Brief Description

Primary drinking water test that simultaneously detects total coliform and E. coli bacteria using defined enzyme substrate technology.

Laboratory Unit

Environmental Bacteriology

Methodology

Standard Method 9223B Enzyme Substrate, using Idexx Colilert 24-hour Presence/Absence or Colilert 18-Hour Presence/Absence formats. The Idexx QuantiTray format for quantitative results is available upon special request.

Specimen Collection

Click here for sampling instructions. Minimum volume 100 ml.

Storage/Transport

Ship to MSPHL immediately. Mustbe received in lab within 48 hours of sampling. May be stored in refrigerator conditions temporarily prior to shipping. Use of a cooler and ice packs in the field is recommended.

Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

Potable water from privatewells.

Test Request Form(s)

Property owners may submit samples from private wells for bacterial testing. Samples must be submitted in collection kits provided by the MSPHL. These kits are available through the local public health agencies or State District Health Offices. The $10 handling fee (check or money order only) must be included with the sample or testing will not be performed.

Private Drinking Water Bacteriological Form

Possible Results

Total Coliform and E. coli "Present" or "Absent".

Unacceptable Conditions

Transit time exceeded
No date/time collected
No sample identification
Sample form incomplete
Quantity not sufficient (100 ml)

Bottle too full
Sample leaked in transit
Sample frozen
Presence of disinfectant
Unapproved container

Interfering Substances

Disinfectants
Hydrocarbons
Cleansers
Humic material with innate yellow color

Result Reported

Results are available to the submitter within 24-30 hours of sample receipt in lab (next day).

Fees

The $10 handling fee (check or money order only) must be included with the sample or testing will not be performed.

CPT Codes

N/A

LOINC/SNOMED Codes

N/A

Additional Information