SIMRA: An interactive web-based tool for single integrated microbial risk assessment and management within the national water security framework (NWSF)

Abstract

In this study, we present a single integrated microbial risk assessment (SIMRA) tool, which is a web-based application that offers a multi-tiered approach to microbial risk assessment of water resources, and accommodates three different user proficiency levels for microbial risk assessment based on resource availability. The main objective was to integrate the components of water safety plans and sanitation safety plans and develop a single web-based application platform that enables the assessment, management, and monitoring of possible risks associated with various types of water. Key parameters in the risk assessment process in the tool are concentration of indicator microorganisms and pathogens. The SIMRA web-based tool enables comprehensive water and sanitation analysis, risk assessment, geospatial mapping of water resources, and generates feedback on the level of safety of the water source. The web server is publicly accessible at https://simraweb.web.app/. Here, we outline the development of SIMRA and its main features and demonstrate its applicability.