,] I

Dokunren D1

KEMENTERIAN KESIHATAN
MALAYSIA

NATIONAL STANDARD
FOR
DRINKING WATER
QUALITY

_ prepared by _

En gineerin g Services Division

Ministry of Health Malaysia

Revised December 2000

Second Version, January 2004

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 '., PREFACE
seventeen years ago, in response to the need for a realistic and appropriate set of guidelines
regarding safe and potable water supply throughout
Malaysia, the Drinking water
euality
surveillance Unit, Engineering Services Division,
Ministry of Health Malaysia prepared a
set of
guidelines' This was done under the guidance
of experts from the world Health organization,
western Pacific Regional Centre for the Promotion
of Environmental plannhg and Applied
studies (WHO)/PEPAS' A panel comprising of representatives
from public works Department
(PWD), Department of Chemistry (Doc) and Department
of Environment (DoE), which are
agencies directly or indirectly involved in the surveillance
of drinking water quality in this
country, was formed to vet through this set of guidelines,
after which the National Guidelines
for Drinking Water Quality 1983 was published.

The followlng year saw the launching and implementation of the

National Drinking water
Quality Surveillance Programme throughout the nation resulting in an increase in the
number of
workers involved in water quality.

The ensuing years saw an increase in experience and expertise among

the workers, as well as
an increase in awareness of the complex inter-relationships that determine water quality.
Coupled with the advancement and progress that has developed in the field,
the Federal
Committee for the National Drinking Water Quality Surveillance programme felt a
need to
review the National Guidelines for Drinking water
euality, 1983.

This led to the formation of a technical sub-committee in November 19BB that had the specific
task for reviewing the National Guidelines for Drinking Water
euality, 1983. In the review and
development of the Revised Edition of ttre National Guidelines for Drinking Water
euality 1989,
efforts were made to reflect the experiences gained in the field as well as new knowledge in
water treatment technology and health sciences. The development of this revised edition was
made possible with the contributions of the committee under the invaluable guidance and
technical advice of WHO/PEpAS consultant, Dr. paul Guo.

En gin e e rin g Se rui ces D i visio n,

Ministty of Ilealth MALAYSIA.
 I
The application of the Revised Edition of the
National Guidelines for Drinking water
1990 was instrumental for an increased
euality
and more effective surveillance and this led
res to provision
of drinking water that is both safe and pleasant
to use.
ity
of After 10 years of imptementation and in keeping
pace with new developments in the
tOz field of
water quality, the Engineering services Division.
Ministry of Health undertook the task of
-=d reviewing the National Guidelines for Drinking
water euarity, 1990. A technical subcommittee
nt
was formed in 1998' Reviewing was based
on new scientific information as well as new
re
chemicals found in drinking water as availabte
in the wHo Guidelines for Drinking water,
ris 1gg3-
1998' A literature search was also performed
and drinking water quality guidelines of several
ls
different countries were compared before the
National Drinking water
Quality standards, 2000
was drawn uP' The views of the Nationat Technical
committee for Drinking water
euality were
also incorporated in the revision of the guidetines.
lr
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As with the previous guidelines this revised guidetines
wiil be reviewed in future to keep pace
with further technotogical developments and
available scientific knowledge.

q
The Drinking water Quality surveillance Unit,
Engineering services Division. Ministry of Heatth
Malaysia thank the members of the technical
rl sub-committee and the National rechnical
Committee for KMAM for their invaluabte input
l in the development!s of
v' the
Lr'e rrs'Lr\
National Drinking
Water Quality Standards, 2000.

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Ministry of Heatth MAIJ|YSIA.

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 No. Item
1. Introduction P

2. Definition of terms 1-2

3. Qualityrequirements 2-3
3.1 Raw Water euality Criteria 3-4
3.2 Drinking Water euality Standards 3

3.3 Expression of Resutts 3-4

4. procedures recommended
achieving the drinking water
4
quarity standards.
4.7 protection of Source 4-B
4.2 preventiveMeasures 4-5
4.3 Treatment 5

4.4 Sanitary Survey 5-6

6
4.5 Monitoring
6-B
4.5.1 Design of Monitoring programme
6-7
4.5-Z Sample Size
7
4.5.3 Sample Locations
7
4.5.4 Sampling procedures
7
4.5.5 Laboratory procedures
B
4.5.6 Field procedures
B
4_6 Reporting of Results, Record Keeping
and Data Evaruation B-10
4.6.7 Reporting of Results
B-9
4.6.2 Record Keeping
9
4.6.3 Data Evaluation
10
4.7 Remedial Action procedures
10
4.8 Medical Examination of Staff Employed
by Waterworks 10-11

En g in e erin g Se ryice s D i visio n,

Ministry of Heatth MALA ySrA.
I

Appendices
Page
Figure 1 Graph of Recommended Minimum Monthry Sampres per popuration
i
Served by Water Supply (Bacteriological)

Table 1 Recommended Raw Water euality Criterla and Frequency

Monitoring
of ii-iii
Table 2 Drinking Water euality Standards and Frequenry of Monitoring
iv - vii
Table 3 Parameter Limits for Sewage and Industriat Effluents
viii
Table 4 Parameter Limits for watercourse Discharge of Effluent from
ix
Prescribed Premises occupied or used for the production
of palm oil
or tts Associated Products

Table 5 Parameter Limits for watercourse Discharge of Effluent from

lx
Prescribed Premises occupied or Used for the production of
Concentrated Latex or Its Associated products

Table 6 Parameter Limlts for watercourse Discharge of Effluent from

x
Prescribed Premises occupied or Used for the production of products
other Than concentrated Latex or Its Associated products

List of Abbreviations il

MOH Ministry of Health 1i

UDWQS Unit of Drinking Water euality Surveillance

WHO World Health Organization
PEPAS Promotion of Environmental planning and Applied Studies
PWD Public Works Department
WSD Water Supply Department
WB Water Board
DOC Depaftment of Chemistry
DOE Departmerrt of Environment
DID Departrnent of Irrigation and Drainage
DOL Department of Labour
NDWQSP National Drinking Water euality Surveillance programme
SEDC State Economic Development Corporation

Engin eering Seruices Division.

