(Johannesburg, South Africa) – With essential water infrastructure upgrades underway in Johannesburg, large parts of the region have seen their taps run dry, leaving residents and businesses rushing to source, and store, water to meet their daily needs.

In doing so, it’s crucial for all water users – including consumers, retailers, restaurants, manufacturers, and households – to ensure the water they are drinking is safe.

“While these upgrades are necessary for long-term water security, the temporary disruptions may lead to residents, out of anxiety or desperation, sourcing and storing water on their own, but without proper measures to ensure safety, it may bring unexpected potential risk to families. With the right intervention, the integrity of the water you’re sourcing and storing will make it suitable for consumption,” says Marina Sander, compliance expert at food safety testing provider, AssureCloud, who provide SANS 241 water testing, a legislative requirement for water suppliers that indicate their water is suitable for drinking.

Here is her guidance on the correct procedure for sourcing, assessing the quality of, and storing water over the next few weeks while upgrades are underway:

Assess the water you have sourced:

“Wherever you are sourcing water from, inspect the vessel it is contained in for damages or tampering to the lid or packaging, then assess the appearance of the water, as well as how it smells,” she says.

• Water with a strong or unusual odour may indicate contamination. Common smells include chlorine, rotten eggs (sulfur), or a musty odour.
• Water should be clear. Brown, yellow, or cloudy water can signal the presence of rust, sediment, or microorganisms.
• Any change in the taste of water, such as a metallic or sour flavour, could be a warning sign of contaminants.
• If purchasing from suppliers, ensure bottles have labelling to ensure they have been SANS241 tested – i.e. suitable for drinking

Take control of your water

If you suspect contamination, several methods can be used to ensure safe drinking water:

• Boiling: Boil water for at least one minute (three minutes at higher altitudes) to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
• Chlorine tablets: Available at pharmacies and outdoor supply stores, use chlorine tablets to disinfect water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper dosage and adhere to the timeframe.
• UV filters: Use ultraviolet light to kill microorganisms. They are available as portable devices or installed units. Ensure the water is clear before using UV light, as particles can shield microorganisms from the UV rays.
• Bleach (emergency only): Use regular, unscented household bleach (5-6% chlorine) for emergency disinfection. Add 8 drops (about 0.5 ml) of bleach per gallon (3.8 litres) of water, stir well, and let it stand for at least 30 minutes before use.

If you receive water from trucks:

• Ensure trucks are clean and well-maintained.
• Request water quality certificates from the supplier (if a private supplier), focusing on both microbiological and chemical parameters.
• Transfer water promptly to clean, designated storage containers.
• Ensure your hands are clean so that you don’t unintentionally pass contaminants into the vessel.

Storage of water:

• Use containers with tight lids to prevent contamination.
• Store water in a cool, shaded area (ideally below 15-20°C for cold water and above 60°C for hot water).
• Regularly inspect water tanks and storage containers for cleanliness and signs of deterioration.
• Monitor for any signs of bacterial growth pathogens like E. coli and coliforms, which can cause gastrointestinal illnesses.

“By following these recommendations and staying informed through official updates, residents and businesses can navigate this period with confidence. Prioritise water safety to ensure a healthy and secure water supply for your household or business. Be vigilant and taking proactive steps to ensure safe drinking water is paramount. Also, share educational materials with staff or family members on water safety practices,” says Sander.