Trace metal levels in drinking water on Viti Levu, Fiji Islands

Abstract

Drinking water samples from several major source intakes and reticulation end points on Viti Levu, Fiji Islands were analysed for trace metal (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Pb, Zn) content. The objective of the study was to determine if metal concentrations were within the World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines. The concentrations of metals were determined using various atomic absorption techniques (flame, graphite furnace, hydride generation). In the source waters, concentrations of trace metals were generally very low (<0.5 mg/L) indicating that there are only small inputs of metals from anthropogenic or natural sources. Some of the reticulation end points were found to have higher levels of metals such as Cu. This is likely due to the leaching of metals from metal pipes and fittings within the distribution system. The majority of samples were within WHO guidelines indicating that Viti Levu's water appears safe for drinking from a trace metal perspective. A relatively high value for As was found at one site which was located downstream of a gold mine tailings pond discharge.