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Emergency water standard

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Key points
  • Interpret indicators with care when population size fluctuates significantly.
  • The volume of water produced daily includes leakages, spillage and waste. Since 10-35% of water is normally lost to these causes, it is advisable to take spillage into account when assessing a water distribution system's performance. Seasonality also affects water availability. More water is usually available in the rainy season and less in the dry season. In addition, water needs rise with air temperature and increased physical activity. To establish an accurate average level of water availability, take readings in different seasons throughout the year.
  • When selecting locations for testing water quality, prioritize water points that are furthest from and closest to the water treatment point, and locations situated at joints or branch points in the piping network.
  • To assess the number of houses and their distance from water points, use either a camp layout map or GIS mapping procedures (if these exist). Plot functioning water points on a scaled camp map to calculate the number of households within the distances recommended for emergencies or post-emergency situations.

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