Ministry of Health MALAYSIA.

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 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Water tor drinkjng, culinary and

other domestic use
and aestheticalty ipp"",,n9. rhe ld be safe, patatable
aim of tnis oocumej,h?^
constituents that mav b,
;j"H;;J .' i;:.J#,:1i::lgr J;,,,xi:1.*T;;H ; J..?":1 i:,J[,',T ::
1.7 This document is divided into the
following sections;

(l) Definition oF terns,

lijl
(ln)
euatiry requiremenls. and
Recommendedprocedures.

1.3 The raw water quarity criteria^in-cruded

in this document is intended
rreatment to assist
;:T:: i,"fJllIn*T".:lFJ:0.'.t: ";;;;;';;;* warer in
'""1""n with the drinking water quality .tunaura..
order ro
possiote use-ri in.i;!;]" HJ
(i) Water Authorities
(ii) Ministry of Heatth (MOH)
(iri) Department of Chemistry (DOC)
(iv) uepartment of Environment (DOE)
(v) Other agencies
(vi) Public Organizations
(vii) Private Organizations

L.4 water quatiry standards are appticabte

3: _Oj,il,:,
numan consumption. This includes to a water intended for
',1
svstems, tank suppries and water ri"ri a"ii puulic wa-ter supply
drinking ,i"i".-
rr"a roiuJttili"in'iir'lii rce manuracturins.
1.5 The procedures recommended. such
as the protection of source, treatment of
w-ater, sanitary,survey, monitoring.
,"."J r."!pi"gl,-.,' t"uui u""n incruded here
as guidelines for the reievant alihorities
water quality standards.
,;;",#;;;;;ieving the drinkins

1.6 In drawing up these ouidelines, the 2d

edition of the WHO Drink,ng Water
Quatity Guidetines, Lggj/96/ga was used u, rh;;u;
r."f""r*.".
Note:
. WHO- Guidelnesfor Dnnking Water Votume 1, 1993.
. Wyo Guidetines for Drnking Water euality,
. Quality, sirira4a-itiir, Volume Z 1996.
WHo Guidelines for Drinking Water
i)uatity, sicii-rJCa uga.
1.7 Those who are interested in the rationale
by which recommended standard
values. were derived should refer
to Votume i'"i wijo' orirring water eualiry
Guidelines, 1996.

Etgineeing Seryjces Division.

Ministty of Heatth t+lAlAYSIA-
 1.8 The values described herein are not to be regarded as tegal standards, but it is
hoped that judicious use of these criteria and standaids will result in the
provision of a safe and wholesome drinking water to the consumer.

2. DEFINITION OF TERMS

2.7 Conventionat Treatment includes the following water treatment processes

namely screening, straining, aeration, coagulation and flocculation,
sedimentation, filtration, disinfection and fl uoridation.

2.2 Public water supply is defined as a water supply system that either;

(i) has 15 or more service connections, or

(ii) regularly serve an average of 25 or more people daily for at least 60 days
each year.

This definition encompasses all water supply systems supplied by different

agencies, which varies with their capacity br in the type of treatment process
employed. The categories of water supply systems are;

(i) Urban water supply systems

(ii) Rural water supply
(iii) Local authority water supply
(iv) Privately owned water supply
(v) Water Authorities
(vi) Water Authorities/MOH

2.3 Recommended Raw Water Criteria sets out the maximum acceptance levels
of characteristics and constituents in raw water, which if exceeded will require
special treatment. For raw water with constituents whose level of concentration
is below the recommended criteria, only conventional water treatment is
necessary.

2.4 Recommended standards sets out the maximum acceptance levets of

characteristics and constituents in drinking water necessary to ensure maximurn
protection of the health and well being of the consumer. Most of these tevels
are based on the WHO Guidelines for Drinking Water, 1996.

2.5 Special Treatment includes the following additional unit water treatment
process namely, pre-sedimentation, pre-disinfection, activated carbon
adsorption, ion exchange, reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, fluoridation, etc.

2.6 Surveillance Agency shall mean the Ministry of Health.

2.7 water Authorities shall mean the Public works Department, water supply
Department the Water Board, privatized or the corporatised water authority or
organization.

En gin ee rin g Se ruices D i vis io n,

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Ministry of Health MALAYSIA.
 2.8 Water purveyor shall mean the waterworks or anv D
warer to the pubric ."a .r,urii..rra" ;#i';#":.11;?::..-#::flr}rSrt#
estate management, etc.

2.9 Water Supply System includes the work and

conveyance, treatment. srorase and distribution
supply to the consumer's tap. "r';"";][:?::*til"l.JsT""l;
3. QUALITY REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Raw Water Quality Criteria

3.1.1 Table 1, Column I lists the recommended cnteria for microbiotonicat

physicar, chemicar and radioactive constituents
*ut"i *',i.ii'iriri iJ
"r.*
suitable as a potable source after undergoing conventional
treatment.
3.L.2 rf a raw water source has a quarity that conforms to the recommended
standards set in the drinking water quarity standards *
rirt"a in rJrul]
Column I, then it can be supplied with minimal treatment which
in mosi
cases involves disinfection only.

