Monday 12 May 2014

The Importance Of Well Water Testing For Independent Consumers

By Essie Osborn


The United States Environmental Protection agency goes to great lengths to ensure that the water supplies of the nation are safe. Unfortunately, approximately fifteen per cent of the population is not part of the public supply system and they normally have to rely on privately owned boreholes. These boreholes are not regulated in any way and it is up to the owner to make sure that they do well water testing in order to make sure that it is safe for drinking and other domestic uses.

Owners of boreholes must make sure that they have the quality of the water tested regularly. Even if it looks clean, it may contain a variety of bacteria that can be harmful to the health of those drinking it. The University of Montana conducted studies of privately owned boreholes and found that close on forty per cent of the samples contained dangerous levels of coliform bacteria and many samples even contained unacceptably high levels of nitrate.

There is a surprising number of biological, chemical and bacterial contaminants that can infect a borehole. Testing is expensive and time consuming and even the experts agree that it is not feasible to run comprehensive tests regularly. Instead, it is recommended that tests are conducted for nitrates and coliform bacteria, both of which are common and that can cause disease in both animals and humans.

The danger of contaminated boreholes should not be underestimated. Young people and those with debilitating diseases such as cancer and AIDS patients are especially vulnerable. Hepatitis, neurological disorders and dysentery are common. Diarrhea is another commonplace consequence. Borehole products can even lead to reproductive problems and many cases of neurological disorders have been linked to the use of suspect borehole products.

Boreholes can be infected from many different sources. The underground table can easily be contaminated by mining and manufacturing operations. Lead piping can also be the culprit. Farming operations in the vicinity can cause chemicals and pesticides to leak into the underground table too. Sewage systems are of particular concern because they often seep and this may contaminate boreholes in a serious way.

It is important to test boreholes at least annually. It may be better to test more often if there are developments in the area. New mining activities, new farms and seismic activities may all influence the quality of borehole content. It is also important to order new tests if the color, consistency or any characteristic changes when a tap is opened. The same holds true if any member of the family falls ill unexpectedly.

Borehole owners have many choices about where they want test to be conducted. Many local authorities offer test facilities. Local universities also often offer such services. It is vital to use a registered and acknowledged facility, however. It may be useful to look for references and advice on the internet, especially from service centers that have experience in local conditions.

A private borehole should be tested regularly. The health and wellbeing of all that use it is at stake. There are good reasons why the government is so strict on the quality of public systems. Water needs to be clean and healthy. If this is not the case, disease and worse may ensue.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment