Abstract
Drinking water quality from two major treatment plants in Ghana; Kpong and Weija Plants, and distribution networks in the Accra-Tema Metropolis were monitored monthly for a year at fifteen different locations. The study determined the relationship between chlorine residual, other physico-chemical qualities of the treated water, and, bacteria regrowth. Results indicated that the treated water at the Kpong and Weija Treatment Plants conformed to WHO guidelines for potable water. However, the water quality deteriorated bacteriologically, from the plants to the delivery points with high numbers of indicator and opportunistic pathogens. This could be due to inadequate disinfection residual, biofilms or accidental point source contamination by broken pipes, installation and repair works. The mean turbidity ranged from 1.6 to 2.4 NTU; pH varied from 6.8 to 7.4; conductivity fluctuated from 71.1 to 293 μS/cm. Chlorine residual ranged from 0.13 to 1.35 mg/l. High residual chlorine was observed at the treatment plants, which decreased further from the plants. Results showed that additional chlorination does not take place at the booster stations. Chlorine showed inverse relationship with microbial counts. Total coliform bacteria ranged from 0 to 248 cfu/100 ml, and faecal coliform values varied from 0 to 128 cfu/100 ml. Other microorganisms observed in the treated water included Aeromonas spp., Clostridium spp. and Pseudomonas spp. Boiling water in the household before consumption will reduce water-related health risks.
Highlights
Access to safe drinking water is a fundamental human need and, a basic right
Results indicated that the treated water at the Kpong and Weija Treatment Plants conformed to World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines for potable water
The objective of this study is to determine the relationship between bacteria regrowth, chlorine residual and physico-chemical parameters in water supply distribution network to ensure good water quality in Accra-Tema to reduce possible health risks
Summary
Access to safe drinking water is a fundamental human need and, a basic right. Contaminated water jeopardizes both the physical and social health of all people and it is an affront to human dignity (Craun et al 2002). The purpose of a water supply distribution system is to deliver safe potable water which is adequate in quantity and acceptable in terms of taste, odour, and appearance. There has been a growing concern among the general public with respect to the safety and aesthetic qualities of potable water supplies. Customers may avoid aesthetically unacceptable but otherwise safe drinking water in favour of more pleasant but potentially unsafe source (WHO 2011). Potable water released into the distribution system becomes altered during its passage through pipes, open reservoirs, standpipes and storage tanks
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