With electricity and water supplies not always being provided as expected, many South Africans have planned for such scenarios.

Solar power and borehole water are most often relied on.

But now citizens with boreholes must go a step further to ensure their borehole water is suitable for human consumption.

“Despite its depth and perceived natural protection, groundwater is not immune to contamination,” says Charlotte Metcalf, CEO of the South African National Bottled Water Association (SANBWA).

“One might think that groundwater is naturally protected, as it is located deep underground. However, the influence of human activities does not spare these underground reservoirs.”

Households and businesses that use boreholes for drinking water must be vigilant; it is essential for borehole users not to assume the safety of their water, especially if they are close to human and/or industrial activities.

Regular testing and monitoring of borehole water is essential to ensure it remains safe for consumption.

Water tests that AfriForum’s Parys branch recently conducted on water from four boreholes in different parts of Parys show that the water from three of these boreholes is unfit for human consumption.

The tests were conducted by a SANAS-accredited laboratory.

The large number of sewage leaks in Parys is possibly the reason for the contamination.

In the Vaal, there have not yet been any residents who have complained about the water quality of their boreholes, but if people have any doubts, they are advised to have their water tested.

Tests should preferably be conducted at an accredited laboratory. AfriForum’s water tests are conducted at the Envirocare laboratory in Potchefstroom.

The cost is approximately R500.

Pour 500ml of water into a sterilised bottle.

Deliver the water sample to the laboratory within 48 hours.

If water cannot be taken to the laboratory immediately, it should preferably be refrigerated or kept on ice.