Use of water filters in creches

1. Importance of safe drinking water for children

1. Children are more vulnerable to waterborne diseases.
2. Safe water supports overall health, digestion and nutrition.

2. Steps for correct use of gravity-based water filters

a. Daily use

• Collect clean water from a known safe source.
• Boil the water.
• Keep the water covered after boiling for cooling.
• Pour water into the filter after cooling.
• Clean the tap area daily with a clean cloth. Ensure that children should not have access to the water filters.

b. Refilling

• Refill the container of the filter when it is empty or water is below the minimum level.
• Avoid overfilling to prevent spillage.

3. Cleaning and Maintenance

a. Full cleaning once a week

• Creche caregivers to wash hands before cleaning or handling filter components. Disassemble the unit carefully by removing top chamber, bottom chamber, filter candles and tap.
• Wash each part with mild soap and clean water.
• Do not use soap or detergent on the candle.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap or debris.
• Air dry all parts before reassembling. Do not use dirty cloths to dry.

b. Monthly maintenance

• Deep cleaning: perform a slightly longer soak and scrub.
• Check for cracks, slime, or slow water flow.
• If water is not filtering well, the candle may need scrubbing or replacement.
• Do not leave the unit unused for many days without cleaning-standing water become unsafe.

4. Candle replacement

• Replace the candle as per the manufacturer’s instructions if – i) water flow reduces significantly even after cleaning ii) The candle appears damaged, cracked, or discoloured.

5. Storage and position

• Keep the filter on a raised surface.
• The area where the filter is placed should be clean and dust free.
• Do not keep the filter in direct sunlight.
• Do not store water in an open container after filtering- it can get re contaminated.

6. Record Keeping

• Assign a specific caregiver responsible for the filter.
• A logbook for cleaning of filter and replacing the candles or other parts should be maintained. It should reflect date of cleaning, name of the person who cleaned, date of last cartridge replacement and any observed issues.
• Creche caregivers to report for any issue regarding malfunctioning of the water filter.

7. Important Reminders

• Do not clean the candle with dirty hands or unclean water.
• Avoid using cracked or leaking filter units.
• Replace the candles as per the instructions.
• Maintain proper records.