Risk Assessment of Water Quality in Public Institutions in Warri, Delta State

This study aimed to evaluate the risks associated with water quality in public institutions in Warri, Delta State. Water samples were collected from five public institutions namely, School, Hospital, Mall, Church and Hotel. Physico-chemical and microbial analyses were conducted using standard methods. The water quality index (WQI) and risk assessment matrix (RAM) were applied the quality and potential risks. Results revealed slightly acidic pH levels (5.1-6.63) in water samples. Dissolved oxygen levels (3.8-4.2 mg/L) were below WHO recommendations. Iron was detected in all samples, with the hospital exceeding WHO guidelines (0.703 mg/L). Remarkably, microbial parameters were not detected in the water samples. The WQI categorized all locations as having "Good water quality’ except for the mall which has a medium water quality. However, the RAM identified extreme risks for pH at the mall and iron concentration at the hospital. Dissolved oxygen levels were consistently categorized as medium risk across all locations. Though, overall water quality is good, specific parameters present varying degrees of risk requiring attention.