Abstract
Many regions across South Africa are dependent on groundwater as the only water source for livestock watering and domestic use. This paper presents an analysis of 350 water samples from collated data of 5 reports published between 2001 and 2016 that show the vast range of 0–132.68 mg/L bromide (Br−) present in South African groundwater. It further highlights that Br− may be a greater toxicity risk factor to livestock production and human health as an endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC) and through accumulation in organs than previously considered. Further validation is required of the physiological effects of Br− for inclusion in water quality guidelines (WQG). Attention is drawn to the importance of site-specific water quality (WQ) monitoring and identification of vulnerable populations to enable adequate risk assessment and implementation of mitigating strategies to lower exposure risk in a specific area.
Highlights
Many regions across South Africa are dependent on groundwater as the only water source for extensive and intensive livestock production, and wildlife in game farming and game reserves
Chemical analysis of water quality constituents (WQC) of the earliest water samples confirmed the presence of fluoride in excess of reported water quality guideline (WQG) safe levels
It emerged from the collated data that the overall range of Br− concentrations present in groundwater sampled across selected regions in South Africa was 0–132.68 mg/L
Summary
Many regions across South Africa are dependent on groundwater as the only water source for extensive and intensive livestock production, and wildlife in game farming and game reserves. Domestic households might be dependent on groundwater, as access to surface water or roof-harvested rainwater could be erratic, and exposed to potentially hazardous elements. Chemical analysis of water quality constituents (WQC) of the earliest water samples confirmed the presence of fluoride in excess of reported water quality guideline (WQG) safe levels. This information was used to determine an appropriate method of risk assessment and subsequent decision-making on fitnessfor-use (FFU) of available water sources
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