Presence/Absence is a qualitative (YES/NO or Presence/Absence) determination of the presence of Total Coliform and E. coli bacteria.
Testing Time: Incubation of a sample normally takes 18 hours.
Price: $26.00 + HST
Total Coliform Count is a quantitative determination (a bacterial count) of the number of Coliform and E. coli bacteria (cfu or colony forming units) per 100 mL of water sample.
Testing Time: Incubation of a sample normally takes 18 hours.
Price: $26.00 + HST
Definitions:
Total coliform sources include human or animal fecal matter, surface water (lakes, streams etc.) and water that contacts soil. Some ways that contamination can reach a water supply are: a broken or missing well cap; openings which could allow small animals to enter or fall in the well; breaks in underground pipes or well casing; malfunctioning septic systems or broken sewer lines; contamination of aquifer by sink holes, abandoned wells, or other geological factors; poor well construction or inadequate grouting of the well. The presence of Coliform bacteria indicates the water supply is unsafe and may cause illness. Coliform is a group of bacteria found in both waste water and surface water. Coliform itself (with the exception of certain kinds of E. coli) is not necessarily harmful, however its presence indicates the likelihood of other kinds of bacteria, which are harmful.
Escherichia coli (E. coli) is commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract and feces of warm-blooded animals. It is a member of the fecal coliform group of bacteria and is distinguished by its inability to break down urease. This bacteria is a preferred indicator for freshwater recreation and its presence provides direct evidence of fecal contamination from warm-blooded animals. Although usually harmless, E. coli can cause illnesses such as meningitis, septicemia, urinary tract, and intestinal infections. A recently discovered strain of E. coli (E. coli 0157:H7) can cause severe disease and may be fatal in small children and the elderly.