3.1.3 If a raw water source has quality that does not conform to the
recommended raw water quality criteria, then appropriate action shall
be
taken to identiflz and overcome the problem to allow for continued
operation of conventional treatment. Special treatment should only be
considered as a last resort.

Drinking Water Quality Standards

3.2.1 Drinking water must be clear. and does not have objectionable taste,
colour and odour. It must be pleasant to drink and free from all harmful
organisms, chemical substances and radionuclides in amounts, which
could constitute a hazard to the health of the consumer.

3.2.2 The quality of drinking water is measured in terms of iLs microbiological,

physical, chemical and radioactivity characteristics. Table 2 lists some of
these characteristics and constituents with their recommended standards,
which shall not be exceeded for maximum protection of the consumer.

3.2.3 If the characteristics or constituents in water after repeated sampling

exceed the recommended standards listed in Table 2, then it shall be
investigated by the personnel of the Department of Health and the water
purveyor immediately to ascertain the cause and to remove the source of
contamination. If these measures fail repeatedly the public shall be
notified and possibly an alternative source of supply should be sought.

ED g in e e in g Services
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I'finist l of Health MAIAYSIA-
 3.2.4 The parameters listed in Table 2 do not carry equal weight of
significance. More attention is to be given to parameters relating to the
bacteriological quality and chemical toxicity of the water. The other
important parameter is residual chlorine.

3.3 Expression of Results

3.3.1 Results of chemical analysis shall be expressed in terms of milligrams per

litre (mgll) or parts perrnillion (ppm).

3.3.2 Turbidity shatl be expressed in Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU).

3.3.3 Colour shall be expressed in units based on the platinum cobalt scale,
reported in TCU (True Colour Units).

3.3.4 Volumes shall be expressed in millilitres or litre (ml or l).

3.3.5 Temperature shall be expressed in degree centigrade ("C).

3.3.6 Radioactivity shalt be expressed in Bacqueralllitre (Bq/l).

3.3.7 For microorganisms, estimation of bacteria shall be given in terms of Most

Probable Number per 100m1 (MPN/100m1) for the multiple-tube
fermentation method and in colonies per 100m1 (cfu/100m1) for the
membrane filter method.

3.3.8 In reporting results of chemical analysis, the accuracy and precision of

the method shall be indicated whenever possible. This includes the
proper use of significant figures and the indication of confidence limits.

4. PROCEDURES RECOMMENDED TO ACHIEVE THE DRINKING WATER lill

QUALITY STANDARDS

4.L Protection of Source

4.1-t The quality of wastewater discharges upstream of water supply sources

shall conform to the standard A levels listed in the Environmental Quality
(Sewage and Industrial Effluents) Regulations 1979 (see Table 3).

4.1.2 In the case of parameters not listed under Standard A, Schedule 3 of the
Environmental Quality (Sewage and Industrial Effluents) Regulations
1979, the parameter limits listed in the Environmentat Quality (Prescribed
Premises) (Crude Palm Oil) Order 1977 [see Table 4] and Environmental
Quality (Prescribed Premises) (Raw Natural Rubber) Regulations 1978
. [see Table 5 & Table 6] shall be used as a guide to determine the
discharge standard for control and enforcement purposes.

En g in ee ri n g Se rui ce s D i visio n, 4
Mi n istry o f He a I th MA lA YSIA.
 4.1'3 The responsibirity tor the protection of the intake sha,
purveyor whire Lhe preservation or be with the water
water quurity il;:;-r;;;;
lfe.rgry
within the jurisdiction of rhe DoE wth joinr ."rponiioiriry "f
of the other agencies such as Department 'of Af,ncutture, ;j;";".J.'il;
Department LocarAuthorities, Land and Mines D"pu'rt*ent, Veterinary
etc.
4.L.4 The MOH, the DoE and other rerevant agencies
shail be informed of a,
sources for new public water supplies.

4-r-5 Monitoring of water sources shail be carried out

regu.rarry to detect any
deterioration jn- raw water quarity and its impact
on'in" treatment prant
concerned. Th.is monitoring of raw water quarity
snart te;;;,; #;;;i
conjunction with sanitary surveys.

4.2 Preventive Measures

4.2.L Water treatment plants must be well designed and maintained;

and
upgraded if
necessary in order to prevent and minimize
operation
deficiencies or functional failures, which may lead to
the production of
unsatisfactory water.

4.2.2 service i-eservoirs must be designed so constructed, maintained and

adequately protected so as to minimize contamination
from human and
animal activities.

4.2.3 when designing,. constructing or maintaining a distribution system,

special consideration must be given to ensure that the distribution
ryrte;
does not become a contamination source and pipe material
and fittings is
relatively inert to the water conveyed.

4'2'4 The responsibility of maintaining water quality within the private premises
shall be with the consumer.

4.3 Treatment

4.3.1 when the raw water quality at the intake of a supply exceeds the
recommended criteria listed in Tabte 1, column I, speciil beatment of
water is required to ensure satisfactory sanitary quality.

4.3-2 Where applicable.the methods of treatment shalt inctude screening,

microstraining, aeration, coagulation and flocculation, sedimentation,
filtration, disinfection, pH correction, fluoridation, or any other physical oi
chemical process or any combination thereof that may be required.

