Determining The Water Potability of Wells in Generosa C. Colon Street, Guimbal, Iloilo

Guimbal National High School
Rizal St., Guimbal, Iloilo

Special Program in Science, Technology and Engineering
DETERMINING THE WATER POTABILITY OF WELLS IN GENEROSA C.

COLON STREET, GUIMBAL, ILOILO
A Research Paper
Presented to the Faculty & Staff
Of Guimbal National High School
Special Program for Science, Technology, and Engineering 10
Guimbal, Iloilo
Brent Alexander Gilo
Altair Fedilo
Vea Shania Garibay
Keanna Laine Gasapo
Mary Rose Angelique Tatud
Special Program for Science and Technology 10
April 2019
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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY
Background of the Study
Water is essential to humans. As for animals, plants, and other living things, they
consume water for survival. The human body is in fact comprised of 60% of water. Water
permits blood flow through the vessels to help distribute essential nutrients and minerals
throughout the body. (The USGS Water Science School)
In the modern world, the problem of reliable water supply is extremely important
because the water resources are widely exploited and water is used in different fields of
human activities. Nowadays, water is used not only to provide people with the essential
substance they consume to survive but is also widely used in agriculture and different
industries thus, deteriorating the water quality and make it undrinkable. Safe and
available water is important for humans’ health. The UN General Assembly (2010)
recognized the human right for water and sanitation. Everyone has the right sufficient,
safe, accessible, and affordable water for personal and domestic use.
In the municipality of Guimbal, wells still exist and are being used widely in the
whole Poblacion. However, the safety and reliability of the water quality coming from
beneath the ground is the major concern since not all of the people in the locality have the
knowledge of the possible risks of taking in water from an unreliable source.
This study aimed to determine if the water from the wells in Generosa C. Colon
Street Guimbal, Iloilo is safe for drinking or not. This study wanted to spread awareness
to the natives and let them be knowledgeable enough about the water they drink. This
could help the municipality of Guimbal to give solution to the problem if proven that the
water is not potable and improve the quality of life of people living in Guimbal.
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Conceptual Framework
Independent Variable Dependent Variable
Water Samples From Generosa C. Colon

Total and Faecal Coliform bacteria count.
Street Guimbal, Iloilo, Philippines
Figure 1.Paradigm of the Study. Describes the relationship that exists between variables.
Statement of the Problem
This study determined the potability of water from the wells in Generosa C. Colon
Guimbal, Iloilo microbiologically. Specifically, it sought answers to the following
questions:
1. What is the Total Coliform count in the wells of Generosa C. Colon Street,
Guimbal, Iloilo?
2. What is the Faecal Coliform count in the wells of Generosa C. Colon Street,
Guimbal, Iloilo?
3. What is the water potability of wells in Geenerosa C. Colon Street, Guimbal,
Iloilo?
Definition of Terms
The following terms used in this study were given respective conceptual and
operational definitions.
Water potability. The condition of the water if it is fit for

drinking.(https://www.thefreedictionary.com/drinking+water.date retrieved: October 25,
2017).
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In this study, water potability is the state of water by which it is safe to drink with
a total and faecal coliform count of <1.1 MPN per 100 ml.
Unfiltered water. The water that has not undergone the process of removing the
bacteria and chlorine found in city water systems.
(https://racqliving.com.au/wellbeing/filtered-vs-unfiltered-water/ date retrieved: October
25, 2017).
In this study, unfiltered water has high potential of acquiring bacteria that may
cause harmful diseases and has a coliform count and faecal count of >1.1 MPN per 100
mL.
Total Coliform. Bacteria are organisms that are present in the environment and in
the feces of all warm-blooded animals and humans.
(https://www.doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/DrinkingWater/Contaminants/Col
iform date retrieved: October 25, 2017).
In this study, total coliform is used as an indicator whether the water is potable or
not potable.
Faecal coliform. Faecal coliform bacteria are a group of bacteria that are passed
through the fecal excrement of humans, livestock and wildlife. (https://www.water-
research.net/index.php/fecal-coliform-bacteria-in-water date retrieved: October 25, 2017)
In this study, faecal coliform is used as an indicator whether the water is potable
or not potable.
Wells. A hole in the ground made to gain access to an aquifer to obtain water for
economic use. (https://agwt.org/content/ground-water-and-water-wells-definitions-and-
explanations date retrieved: October 25, 2017).
In this study, well is a device used as a source of water primarily for drinking and
other purposes by the residents and the source of water samples for this study.
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Scope and Limitation
The researchers focused on finding the presence and quantity of Total and Faecal
Coliform on water samples gathered from Generosa C. Colon Street, Guimbal, Iloilo. The
water came from the selected wells found in the said location. There was a total of 20
wells found on the said street. However, there were only 10 wells that contain water
which the residents used for drinking and cooking. The researchers conducted the
experiment last May 22, 2018. The sampling method therefore was selective and
purposive.
Significance of the Study
The research “Determining the Water Potability of Wells in Generosa C. Colon

Street, Guimbal, Iloilo” offered information and awareness to the individuals of the said
location after it was conducted.
The purpose of this study was to identify whether the water coming from the
wells used for drinking is potable or not. Moreover, it is to ensure the safety of the health
condition of the residents. Specifically, this study will make a difference on the lives of
people especially:
The researchers. The study will help them gain information whether the water
coming from the wells in which the residents use in Generosa C. Colon Street, Guimbal,
Iloilo is safe for drinking or not.
Future researchers. They can use the results as a guide for the next conducting
experiment involving water potability. This study could serve as a source of additional
information for experiments related to the study.
Natives of Generosa C. Colon Street, Guimbal, Iloilo. The residents will be

aware about the condition of their water if it is potable or not.
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Residents of Guimbal, Iloilo. This study will be an eye opener to the people and
will impart awareness about their source for drinking.
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CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Water is essential to sustain life, and a satisfactory (adequate, safe and accessible)
supply must be available to all. Improving access to safe drinking-water can result in
tangible benefits to health. Every effort should be made to achieve a drinking-water
quality as safe as practicable. Diseases related to contamination of drinking-water
constitute a major burden on human health. Interventions to improve the quality of
drinking-water provide significant benefits to health.
Water should be free of tastes and odours that would be objectionable to the
majority of consumers. In assessing the quality of drinking-water, consumers rely
principally upon their senses. Microbial, chemical and physical water constituents may
affect the appearance, odour or taste of the water, and the consumer will evaluate the
quality and accept- ability of the water on the basis of these criteria. Although these
substances may have no direct health effects, water that is highly turbid, is highly
coloured or has an objectionable taste or odour may be regarded by consumers as unsafe
and may be rejected. In extreme cases, consumers may avoid aesthetically unacceptable
but otherwise safe drinking-water in favour of more pleasant but potentially unsafe
sources.
It is therefore wise to be aware of consumer perceptions and to take into account

both health- related guidelines and aesthetic criteria when assessing drinking-water
supplies and developing regulations and standards. Changes in the normal appearance,
odour or taste of a drinking-water supply may signal changes in the quality of the raw
water source or deficiencies in the treatment process and should be investigated.
Community-managed drinking-water systems, with both piped and non-piped
distribution, are common worldwide in both developed and developing countries. The
precise definition of a community drinking-water system will vary.
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Consumers have the responsibility for ensuring that their actions do not impact
adversely on water quality. Installation and maintenance of household plumbing systems
should be undertaken preferably by qualified and authorized plumbers or other persons
with appropriate expertise to ensure that cross-connection or backflow events do not
result in contamination of local water supplies. In most countries, there are populations
whose water is derived from household sources, such as private wells and rainwater. In
households using non-piped water supplies, appropriate efforts are needed to ensure safe
collection, storage and perhaps treatment of their drinking-water.
In some circumstances, households and individuals may wish to treat water in the
home to increase their confidence in its safety, not only where community supplies are
absent, but also where community supplies are known to be contaminated or causing
waterborne disease. Public health, surveillance and/or other local authorities may provide
guidance to support households and individual consumers in ensuring the safety of their
drinking-water. Such guidance is best provided in the context of a community education
and training programme (World Health Organization, 2008).
Water Potability
Childhood mortality from diarrheal disease in Latin America remains high

(PAHO 2002). In settings where residents typically drink water contaminated with human
feces, empowering individual families to disinfect their household drinking water could
prevent excess morbidity and mortality from waterborne diseases. The combined product
appears not only to offer an alternative method for disinfecting drinking water, but it has
private sector backing. The private sector will continue to modify the combined product
to respond to the needs of the users and, through advertising, will likely promote behavior
change, which could lead to increased uptake and sustained use of the combined product.
The combined product, once available commercially, may be cost-prohibitive to some of
the world’s poorest persons. However, for those who could afford it, the combined
product’s novel product design and promotion of use, could lead to improved global
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access to safe drinking water. (Rangel J., Lopez B., Mejia M., Mendoza C., and Luby S.,
2003).
In military out of area missions of the Bundeswehr, it can be necessary to produce

drinking water even from highly polluted surface waters containing a variety of organic,
inorganic, and microbiological contaminants. Thus, mobile drinking water purification
systems must be able to remove such contaminants as far as possible to meet the
requirements of the German and European drinking water regulation/directive. Presently,
two novel drinking water purification units applying membrane filtration undergo
intensive long-term trials carried out by the Bundeswehr. If these trials positively proof
the functionality of these units and their ability to remove all possible contaminants they
shall substitute so far available devices which use large amounts of chemicals and
charcoal filtration for water purification.In the course of a research project, the
functionality of the new devices and their efficacy to remove high amounts of algae,
microbes, and organic and inorganic pollutants are additionally tested in “worst-case”
field studies. In September 2000, the first mobile drinking water purification unit was
tested at the Teltowkanal in Berlin, Germany.This canal was chosen because it carries
high burdens of municipal sewage effluents. The results from the fatigue test confirmed
the ability of the water purification unit to reduce the concentrations of all contaminants
meeting the maximum tolerance levels set by the German/European drinking water
regulation.The pre-filtration device was very effective in removing algae and solid
particles to protect the membranes from clogging and to enable an almost maintenance-
free operation. Residues of pharmaceuticals and some other organic contaminants have
almost totally been removed from the surface water where they were detected at
individual concentrations up to the μg/L-level. (Heberer, T., Feldmann, D., Reddersen,
K., Altmann, H-J., Zimmermann, T., 2002)
Drinking water is a major source of microbial pathogens in developing regions,

although poor sanitation and food sources are integral to enteric pathogen exposure.
Gastrointestinal disease outcomes are also more severe, due to under-nutrition and lack of
intervention strategies in these regions. Poor water quality, sanitation and hygiene
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account for some 1.7 million deaths a year world-wide (3.1% of all deaths and 3.7% of
all DALY’s), mainly through infectious diarrhea. Nine out of 10 such deaths are in
children and virtually all of the deaths are in developing countries. Major enteric
pathogens in these children include: rotavirus, Campylobacter jejuni,
enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, Shigella spp. and Vibrio cholerae O1, and possibly
enteropathogenic E. coli, Aeromonas spp. V. cholerae O139,
enterotoxigenic Bacteroidesfragilis, Clostridium difficile and Cryptosporidium parvum.
All except the latter are easily control by chlorination of water, but recontamination of
treated water is a huge problem. Emerging environmental pathogens, such
as Helicobacter pylori and Burkholderiapseudomallei, may well be of significance in
some regions. In adults, much less is understood of various sequellae such as myocarditis,
diabetes, reactive arthritis and cancers some months–years after initial infections. So in
addition to the traditional pathogens (helminths, Entamoebahistolytica, Giardia
lamblia hepatitis A and E) various enteroviruses, C. jejuni and H. pylori are emerging
issues in adults. (Ashbolt, N.J., 2004)
Microorganisms in drinking water distribution systems are either part of the

indigenous community or enter the system where the pipe network integrity is
compromised. Microbes living in soil pore-waters can be entrained through cracks in
pipes and joints during negative pressure events. Inside the pipes, heterotrophic bacteria
utilize available organic substrate in the water as a source of carbon, nutrients and energy.
Changing flow conditions in the network can also dislodge biofilms harbouring
pathogenic species and create conditions that favor opportunistic species, potentially
including pathogens. Obtaining rapid and affordable assessments of the microbial quality
of drinking water is a famously intractable problem. Microbial indicator species including
Escherichia coli (E. coli), Coliforms, Enterococcus spp. and total bacterial counts are
frequently monitored as proxies for pathogens that are expensive or impractical to
measure. Although the presence of E. coli and Coliforms indicates contamination, their
absence does not preclude the presence of other harmful organisms (Heibati, M.,
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Stedmon, C., Stenroth, K., Rauch, S.,Toljander J., Save-Soderbergh, M., e , Murphy, K.,
2017).
The potential to supplement potable water supplies with highly treated municipal
wastewater, or sewage, is of increasing interest to water planners in many parts of the
world. Most of the current social science focuses on public acceptance, however there is a
relative lack of research that explores the subjectivity of people who are involved with
water recycling or water planning. This study draws on Gramscian theories of
governance and Q Methodology to analyze common sense principles that are held by
water stewards who currently govern potable water reuse in the southwestern United
States. Two competing perspectives emerged from the analyses, which I label
neosanitarian and ecosanitarian. Drawing upon tenets established in the Progressive Era,
neosanitarians believe that use of recycled water is an appropriate way to expand urban
drinking water supplies. Drawing upon tenets established in ecology, ecosanitarians are
not opposed to potable water recycling, however they are also interested in radical
alternatives to the sanitary status quo. For example, neosanitarians favor advanced
wastewater treatment, while ecosanitarians prefer composting toilets and preventative
actions. Differences between the common sense views pivot on ideas about the most
appropriate technology but also reflect contested visions of ideal society (Ormerod, K.J.,
2017).
Another primary concern to water utilities is to ensure that the drinking water that
is supplied does not pose an unacceptable health risk to consumers. As the number and
type of different pathogens present in waters is extensive, varied and dependent on a
range of environmental factors, it is not feasible to isolate and identify each specific
pathogen on a regular basis. Hence, reliance has traditionally been placed on the
measurement of total plate counts, as an overall indicator of microbial load and detection
of fecal indicator bacteria and other coliform bacteria for contamination. Although these
culture based tests give precise enumeration, they can take more than 30 h to perform
from sample receipt to results (J. Bridgeman, J., Baker A., Brown D.,Boxall, J.B, 2015)
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Coliform
In water samples from drinking water distribution systems, coliform bacteria

(predominantly Citrobacter species) were repeatedly detected. Disinfection and flushing
of the systems did not erase the problem. The pattern of the coliform occurrences
indicated contamination originating from biofilms. After inspection of internal surfaces
of the systems, no significant biofilm growth was observed on pipe surfaces, but in a
number of cases, visible biofilms were detected on rubber-coated valves which harboured
the same coliform species as those found in the drinking water samples. In these cases,
the rubber-coated valves seemed toact as point sources for the contamination of water.
(Kilb, B., Lange, B., Schaule, G., Flemming, H.-C, Wingender, J., 2003)
Epidemics arising from waterborne diseases are a global health problem. Fecal
contamination of drinking water is the main cause of these outbreaks. According to WHO
(1996) for drinking water to be safe, a 100 ml sample should not contain any coliform
bacteria. The standard methods currently used for routine testing have many limitations
especially when applied in remote areas. The H2S method has been developed as an on-
site, inexpensive and easy to use method to test drinking water for remote and rural areas.
The present work analyses the reliability of the H2S method for detecting fecal
contamination in drinking water. The minimum level of fecal coliforms that could be
detected and the incubation period required at various levels of contamination were
studied. The range of temperatures at which the method was effective and the incubation
period required at various temperatures were also determined. The H2S method was
found to be able to detect contamination down to a level of 1 CFU/100 ml of coliform
bacteria. Although the H2S method could be used at a temperature range of 20 to 44°C,
temperatures between 28 to 37°C gave faster results. An incubation period of only 24
hours was required at 37°C, which was found to be the most suitable incubation
temperature. The incubation period increased with a decrease or increase in temperature.
(Pillai, J., Mathew, K., Gibbs, R., Ho, G.E., 1999)
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Faecal Coliform
Fecal coliform bacteria are generally used as indicators of potential water

