Water Quality Management II

Identify and characterize the main types of microorganisms, as well as physical, chemical, and toxicological substances present in water.

The teaching methods used in the course are the expository, demonstrative and active methods.

In the theoretical-practical classes (demonstrative teaching method) and in the practical matrix classes (active teaching method), which aim to learn a given subject through problem analysis and the use of real-life situations to stimulate the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, the teaching methods of Case Study and Problem-Based Learning (PBL) will be used. These methods make it easy to understand and apply the fundamental concepts in a practical and engaging way.

Within the scope of the theoretical-practical matrix classes, activities such as reading and reviewing literature are also carried out so that students can acquire knowledge about the various topics; organisation and/or participation in scientific events with the participation of experts or academics who present and discuss specific topics with students and study visits aimed at deepening the knowledge acquired.

It is intended that students develop group and individual work/activities, which are properly scheduled and planned at the beginning of the semester and monitored throughout the semester.

It’s also intended that in all matrices tools such as Mentimeter, Kahoot, among others, are used, essentially in formative assessment.

Knowledge to be acquired by the student:

Identify and apply national and European legislation regarding water quality for recreational purposes, including the control of cyanobacteria and Legionella, based on the directives and regulations in force; Identify the origin and the main physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of different types of recreational waters (marine, riverine, swimming pools, and water parks); Understand the principles of health surveillance, the mandatory analytical parameters, and the monitoring methods applicable to the assessment of recreational water quality; Indicate and characterize the mechanisms of formation, multiplication, and dispersion of cyanobacteria and the Legionella bacteria, in natural and artificial environments; Assess the health risks associated with exposure to contaminated waters, understanding their potential effects on human health; Understand the treatment, disinfection, and maintenance methods for water quality in recreational facilities, according to good practices and legal requirements; Know the essential components of sanitary surveillance programs and operational control of water for recreational purposes, as well as the instruments and institutional responsibilities involved. Be able to develop and implement monitoring, control, and prevention programs for cyanobacteria and legionella.

Skills to be acquired by the student:

Implement methodologies for solving situations related to recreational waters, cyanobacteria and legionella, through the implementation of surveillance, control and prevention programs.

Skills to be acquired by the student:

Act autonomously and responsibly in public health entities, environmental and water management; Support decisions in public bodies, municipalities or companies in the water sector; Integrate multidisciplinary teams for sanitary surveillance and environmental control; Contribute to user safety and the protection of water resources.

Presentation of the Curriculum Unit Sheet.

Module I – Types of Recreational Waters and Their Characteristics

1.1 Marine Bathing Waters – Physical-chemical and microbiological characterization – Environmental conditions – Classification and quality criteria

1.2 River Bathing Waters – Ecological fragility and diffuse pollution – Potential for microbiological contamination – Assessment of quality and impact of the surrounding area

1.3 Swimming Pool Waters – Types of pools – Water treatment – Legal, structural, and operational safety requirements

1.4 Water Amusement Parks – Risks associated with hydraulic complexity – Water quality management – Operation and maintenance procedures

Module II – Surveillance and Control Programs for Recreational Waters

2.1. Water Quality Surveillance Program

2.2. Water Quality Control Program

2.3. Intervention and Responsibilities of the Involved Entities

2.4. Analytical Component: Parameters, Reference Methods, and Interpretation and Communication of Results

Module III – Cyanobacteria

3.1. Definition, Ecology, and Identification of the Main Genera

3.2. Risks to Human Health and Environmental Impacts

3.3. Monitoring and Control of Cyanobacteria in:- Water Supply Systems for Human Consumption (Surface Waters)- Waters Intended for Recreational Activities

Module IV – Legionella

4.1. Conditions Favorable to Its Multiplication

4.2. Risks to Public Health and the Environment

4.3. Development and Implementation of Control and Prevention Programs for Legionella

ASSESSMENT.

NAO