Avaliação físico-química e microbiológica da água distribuída no mercado público da cidade de Piripiri - PI

Abstract

Water quality is an essential factor for public health, requiring constant monitoring to ensure its safety. This study evaluated the physical-chemical parameters and microbiological quality of the water distributed in the Municipal Market of Piripiri - PI, with the objective of evaluating the water quality specifications required for potability classification. The physical-chemical parameters pH, turbidity and free residual chlorine were analyzed, and the microbiological tests for the presence of total coliforms and Escherichia coli were performed, according to the recommendations of the Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater standardized by ALFAKIT®, recognized for its high specificity in detecting contaminants. Four samples were collected in different months of 2024, allowing a periodic evaluation of water quality. The results indicated contamination by total coliforms and Escherichia coli, suggesting failures in the management and maintenance of the market's water supply system. Given these findings, continuous monitoring of water quality is recommended, along with corrective maintenance actions such as cleaning reservoirs and adding chlorine. Implementing these measures is essential to minimize risks to the health of the population and ensure the supply of drinking water in accordance with health safety standards.