Physical-Chemical and Microbiological assessment of the Quality of Water consumed in schools in the interior of Santa Catarina

Abstract

Water quality plays a crucial role in public health, especially in educational environments, thus, the objective of this paper is to analyze the physical-chemical and microbiological quality of water consumed in schools in Santa Catarina state, Brazil. The study was carried out in three primary education institutions in the interior of Mafra city. Physicochemical (pH, electrical conductivity, total hardness, alkalinity, and free chlorine) and microbiological (bacteria counting and detection of total and thermotolerant coliforms) analyses were performed, in addition, the infrastructure of the school was observed. It was observed that Institution A uses an artesian well that also supplies water to 24 families. Institutions “B” and “C” use water from CASAN. All schools reported delays in the maintenance of water tanks and drinking fountain filters. The pH, electrical conductivity, and water hardness were within the standards established in the 3 schools. However, the water from Institution “A” showed an increase in conductivity, which may be related to the level of salinity and presence of ions. These high values may indicate pollutants and the influence of adverse environmental factors. Microbiological analyses show the presence of total coliforms and E.coli in Institution “A”. It is concluded that preventive measures are necessary to guarantee water safety in schools. The results highlight the importance of monitoring water quality, maintaining filters, cleaning water tanks, and adequately monitoring water in schools, especially to assure the children’s health.