Assesment of water quality on vending machine in Chukai, Kemaman, Terengganu

Water is essential to survive, and water intended for human consumption. It should be both safe and healthy. In tropical countries like Malaysia, the consumption of drinkable water among its population may be substantial. In meeting such demand, the WVM has gained considerable popularity. This study was investigated the water quality from WVM in Chukai, Kemaman is in terms of pH, turbidity, free chlorine residue, total coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli. This study involved 30 various branding WVM and this study conducted during April 2020. The results indicated based on the analysis conducted to determine the water quality of WVM on physicochemical and microbiology parameters found that WVM treatment types are not significant in influencing the results of water samples taken in terms of turbidity, free chlorine residue, presence of total bacterial coliform and Escherichia coli. ANOVA Single Factor Test showed P-value exceeds > 0.05. The results of pH analysis alone affect the treatment types of WVM. After conducting a post hoc test, Tukey HSD P-value found, there is Nano hydrogen treatment have a statically significant difference relative to the Ultraviolet and Nano silver treatment, but they do not have a statically significant difference relative to Alkaline and Reverse Osmosis treatment. According to Regulation 360C (Standard for Packaged Drinking Water and Vended water, 2012) Food Regulation 1985, the results indicated the majority of water samples from WVM taken is acceptable pH range. However, turbidity values were higher than the acceptable value, and almost 24 out of 30 samples did not comply with the standards. Besides, water samples for free chlorine residue analysis in the range 0.00 - 0.06. Only 10% comply with the standard prescribed 0.04mg / L. The data obtained in this study would suggest the importance of routine maintenance and inspection of WVM provider in order to maintain a good quality, hygienic and safety level of drinking water and suggests that the relevant government the sector should control WVM and enforce relevant laws to ensure WVM is safe for consumer consumption.