Shaikha Murad Al Blooshi, the Acting CEO of Etihad Water and Electricity Company (EtihadWE), conducted a visit to the company's central laboratory located in Al Zawrah, Ajman. Al Blooshi was accompanied by Ahmed Hassan Al Ali, the Acting Executive Director of Customer Happiness. They were welcomed by Ali Hassan Al Maazmi, the Director of Health, Safety, and Environment, along with several lab staff.
During the visit, Al Blooshi familiarized herself with the types and nature of examination processes carried out at the laboratory. These processes include physical, chemical, and biological assessments of water to ensure its lack of contamination and suitability for various human uses.
Regarding the physical characteristics, water is examined for color, odor, chlorine and total dissolved salt levels, electrical conductivity, as well as pH (acidity level). Chemically, toxic element levels are measured using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), including aluminum, lead, iron, selenium, molybdenum, silver, copper, cadmium, nickel, and other heavy metals. Chemical tests also involve measuring negative and positive ions of salts, chemical compounds, and disinfection byproducts using ion separation equipment, including bromate, boron, barium, chloride, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfate. This chemical analysis process also measures iron and silica levels using optical spectrometry, as well as ammonia levels and water hardness. In the microbiology lab, water undergoes various tests to determine bacterial types and quantities.
It's worth noting that maintaining water quality and its level of excellence is a fundamental pillar in the United Arab Emirates' water security system, playing a vital role in achieving national health security. Considering the role of EtihadWE in providing potable water to a large population across a wide geographical area, they prioritize the quality of the water they produce and distribute to consumers. This commitment reflects their crucial role in preserving water security and ensuring the sustainability of this essential resource.