Public warned on safety of refilled water products

CEBU, Philippines - Though water refilling stations are considered safe sources of drinking water, the quality of their products could become contaminated when operators do not constantly observe good manufacturing practices.

The Department of Health in Central Visayas recently released an advisory to the public to patronize only those water refilling stations having pertinent documents posted in their stores.

DOH, in the advisory, said that a water refilling station can be surely trusted as safe source if it has posted valid sanitary permit and updated result of monthly bacteriological water examination in its station.

Also, an updated result of semi-annual physical and chemical analysis, certificate of DOH training for plant operators or owners, and valid sanitation standard rating sticker should be posted.

DOH said that refilling stations which can present the documents mentioned are assumed to be in compliance with the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water.

DOH Environmental Health Care coordinator Engr. Evangeline Cañoneo said that water from refilling stations is already purified as it has undergone treatment to remove impurities, undesirable chemicals, and harmful organisms; thus making it safe for consumption.

The purification is done through filtration or reverse osmosis and disinfections using ultraviolet lights or ozonation.

However, the processes are useful only when certain practices to keep producing quality water product are observed.

DOH strictly mandates the washing and sanitizing of water containers and caps before refilling. Water tenders must wear proper working garments and personal protective gears such as hairnets, face masks, and aprons.

DOH said that refilled water product containers should be temporarily placed in clean and dry area during the day then delivered immediately to intended client. – Jessica Ann R. Pareja/MEEV   (THE FREEMAN)