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BIS Standards for Drinking Water


The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and safety of drinking water in India. It establishes comprehensive standards that cover various physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters. Let's delve into some key BIS standards, their significance, and relevant concepts:

1. pH Value (6.5 – 8.5)

  • Definition: pH measures the acidity or alkalinity of water on a scale of 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral.
  • Significance:
    • Influences the solubility and availability of minerals in water.
    • Low pH can lead to the leaching of metals like lead and copper from pipes.
    • High pH can cause scale buildup in pipes and appliances.
  • BIS Standard: The pH of drinking water should fall within the range of 6.5 to 8.5 to prevent corrosion and scaling.

2. Turbidity (Maximum 1 NTU)

  • Definition: Turbidity refers to the cloudiness of water caused by suspended particles like dirt, silt, and microorganisms. It is measured in Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU).
  • Significance:
    • High turbidity can indicate contamination and hinder disinfection processes.
    • It affects the aesthetic quality of water, making it unpleasant to drink.
  • BIS Standard: The turbidity should not exceed 1 NTU to ensure clear and aesthetically pleasing water.

3. Total Hardness (Maximum 200 mg/L)

  • Definition: Hardness is primarily due to the presence of dissolved calcium and magnesium ions. It is usually measured in mg/L as calcium carbonate.
  • Significance:
    • High hardness can affect the taste of water and cause scaling in appliances.
    • It can also increase soap and detergent consumption.
  • BIS Standard: The total hardness should not exceed 200 mg/L to minimize scaling issues and maintain water quality.

4. E. coli (Should Not Be Detectable in 100 mL Sample)

  • Definition: E. coli is a type of coliform bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. Its presence indicates fecal contamination.
  • Significance: E. coli in drinking water signifies potential contamination with harmful pathogens, posing a risk of diseases like diarrhea and dysentery.
  • BIS Standard: E. coli should not be detectable in any 100 mL sample to ensure the absence of fecal contamination.

5. Chloride (Maximum 250 mg/L)

  • Definition: Chlorides are salts of hydrochloric acid, primarily found as chloride ions (Cl⁻).
  • Significance: High chloride levels can impart a salty taste to water and contribute to corrosion.
  • BIS Standard: The chloride content should not exceed 250 mg/L to maintain a pleasant taste and prevent corrosion.

6. Arsenic (Maximum 0.01 mg/L)

  • Definition: Arsenic is a toxic heavy metal that can contaminate water from natural or anthropogenic sources.
  • Significance: Long-term exposure to arsenic can lead to serious health issues, including cancer and skin lesions.
  • BIS Standard: The arsenic concentration should not exceed 0.01 mg/L to safeguard public health.

7. Copper (Maximum 0.05 mg/L)

  • Definition: Copper is an essential trace element, but excessive levels can cause gastrointestinal problems and may affect water taste.
  • Significance: High copper levels can also stain clothes and utensils.
  • BIS Standard: The copper concentration should not exceed 0.05 mg/L to ensure safe consumption.

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