E. coli (Potable water) – Detection
Laboratory Fee Schedule
Procedure: MZZ0441A
| Synonym(s): |
Total coliform, Drinking Water Test |
| Requisition Form |
G-19 |
| Test Description |
Detects the presence of E. coli and total coliform bacteria in potable water. |
| Pre-Approval Needed |
N/A |
| Supplemental Information Required |
N/A |
| Supplemental Form(s) |
N/A |
| Performed on Specimens from (sources) |
Water |
| Sample/Specimen Type for Testing |
Water (potable; non-silo dairy) samples
|
| Minimum Volume/Size Required |
105 mL
|
| Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping |
- Place sample in water-tight, wide-mouthed container with a capacity of at least 120 mL (4 oz).
- Sodium thiosulfate (100mg/L) must be added to containers before sterilization (0.1 mL of 10% sodium thiosulfate solution, appropriate tablet, or powder).
- Potable water samples must be tested within 30 hours of collection.
- Non-silo dairy water samples must be.
- tested within 6 hours of collection if not refrigerated (temperature control not required); or
- maintained at 0.0° to 4.5°C and shipment must include temperature control.
|
| Transport Medium |
N/A |
| Specimen Labeling |
Sample Identification must match submission form. |
| Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements |
- If shipped, samples must be shipped for overnight delivery.
- Potable water samples must be tested within 30 hours of collection.
|
| Method |
Colilert® test
|
| Turn-around Time |
1 Day |
| Interferences/Limitations |
- Can detect E. coli and/or total coliform bacteria at a sensitivity of 1 CFU/100 mL.
- In samples with excessive chlorine, a blue flash may be seen when adding Colilert® or Colilert®-18. If this occurs, sample will be considered invalid, and testing will be discontinued.
|
| Causes for Rejection |
Insufficient specimen, improperly stored and/or failure to meet shipping guidelines. |
| Additional Information |
N/A |
