WASH and drinking water quality considerations in schools in reflection of the sustainable development goals – a review

Poor drinking water quality has been linked to negative health outcomes across the world. Drinking water quality is an essential part of safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). Safe WASH in schools is linked with the achievement of sustainable development goals (SGDs), specifically, SDG 6. It is unclear whether water quality is always assessed as part of WASH in schools. This study focused on determining the consideration of water quality aspects during WASH assessment in schools by examining published studies. A systematic online review of the literature was conducted to identify studies that reported on the assessment of WASH facilities in schools. Titles, abstracts, and full text of retrieved articles were screened. Seventy-five studies were identified. Thirty-two studies considered drinking water quality analysis as part of WASH in schools. Chemical (66%), microbial (59%), and physical (38%) parameters were included in drinking water quality analysis, with lead (Pb), and Escherichia coli being mostly included. This study reveals that some studies did not include an evaluation of drinking water quality, though it reflects an important exposure pathway between WASH services and health outcomes. It is, therefore, recommended that routine water quality monitoring be included in school WASH to ensure learner's health is protected. HIGHLIGHTS Most researchers neglect the analysis of water quality in school WASH programmes.; The current study emphasizes the importance of drinking water quality analysis in schools.; Concerns about water quality exist in both developed and underdeveloped countries.; The relationship between WASH and achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs) in schools is a necessity.; WASH intervention for water quality is key to safeguard learner's health.