IS OUR DRINKING WATER MICROBIOLOGICALLY SAFE?

Abstract

The purpose of microbiological analysis of drinking water is to ensure that it is free of pathogenic microorganisms, but also to control the sanitary maintenance of water supply systems. In Croatia, there are several ways in which water for human consumption is regularly controlled. The analyses can be carried out only in laboratories that are authorized by the Croatian Ministry of Health. The Council Directive on the quality of water intended for human consumption has been implemented in the Croatian legislation. Therefore, the maximum permissible concentrations for microbiological parameters in Croatia are the same as in the rest of the EU. Currently used microbiological parameters ensure public health protection from microbiologically unsafe drinking water, but it is necessary to implement modern, molecular-based techniques in routine microbiological analysis of water in order to gain faster and more precise results.