Impacto da gestão do consumo de água no Hospital Estadual Américo Brasiliense: um estudo piloto

Abstract

Objectives: Assess the reduction of water extraction in the artesian well after installation of flow restrictors in points of hydric distribution in a hospital. Methods: A pilot pre-post interventional study was carried out in Américo Brasiliense Hospital State, localized in the province of São Paulo (Brazil). Water management began in 2010. The monitoring was performed with seven water flow meters with telemetry system, with watchmaking and turbines of which four were installed in 2016. March 2017, flow restrictors on cleaning sinks and showers were installed, as well as aerators for hand basins. The impact of accessories was assessed comparing the water capitation (m3) in artesian well before and after interventions. Financial payback was estimated after implementation of the accessories. Results: Total hydric consumption decrease by 21% a 42% (600 a 1,444 m³) and reduced the extraction of aquifer in 8,000 m3 of water/year. With the aid of approximately 1,000 m3 / month of water economy, the hospital had payback thirteen days after the implementation of the accessories, since the valor invested buy and install of the equipment was R$ 10.955,00 reais and the save regarding the decrease of hydric consume was R$ 24.302,00 reais. Conclusion: Flow restrictors installation in critical points of hydric distribution is cost-effective to reduce water consumption and costs in hospitals. Improvements performed contribute to raise the credibility of sustainability projects and the viability of investment in environmental actions.