contamination, as these bacteria are found in human and animal feces. Though not
harmful to themselves, fecal coliform bacteria indicate the possible presence of other
pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and protozoans that line in animal and human digestive
systems. The presence of these organisms can make swimming or eating shellfish
harvested from contaminated waters a health risk. Because it is costly, difficult, and time-
consuming to test for each pathogen organism, water is general tested for just fecal
coliform. The test for fecal coliform is a quick and effective method of detecting potential
threats to human health. EC broth is commonly used to detect fecal coliforms. It has bile
salts that support growth of Gram-negative enteric bacteria while inhibiting growth of
most Gram-positive bacteria. Fecal coliforms are gram negative, non spore-forming,
aerobic or facultative anaerobic rod shaped bacteria. (Fecal Coliform Bacteria. (n.d.).
Retrieved from http://www.ririvers.org/wsp/CLASS_3/FecalColiformBacteria.htm)
Fecal coliform bacteria are indicators of fecal contamination and of the potential
presence of pathogens associated with wastewater or sewage sludge. Indicator organisms
are typically used to demonstrate the potential presence or absence of groups of
pathogens. The use of indicators is attractive because it reduces the complexity and cost
of analyzing sludges or environmental media (soil, water, air) for individual pathogens.
Fecal coliform bacteria are bacteria found in feces. Fecal coliforms are a subset of
a larger group of organisms known as coliform bacteria. Coliform bacteria are facultative
anaerobes (organisms which can survive in the absence of oxygen), gram-negative, non-
spore forming, rod-shaped bacteria that ferment lactose (a type of sugar), producing gas
and acid within 48 hours when cultured at 35◦C. Their lack of ability to form spores
makes them more susceptible to destruction by environmental conditions. Fecal coliforms
normally reside in the intestinal tract of warm-blooded animals. Outside of a warm-
blooded host, fecal coliforms are short-lived compared to the coliform bacteria that are
free-living and not associated with the digestive tract of man or animals. The fecal
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category contains both pathogen (disease-causing) and nonpathogenic bacteria. An

example of one group of fecal coliform bacteria is Escherichia coli or E. coli. The
presence of fecal coliforms is indicative of fecal contamination and of the potential
presence of enteric pathogens (diseasecausing organisms which originate in the digestive
system), especially bacterial pathogens.
The presence of fecal coliforms is a reliable indicator of fecal contamination.

However, the absence of fecal coliforms does not equate to the absence of fecal
contamination, which is one of the shortcomings of using fecal coliforms. The source of
the contamination could be animal excreta, wastewater, sludge, septage, or biosolids.
Each of these wastes is derived entirely or at least in part from the feces and urine of
warm-blooded animals. Since enteric pathogens and fecal coliforms are also excreted by
warm-blooded animals, detection of fecal coliforms indicates the potential presence of
pathogens.
Fecal coliform testing does appear to be a good indicator of pathogen regrowth.

This results from the fact that viruses and parasites are unable to reproduce without a
warm-blooded host. The only pathogenic group capable of multiplying in the
environment is bacteria. Given that fecal coliforms are a reasonably good indicator of
pathogenic bacteria, conditions that would favor an increase in fecal coliform density
may also be conducive to bacterial pathogen regrowth. (Environmental Fact Sheet. 2003.
Fecal Coliform as an Indicator Organism. New Hampshire Department of Environmental
Services. Retrieved from
https://www.des.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/pip/factsheets/wwt/documents/web-
18.pdf)
Escherichia Coli
Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped, facultative anaerobic

bacterium. This microorganism was first described by Theodor Escherich in 1885. Most
E. coli strains harmlessly colonize the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals as a
normal flora. However, there are some strains that have evolved into pathogenic E. coli
14
by acquiring virulence factors through plasmids, transposons, bacteriophages, and/or

pathogenicity islands. These pathogenic E. coli can be categorized based on serogroups,
pathogenicity mechanisms, clinical symptoms, or virulence factors. Among them,
enterohemorrhagicE. coli (EHEC) is defined as pathogenic E. coli strains that produce
Shiga toxins (Stxs) and cause hemorrhagic colitis (HC) and the life-threatening sequelae
hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in humans. (Lim, J.Y., Yoon, J. and Hovde, C.,
2010).
Escherichia coli is capable of growing in environments ranging from very dilute

aqueous solutions of essential nutrients to media containing molar concentrations of salts
or nonelectrolyte solutes. Growth in environments with such a wide range (at least 100-
fold) of osmolarities poses significant physiological challenges for cells. To meet these
challenges, E. coli adjusts a wide range of cytoplasmic solution variables, including the
cytoplasmic amounts both of water and of charged and uncharged solutes. (Record Jr, M.
T., Courtenay, E., Cayley, D. S., Guttman, H. J., 1998)
Public health protection requires an indicator of fecal pollution. It is not necessary

to analyse drinking water for all pathogens. Escherichia coli is found in all mammal
faeces at concentrations of 10 log 9−1, but it does not multiply appreciably in the
environment. In the 1890s, it was chosen as the biological indicator of water treatment
safety. Because of method deficiencies, E. coli surrogates such as the ‘fecal coliform’ and
total coliforms tests were developed and became part of drinking water regulations. With
the advent of the Defined Substrate Technology in the late 1980s, it became possible to
analyse drinking water directly for E. coli (and, simultaneously, total coliforms)
inexpensively and simply. Accordingly, E. coli was re-inserted in the drinking water
regulations. E. coli survives in drinking water for between 4 and 12 weeks, depending on
environmental conditions (temperature, microflora, etc.). Bacteria and viruses are
approximately equally oxidant-sensitive, but parasites are less so. Under the conditions in
distribution systems, E. coli will be much more long-lived. Therefore, under most
circumstances it is possible to design a monitoring program that permits public health
protection at a modest cost. Drinking water regulations currently require infrequent
15
monitoring which may not adequately detect intermittent contamination events; however,
it is cost-effective to markedly increase testing with E. coli to better protect the public's
health. Comparison with other practical candidate fecal indicators shows that E. coli is far
superior overall. (Edberg, S.C., Rice, E.W., Karlin, R.J., Allen, M. J., 2000)
E. coli (ETEC) in water. Drinking and bathing water collected from 2 of 10

