Evaluation of Physicochemical and Microbiological Characteristics of Drinking Water in Educational Institutions of Al-Qarabully, Libya

Abstract

Ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water is a fundamental requirement for protecting public health, particularly within educational institutions where students depend on reliable water sources for daily consumption. This study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical and microbiological quality of drinking water supplied to selected educational institutions in Garabolli, Libya, and to assess its compliance with Libyan and international drinking water standards. Six water samples were collected from different educational facilities and analyzed using standard laboratory methods. Physicochemical parameters included pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, and total hardness. Microbiological analyses were also conducted to detect total coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli as indicators of potential fecal contamination. The results indicated that pH values ranged from 7.38 to 7.94, while electrical conductivity varied between 1223 and 1983 µS/cm. Bicarbonate concentrations ranged from 0.96 to 2.72 mg/L, all of which were within the permissible limits specified by Libyan drinking water standards. However, TDS values (795–1288 mg/L) and total hardness (320–448 mg/L) exceeded the recommended limits of 500 mg/L and 200 mg/L, respectively. Microbiological examination showed no detectable presence of total coliforms or E. coli in any of the analyzed samples. Overall, the findings indicate that although the examined water samples were microbiologically safe, the elevated TDS and hardness levels suggest increased mineralization that may affect overall water quality. Continuous monitoring, improved treatment processes, and stricter regulatory control are recommended to ensure compliance with drinking water standards and to safeguard public health.