DETERMINATION OF DRINKING WATER QUALITY IN THE STUDENT CAMPUS OF WEST UKRAINIAN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY

Abstract

Drinking water quality is a critically important aspect of ensuring comfortable living and learning conditions for students in higher education institutions. This study analyzed the physicochemical parameters of water in three educational buildings on the campus of West Ukrainian National University, with a particular focus on ammonia, nitrites, sulfates, and chlorides, which can impact consumer health. The goal of this study was to assess the quality of drinking water in the student campus of West Ukrainian National University by analyzing its physicochemical and microbiological parameters. Specifically, the research measured concentrations of ammonia, nitrites, sulfates, and chlorides, assessed their compliance with regulatory standards, and identified potential sources of contamination. The research was conducted in three educational buildings of the university over three months (September, October, November). Ammonia concentrations were determined using Nessler’s reagent; nitrites were identified with Griess reagent; sulfates were analyzed through reaction with barium chloride, and chlorides were measured by titration with silver nitrate solution using potassium chromate as an indicator. Optical density measurements of samples were performed using a ULAB 102 spectrophotometer. This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of drinking water quality in the student campus of West Ukrainian National University, focusing on the variability of key physicochemical parameters in three educational buildings during the autumn period. The research established a correlation between elevated concentrations of chemical compounds (ammonia, nitrites, chlorides) and possible seasonal or local sources of contamination. The results showed that most chemical parameters (ammonia, nitrites, sulfates, chlorides) in drinking water met regulatory standards. However, elevated concentrations of ammonia (0.47 mg/L) and nitrites (0.434 mg/L) were recorded in Building 2, indicating the need for enhanced monitoring. The highest chloride level (0.868 mg/L) was also detected in Building 2, which may be associated with local contamination sources. Overall, the study highlighted the importance of regular water supply monitoring to minimize risks associated with chemical contamination of drinking water.