different
homes of individuals with ETEC-associated diarrhea and 6% (5 of 78) and 11% (11 of 78)
of drinking and bathing water samples collected from homes of individuals with diarrhea
without ETEC infections, as well as 6% (5 of 77) and 8% (6 of 77) of drinking and bathing
water collected from homes in which no inhabitants had diarrhea, were homologous with the
DNA probes. Ten E. coli from each of the 31 water specimens which contained bacteria
which were homologous with the DNA probes were tested in the Y-1 adrenal and suckling
mouse assay. In only 2 of these 31 specimens could ETEC be identified with the standard
assays. The DNA hybridization assay is a much more sensitive means of detecting organisms
carrying genes coding for enterotoxin production than testing 10 individual colonies in the Y-
1 adrenal and suckling mouse assays. This novel application of recombinant The DNA
hybridization assay for genes encoding for Escherichia coli enterotoxins was used to examine
water specimens in Thailand. In a reconstruction experiment, the DNA hybridization assay
was 10(4) times more sensitive than testing random E. coli in the Y-1 adrenal and suckling
mouse assays in identifying enterotoxigenicDNA technology provides a sensitive method of
detecting organisms carrying genes coding for enterotoxin, and this method will be useful in
defining the epidemiology of ETEC. (Echeverria, P., Seriwatana, J., Chityothin, O.,
Chaicumpa, W., Tirapat., 2005)
Escherichia coli, a fecal coliform, was found to survive for longer periods of time in
unsterile natural seawater when sediment material was present than in seawater alone, and at
least on one occasion growth was observed to occur. This enteric bacterium was found to
increase rapidly in number in autoclaved natural seawater and autoclaved sediment taken
from areas receiving domestic wastes, even when the seawater had salinities as high as 34
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g/kg. However, in autoclaved seawater, growth was always more gradual and never reached
numbers as high as those observed when sediment was present. It was found that nutrients
were easily eluted from the sediment after autoclaving or upon addition to artificial seawater,
but little elution occured during mixing of the sediments with unsterile natural seawater. The
longer survival of E. coli in the sediment is attributed to the greater content of organic matter
present in the sediment than the sweater. These laboratory results, in part, could explain why
on a volume basis larger numbers of coliforms and fecal coliforms and fecal coliforms were
found in estuarine sediments than the overlaying water at field sites. (Gerba, C.P., McLeod,
J.S., 1976).
In Aceh Besar and Simeulue, the use of improved water sources was also
associated with a decreased risk of having contaminated stored water. Nevertheless, stored
drinking water from improved sources was frequently contaminated with E. coli. In post-
disaster situations, this problem could be mitigated by adequate water-quality monitoring,
which could trigger protective actions. For example, if monitoring revealed source water
contamination, either treatment of source water or promotion of point-of-use water treatment
could be implemented. In the absence of any water-quality monitoring system, as occurred in
the post-tsunami situation, household water-treatment technology could be promoted or
provided to the population. In addition, to avoid further contamination of stored drinking
water, it is also important to promote hand-washing with soap and safe disposal of feces.
Although boiling was the point of use water quality intervention promoted by
most relief agencies after the tsunami, our findings showed that water reported to be boiled
was no more likely to be free of contamination with E. coli than untreated water. This finding
was consistent with three other evaluations conducted after the tsunami. Possible
explanations for this finding include inadequate boiling procedures, improper water handling
after boiling which permitted recontamination, or false reports of boiling. Investigation of
these possible explanations is needed through further research. These results, however, point
to the need for intensive education and adequate water-quality monitoring if boiling is to be
recommended in such settings. These findings also cast doubt on a published assertion that
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the promotion of boiling had prevented outbreaks of diarrheal disease from occurring after
the tsunami.
Improved storage containers were found to be no more effective in protecting

