ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND WATER POTABILITY: SAMPLE ANALYSIS IN THE DOUTOR GUSMÃO NEIGHBORHOOD, EUNÁPOLIS-BA

Abstract

The overall objective of this study was to evaluate the water quality from different sources (surrounding community and school) in the Doutor Gusmão neighborhood, in the city of Eunápolis-BA, to ensure its suitability for human consumption according to Ordinance No. 518, March 2004. Water samples were collected from residences and the Humberto de Campos Municipal School through the Extension Project of the Discipline Science, Extension and Health Transformation in the Community I, and were subjected to physicochemical, organoleptic and microbiological (fecal Coliforms and total coliforms). The methodology employed was exploratory and descriptive, with a qualitative approach. The research included the collection of water samples from three common use points: faucets, wells or water tanks, and main sources of human consumption. The results indicated that most samples from treatment stations met quality standards, although some showed elevated levels of chlorine and ammonia, as well as microbiological contamination. It was concluded that, although treated water is generally safe for consumption, it is essential to apply stricter treatment and monitoring measures for natural sources. The results were presented to adolescents at Humberto de Campos Municipal School, who expressed concern about the water quality in their homes and school. It is recommended to raise public awareness about the importance of potable water and to strengthen public sanitation policies.