Ensuring the quality of drinking water involves comprehensive assessment techniques encompassing both physicochemical and microbiological properties.
Physicochemical Analysis:
This involves evaluating various physical and chemical characteristics of water. Parameters like pH, turbidity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, and chemical composition (such as levels of heavy metals, nitrates, and other pollutants) are measured. These parameters help in understanding the basic properties and potential contaminants present in the water./
Microbiological Analysis:
This aspect focuses on assessing the presence of microorganisms that could potentially pose health risks. Bacteria like E. coli and Enterococci are indicative of fecal contamination and serve as crucial indicators of water quality. Additionally, examining culturable organisms helps identify other microbial species that might be present.
Directive (EU) 2020/2184:
This directive outlines specific minimum parameters and standards for drinking water quality within the European Union. It places emphasis on the aforementioned bacteria as indicators of potential fecal contamination, highlighting the need to prevent waterborne diseases.
Additional Testing for Pathogens:
In cases where water quality issues are suspected or there are concerns beyond the parameters mentioned in the directive, further testing for specific pathogens is conducted. Pathogens like Salmonella or parasites such as Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia intestinalis, and Cryptosporidium parvum are assessed to ensure that water is free from harmful microorganisms that could cause diseases upon consumption.
Public Health Safeguards:
These meticulous analyses and stringent testing protocols outlined by directives and regulations serve as preventive measures against waterborne diseases. By ensuring water meets quality standards and is free from harmful pathogens, these measures safeguard public health and well-being.
Overall, this multi-tiered approach involving physicochemical analysis, microbiological assessment, compliance with directives, and additional pathogen testing forms a robust framework for guaranteeing the safety and quality of drinking water, crucial for maintaining public health standards.
Clostridium perfringens:
4709 Clostridium Perfringens Agar (m-CP)
1132 Clostridium Perfringens Agar Base (m-CP)
4660 TSC Agar Base (Tryptose Sulfite Cycloserine)
4661 TSC Agar Base (Tryptose Sulfite Cycloserine)
4728 TSC Agar Base (Tryptose Sulfite Cycloserine)
E. coli / Coliforms:
4702 Chapman TTC Agar (Tergitol 7 Agar)
1076 Chapman TTC Agar (Tergitol 7 Agar)
981 Chromogenic Coliforms Agar (CCA)
4721 Chromogenic Coliforms Agar (CCA)
2080 Chromogenic Coliforms Agar (CCA)
4722 Fecal Coliforms Agar (m-FC)
1127 Fecal Coliforms Agar Base (m-FC)
2182 m-Agar Lactose Glucuronide (mLGA)
Enterobacteriaceae:
Enterococcus (intestinal):
1070 Enterococcus Selective Agar (Enterococcosel Agar)
Pseudomonas aeruginosa:
1011 Bismuth Sulfite Agar (Wilson Blair)
Total Mesophilic Bacteria:
1190 TGEA Medium (Tryptone Glucose Yeast Extract Agar)
Yeast & Molds:
4692 Malt Extract Agar Acidified (pH 3,5)
821 Malt Extract Agar Acidified (pH 4,3)
4071 Malt Extract Agar Acidified (pH 4,3)
4550 Malt Extract Agar Acidified (pH 4,3)
4694 Malt Extract Agar Acidified (pH 4,3)
4103 Malt Extract Agar Acidified (pH 4,3)
988 M-Green Yeast and Mold Agar
2108 M-Green Yeast and Mold Agar
1166 Sabouraud Dextrose Agar 2%