Coliform Test

This article discusses the coliform test, which is used to detect the presence of coliform bacteria in water. Coliform bacteria are a group of bacteria that are found in the environment and in the feces of warm-blooded animals, including humans. The presence of coliform bacteria in water can indicate that the water is contaminated with fecal matter, which can pose a health risk.

If coliform bacteria is present in a sample of water, then both the presumptive coliform test and the confirmed coliform test should be conducted. The presumptive coliform test is a simple test that can be used to detect the presence of coliform bacteria. If the presumptive coliform test is positive, then the confirmed coliform test should be conducted to confirm the presence of coliform bacteria. The completed coliform test is not typically conducted unless the presumptive coliform test and the confirmed coliform test are both positive.

The implications of a positive coliform test result depend on the source of the water. If the water is from a public water supply, then the water may be unsafe to drink and should be boiled or treated with a disinfectant before use. If the water is from a private well, then the well may need to be cleaned or disinfected.