Abstract:
Objectives To investigate the quality of drinking water in rural areas of Xinjiang province.
Methods The survey was conducted in 38 counties of Xinjiang Province. A total of 804 treated water samples and 801 terminal tap water samples were selected by random from May to August in 2009. Nineteen items were examined according to the Standard Examination Methods for Drinking Water (GB/T 5750-2006). The sanitary quality was determined and evaluated according to the Standards for Drinking Water Quality.
Results The qualification rate for microorganisms was the lowest (76.82%), followed by soluble total solids (84.67%). There was no significant difference on the qualification rate of water samples between treated water and terminal tap water (P > 0.05).
Conclusions The sanitary status of drinking water was not satisfied in rural areas of Xinjiang province. Microorganism contamination is the main problem in drinking water safety.