stored water from microbial contamination than wide-mouthed storage containers. This
finding contrasts with a previous study that suggested that the use of improved storage
containers could protect the quality of stored water from clean sources by preventing
recontamination and other studies that showed that water storage in uncovered, wide-
mouthed containers was associated with outbreaks of disease. This apparently anomalous
finding could be explained by two factors. First, many water sources may not have been
clean, and, in the case of respondents who did not report treating their water, contaminated
water would have been placed in both improved or unimproved storage containers. The lack
of a qualitative difference in the quality of water stored in the two types of containers would
therefore not be surprising. At least one other study has documented similar findings.Second,
there was no apparent association between the combination of reported or confirmed
chlorination and use of improved storage containers on water quality, which suggests that
improved storage containers did not add additional benefit to chlorination alone. This implies
that chlorine, rather than the type of container, was the more important barrier against
recontamination of stored water. (Gupta, S., Suantio, A., Gray, A., Widyastuti, E., Jain, N.,
Rolos, R.., Hoekstra, R., Quick, R., 2007)
Wells
Groundwater provides about 30% of water requirements in Ontario, but farm
families depend almost entirely on private wells. Major potential contaminants on farms are
nitrate (NO3−), pathogenic microorganisms, pesticides and petroleum derivatives. A survey
of farm drinking-water wells was conducted throughout the Province of Ontario, Canada, in
1991 and 1992 and tested for these contaminants. The main objectives of the survey were to
determine the quality and safety of drinking water for farm families, and determine the effect
of agricultural management on groundwater quality at a provincial scale. Four farm wells
were chosen in each township where >50% of the land area was used for agricultural
production. Elsewhere one well per township was usually sampled. Within each township the
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types of farming activity and dominant soils were additional criteria for selection. The
network comprised 1292 of the estimated 500,000 water-wells in Ontario, and the study
conformed to a stratified random survey. A subset of 160 wells, chosen by farm type, soil,
and the presence or absence of a fuel storage tank, was investigated for the presence of
petroleum derivatives: benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, and xylene. About 40% of farm wells
tested contained one or more of the target contaminants above the maximum acceptable
concentration; 34% of wells had more than the maximum acceptable number of coliform
bacteria, 14% contained NO3−-N concentrations above 10 mg l−1 limit and about 7% were
contaminated with both bacteria and NO3−. Only six wells contained pesticide residues
above the interim maximum acceptable concentration (IMAC), but pesticides were detected
in 7% of wells in winter and in 11% in summer. No wells contained detectable petroleum
derivatives. These results for NO3− contamination were not significantly different from those
reported for a survey of Ontario wells for the period 1950–1954, but the frequency of
contamination by Escherichia coli was greater in the present study. None of the point sources
investigated contributed significantly to the NO3− contamination. The percentage of wells
contaminated by coliform bacteria decreased significantly with increasing separation of the
well from the feedlot or exercise yard on livestock farms. A full statistical model including
the type of well construction, depth, age and soil hydrologic group was developed to describe
the frequency of NO3− contamination. (Goss, M.J., Barry, D.A.J., Rudolph, D.L., 1998)
19
CHAPTER 3
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY
Research design
The purpose of this study was to determine whether the water samples from the
wells of Generosa C. Colon Street Guimbal, Iloilo is safe for drinking or not and test the
presence of Total and Faecal Coliform bacteria which can contribute to the potability of
the water sample. The research design that was used in the study was descriptive.
Materials and Apparatuses used
1. Incubator at 35° ± 0.5°C.
2. Membrane filtration units (filter base and funnels): glass, plastic, or stainless
steel; wrapped in foil or paper and sterilized.
3. Ultraviolet sterilization chamber for sterilizing filter base and funnels

(optional).
4. Filter manifold or vacuum flask to hold filter funnels.
5. Vacuum source (line vacuum, electric vacuum pump or water aspirator).
6. Membrane filters; sterile, white, gridded, 47 mm diameter, 0.45 µm pore size

(or equivalent, as specified by the manufacturer) for enumeration of bacteria.
7. Petri dishes, sterile, plastic, 50 × 12 mm, with tight fitting lids.
8. Forceps designed to transfer membranes without damage.

Collection of Water Samples
One liter of water was collected from each of the ten wells in Generosa C. Colon
Street, Guimbal, Iloilo and the samples were placed in sterilized glass bottles. They were
then submitted to SEAFDEC Laboratory for microbiological test for water potability.
20
Microbiological Test for Water Potability
Thermotolerant Coliform Test (EC Medium)
The thermotolerant coliform test using EC medium is applicable to investigations of

drinking water stream pollution, raw water sources, wastewater treatment systems,
bathing waters, seawaters, and general water quality monitoring. It is used for detection
of Escherichia coli and other faecal coliforms.
Preparation of the EC medium
The ingrediants of the EC medium are:
Tryptose or trypticase………………………….............….…………………….. 20.0g
Lactose………………………………………………………………...………...5.0 g
Bile salts mixture or bile salts No. 3.…………………….……….…………….. 1.5 g
Dipotassium hydrogen phosphate. K2HPO4………………..………..…………4.0 g
Potassium dihydrogen phosphate. KH2PO4…………..…………………………1.5 g
Sodium chloride. NaCl......……………….……..………………………………. 5.0 g
Reagent-grade water………………………………..………..…...……………..…. 1 L
Water was added to the dehydrated ingredients, was mixed thoroughly, and was
heated to dissolve. Before sterilization, sufficient medium was dispensed in fermentation
tubes with an inverted vial, to cover the inverted vial at least one-half to two-thirds after
sterilization. Tubes were then closed with metal or heat-resistant plastic caps. Medium
was autoclaved at 121°C for 12 to 15 min. It was ensured that inverted vials were free of
air bubbles and that medium pH should be 6.9 0.2 after sterilization.
21
Lauryl Sulphate Broth (LSB)
LSB is used for detection of coliforms in water, wastewater, dairy products and
other food sample.
Ingredients
Tryptose....................................................................................................20.000 g/L
Lactose........................................................................................................5.000 g/L
Sodium chloride.........................................................................................5.000 g/L
Dipotassium phosphate..............................................................................2.750 g/L
Monopotassium phosphate.........................................................................2.750 g/L
Sodium lauryl sulphate..............................................................................0.100 g/L
A 35.6 grams in 1000 ml distilled water was suspended. It was heated to dissolve
the medium completely. It was distribute into tubes containing inverted Durhams tubes.
Sterilize by autoclaving at 15 lbs pressure (121°C) for 15 minutes. For inoculum of 1 ml
or less, a single strength medium was used. In an inocula of 10 ml or more, a double
strength or proportionate medium should was prepared.
Procedure
Fermentation tubes or bottles showing gas, growth, or acidity were gently shook
or rotated. Using a sterile 3- or 3.5-mm-diam loop or sterile wooden applicator stick,
growth from each presumptive or confirmed fermentation tube or bottle were transferred
to Lauryl Sulfate broth and EC broth. For each water sample, ten replicates were used for
both LSB and EC broth. The LSB and EC tubes were then placed in a water bath within
30 min after inoculation. Inoculated LSB and EC broth tubes were incubated in a water
22
bath at 44.5 = 0.2°C for 24 h + 2 h. Sufficient water depth in the water bath incubator to
immerse tubes to the upper level of the medium
Interpretation of Results
Gas production and growth in an LSB culture within 24 + 2 h or less is considered a

