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Water Microbiology Testing/
ISO 7899-2 Enterococci Detection in Recreational WaterComplete Guide to ISO 7899-2 Enterococci Detection in Recreational Water Testing Services Provided by Eurolab
ISO 7899-2 is a standardized method for detecting enterococci in recreational water. The standard, published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), provides guidelines for laboratories to follow when testing for enterococci in water samples. Enterococci are a type of bacteria that can be present in water and pose a risk to human health.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The detection of enterococci in recreational water is governed by various national and international regulations. In the European Union, for example, the Bathing Water Directive (2006/7/EC) sets out requirements for testing bathing waters for microbiological parameters, including enterococci. Similarly, in the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set guidelines for recreational water quality, which includes testing for enterococci.
International and National Standards
The relevant international standard is ISO 7899-2:2006, which provides a method for detecting enterococci in water. The standard is based on the most probable number (MPN) technique, where a series of dilutions are made to determine the concentration of enterococci present in the sample.
In addition to ISO 7899-2, other national standards may apply depending on the country or region. For example:
Standard Development Organizations
The development of ISO 7899-2 was carried out by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in collaboration with other standard development organizations, including:
Standard Evolution and Updates
Standards are subject to revision and update as new information becomes available. ISO 7899-2 has undergone several revisions since its initial publication in 1994, with the latest version published in 2006.
Compliance Requirements for Different Industries
Different industries have varying requirements for testing water samples for enterococci. For example:
Each industry has its specific regulations and guidelines for testing water quality.
Why ISO 7899-2 is Needed
Enterococci can be present in water samples, posing a risk to human health. The detection of enterococci in recreational water is essential to ensure the safety of bathers and users of the water.
Business and Technical Reasons for Conducting ISO 7899-2 Testing
Conducting ISO 7899-2 testing provides several benefits, including:
Consequences of Not Performing this Test
Failure to detect enterococci in recreational water can lead to:
Industries and Sectors Requiring ISO 7899-2 Testing
The following industries and sectors require testing for enterococci in recreational water:
Risk Factors and Safety Implications
Enterococci can pose a risk to human health through various routes of exposure, including:
Quality Assurance and Quality Control Aspects
Conducting ISO 7899-2 testing involves several quality assurance and control measures, including:
Step-by-Step Explanation of the Test
Conducting ISO 7899-2 testing involves several steps, including:
1. Sample collection: Collect water samples from the site.
2. Pre-treatment: Treat the sample to remove particulate matter.
3. Dilution: Prepare a series of dilutions using certified reference materials (CRMs).
4. Incubation: Incubate the diluted samples under controlled conditions.
5. Counting: Count the number of colonies formed.
Testing Equipment and Instruments Used
The following equipment is used for conducting ISO 7899-2 testing:
Preparation of Certified Reference Materials (CRMs)
Certified reference materials are essential for conducting ISO 7899-2 testing. These materials are prepared according to the standard and provided by certified suppliers.
Incubation Conditions
The incubation conditions for conducting ISO 7899-2 testing are as follows:
Counting of Colonies
The number of colonies formed is counted using a spectrophotometer or other suitable instrument.
Reporting Results
The results of the test are reported in accordance with the standard, including:
Conclusion
Conducting ISO 7899-2 testing provides several benefits, including ensuring compliance with national and international regulations, preventing health risks associated with enterococci in recreational water, and demonstrating commitment to quality and safety.
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