Drinking water systems on offshore platforms and vessels are critical infrastructure that daily rely on the health and safety of workers. However, these infrastructures are often out of sight and mind, and their deficiencies can lead to fatal illnesses.
Methods of Supplying Drinking Water
Platforms and vessels supply drinking water in two main ways: loading from coastal sources or producing it internally through seawater desalination. Loading involves transferring drinking water from land sources to the platform or vessel via specific hoses and connections. Water supply vessels transport water from port facilities to offshore platforms, where this water is transferred to storage tanks.
In this process, there is a risk of contamination, especially when hoses are not properly cleaned or connections are not adequately sealed. Drinking water that may meet quality standards on land can deteriorate during transport and storage due to improper management.
Hazards of Drinking Water and Bacterial Infections
Drinking water on offshore platforms must be safely stored and distributed to various points such as dormitories and kitchens. Drinking water tanks can have capacities ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of gallons and must be made from materials approved for drinking water use. One of the biggest health threats in this context is the bacterium Legionella pneumophila, which can cause serious respiratory illnesses and can be potentially fatal.
Chlorine is used as the primary defense against waterborne pathogens, and offshore platforms typically maintain chlorine levels between 0.2 to 0.5 milligrams per liter. However, maintaining the correct chlorine levels in a complex distribution system requires careful monitoring.
Ultimately, awareness of the hazards present in drinking water systems and the measures in place to prevent them is crucial. Offshore workers need to ensure the quality of drinking water to maintain their health and safety. This requires attention to detail in the design and maintenance of drinking water systems to prevent health hazards.
