to the possible introduction of contaminants into the drinking water.

The other options, while related to well maintenance and function, do not pertain directly to the core purpose of sanitation. Easy access for testing is important, but it is not the main goal of the sanitary seal. Increasing water flow pertains to well design and aquifer characteristics, while regulating pressure is associated with the overall water system distribution rather than the function of the sanitary seal itself.