Common problem in Tap water contaminants

the community
Description A person is required to at least drink 8 glasses of water per day to replace the water we
release through urination, sweat, and breathing. Water is responsible for the transportation of
nutrients, eliminating waste, and to regulate the internal temperature of our body to avoid
overheating. It can’t be avoided that the water we drink from faucets becomes contaminated
with bacteria, viruses, and chemicals as they travel through the pipes until they reach the
faucets in our homes. It is dangerous in our health and safety that can result to waterborne
diseases. Tap water problems are more prevalent in poor communities because some families
have low-income and not everyone has the access to safe drinking water.

Throwing plastics and water bottles anywhere contains harsh chemicals that can transfer
to surface water near the area if raining occur and leads to the contamination of the water.
Moreover, improper disposal of batteries can leach the chemicals and acids into the soil which
contaminates the water we use for drinking and can cause the people in the area to be very
sick.
Alternatives A. Purify the tap water through boiling
This method is extremely familiar and it was started long time ago. The water needs to be
heated until the appearance of big bubbles to assure that it is pathogen free.
Buy reverse osmosis water purifier
RO water purifier uses semi-permeable membrane through which salty water forces to move.
It filter contaminants such as arsenic, nitrates, sodium, copper and lead, some organic
chemicals.
B. Buy from the most trusted water refilling station near the area
It provides effective solution for the community’s problem about drinking water. They are
handled by private entrepreneurs offering gallons of liquid at affordable prices instead of buying
bottled water.
Pour chlorine into water
Chlorine has the ability to kill microorganisms in the contaminated water that can reduce
waterborne diseases and increases public health.
Advantages Option A
 It eliminates almost all pathogens.
 Effortless, plain, and trusted method of removing bacteria.
 Option B
 Reverse Osmosis (RO) water purifier is the best solution for treating hard water.
 It removes toxin such as lead, mercury, and arsenic which can lead to disease. Lead
metal can cause brain damage and anemia.
Option C
 The effectiveness of water purification system in removing contaminants is high.
 The water can be deliver directly to the house of customers.
 The water bottles are reusable which helps to lessen the trash in the environment.
Option D
 Chlorine has the capability to kill many bacteria in the water.
 Chlorine is commercially available
Disadvantages Option A
 It is expensive due to use of gas.
 It is time consuming
 The liquid needs to cool down before use unless for hot drinks
 It does not remove dangerous chemicals from drinking water
Option B
 It does not kill waterborne disease causing bacteria and viruses.
 It takes too much time to purify the water
 As natural minerals are removed water gets demineralized as a result water taste
affected, it becomes tasteless.
Option C
 Machines can be broken
 Late deliveries can happen
 Missing bottles/dispensers
Option D
 Use of too much chlorine can endanger the health of humans
 Chlorine is not good to the environment.
 Chlorine does not examine all bacteria.
 You need to wait 30 minutes before you can drink the water safely.
Best solution in the The best solution among the alternatives is the third one. In the refilling station, water is
problem purified through multiple stages by utilizing a combination of water treatment equipment to
 ensure the cleanliness of water. There are machines installed in the store for the processes of
filtration, softening, and disinfection. The multi-media sediment filter which removes the
sediments such as rust, sand and particles that are invisible to the naked eye. Then, the Ion
exchanger which replaces hard minerals with soft minerals. Also, there is activated carbon
filter that removes all organic chemicals, herbicide, pesticide, offensive odor and bad taste.
Additionally, it contains reverse osmosis membrane that removes inorganic minerals, bacteria
and viruses while retaining its oxygen content. Furthermore, it includes Post-carbon filter where
it improves the taste of water. Lastly, ultraviolet lamp to ensure that the water is free from
disease-causing microorganisms and Ozone generator which inhibits the growth of bacteria in
the product tank and prolongs the shelf life of water.
Effectiveness of the To verify its effectiveness, municipal health officer is conducting an occasionally sanitary
chosen solution inspection to water refilling stations to secure their sanitary permit by using a 20 item checklist.
DOH requires the personnel to wear proper attire such as mask, hair net, gloves, and scrub suit
to prevent water contamination. Consumers must buy from a licensed water refilling station who
fully meet the specific standards given by the Department of Health.

Sources:

Members:
Ani, Desiree Joy M.
Cantos, Len Aubrey Z.
Delgado, Erica B.