Water Practice and Technology (Dec 2023)
Assessment of risks to the quality of water supplied in Bushenyi-Uganda using the water safety plan approach
Abstract
This study assessed the effects of environmental and operational hazardous events on the Bushenyi water supply system over the period 2017–2020. Monthly secondary water quality data for the period July 2013–December 2017 were analyzed together with data from field samples collected monthly from January 2018 to November 2020. The parameters analyzed were pH, turbidity, total iron, free chlorine and faecal coliforms. Hazardous events and risks affecting the water supply at the source, treatment and distribution system were identified and assessed during the field visits. Control measures were determined during water safety plan development effective July 2017 and implemented effective August 2018. Quality of water in the distribution system met the national standards for turbidity (93%), total iron (99%), residual free chlorine (90%) and faecal coliforms (96%). pH in the storage and distribution system was below the national standard (annual mean range, 5.5–6.7). Water quality was negatively influenced by extreme seasonal weather variations at the source, source protection gaps, treatment deficiencies related to clarifier, filter and chemical dose management as well as distribution management and maintenance gaps. Improved source protection, treatment and distribution network management and maintenance are recommended for sustainable system and water quality standards. HIGHLIGHTS Water supplied to Bushenyi is abstracted from a wetland.; The water supply system is faced with risks that affect the source, treatment, and distribution.; The study assessed the risks and applied control measures using the water safety plan approach.; Water quality analysis showed that control measures resulted in meeting standards.; The study recommends investment in risk control measures for safe water supply.;
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