LABORATORY MONITORING OF WATER QUALITY IN DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS AND HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH DISINFECTION BY-PRODUCTS

Laboratory monitoring of water quality in distribution networks is essential for public health preservation, particularly regarding disinfection by-products such as trihalomethanes (THM) and haloacetic acids (HAA). These substances can cause significant health issues, including an increased risk of bladder cancer and reproductive disturbances. This study analyzes methods for determining chlorine and by-product concentrations in water, with a focus on the colorimetric DPD method, widely used for its speed and accuracy. Alternatives such as electrochemical methods are also discussed. Increased exposure to THM is associated with health risks, and monitoring is crucial for prevention.