Fresh and clean waters are one of the most valuable resources for any ship’s crew. Only water carried on board or produced by the ship can be used when the vessel is in the middle of the ocean. Therefore water analysis is a routine procedure done by officers to examine the life supporting liquid and determine its suitability for consumption.
Drinking Water Analysis encompasses the tests conducted on water samples to establish their physicochemical and microbiological properties to ensure that the water is fit for human consumption. It checks if the onboard water is up to the quality standard and is safe for consumption before use by the crew and passengers.
Clean tanks, pipelines and distribution systems are essential as contamination can occur even after water enters the ship in good condition.
Actual parameters tested depend on the applicable standard, shipboard procedure and laboratory requirements. Common ones include appearance, colour, odour, taste, pH, turbidity, TDS, conductivity, hardness, chloride, residual chlorine, iron, coliforms and E. coli.
Tests are usually performed using test kits, comparator discs or portable meters, depending on ship’s equipment and company SMS requirements. The purpose is always the same to verify safety before consumption.
Sampling Procedure
The results of water analysis need to be compared to the relevant regulations, flag administration requirements, company procedures and water quality standards to determine if any actions need to be taken. Engineers should use the appropriate reference values for the requirements and location of the vessel when interpreting the results. The results that indicate a deviation from the requirements and unusual trends need to be documented, reported to the master and investigated. If needed corrective measures should be taken to ensure that the quality of water is restored and the source of the problem is eliminated.
Measures
Drinking water analysis is a routine obligation that should be performed to ensure that the ship’s water resources are not contaminated. The knowledge of the water’s characteristics like pH, turbidity, residual chlorine and microbiological quality can help detect any abnormalities in the water quality. Therefore, the information on water analysis and the standard permissible limits will be useful to future marine engineers in maintaining safe and healthy working conditions in the ships’ environment.
To ensure that the water supplied on board is safe and suitable for consumption by the crew and passengers. Regular analysis helps detect contamination and maintain proper water quality.
pH testing checks whether the water is too acidic or too alkaline. Maintaining a suitable pH helps protect human health and prevents corrosion or damage to the ship’s water distribution system.
Residual chlorine is checked to confirm that the disinfection process is effective. It also helps ensure that the water remains protected against microbial contamination during storage and distribution.
Microbiological testing helps detect harmful bacteria and other microorganisms that may cause waterborne diseases. It is an important part of confirming that drinking water is safe for consumption.
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