Training in diagnostics of ageing boreholes and methods of rehabilitation
Training sessions on various borehole diagnosis and rehabilitation techniques in Burkina Faso within the framework of the MSF’s REFRESH project – Regeneration of boreholes in the Sahel region in Niger.
These training sessions were attended by:
- MSF field teams
- The Regional Direction of Hydraulics (DRH) of Maradi, Niger
- The Direction of Water Demand and Resource Management (SGDRE), The National Office for Water and Sanitation (ONEA), Burkina Faso
Borehole diagnostics
During this training we:
- Advised on appropriate equipment for setting-up a diagnosis mobile workshop
- Explored various techniques used in borehole diagnostics:
- video inspection
- data logging
- pumping tests
- water quality monitoring
- Processed video recordings and data logging
- Established a diagnosis and recommendations to ensure future regeneration
Case studies
During this training, 8 boreholes presenting various types of dysfunction were investigated.
Rehabilitation techniques
During this training we:
- Advised on appropriate equipment for setting-up a regeneration mobile workshop
- Explored different techniques used to regenerate boreholes such as:
- Removal of debris and unblocking by “air lift pumping”
- Unclogging and cleaning by chemical treatment
- Handling problems caused by ionic imbalances, deposits, or bacterial growth
- Scrubbing and compressed air blowing
- Inserting a “patch” inside a casing
- Tested various diagnostic tools used in borehole regeneration
Case studies:
During this training, 4 abandoned dysfunctional boreholes were restored.