4.3.3 The water purveyor is required to engage qualified and competent

personnels for carrying out plant operation and maintenance. They are
to maint-ain proper records and also to ensure plant safety and
cleanliness.

En g in e e rin g Se ruices D i visio n,

I+linistty of Health MALAYSIA.
r 4.3-4 The following tesG are required for process control: jar test, pH, colour,
; turbidity, residual chlorine, residual aluminium and fluoride, und'rhull
bu
I carried out within the treatment plant.

4'3'5 The above mentioned tests shatt be carried out by trained plant
operators
who are to be supervised regurarty (at reast once in 3'months) by
a
chemist or a qualified laboratory staff. In the case of rural water
supplies, there shourd be at reast one trained prant operator.

4.4 Sanitary Survey

4'4-1 Sanitary survey is an on-the-site inspection and evaluation of all

condiUons, devices and practices in the water supply system that pose
or
could pose a danger to the health and well being of Lhe consumer.'

4-4.2 Sanitary surveys for each treatment plant shall be undertaken on a

regular basis (preferably once a year) by personnel from the water
purveyors and the Department of Health who shall also act as
the
coordinator. Where necessary personnel from the department of
environment or any other relevant agenry shall provide assistance and
cooperation.

4.4.3 In addition, sanitary surveys shall also be conducted;

i) When new sources are being developed.
ii) when repeated laboratory analysis of a water sample has results
exceeding Lhe recommended maximum levels.
ii i) When there Is an outbreak of waterborne diseases.
iv) when there is a significant change of events that could affect the
v.vate.r quality (e.g. beginning of a raining season, new
development in a catchment, etc).

4.4.4 The survey may be partial or complete depending on circumstances.

4.5 Monitoring

4.5.1 Design of Monitoring programme

4.5.1.1The monitoring programme shall be designed so that any
temporal variations, both systematic and random, in the quality of
the water can be detected, and it should ensure that data
collected is representative of the water quatity throughout the
whole system.

E n g in e e rin g Se rvices O i visio n.

l,linistry of Health MALAYSIA. 6
 4.5.1.2The monitoring programme shail be in accordance
with the
defined methods as prescribed by the surveillance agenry.
r, Corumn II and Tabre 2, corumn iI rists respectiveryTable the
recommended frequenry for each parameter for raw and
drinkino
water. However, the selection of parameters to be monitoreJ;h"il
be based on the availability of resources as well as the
capabilitv of the relevant agencies. "*rw.;i
4.5.2 Sample Size
The minimum number of samples for bacteriological sampling per
month
developed by the United States Public Health Service shallle adopteJ
here as a guide to determine the total number of samples required
monthly for a water supply system (see Figure 1).

4.5.3 Sample Locations

sample or samples shall be taken from points in the water supply system
which are as representative as possible of that supply. This shall include
points at the intake, the treatment plant outlet, the reservoir ouuet, the
main pipeline as well as the rest of the distr-ibution inclusive of the
consume/s tap.

4.5.4 Sampling Procedures

4.5.4.LSamples shall be collected in either glass, plastic botHes or
thiobags with the appropriate pre-keatment (such as additives
and sterilization). Appropriate sampling devices shall be employed
for sampling of water especially from lakes, reservoirs and wells.
Great care shall be taken during sampling and transport of the
sample in order to prevent contamination or change in
composition. The volume of water collected shall be sufficient for
the required analysis. The sampler shall complete the appropriate
forms (Form 51, 52 and S3).

4.5.4.2fhe sample boxes shall be sealed, and remain so until they are
opened for analysis at the laboratory.

4.5.4.3The sample shall be placed in sturdy boxes, packed with ice and
kept in a d'ark environment at a constant temperature (4 - 10"C)
for despatch. Any possibility of contamination to the boxes and
samples must be avoided.

4.5.4.4The sample box shall be forwarded to flre analytical laboratory as

quickty as possible. It must reach the laboratory rryithin 24 hours
of sampling.

En g in ee ri n g Seruices Divisio n,
l,finistry of Health MALAYSA.
 4.5.5 Laboratory Procedures
4.5.5.1The water samples must be attended to immediately when it
reaches the laboratory.

4.5.5.2411 water samples upon reaching the laboratory shall be analyzed

as soon as possible. Bacteriological samples shall be examined, if
possible, on site or within 24 hours after collection. However,
physical parameters, such as pH, turbidity, residual chlorine and
colour shall be measured on site. The other parameters shall be
measured at the laboratory as soon as possible (preferably not
exceeding 72 hours after collection; provided the samples
preserve with preservative and tem perature preservation ).

4.5.5.3 Laboratory examination of water: All laboratories shall use the

methods recommended in the "Standard Methods for the
Examination of Water and Waste Water" published by the
American Public Health Association and the American Water
Works Association or any other Standard Methods recommended
by the DOC. Reference should be made to the latest edition.

4.5.6 Field Proceciures

4.5.6.1Field examination of water: All field-testing kits must be

standardized, where required, with the DOC before being put into
use. The application methods of the field test kits shall be
followed in detail as recommended by the manufucturer.

4.6 Reporting of Results, Record Keeping and Data Evaluation

4.6.1 Reporting of Results

4.6.1.1Upon completion of tests on the sample, all results shall be
reported in the accompanying form (Form 51, 52 and 53) and be
signed by the analyst. In the case of field testing, results shall be
reported immediately in the monthly summary report by the
Health inspector.

4.6-t-2Routine samples with results exceeding the recommended

standards for bacteria (Table 2, Column I) shall be reported
immediately by the analyst through telephone or facsimile to the
following agencies. ,i

(i) The affected water purveyor, or in the case of Water

Authorities, the state office, who shall then inform by I

telephone the district office and by writing to the Federal

1

Water Authorities.

