Ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water is a critical public health priority. Water quality parameters and standards are established to maintain the safety, taste, and appearance of water. These standards are set by regulatory bodies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States and the World Health Organization (WHO) globally. Below is a detailed look at the key water quality parameters and the standards that regulate them.
Key Water Quality Parameters
Physical Parameters:
Turbidity: Measures the clarity of water. High turbidity can indicate the presence of suspended particles, which can harbour harmful microorganisms.
Colour: Natural water should be colourless. Any colour can indicate contamination from organic materials or metals.
Taste and Odor: Water should be free from any unpleasant taste or Odor, which can be caused by organic compounds, metals, or chlorine.
Chemical Parameters:
pH: Indicates the acidity or alkalinity of water. The ideal pH for drinking water is between 6.5 and 8.5 Click Here to get more Info.
Hardness: Caused by dissolved calcium and magnesium. Hard water can cause scale buildup in pipes and affect soap efficiency.
Alkalinity: The water’s capacity to neutralize acids. It helps in maintaining a stable pH level.
Chlorine: Used for disinfection. The residual chlorine should be within safe limits to avoid health risks and unpleasant taste.
Nitrates and Nitrites: High levels can be harmful, particularly to infants, causing conditions like methemoglobinemia (blue baby syndrome).
Heavy Metals: Includes lead, arsenic, mercury, and cadmium. Even at low concentrations, these can be toxic and cause serious health problems.
Organic Chemicals: Pesticides, herbicides, and industrial chemicals. These are harmful even in small quantities and must be monitored rigorously.
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): The combined content of all inorganic and organic substances in water. High TDS can affect taste and health.
Biological Par