positive thermotolerant coliform reaction. Failure to produce gas (with little or no
growth) constitutes a negative reaction. Ten tubes were used, and the MPN of
thermotolerant and faecal coliforms were calculated from the number of positive LSB
and EC broth tubes.
Data Collection
The results of the laboratory testing on Total and Faecal Coliform were compared
if the water sample is safe for drinking or not.
23
Methodology Flow Chart
Collection of Data
Laboratory Experimentation
 Inoculate
 Incubate
 Examine
 Test presumptive positive tubes
 Transfer
 Incubate
Data Analysis
 Examine
 Calculate
Data Analysis
24
CHAPTER 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
The table shows the result of water samples from ten household in Generosa C.
Colon Guimbal, Iloilo. Total coliform count measured as Most Probable Number (MPN)
per 100 ml of all the ten samples from the wells in Generosa C. Colon were greater than
1.1 MPN, the value for microbiologically potable water identified by the Department of
Health. The water samples from the household wells of Sample B, C, D, F, H, and J
showed the highest total coliform count of greater than 23 MPN/ 100 ml. Water samples
from Sample A showed a result of 23 MPN/100 ml, Sample E and I had a total coliform
count of 12 MPN/100 ml, and Sample G with 5.1 MPN/100 ml.
Faecal coliform count indicates the presence of pathogenic bacteria such as E.coli
and is measured as Most Probable Number (MPN) per 100 ml. According to DOH, the
value for microbiologically potable water is less than 1.1 MPN/100 ml. Results from the
ten water samples from wells showed faecal coliform counts greater than 1.1 MPN/100
ml. Water samples from Sample C, H and J showed the highest faecal coliform count of
>23 MPN/100 ml, followed by Sample F with a value of 23 MPN/100 ml, Sample D with
9.2 MPN/100 ml, Sample A with 6.9 MPN/100 ml, Sample B and Sample I with 3. 6
MPN/100 ml. Sample E and G on the other hand had 2.2 MPN/100 ml. These values are
greater than 1.1 MPN/100 ml indicating the water from all sampled wells have presence
of faecal contamination and are microbiologically not potable. These also indicate that
there is potential health risk for individuals exposed to these water sources.
25
Total and Faecal Coliform counts of water samples from wells in Generosa C. Colon
Sample Total Coliform Faecal Coliform
(MPN per 100 ml) (MPN per 100 ml)
A 23 6.9
B >23 3.6
C >23 >23.0
D >23 9.2
E 12 2.2
F >23 23
G 5.1 2.2
H >23 >23.0
I 12 3.6
J >23 >23
Value for microbiological <1.1 <1.1

quality for drinking water
(DOH AD no. 2007-0012)*
26
CHAPTER 5
SUMMARY, FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The researchers assessed the water potability based on microbiology of wells in

Generosa C. Colon Street Guimbal, Iloilo, Philippines.
This study aimed to answer the following questions: What is the Total Coliform
count in the wells of Generosa C. Colon, Street, Guimbal, Iloilo, what is the Faecal
Coliform count in the wells of Generosa C. Colon Street, Guimbal, Iloilo and what is the
water potability of wells in Generosa C. Colon Street, Guimbal, Iloilo.
The Total Coliform count of the wells has a greater value than the prescribed
valueof a potable drinking water. The Faecal Coliform count which has also a greater
value than the prescribed value of a potable drinking water.
A total of 10 water samples from different wells were gathered and tested.
Drinking water should have a total coliform count of less than 1.1 MPN/100 ml and a
faecal coliform count of less than 1.1 MPN/100 ml. The results showed that all of the
water samples have the total coliform count ranging from 5.1 to >23 MPN/100 ml and
faecal coliform count ranging from 2.2 to >23 MPN/100 ml and did not pass the DOH
microbiological quality for drinking water.
Further assessment of the wells in Generosa C. Colon Street Guimbal, Iloilo

should be conducted such as identification of the specific bacteria present as well as other
pathogenic organisms in order to prevent the community from acquiring diseases,
specifically water borne diseases. Due to changes in the environment people should not
depend on their source of drinking water and from time to time they need to make sure
that it is reliable.
For the residents, the researchers recommend that the water from the wells should
be boiled for 1 minute before drinking or cooking or they should just buy purified
drinking water from trusted water refilling stations rather than risking their health from
27
an unreliable source. Wells should be disinfected or chlorinated by a professional or the

residents can contact the environmental health program at local health department for
instructions on how to do it themselves. A re-sampling and re-testing of the well water
after chlorinating should be done.
REFERENCES
(https://www.thefreedictionary.com/drinking+water.date retrieved: October 25, 2017)
(https://racqliving.com.au/wellbeing/filtered-vs-unfiltered-water/ date retrieved: October

25, 2017)
28
(https://www.doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/DrinkingWater/Contaminants/Col
iform date retrieved: October 25, 2017)
(https://www.water-research.net/index.php/fecal-coliform-bacteria-in-water
date retrieved: October 25, 2017)
(https://agwt.org/content/ground-water-and-water-wells-definitions-and-explanations
date retrieved: October 25, 2017)
(World Health Organization, 2008)
(Rangel J., Lopez B., Mejia M., Mendoza C., and Luby S., 2003)
(Heberer, T., Feldmann, D., Reddersen, K., Altmann, H-J., Zimmermann, T., 2002)
(Ashbolt, N.J., 2004)
(Heibati, M., Stedmon, C., Stenroth, K., Rauch, S.,Toljander J., Save-Soderbergh, M., e ,
Murphy, K., 2017)
(Ormerod, K.J., 2017)
(J. Bridgeman, J., Baker A., Brown D.,Boxall, J.B, 2015)
(Kilb, B., Lange, B., Schaule, G., Flemming, H.-C, Wingender, J., 2003)
(Pillai, J., Mathew, K., Gibbs, R., Ho, G.E., 1999)
(Fecal Coliform Bacteria. (n.d.). Retrieved from

http://www.ririvers.org/wsp/CLASS_3/FecalColiformBacteria.htm)
(Environmental Fact Sheet. 2003. Fecal Coliform as an Indicator Organism. New

