Keep reading to learn four ways industrial water quality can harm public health and how practices like regular water tank inspections can keep communities safe.
From the water you drink to the food you eat, the quality of industrial water plays a major role in public health and safety. Use this guide to discover four ways industrial water quality impacts public health and how you can protect this valuable resource.
1. Contaminated Water Supplies
Many industries rely on water for their operations, and improper treatment can result in heavy metals, chemicals, and pathogens entering public water supplies. When these contaminants enter rivers, lakes, or ground reservoirs, they can pollute the water we use at home.
Drinking contaminated water can lead to health problems, such as gastrointestinal illnesses, chronic diseases, and developmental issues in children. With this in mind, the importance of wastewater treatment is clear for the health of entire communities.
2. Food and Agricultural Contamination
Water for industrial uses doesn’t stay in the factories. Often, it enters nearby environments, where it can seep into the soil or irrigation systems used for food production. This poses a threat to agriculture and, ultimately, your dinner table.
When crops are exposed to water containing pesticides, toxic metals, or untreated waste, they absorb these substances and transfer them directly to the food and drinks you consume. Monitoring water quality near agricultural hubs is critical for a safe food and water supply.
3. The Role of Waterborne Diseases
Water containing industrial pollutants can be the perfect breeding ground for bacteria that cause waterborne diseases. E. coli and Legionella thrive in untreated and stagnant water.
Breathing in or ingesting these microorganisms can cause public health issues, particularly respiratory problems, skin infections, and diarrheal diseases. Industrial professionals must establish and follow rigorous water management protocols to minimize these risks.
4. The Importance of Water Tank Liners
You might not realize it, but industrial tanks play a pivotal role in water storage and distribution. Inside these tanks, liners prevent leaks and contamination. However, they’re not foolproof.
Damaged or poorly maintained tank liners can allow water to become contaminated by bacteria, sediment, or corrosion from the tank itself. Over time, this can lead to widespread issues in the supply chain, harming households and businesses alike.
Industrial professionals must inspect water tank liners regularly to maintain clean and safe water. By identifying damage and replacing liners as needed, professionals can protect water quality and ensure the health of surrounding communities.
Steps You Can Take
While industrial professionals are responsible for upholding water quality standards, there are things you can do to get informed about contaminated water and advocate for better practices:
· Research initiatives in your region that promote strict industrial wastewater treatment regulations in your area.
· Keep a close eye on water quality reports published by local water authorities or environmental agencies.
· If you suspect unhealthy practices are affecting your community, communicate with your local legislators or industry leaders.
Clean water is essential for everyone, and by working together, we can ensure industrial practices align with public health needs.
Protect Public Health Today
It’s clear that water quality is more than just an industry issue; it’s a public health priority that affects every individual. By understanding the ways industrial water quality impacts public health, you can play a vital role in safeguarding your community.
This article was written for WHN by Casey Cartwright, a passionate copyeditor highly motivated to provide compelling SEO content in the digital marketing space. Her expertise includes a vast range of industries, from highly technical to consumer and lifestyle-based, with an emphasis on attention to detail and readability.
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement.
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References/Sources/Materials provided by:
https://www.who.int/teams/environment-climate-change-and-health/water-sanitation-and-health
https://www.epa.gov/eg/industrial-wastewater-treatment-technology-database-iwtt
https://www.fao.org/4/t0234e/t0234e00.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/control-legionella/php/wmp/index.htm
https://www.epa.gov/report-environment/drinking-water
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/environmental-science/articles/10.3389/fenvs.2022.880246/full
https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-water-data/waterborne-disease-in-us/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/drinking-water/about/water-quality-and-your-health.html
https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/news/aug21/water-quality-month.html
