Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Water tanks in halls of residence play a crucial role in providing clean and safe water for occupants. However, these tanks can become contaminated with various bacteria, posing a potential health risk to the residents. In this study, we conducted a bacteriological analysis of water tanks in several halls of residence to assess the level of bacterial contamination present. Samples were collected from different points within the water distribution system, including inlet water, tank water, and tap water. Standard microbiological techniques were employed to isolate and identify bacterial species present in the samples. Total coliforms, fecal coliforms, and other indicator bacteria were quantified to determine the level of contamination. The results revealed varying degrees of bacterial contamination in the water tanks of the halls of residence. Total coliform counts exceeded the permissible limits in several samples, indicating a potential risk of waterborne diseases. Fecal coliforms, which are indicators of fecal contamination and potential pathogens, were also detected in some samples, highlighting the need for immediate remedial actions. Identification of the bacterial species isolated from the samples showed the presence of common waterborne pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus species. These findings emphasize the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance of water tanks to prevent bacterial colonization and ensure the supply of safe drinking water. Furthermore, antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed on the isolated bacterial strains to assess their resistance profiles. The results indicated varying degrees of resistance to commonly used antibiotics, raising concerns about the potential spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria through the water supply system. Overall, this study underscores the importance of regular bacteriological analysis of water tanks in halls of residence to safeguard the health of occupants. Effective management practices, including routine cleaning, disinfection, and maintenance of water tanks, are essential to prevent bacterial contamination and ensure the provision of clean and safe water. Public health interventions and awareness programs should be implemented to educate residents about the importance of water quality and hygiene practices in halls of residence.

Thesis Overview

1.0   INTRODUCTION

Water is indispensable and intricately connected to life, without which there is no life. This is the reason for which water must be given the necessary attention at all times. Good drinking water is not a luxury; it is one of the most essential amenities of life itself. The supply of safe drinking water to all has therefore engaged the attention of many individuals, groups, governmental organizations and private organizations. (Adetunde et al. 2010).

Drinking water free of pathogenic organisms is fundamental to breaking one of the principal transmission routes of infectious disease. This fact has stimulated worldwide investment in the construction of water systems that are designed to meet stringent water quality standards. (Trevett, 2004).

Waterborne pathogens, including a variety of viral, bacterial, algal and protozoan agents, account for much of the estimated 4 billion cases and 2.5 million deaths from endemic diarrheal disease each year. (Kosek et al. 2003).

Increase in human population has exerted an enormous pressure on the provision of safe drinking water, especially in developing countries (Umeh et al. 2005). Unsafe water is a global public health threat, placing persons at risk for a host of diarrheal and other disease as well as chemical intoxication (Hughes et al. 2005). Unsanitary water particularly has devastating effects on young children in developing world. Each year, more than 2 million persons, mostly children less than 5 years of age, die of diarrheal disease (Kosek et al. 2003; Parashar et al. 2003).

Nearly 90% of diarrheal-related deaths have been attributed to unsafe or inadequate-water supplies and sanitation conditions affecting a large part of the world’s population (Hughes et al. 2005; WHO 2004). An estimated 2.6 billion persons lack access to adequate sanitation (Okonko et al. 2008).

The University of Benin, Benin City, has 5 main halls of residence (halls 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5). There are also various staff quarters in the school: Junior Staff Quarter, Senior Staff Quarter, Dentistry Quarter and Doctor’s Quarter. These halls depend on borehole water stored in overhead tanks for their water supply.

1.1   AIM OF THE STUDY:

This study is aimed at the bacteriological analysis of the water from these tanks.

1.2   OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY:

1. To attain the total bacterial count of the water samples.
2. To determine the coliform counts (Most Probable Number) of the water samples.
3. To determine the species of bacteria present in the water.