Over 85% of existing untreated water systems tested by Cova are found to be contaminated with harmful bacteria. Unsafe drinking water is a silent killer. Thousands of communities rely on our water quality tests and in-depth analysis to keep them safe.

Water testing is at the core of our model. We provide local testing of community drinking water to detect contaminants in the water supply and identify appropriate solutions to make the water safe to drink. Testing one, two, three!

One: Field Tests

Field tests are conducted at the water source itself, at the last home in the water system, and anywhere and everywhere water is accessed in between. On-site field tests provide immediate insights into water quality. Through the use of portable equipment and test kits, basic parameters such as presence/absence of bacteria, pH, turbidity, and chlorine levels are measured. This allows for quick assessments and immediate corrective actions if needed.

Two: Water Quality Monitoring

Once Cova installs a water chlorinator to treat a community water system, it is critical that the community continues to add chlorine tablets to avoid gaps in water treatment. Our technicians circulate amongst communities, visiting up to five communities a day, to conduct monthly chlorine tests. Testing for the presence of chlorine ensures that water continues to be safe for consumption. Once communities are equipped to operate their water systems independently, water quality monitoring is transferred into the capable hands of community members and Municipal Health Promoters.

To support water quality monitoring efforts, we have designed a prototype chlorine sensor to detect the absence of chlorine in a water tank in real-time and send automated alerts when chlorine levels are low. Real-time alerts result in water quality issues being addressed more rapidly. In communities with water sensors, a reduction in water system downtime of 13% has been realized!

Three: In-Depth Laboratory Tests

Lab tests are performed in Cova’s advanced laboratories in each country of operations. The lab tests measure a wide range of parameters including total/fecal coliforms, turbidity, conductivity, pH, total dissolved solids, nitrates, nitrites, sulfites, sulfates, phosphorus, chlorides, alkalinity, hardness, salinity, arsenic, fluorine (and even more!). Strict protocols surround sample collection, handling, and processing to ensure integrity of the tests and accuracy of results. Knowing just what is (and, importantly, what isn’t) in community water gives leaders confidence in their water treatment system when water quality is scientifically shown to meet standards, and encourages corrective action should it be shown not to be so. Either way, knowledge is power. And while bi-annual testing is the current practice, Cova is investing in moving towards quarterly community water testing. More frequent results mean more opportunities to address potential contaminants.

Cova is committed to being data-driven and community-centered. Test results of all kinds provide communities with the data required to take action and ensure safe drinking water for families. Critically, this means more safe water more of the time.

“I love what I do – helping communities have safe water!”

— Dra. Gabriela, Cova Laboratory Doctor of Microbiology, Honduras