En gi n e erin g 5e rvi ces D i visio n, B

Hinistry of Health MAIAYSIA.
 (ii) The state Hearth office who shail immediatery inform
by
terephone the District Hearth.gffi._" and by writing
to
Unit of Drinking Water euality Surveillance, Min-istry trre
Health Malaysia.
of

4.6.1.3 Routine samples with results exceeding the recornmended

standards for chemical parameters shail be reported
within 14
days of collection to the following agencies.

(i) The water purveyor, or in the case of the water

Authorities, the district office who shalr inform by
writing
to the State and Federal Authorities.

(ii) The District Health office who shail then inform by writing
to the state Medicar and Hearth services Department.

4.6.1.4For a routine sample with normal results, it shall be reported

within 30 days of collection to the following agencies;

(i) The water purveyor concerned; or in the case of the water

Authoritles, the district office.

(ii) The District Health Office who shall send a monthly

summary to the State Medical and Health Services
Department.

4.6-2 Record Keeping

4.6-2.7 Monthly summary reports sent by the District Health Offices shalt
be compiled and sent to the Unit of Drinking water euality
surveillance, Ministry of Health Malaysia by the state Medical
Health Services Department. All data pertaining to drinking water
quality shall be retained, anatyzed and filed for as tong as they
may be useful (minimum of five years).

4.6.2.21he maintenance of accurate and complete records shall be an

integral part of the surveillance of drinking water quality. Apart
from the recording of analytical results, the following shalt also be
recorded;

(i) Information on construction and location of the water

supply and its auxiliary structures,

(ii) Details of treatmen! operation and maintenance,

(iii) Sanitary survey reports, and

(iv) Reports on corrective actions taken.

En g in e erin g .* ruices D i vis io n,

l,Iinistry of Health l,tAlAYSIA.
 4.6.3 Data Evaluation
4.6.3.2The keeplng of records shall not become an end in itself but a
part of a greater aim, i.e. in evaluating system performance and
planning improvements.

4.7 Remedial Action Procedures

Upon receiving reports of violations to the recommended standards in drinking

water, the District Health Office shall liaise with the District Water Authorities oi
the Water Purveyor concerned to investigate the probable cause. The line of
action may involve one or a combination of the following procedures;

(i) Re-sampling the affected area.

(ii) Carrying out a sanitary survey.
(iii) Carrying out a detailed engineering system investigation. Assistance may
be sought from the state or federal agencies.

Following the investigations carried out, the remedial actions that may be
recommended may involve one or a combination of the following procedures;

(i) Flushing of the pipelines oi'service reservoirs.

(ii) Increased chlorine dosage.
(iii) Correction of chemical dosage.
(iv) Use of alternative source of water.
(v) Major correction measures undertaken based on findings of engineering
investigation.
(vi) Notification and advice to the public.
(vii) Terminating the supply.

4.8 Exarnination of Staff Employed by Waterworks

4-8.1. Care should be exercised in the selection of watenruorks staff/personnel

as well as contractors and their staff who are to be employed on jobs
where a risk to the safety of the water supply is likely to arise. The
clinical history of each person, particularly with reference to any infection
capable of being waterborne, should be thoroughly investigated.

4.8.2. Individual medical records for every plant operator and contractor
employed in the plant should be maintained for easy reference and
follow-up action.
lli
4.8.3. Prior to employment, the worker should be sent to the District Health
Office and a rectal s'wab and stool examination made to ascertain that he
. is free from infection by waterborne diseases. The rectal swab and stool
sample should be carried out 3 times in 3 successive days or once a week
over a period of 3 weeks. Laboratory results should be recorded in his
medical record.
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 4.8.4. He should not be so employed unless physical and medical
examination
shows the absence of infection by waterborne diseases.

4.8.5. rnformation on ail vaccinations received by prospective

emproyees must
be recorded' Those requiring boosters or other vaccinations
so far, must be given to the emproyee if recommendeo not received
by ft'ffi;;
Officer of Health examining the prospective ernployee.

4.8.6 If any emproyee is known to have any crinicar signs and

symptoms of anv
waterborne disease (e.g. diarrhea), he is requlred t"
certified fit by a Government Medicar officer oi Hearth
b; ;I;;;# #J
uuro.u n"'.ui,i"l
work at the treatment plant.

4-B-7 standing arrangement shourd arso be made to ensure that

each member
of the staff is examined every six months and certified fit bt
Government Medical Officer of Health. th;

En g in e e rin g Serwices Di visio n,

Ftinistry of Health tIALAYSIA. 11
-+
>L MINIMUM NUMBER OF SAMPLE PER MONTH
rd
3l
2 3 45 l0 50 100 50o
1 000
I
d
5

r
-t

10 000

o
uJ

cr
UJ
a
z
e
F 1 00 000
J
:)
c-
o
o_

000 000

10 000 000

Frg 1. R:commended minimum rnonthly saraples per

pcpulation served by water suoply (bacreriological).

