Improving water safety

Water safety and quality are fundamental to human development and well-being. Providing access to safe water is one of the most effective instruments in improving health and reducing poverty.

As the international authority on public health and water quality, WHO leads global efforts to prevent transmission of waterborne disease. This is achieved by developing, updating and disseminating health-based guidelines and supporting resources, promoting health-based regulations to governments and working with partners to support effective risk management practices by water suppliers, communities and households.