Listeria: ‘Tap water is safe to drink’ – Rand Water

Rand Water recently conducted extensive laboratory tests on drinking water samples from its bulk water supply system following the announcements made by the Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi on the listeriosis outbreak in South Africa.

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Listeria is a bacterium that is widely found in soil, water and vegetation, and people can become infected with listeriosis when they come into contact it.

“Although the testing for this bacterium is not a requirement in the current drinking water standard (SANS 241:2015), we launched the testing programme to assure our customers of the safety of our bulk drinking water supply,” said Justice Mohale, the media relations manager for Rand Water.

The result of the water samples tested indicated no presence of listeria.

“We continuously test the quality of the bulk drinking water for compliance prior to supplying to municipalities,” said Mohale.

“Rand Water Analytical Services is fully accredited by the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) and demonstrates the organisation’s acceptance of international quality standards.

“The laboratory participates in national and international proficiency testing schemes to continuously monitor the quality of its data.”

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