Cyanide Levels in Raw Water

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 106 views

Introduction

Ensuring safe drinking water quality is a top priority for communities worldwide. One of the key parameters to assess is the level of cyanide (CN-) in raw water and reservoir water. In this study, we conducted an analysis of cyanide levels in raw water and reservoir water at the PDAM Tirtanadi Sunggal Water Treatment Installation using the colorimetric method. The main objective of this analysis was to determine whether the level of cyanide in the water meets the standards set by Permenkes No. 492/MENKES/PER/IV/2010.

Methodology

The colorimetric method was used to analyze the cyanide levels in raw water and reservoir water. This method involves the use of specific reagents, namely Cyaniver 3, Cyaniver 4, and Cyaniver 5, to detect the presence of cyanide in the water samples. The reagents react with the cyanide ions to form a colored complex, which is then measured using a spectrophotometer. The absorbance of the colored complex is directly proportional to the concentration of cyanide in the water sample.

Results

The results of the analysis are presented in the following tables:

Cyanide Levels in Raw Water

Sample No.	Cyanide Level (mg/L)
1	0.017
2	0.016
3	0.012
4	0.003
5	0.006
6	0.011
7	0.014
8	0.007
9	0.006

Cyanide Levels in Reservoir Water

Reservoir 1 (R.1)

Sample No.	Cyanide Level (mg/L)
1	0.011
2	0.005
3	0.002
4	0.002
5	0.003
6	0.011
7	0.005
8	0.001
9	0.013

Reservoir 2 (R.2)

Sample No.	Cyanide Level (mg/L)
1	0.026
2	0.002
3	0.011
4	0.003
5	0.007
6	0.012
7	0.007
8	0.004
9	0.021

Reservoir 3 (R.3)

Sample No.	Cyanide Level (mg/L)
1	0.028
2	0.002
3	0.009
4	0.006
5	0.005
6	0.015
7	0.008
8	0.006
9	0.014

Discussion

The results of the analysis show that the level of cyanide in raw water and reservoir water meets the requirements for drinking water according to the provisions listed in Permenkes No. 492/MENKES/PER/IV/2010. The cyanide levels in raw water ranged from 0.003 to 0.017 mg/L, while the cyanide levels in reservoir water ranged from 0.001 to 0.028 mg/L. These results indicate that the water treatment process at the PDAM Tirtanadi Sunggal Water Treatment Installation is effective in removing cyanide from the water.

The Importance of Testing Cyanide Levels

Cyanide is a toxic compound that can endanger human health if exposed in a certain amount. Therefore, testing cyanide levels in drinking water is very important to maintain public health. Cyanide contaminated water can cause various health problems, including respiratory disorders, poisoning, and even death in extreme cases. The colorimetric method used in this test is an effective and reliable technique to detect high accuracy cyanide levels. By utilizing specific reagents such as Cyaniver 3, Cyaniver 4, and Cyaniver 5, this analysis not only gives fast results but is also very sensitive to changes in cyanide levels in water samples.

Conclusion

Analysis of cyanide content (CN-) in raw water and reservoir PDAM Tirtanadi Sunggal shows satisfying results, where all water samples meet the requirements for drinking water according to applicable regulations. This kind of routine testing is important to ensure the sustainability of clean and safe water supply for the community. Thus, people can feel calm and comfortable in consuming water that has gone through a strict processing.

Recommendations

Based on the results of this study, the following recommendations are made:

The PDAM Tirtanadi Sunggal Water Treatment Installation should continue to monitor the cyanide levels in raw water and reservoir water on a regular basis to ensure that the water meets the requirements for drinking water.
The water treatment process at the PDAM Tirtanadi Sunggal Water Treatment Installation should be optimized to remove any remaining cyanide from the water.
The public should be educated on the importance of testing cyanide levels in drinking water and the potential health risks associated with cyanide contaminated water.

Limitations

This study has several limitations, including:

The sample size was limited to 9 samples from each reservoir.
The analysis was only conducted on a single day, and the cyanide levels may vary depending on the time of day and other factors.
The colorimetric method used in this study may not be as sensitive as other methods, such as gas chromatography or mass spectrometry.

Future Studies

Future studies should aim to:

Increase the sample size to include more water samples from each reservoir.
Conduct the analysis over a longer period of time to account for any variations in cyanide levels.
Use more sensitive methods, such as gas chromatography or mass spectrometry, to detect cyanide levels in the water.

References

Permenkes No. 492/MENKES/PER/IV/2010. (2010). Peraturan Menteri Kesehatan Republik Indonesia Nomor 492/MENKES/PER/IV/2010 tentang Standar Mutu Air Minum.
World Health Organization. (2011). Guidelines for Drinking-Water Quality. 4th ed.
United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2012). National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.

Q: What is cyanide and why is it a concern in drinking water?

A: Cyanide is a toxic compound that can be found in various forms, including hydrogen cyanide and cyanide salts. It is a concern in drinking water because even small amounts can be toxic to humans and animals. Prolonged exposure to cyanide can cause serious health problems, including respiratory disorders, poisoning, and even death.

Q: How is cyanide typically found in drinking water?

A: Cyanide can be found in drinking water through various sources, including:

Industrial waste: Cyanide is used in various industrial processes, such as mining and metal plating, and can contaminate water sources.
Agricultural runoff: Cyanide can be released into water sources through agricultural runoff, particularly from fields that use cyanide-based pesticides.
Natural sources: Cyanide can also be found in natural sources, such as volcanic rocks and certain types of plants.

Q: What are the health effects of cyanide in drinking water?