Engin eering Seruices Division,

Ministry of Health MALAYSIA,
 TABLE 1

COLUMN I COLUMN II
COLUMN III

NO. ACCEPTABLE VALUE FREQUENCY TO BE MONITOREO

PARA[TETERS
SOURCE OF
mg/l (unl€ss REFERENCE
SURFACE GROUND DIRECT
olheMise stated) IMPOUNDING
IGROUP I

1 lroro'- coLrFoRM 5,000 MPN/100mt M ll WHOl

I

I or cful1O0ml
2 TURBIDIry 1,000 NTU M M WHO2
3 COLOUR 300 Tcu M M WHOl
4 pH 5.5 - 9.0 W M M MAL
GROUP II
1 TOTAL DISSOLVED SOLIDS 't,500 M Y/4 Yt4 WHOl
2 BIOLOGICAL OXYGEN b M Yt4 Yt4
DEMAND WHOl

3 CHEMICAL OXYGEN 10 M Yt4 V/HO1

DEh4ANI]
4 3HLORIDE 250 M Yt4 Yt4 MAL I

5 \NIONIC DETERGENT MBAS 1.0 M Yt4 Yt4 WHO1 I

6 \MMONIA (as N)
7
1.5 M Yt4 Yt4 wHol
'IITRATE (as N)
I
10 M Yt4 Yt4 MAL
B RON (as Fe) I
:LUORIDE
1.0 M Yt4 Yt4 MAL I
9 1-5 M Yt4 Yt4 wHol
10 IARDNESS 500 I
M Yl4 Yt4 MAL I
11 IANGANESE o.2 M Yt4 Y/4 WHO1 I
IGROUP III
,l
lr.-"*" 0,001 Yt4 Yt4 Y14 MAL
2 lcRouruv 0.003 Yt4 Yt4
I
Yt4 MAL
3 0.01
lsELENruM Yt4 Yt4 Yt4 WHOl
4 ARSENIC 0.01 Yt4 Yt4 Yt4 MAL
I
5 CYANIDE 0.07 Yt4 Yt4 Yl4 MAL
6 LEAD 0.05 Yt4 Yt4 Yt4 MAL
7 CHROMIUIV 0.05 Yt4 Yt4 Yt4 WHOl
8 SILVER 0.05 Yt4 Yt4 Y14 MAL
I
9 COPPER 1.0 Yl4 Yt4 Yl4 MAL
10 MAGNESIUM 150 Y14 Yt4 Yt4 MAL
11 SODIUM 200 Yt4 Yt4 Y14 MAL
12 ZINC J Yt4 Yt4 Yt4 MAL
13 SULPHATE 250 Yt4 Yl4 Y14 MAL
14 vIINERAL OIL 0-3 Yt4 Yt4 Yt4 MAL
15 )HENOL
0.002 Yt4 Yt4 Y14 WHOl

En g ineerin g Servi ces D i visio n/

Hinisby of Health MALAYSIA.
 TABLE 1 (continued)

ACCEPTABLE VALUE FREQUENCY TO BE MONITORED

0.00003. Yt4 MAL

0.002 Yt4 MAL
0-00003 Yt4 MAL
HEPTACHLOR EPOXIDE

0.02 Yt4 MAL

HEXACHLOROBENZENE 0.001 Y14 MAL

LINDANE 0.002 Yt4 MAL
0.0002 Yt4 MAL

0.03 Yt4 MAL

LOROPIlENOXYACETIC

40 PARAMETERS

lndicates parameters to be monitored at least once a vreek.

M Indicates parameters to be monitored at least once a month.
Y14 lndicates parameters to be monilored at least once in 3 months.
Y lndicates parameters lo be monitored at least once a year.
WHOl Refers to WHO lnternational Standards for Drinking Water 1963.
WHO2 Refers to WHO Guidelines for Drinking Water euality Vot. j & 2 1984.
MAL Refers to values adapted for Malaysian conditions.

l/ofqs:
Collection of samples of both raw and treated waler for examination for toxic subsfances should be
canied out more frequenlly if values above the acceptable values are known to be present in the
source of supply, or where such potential potlution exists.

En gin e erin g Seruices Divisio n,

l+tinistry of Health MAIAYSIA. lI
 TABLE 2

COLUMN I
COLUMN il
coLtJMN nt
MAXIMUM ACCEPISLE VALUE FREQUENCY TO AE MONITOREO
NO- PARj.METERS
H WAT€R
SERVICE SOURCE OF
RESERVOIR orsTRlaunoN WELU REFERENCE
PLAMT SYSTEM SPRING
oun d OUTLET

'| TOTAL COLIFORM METHOO,MET"iBRANE

M 2Y
TRATION METHOD: MAL
T NOT BE OETECTED
ANY IOOmI SA,[,PLE
2 @,i OR THERMOTOLERA^IT lN loornl SAMPLE
M 2Y
3 OLIFORM AACTERIA wlo2
I ;AECAL STREPTOCOCCI
FILTER METHOO:
WN rtN

< t lN looml SAMpt€

5 TRIDIUM PERFRINGENS AASENT WN WN MAL I99O
6
ABSENT tN toomt H WN WN
7
AASENT tN r00mt wN] WN ;xl NZ

:l
8 NZ
AESENTTN toomt WV wNl NZ

I 5 NTU
?YI
10
I5 TCU wl M

M 2Yl
wHo2

lt wl wrJo2

;l
6.5 - 9-O
l2 RESIDUAL CHLORINE
M 2Yl VAL
o2_5.0
t3
M 2Yl wHOl
NOTLESSTI-IAN I-O
M 2Yl [,lelts90
t4
wNl WN WN yvN I
wHo2

I DISSOLVEO SOLIDS 1000 M M Yt2

2
2Y wHo2
2g M M YN wlto2
1.5 M M YN 2Y wlJO2
1
10 M M Yt2 ?Y wllot
0.3 M M Yt2 w102
6
o.4 - 0_6 M M YN 2Y MAT
7
500 M M
8
Yt2 2r wHor
o-2 M M Yt2 2Y wHo2
9
0.t M M Ytz 2Y wHo2

