Coliforms (E.coli and Total)

Significance
Drinking water should be free of disease-causing organisms. Coliform bacteria are organisms that are present in the environment and in the feces of all warm-blooded animals and humans. Therefore, water is analyzed for coliforms because their presence is an indication there may be disease-causing bacteria, parasites, and viruses in the water.

Types of water that may be tested include drinking (potable) water, spa, swimming pool water, and reuse/reclaimed water.

Test Method

• The Colilert®-18 (IDEXX)
  Reference: Standards Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 9223B, an enzyme substrate test.  Colilert®-18 is a US EPA approved method.
• Measurement uncertainty is available for coliforms: Total and E.coli test upon request.

Turn Around Time
1-3 days

Test Code
106 (presence-absence), 107 (quantitative)

Sample Transport
See Sampling and Shipping page for instructions.

Accreditations and Proficiency
See Accreditations and Proficiency page for information on our accreditations and Legionella testing proficiency programs.