Hampshire Department of Environmental Services. Retrieved from
29
https://www.des.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/pip/factsheets/wwt/documents/web-
18.pdf)
(Lim, J.Y., Yoon, J. and Hovde, C., 2010)
(Record Jr, M. T., Courtenay, E., Cayley, D. S., Guttman, H. J., 1998)
(Edberg, S.C., Rice, E.W., Karlin, R.J., Allen, M. J., 2000)
(Echeverria, P., Seriwatana, J., Chityothin, O., Chaicumpa, W., Tirapat., 2005)
(Gerba, C.P., McLeod, J.S., 1976)
(Gupta, S., Suantio, A., Gray, A., Widyastuti, E., Jain, N., Rolos, R.., Hoekstra, R.,
Quick, R., 2007)
(Goss, M.J., Barry, D.A.J., Rudolph, D.L., 1998)
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Darwin A. Haro, Principal III; Mrs. Ronella Gestopa, Research Adviser; Mr. John Paul
Frajillo; Mr. Dennis Sabido; Ms. Gertrude Gelera; Mr. Bonifacio Garvilles; Mrs.
30
Briggiette Tubise; Dr. Josefa Travina; Hon. Teresita Vera Cruz; Christopher E. Cabardo;
Christine Marie Tatud; Owners of Tested Wells: A.Espina; V. Garibay; T. Veracruz; J.
dela Cruz; P. Trajera; A. Garvilles; O. Tinaya; F. Germino; B. Garvilles; L. General;
Parents of the Researchers: Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Jigger Gilo; Mr. and Mrs. Joemer
Fedilo; Mr. and Mrs. Benjie Garibay; Mr. and Mrs. Giovanni Gasapo;Mr. and Mrs.
Orlando Tatud; Mrs. Josette Gonzaga and Faculty and staff of SEAFDEC.
31

Determining The Water Potability of Wells in Generosa C. Colon Street, Guimbal, Iloilo

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Guimbal National High School

Rizal St., Guimbal, Iloilo

DETERMINING THE WATER POTABILITY OF WELLS IN GENEROSA C.

Presented to the Faculty & Staff

Of Guimbal National High School

Special Program for Science, Technology, and Engineering 10

Brent Alexander Gilo

Vea Shania Garibay

Keanna Laine Gasapo

Mary Rose Angelique Tatud

Special Program for Science and Technology 10

INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY

Background of the Study

Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Water Samples From Generosa C. Colon

Statement of the Problem

Water potability. The condition of the water if it is fit for

Scope and Limitation

Significance of the Study

The research “Determining the Water Potability of Wells in Generosa C. Colon

Natives of Generosa C. Colon Street, Guimbal, Iloilo. The residents will be

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

It is therefore wise to be aware of consumer perceptions and to take into account

Childhood mortality from diarrheal disease in Latin America remains high

In military out of area missions of the Bundeswehr, it can be necessary to produce

Drinking water is a major source of microbial pathogens in developing regions,

Microorganisms in drinking water distribution systems are either part of the

In water samples from drinking water distribution systems, coliform bacteria

Fecal coliform bacteria are generally used as indicators of potential water

category contains both pathogen (disease-causing) and nonpathogenic bacteria. An

The presence of fecal coliforms is a reliable indicator of fecal contamination.

Fecal coliform testing does appear to be a good indicator of pathogen regrowth.

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped, facultative anaerobic

by acquiring virulence factors through plasmids, transposons, bacteriophages, and/or

Escherichia coli is capable of growing in environments ranging from very dilute

Public health protection requires an indicator of fecal pollution. It is not necessary

E. coli (ETEC) in water. Drinking and bathing water collected from 2 of 10

Improved storage containers were found to be no more effective in protecting

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY

Materials and Apparatuses used

1. Incubator at 35° ± 0.5°C.

3. Ultraviolet sterilization chamber for sterilizing filter base and funnels

4. Filter manifold or vacuum flask to hold filter funnels.

5. Vacuum source (line vacuum, electric vacuum pump or water aspirator).

6. Membrane filters; sterile, white, gridded, 47 mm diameter, 0.45 µm pore size

7. Petri dishes, sterile, plastic, 50 × 12 mm, with tight fitting lids.

8. Forceps designed to transfer membranes without damage.

Microbiological Test for Water Potability

Thermotolerant Coliform Test (EC Medium)

The thermotolerant coliform test using EC medium is applicable to investigations of

Preparation of the EC medium

The ingrediants of the EC medium are:

Tryptose or trypticase………………………….............….…………………….. 20.0g

Bile salts mixture or bile salts No. 3.…………………….……….…………….. 1.5 g

Dipotassium hydrogen phosphate. K2HPO4………………..………..…………4.0 g

Potassium dihydrogen phosphate. KH2PO4…………..…………………………1.5 g

Sodium chloride. NaCl......……………….……..………………………………. 5.0 g

Lauryl Sulphate Broth (LSB)

Sodium chloride.........................................................................................5.000 g/L

Dipotassium phosphate..............................................................................2.750 g/L

Monopotassium phosphate.........................................................................2.750 g/L

Sodium lauryl sulphate..............................................................................0.100 g/L