0.o01 Yl4 YN

l:
2Y WHO2
0.@3 Yt4 YA Y 2Y wlo2
0.01 Yt4 YN tt wHo2
l1 o_07 Ytl Yt2 Y 2Y w{o2
0.01 Yt4 Yt2 Y wHo2
o.05 Ytl YN Y 2Y wHo2

j lt4
! Yt2 Y 2Y wHol
3 Yt4 Y wHo2
200 Yt4 YN Y 2Y wlJo2
Ytl lt2 Y wjo2

Engiwing Se ruie D i visi o n,

ili n isty o f H a Ht H A LA ySIA.
iv
 TABLE 2 @ontinued)

TIE sum oI lhe ratio of the

1l o.2 Yt4 Yt2 2Y wHo3

12 ol Yt4 YN 2Y wHo2
13 o.t Yl4 YN 2Y wHo2
l,( o.06 Yl4 YN 2Y wl02
t5 0.01 Yt4 w{ WN vvr\ wHO2
16 005 Yt4 WN WN WN MAL 1990
17 150 Y14 WN WN WN MAL t99O
io 0.005 WN WN WN WN wHO2
19 o.7 WN WN WN WN WH()2
20 0.5 yvN WN WN wHo3
2t o.o7 WN WN WN wHo2
22 o.o2 WN WN WN WN wFto2
23 0.002 WN WN w-to3
24 0.05 wN WN WN WN wHo2
0.3 WN WN .w! MAL I99O
26 o.o02 WN WN WN WN wHOl
2t o.o25 WN WN WN WN wHo2
28 o.2 WN WN WN vwo2
29 o.m0l WN WN WN wHo2
30 2,+DICHLOROPHENOL o-0003 WN WN WN WN wHo2
3t 2.,{,6 -TRICHLOROPHENOL o_2 WN WN WN WN WHO2
32 0.9 WN WN WN t /t'l wlto2
OICHLOROACETIC ACID o.05 WN WN WN WN wHo2
3,r TRICHLOROACETIC ACIO o.t WN WN WN WN wHO2 i

35 o.0t :
WN WN WN wH02 I

36 o.09 I
WN WN WN wH02 I
3l 0.t WN WN WN wHo2 I

38 o.ml WN WN WN w-t02
39 YANOGEN CI1LORIOE 0.07 VVN WN WN vwto2

Engiruing Seruie Diision,

HinisfrY of Health HALAYSIA"
 TABLE 2 ftontioued)

.i:s"qqu-gtfijor."lrp-.n.n0gNp,i:i iiiii,S:t11ii

0.00003 Yt4 WN
wHO2
0.002 Yt4
wHO2
0.00003 Y,/.{ WN
wHO2
4 0_02 Y14 WN
wHO2
o 002 Yt4 wr',1
6 wHO2
0.03 Yt4
AUS
7 o.0002 wr't WN
rivHo2
I 0.04
wt-t03
I 1,}DICHLOROPROPENE 0.02 WN wt\ WN WN wHO2
t0 0.001 wN WN WN wHO2
ll o.009 W! vM'l WN wHO3
12
o.o2 WN v!11 \^/N wHO2
t3 0.01
wlc?
0.05 WN WN AUS
t5 o 002 WN
't6
WN wru wlo2
0.3 whl WN wN WN wHo3
17 0.o07 wI\I wHo3
18 0.03 WN WN WN wHo2
19 o.@06 \^/r,t WN WN WN wHo3
N 0.03 vvli
wHo3
2t 0.01 WN vvlv w1103
22 o.ooI WN WN t^rN wHo2
23 ,.20IBROMOETTIANE 0.0004 w! WN WN tw03
21 0.oo9 WN WN WN WN wr-ro2
25 o-002 WN wl.l WN WN wHo2
26 0.01 WN WN vvt.l wlro2
n 0.006 WN WN wro2
?8 o.02 WN WN vvlv wl.to2
29 o.02 WN WN WN wHo2
30 o.o2 yvN
wl! wHo2
3t o,t vvlt WN WN WN wlo2
32 o.002 WN yvN vvl! WN wHo2
o.6z vyfl wt't WN wlto2
34 0.09 WN WN WN wHo2
0.t WN WN yvN lnrxoz
36 o.009 WN wHo2
37 0,01
wHo2
38 0.009
! 4.1 wlto2
39 0.007
wio3

E ngi nsiog *sica; 9i uis i a n,

l{inisty ol Halth HAU|YSIA.
 TABLE 2 (continued)

WATER
TREATME'{T
PlAr
OUTLET

40 o oo2
wHo2
4l o.o2
WN wHo2
42 .2.DICHLOROETHANE 003 WN WN w.lo2
43 I, I, I.TRICHLOROETHANE 2 t/VN WN
wHo2
44 0-oo5 WN
wH02
45 r.1-DIcHLOROETHENE o03
I rqN WN wHo2
46 1.2-OICHLOROETHENE o.05 WN WN WN wHo2
47 TRICHLOROETHENE oo7 WN WN WN WN ll/t-to2
48 TETRACHLOROETHENE 0.o4 WN WN WN w,.to2
.(9
o-01 WN WN WN w-ro2
50 o.7 WN w.r WN wHo2
5l o,5 WN WN WN wHo2
52 0.3 WN WN Wl'l vvtv t^rlto2
53 o-02 WN V\rN wHo2
54 0-0007 WN WN WN wHo2
55 o.3 WN
wHO2
56 I.2.OtCHLOROBENZENE I wlv WN WN wHo2
57 1,.I-DICHLOROBENZENE o.3 WN WN WN wtto2
58 TRICHLOROBENZENE 0.02 wt{ WN WN wHO2

