What does a positive repeat test for total coliform require?

What does a positive repeat test for total coliform require?

• A. One additional test for E. coli
• B. Three repeat tests for E. coli
• C. No further action
• D. A violation notice only

Answer: (B)

A positive repeat test for total coliform indicates the potential presence of harmful microorganisms and suggests that further investigation is needed to assess the water quality. The requirement for three repeat tests for E. coli is a crucial step in confirming the safety of the water supply. This protocol helps to ensure that if coliform, which can indicate fecal pollution, is detected, follow-up testing is conducted to determine if E. coli, a more specific indicator of fecal contamination, is present. Three repeat tests are essential because they help to establish whether the initial positive result was due to a temporary or isolated condition or if there is an ongoing issue with the water supply. The testing provides a more comprehensive assessment, increasing confidence in the results. If E. coli is detected in these tests, it signals a significant health concern, and actions need to be taken to protect public health. The other options do not sufficiently address the need for further testing following a positive coliform result. A single additional test might not provide a reliable indication of ongoing contamination, while no further action or just a violation notice would neglect the necessary public health precautions.

A positive repeat test for total coliform indicates the potential presence of harmful microorganisms and suggests that further investigation is needed to assess the water quality. The requirement for three repeat tests for E. coli is a crucial step in confirming the safety of the water supply. This protocol helps to ensure that if coliform, which can indicate fecal pollution, is detected, follow-up testing is conducted to determine if E. coli, a more specific indicator of fecal contamination, is present.

Three repeat tests are essential because they help to establish whether the initial positive result was due to a temporary or isolated condition or if there is an ongoing issue with the water supply. The testing provides a more comprehensive assessment, increasing confidence in the results. If E. coli is detected in these tests, it signals a significant health concern, and actions need to be taken to protect public health.

The other options do not sufficiently address the need for further testing following a positive coliform result. A single additional test might not provide a reliable indication of ongoing contamination, while no further action or just a violation notice would neglect the necessary public health precautions.