Opening a tap at will is something that is taken for granted by most people in developed countries. Yet, in the United States alone, about fifteen per cent of people are relying on boreholes. Public water supply systems are carefully monitored to make sure that it is safe but private boreholes are not part of any formal system. Owners of boreholes have to take personal responsibility to make sure that they conduct regular well water testing.
Borehole owners should never neglect to have quality tests performed. Even water that looks clean can contain bacteria and other contaminants that may pose a danger to the health of the people and animals that use it. In a study done by the Montana State University a large percentage of samples from privately owned boreholes were found to contain extremely high levels of nitrate. In addition, almost forty per cent contained the coliform bacteria.
There are large numbers of contaminants, including bacteria and chemical as well as biological agents that can infect a borehole. Testing for all of them is not viable because it is an expensive process. Experts agree, however, that a standard analysis should include tests for coliform bacteria and nitrates. These contaminants may cause disease. Tests should also be done for the presence of dissolved solids.
The threat of using borehole products should be taken seriously. Tests have shown that there is a number of serious conditions that can be contracted if using contaminated borehole products. This includes dysentery, hepatitis and even some of the more dangerous neurological disorders. In addition, people undergoing radical treatments such as chemotherapy are at particular risk. Vulnerable people such as infants and AIDS patients are at great risk.
Boreholes are vulnerable to contamination of a wide variety of agents that can be harmful to humans. This is especially the case in areas where there is heavy industrial operation or mines. If lead pipes are used there should also be cause for concern. Even farming operations that use pesticides and other chemicals can contaminate the underground table, thereby causing harm to the users of boreholes.
Experts agree that borehole contents should be tested at least once a year. However, more frequent or incidental tests should be undertaken when certain signs occur. If any user becomes ill or if there have been incidents of flooding it may be a good idea to have the borehole tested. If there is any change in the color or taste alarm bells should also ring.
There are a number of institutions that offer test services. Care should be taken to only use those organizations that are properly registered and that carry a seal of approval from the local authorities. The internet is a good source of information in this regard. It is recommended to check with other borehole owners and use only those facilities that have a good reputation.
Having a private borehole is, for some people ate least, a privilege and for others it is the only way in which they can enjoy baths and moisture. Great care should be taken, however, to ensure that it is safe and that it does not contain potentially harmful contaminants. Tests should be conducted regularly and the quality of the product should be safe guarded.
Borehole owners should never neglect to have quality tests performed. Even water that looks clean can contain bacteria and other contaminants that may pose a danger to the health of the people and animals that use it. In a study done by the Montana State University a large percentage of samples from privately owned boreholes were found to contain extremely high levels of nitrate. In addition, almost forty per cent contained the coliform bacteria.
There are large numbers of contaminants, including bacteria and chemical as well as biological agents that can infect a borehole. Testing for all of them is not viable because it is an expensive process. Experts agree, however, that a standard analysis should include tests for coliform bacteria and nitrates. These contaminants may cause disease. Tests should also be done for the presence of dissolved solids.
The threat of using borehole products should be taken seriously. Tests have shown that there is a number of serious conditions that can be contracted if using contaminated borehole products. This includes dysentery, hepatitis and even some of the more dangerous neurological disorders. In addition, people undergoing radical treatments such as chemotherapy are at particular risk. Vulnerable people such as infants and AIDS patients are at great risk.
Boreholes are vulnerable to contamination of a wide variety of agents that can be harmful to humans. This is especially the case in areas where there is heavy industrial operation or mines. If lead pipes are used there should also be cause for concern. Even farming operations that use pesticides and other chemicals can contaminate the underground table, thereby causing harm to the users of boreholes.
Experts agree that borehole contents should be tested at least once a year. However, more frequent or incidental tests should be undertaken when certain signs occur. If any user becomes ill or if there have been incidents of flooding it may be a good idea to have the borehole tested. If there is any change in the color or taste alarm bells should also ring.
There are a number of institutions that offer test services. Care should be taken to only use those organizations that are properly registered and that carry a seal of approval from the local authorities. The internet is a good source of information in this regard. It is recommended to check with other borehole owners and use only those facilities that have a good reputation.
Having a private borehole is, for some people ate least, a privilege and for others it is the only way in which they can enjoy baths and moisture. Great care should be taken, however, to ensure that it is safe and that it does not contain potentially harmful contaminants. Tests should be conducted regularly and the quality of the product should be safe guarded.
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