59 (2.ETHYLHEXYL) AOIPATE o.06 wht WN wHo2

60 (2,ETHYLHFXYL) o.008 WN WN WN wHo2

o-6 WN, WN wHo3

o.mos WN WN wFro2
o.oo0.r l/1rN
WN WN wHo2
o_0006
WN vvn wHO2
o,mt WN WN wN \^lHO3
o.2 WN WN wHO2
TRIBUTYLIN OXIDE 0.@2 WN WN w.l wHO2

W : lndicales parameteB lo be monitored at least once a week-

M : lndicates p€rarneters lo be monitored at least once a month
Yl2 : lndicates pardmelers to be rnonitored at least once in 6 months
Y : lndicates parameters to be monitored at li,.ast once a year.
2Y : lndicates parameters to be monitored at least once in 2 years.
l^/N : lndicates parameters lo be monitored when necessaqy.
WHOI : tndictes WHO Guidelines for Drinking Water Ouality 1984-
WHOz : lndiGtes WHO Guidelines for Orinking Water Ouat(y 1993/96.
wHo3 : rndi€tes wHo cuiderines for Drinking water ouarityAddmdum
to vor,1) 1998
MAL : lndicates vatues adapled for Malaysian conditions
AUS : lndicates Australian Orinking Water euatiry Guidelines, .1996_
EEC : tndicates EEC Standard Councjt Oirective (SOI77SIEEC),
NZ : lndicates Drinking Water Standards for New Zeatand 1995

,{ores: Any roxic subsrances nor lisred sha, be deemed as nor a,owabte in dinking water.

En g irc riog Se ruices O i via i on,

I.liniity ol Halth l,lAlAYSU.
 TABLE 3

PARAMETER

l(i) Temperature Oa
U 40 40
(ir) pH
6.0 - 9.0 s.5
(iii)
BOD, at 20oC - 9.0
mg/l 20
(iv) 50
COD
mg/l 50 100
Suspended Sotids (SS)
mg/l 50 100
mg/l 0.00s 0.05
mg/l 0.01 0.02
Chromium Hexavalent
mg/l 0.05 0.0s
mg/l 0.0s
(x) Cyanide
0.1
mg/l 0.05
(xi) Lead
0.1
mg/l 0.1 0.5
l(xii) Chromium, Trivalent
I
mg/l 0.2 1
(xiii) Copper
mg/l 0.2 1
(xiv) Manganese
mg/l 0.2 1
(xv) Nickel
mg/l 0.2 1
(xv0 Tin
mg/l o.2 1

(xix) lron (Fe)

0.00.1
Free Chlorine
1
Sulphide
0.5
xxiii) Oiland Grease
Not detectable

: Discharge upstream of water supply

B : Discharge downstream of water
sources.
supply sources.
Source..
Envircnmentat Quarity (sewage & tndustriat
Effruent) Regulations 1979.

Engin ee rin g Seruices Divis io n,

f'{inistry of Heatth MALAYSIA.
vaii
 TABLE 4

LIMITS OF DISCHARGE
PARAMETERS
FOR PERIOO 1..I-I984 ANO THEREAFTER
lBiochemicat Orygen Demand (BOD) - 3 days, 30oC: mgfl
I

lChemi€l Orygen Demand (COD): mg/l

Total Solids: mgfl
Suspended Solids: mg/l 400
Oil and Grease; mg4 50
tunmohiacal Nitrogen; mg/l 1 50'
Total Nilrogen; mg/l 200'
pH 9.0
5-0 -
oC 45
Temperature;

lVoles-'
' Value of filtered sample.

Source:
Environmental Quatity (Prescribed Premises) (Crude Palm Oil) Regulations, 1977 Second Schedule.
:i
TABLE 5

LIMITS OF OISCHARGE
PARAMETERS
FOR PERIOO -I-4.1983 ANO THEREAFTER
Biochemical Orygen Demand (BOD) - 3 days, 30'C; mg/l 100 (s0')
Chemical Orygen Demand (COD); mgn 400
Total Solids; mgn
Suspended Solids; mgl 150 (100')
Ammoniacal Nitrogen; mgn 300
Total Nitrogen; mgil 300
PH 6.0 - 9.0

lr/otes-'
' This additional limit is the arithmetic mean value determined on the basis of a minimum of four samples
taken at least once a week for four weeks consecutively.

Source.'
Environmenta! Quatity (PrescribedPremises) (Raw Naturat Rubber) Regutations 1918 Third Schedute.

En g in e e rin g Seruice s D i vis io n,

Ninistty of Health I{ALAYSIA. lx
 TABLI

FOR PERIOO I.4-,I981 AND THEREAFTFO

oxysen Demand (Bo-)
- 3;r-0rc;;;
250

Suspended Sotids; mg/l

1s0 (100J
Ammoniacal Nitrogen; mg/l
40'
^^t
OU

6-0 - 9.O

/Vofes.'
'This additional limitis the arithmetic mean value determined
on the basis of a minirnum of four sampres
taken at least once a week for four weeks
consecutively.
# Value on filtered sample-

Soarce..
Environmental Quality (Prescribed Premises)
(Raw Naturat Rubber) Regulations
1g7B Fourth schedule.

Engineenng Sen ices Division,

M in isby
oi H ea I th MA lA \SIA.