Chemical, radiological and microbiological characterization of a drinking water source: a case study

Abstract

This study examined water samples from a local stream in Central Serbia, which was consumed as drinking water. The chemical parameters (chemical oxygen demand, COD; pH, total concentration of dissolved substances and electrical conductivity), the concentration of major, trace and radioactive elements in the water as well as the content of those from the environment, were examined. In addition, the microbiological quality of the water was inspected. The water samples were acidic (pH from 5·27–5·69) and COD ranged in upper permissible limits (up to 6·25 mg O2 l−1 [WR]). The concentrations of major, trace and radioactive elements, including radon, were below maximum contaminant levels. The water contained a higher number of total coliform bacteria (TCB) than it was allowed (˃10 colony-forming units (CFU) in 100 ml of water) as well as enterococci and Escherichia coli. The characterization of the isolated bacteria indicated that two isolates demonstrated proteolytic activity, while full antibiotic resistance was not detected. The isolates showed moderate to strong ability to produce biofilm, while the isolates of E. coli were nonpathogenic. The results indicated that examined water samples were not microbiologically and chemically safe, therefore, the usage of analysed water was not recommended as a water supply. Further research needs to include more frequent monitoring in order to propose measures for the improvement of the water quality and prevention of health risks for consumers.