BIO-SAND FILTER

This study presents the design, fabrication, and performance evaluation of a Bio Sand Filter (BSF) for treating turbid surface water. The BSF was tested using water collected from the Ovia River in Benin City during the rainy season. Results showed significant improvements in water quality, with reductions in total coliforms, E. coli, turbidity, and chemical contaminants, and adjustments to pH levels. Thus, 80% reduction in total coliforms (from 25 CFU/100mL to 5 CFU/100mL), 90% reduction in E. coli (from 10 CFU/100mL to 1 CFU/100mL), 75% reduction in turbidity (from 30 NTU to 5 NTU). The treated water met or exceeded World Health Organization (WHO) 2020 standards for safe drinking water. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of the BSF as a cost-effective and sustainable technology for improving water quality, particularly in regions with limited access to centralized water treatment facilities. Recommendations include encouraging BSF adoption, ongoing research and development, establishing monitoring and maintenance programs, regular water quality testing, advocacy for government and NGO support, and public awareness campaigns to ensure universal access to safe drinking water.