Investigation of Two Zinc Pollution Cases Caused by Using Unqualified Galvanized Pipes in Rural Water Supply Project

Objectives  In order to ensure the safety of drinking water and provide basis for the investigation and treatment of similar incidents, an investigation and analysis on two zinc pollution cases in rural drinking water safety project was carried out.

Methods  After an environmental hygiene in the field being investigated, the concentration of zinc in two source water samples, five terminal piped water samples and one water sample was soaked in galvanized pipes were determined. The detected results were compared.

Results  The concentrations of zinc in two source water samples were qualified. The concentration of zinc in five terminal piped water samples and in one water sample was soaked in galvanized pipe were 1.1~3.6 times higher than that of relevant standard limit.

Conclusions  The cause of two cases on zinc concentrations exceeded the set standard limit for water supply projects were the use of unqualified galvanized pipes. It was suggested that the unqualified pipeline should be replaced and qualified pipes should be used in the future, and the relevant water indicators should be examined before the supply of drinking water.