Methodology

Introduction

In this chapter the author describes the methods and materials that were used in
sampling and analysing the water before and after it has undergone treatment. Various
techniques were used for water quality analysis and the choice of methods used was
affected by the limited resources. The main parameters under consideration were:
 Iron and manganese (chemical parameters)
 Turbidity and pH (physical parameters) and
 Faecal coliform count (biological parameters)
The parameters were chosen because they are deemed to have a direct bearing on
perception of consumers on the quality of the water.
The study comprised of a field study and laboratory tests on the water samples
collected from the treatment plant.

Sampling plan

One of the objectives of this research is to quantify the amount of iron, manganese,
turbidity, pH and faecal coliforms present in the water before and after treatment. This
meant that a sampling plan had to be developed. The questions raised in the sampling
plan were:
1) From where within the site should samples be collected
2) How many samples should be analysed
3) Quality assurance

Sample collection

The samples of the untreated water were collected from the point of intake and samples
of the treated water were collected from taps within the treatment facility.
Containers used for collecting samples must not affect the integrity of the sample (EPA,
2007). The samples were collected in 500mℓ polyethylene bottles with Teflon lined
bottle caps (EPA, 2007). The containers were pre-washed with hydrochloric acid and
were rinsed with distilled water as required by EPA (2007). The sample containers were
first rinsed and the collection was done by rapid immersion into the water and capping
(EPA, 2007).

Sample preservation

After sampling the water from the source, there is a danger that it can undergo chemical
and physical changes before sample analysis.

To retard the physical and chemical changes the EPA (2007) recommend that
hydrochloric acid be added to the sample.

The samples were stored in ice cooled boxes during transit from the sampling point to
the laboratory, as per requirements of the EPA (2007). The samples were stored in a
refrigerator before analysis.

Analysis of samples

The analysis of samples for pH was done using a pH meter and the analysis for turbidity
was carried out using a turbidity meter.
The analysis of samples for iron and manganese was carried out using the photometer.
Photometers produce electrical signals, which correspond to radiant flux energy, for a
series of discrete wavelength intervals. They are used to measure wavelengths of light
spectra and optical or atomic emissions.

Method

1. Fill measuring cylinder to 10mm mark

 2. Add the required reagent, crush and mix to dissolve
3. Pour the contents from the measuring cylinder into a test tube
4. Adjust the photometer to the required wave length
5. Take an empty test tube and wait until the photometer reads 100, and then take
the container with the sample and take the reading

Analysis of the samples for faecal coliforms was carried out using MPN (most probable
number) counts.