A: The health effects of cyanide in drinking water can vary depending on the level and duration of exposure. Some possible health effects include:

Respiratory problems: Cyanide can cause respiratory problems, including shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
Poisoning: Prolonged exposure to cyanide can cause poisoning, which can lead to serious health problems, including seizures, coma, and even death.
Cancer: Some studies have suggested that long-term exposure to cyanide may increase the risk of certain types of cancer.

Q: How is cyanide detected in drinking water?

A: Cyanide can be detected in drinking water using various methods, including:

Colorimetric methods: These methods involve using specific reagents to detect the presence of cyanide in the water.
Gas chromatography: This method involves using a gas chromatograph to separate and detect the different components of the water, including cyanide.
Mass spectrometry: This method involves using a mass spectrometer to detect the presence of cyanide in the water.

Q: What are the regulations for cyanide in drinking water?

A: The regulations for cyanide in drinking water vary depending on the country and region. In the United States, for example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a maximum allowable level of 0.2 milligrams per liter (mg/L) for cyanide in drinking water.

Q: How can I protect myself from cyanide in drinking water?

A: To protect yourself from cyanide in drinking water, you can:

Use a water filter: Installing a water filter that is certified to remove cyanide can help protect you from cyanide in drinking water.
Choose a water source: If you have a choice, choose a water source that is less likely to be contaminated with cyanide.
Monitor your water: If you are concerned about cyanide in your drinking water, you can have it tested by a certified laboratory.

Q: What are the long-term effects of cyanide in drinking water?

A: The long-term effects of cyanide in drinking water are not well understood and are still being studied. However, some possible long-term effects include:

Cancer: Some studies have suggested that long-term exposure to cyanide may increase the risk of certain types of cancer.
Neurological problems: Prolonged exposure to cyanide may cause neurological problems, including memory loss and cognitive impairment.
Reproductive problems: Some studies have suggested that long-term exposure to cyanide may increase the risk of reproductive problems, including birth defects and infertility.

Q: Can I get cyanide poisoning from drinking water?

A: Yes, it is possible to get cyanide poisoning from drinking water that contains high levels of cyanide. However, the risk of cyanide poisoning from drinking water is generally low, and most people are not at risk of getting cyanide poisoning from drinking water.

Q: How can I reduce my risk of cyanide poisoning from drinking water?

A: To reduce your risk of cyanide poisoning from drinking water, you can:

Use a water filter: Installing a water filter that is certified to remove cyanide can help reduce your risk of cyanide poisoning.
Choose a water source: If you have a choice, choose a water source that is less likely to be contaminated with cyanide.
Monitor your water: If you are concerned about cyanide in your drinking water, you can have it tested by a certified laboratory.

Q: What should I do if I suspect that my drinking water contains cyanide?

A: If you suspect that your drinking water contains cyanide, you should:

Contact your local water utility: If you suspect that your drinking water contains cyanide, you should contact your local water utility to report your concerns.
Have your water tested: You can have your water tested by a certified laboratory to determine if it contains cyanide.
Use a water filter: Installing a water filter that is certified to remove cyanide can help protect you from cyanide in drinking water.

Q: Can I get cyanide poisoning from other sources besides drinking water?

A: Yes, it is possible to get cyanide poisoning from other sources besides drinking water, including:

Industrial exposure: Workers in industries that use cyanide, such as mining and metal plating, may be at risk of cyanide poisoning.
Agricultural exposure: Farmers and agricultural workers who use cyanide-based pesticides may be at risk of cyanide poisoning.
Environmental exposure: People who live near industrial sites or agricultural areas may be at risk of cyanide poisoning from environmental exposure.

Q: How can I reduce my risk of cyanide poisoning from other sources?

A: To reduce your risk of cyanide poisoning from other sources, you can:

Wear protective gear: If you work in an industry that uses cyanide, you should wear protective gear, including gloves, masks, and eye protection.
Follow safety protocols: If you work in an industry that uses cyanide, you should follow safety protocols, including proper ventilation and handling procedures.
Avoid exposure: If you live near an industrial site or agricultural area, you should avoid exposure to cyanide by staying indoors and avoiding areas where cyanide may be present.

Q: What are the symptoms of cyanide poisoning?

A: The symptoms of cyanide poisoning can vary depending on the level and duration of exposure. Some possible symptoms include:

Respiratory problems: Cyanide can cause respiratory problems, including shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
Poisoning: Prolonged exposure to cyanide can cause poisoning, which can lead to serious health problems, including seizures, coma, and even death.
Cancer: Some studies have suggested that long-term exposure to cyanide may increase the risk of certain types of cancer.

Q: What should I do if I suspect that I have cyanide poisoning?

A: If you suspect that you have cyanide poisoning, you should:

Seek medical attention: If you suspect that you have cyanide poisoning, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Provide information: Provide your healthcare provider with as much information as possible about your exposure to cyanide, including the amount and duration of exposure.
Follow treatment: Follow the treatment plan recommended by your healthcare provider, which may include administering antidotes and supportive care.

Q: Can I prevent cyanide poisoning?

A: Yes, you can prevent cyanide poisoning by:

Using a water filter: Installing a water filter that is certified to remove cyanide can help protect you from cyanide in drinking water.
Choosing a water source: If you have a choice, choose a water source that is less likely to be contaminated with cyanide.
Monitoring your water: If you are concerned about cyanide in your drinking water, you can have it tested by a certified laboratory.
Avoiding exposure: If you work in an industry that uses cyanide or live near an industrial site or agricultural area, you should avoid exposure to cyanide by wearing protective gear and following safety protocols.