Analytical Methods Approved for Drinking Water Compliance
\^ ^
'r0 Monitoring under the 1 otal Colilorm Rule
S Analysis for the following contaminants shall be conducted in accordance with the methods in the following table or their equivalent as determined by
^T EPA. The methods and monitoring requirements for these contaminants are specified in 40 CFR 141.21. Additional methods are listed in Appendix A to
^ SubpartCofPartl41.
The CFR is the legal reference for approved methods and takes precedent over this table. The table should accurately reflect the analytical methods
information published in 40 CFR 141. If you find discrepancies, please notify The Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791) so that EPA can
correct the table.
Contaminant EPA Publication
OUIIldll Illdlll Mothis\ri „ ^ .
Method Publication Order
Method Organization ReferenceTitle Date Number Number Source of Method
Total Coliforms
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
9221 A
9221 A
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition
1992
Standard Methods
Lactose broth, as commercially available, may be used in lieu of lauryl tryptose broth, if the system conducts at least 25 parallel tests between this medium
and lauryl tryptose broth using the water normally tested, and this comparison demonstrates that the false-positive rate and false-negative rate for total
coliform, using lactose broth, is less than 10 percent.
If inverted tubes are used to detect gas production, the media should cover these tubes at least one-half to two-thirds after the sample is added.
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition
1995
Standard Methods
Lactose broth, as commercially available, may be used in lieu of lauryl tryptose broth, if the system conducts at least 25 parallel tests between this medium
and lauryl tryptose broth using the water normally tested, and this comparison demonstrates that the false-positive rate and false-negative rate for total
coliform, using lactose broth, is less than 10 percent.
If inverted tubes are used to detect gas production, the media should cover these tubes at least one-half to two-thirds after the sample is added.
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 1 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Total Coliforms
9221 A
9221 A
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 20th Edition
1998
Standard Methods
Lactose broth, as commercially available, may be used in lieu of lauryl tryptose broth, if the system conducts at least 25 parallel tests between this medium
and lauryl tryptose broth using the water normally tested, and this comparison demonstrates that the false-positive rate and false-negative rate for total
coliform, using lactose broth, is less than 10 percent.
If inverted tubes are used to detect gas production, the media should cover these tubes at least one-half to two-thirds after the sample is added.
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 21 st Edition
2005
Standard Methods
Lactose broth, as commercially available, may be used in lieu of lauryl tryptose broth, if the system conducts at least 25 parallel tests between this medium
and lauryl tryptose broth using the water normally tested, and this comparison demonstrates that the false-positive rate and false-negative rate for total
coliform, using lactose broth, is less than 10 percent.
If inverted tubes are used to detect gas production, the media should cover these tubes at least one-half to two-thirds after the sample is added.
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
9221A-99 Standard Online version of Standard Methods for the http://www.standardmethods.org/
Methods Examination of Water and Wastewater.
Online Approval year by Standard Methods
Committee is designated by last 2 digits.
This is the only online version that is
approved.
Lactose broth, as commercially available, may be used in lieu of lauryl tryptose broth, if the system conducts at least 25 parallel tests between this medium
and lauryl tryptose broth using the water normally tested, and this comparison demonstrates that the false-positive rate and false-negative rate for total
coliform, using lactose broth, is less than 10 percent.
If inverted tubes are used to detect gas production, the media should cover these tubes at least one-half to two-thirds after the sample is added.
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 2 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Total Coliforms
9221 B
9221 B
9221 B
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition
1992
Standard Methods
Lactose broth, as commercially available, may be used in lieu of lauryl tryptose broth, if the system conducts at least 25 parallel tests between this medium
and lauryl tryptose broth using the water normally tested, and this comparison demonstrates that the false-positive rate and false-negative rate for total
coliform, using lactose broth, is less than 10 percent.
If inverted tubes are used to detect gas production, the media should cover these tubes at least one-half to two-thirds after the sample is added.
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition
1995
Standard Methods
Lactose broth, as commercially available, may be used in lieu of lauryl tryptose broth, if the system conducts at least 25 parallel tests between this medium
and lauryl tryptose broth using the water normally tested, and this comparison demonstrates that the false-positive rate and false-negative rate for total
coliform, using lactose broth, is less than 10 percent.
If inverted tubes are used to detect gas production, the media should cover these tubes at least one-half to two-thirds after the sample is added.
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 20th Edition
1998
Standard Methods
Lactose broth, as commercially available, may be used in lieu of lauryl tryptose broth, if the system conducts at least 25 parallel tests between this medium
and lauryl tryptose broth using the water normally tested, and this comparison demonstrates that the false-positive rate and false-negative rate for total
coliform, using lactose broth, is less than 10 percent.
If inverted tubes are used to detect gas production, the media should cover these tubes at least one-half to two-thirds after the sample is added.
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 3 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Total Coliforms
9221 B
9221 D
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 21 st Edition
2005
Standard Methods
Lactose broth, as commercially available, may be used in lieu of lauryl tryptose broth, if the system conducts at least 25 parallel tests between this medium
and lauryl tryptose broth using the water normally tested, and this comparison demonstrates that the false-positive rate and false-negative rate for total
coliform, using lactose broth, is less than 10 percent.
If inverted tubes are used to detect gas production, the media should cover these tubes at least one-half to two-thirds after the sample is added.
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
9221 B-99 Standard Online version of Standard Methods for the http://www.standardmethods.org/
Methods Examination of Water and Wastewater.
Online Approval year by Standard Methods
Committee is designated by last 2 digits.
This is the only online version that is
approved.
Lactose broth, as commercially available, may be used in lieu of lauryl tryptose broth, if the system conducts at least 25 parallel tests between this medium
and lauryl tryptose broth using the water normally tested, and this comparison demonstrates that the false-positive rate and false-negative rate for total
coliform, using lactose broth, is less than 10 percent.
If inverted tubes are used to detect gas production, the media should cover these tubes at least one-half to two-thirds after the sample is added.
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition
1992
Standard Methods
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Six-times formulation strength may be used if the medium is filter-sterilized rather than autoclaved.
9221 D
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition
1995
Standard Methods
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Six-times formulation strength may be used if the medium is filter-sterilized rather than autoclaved.
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 4 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Total Coliforms
9221 D
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 20th Edition
1998
Standard Methods
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Six-times formulation strength may be used if the medium is filter-sterilized rather than autoclaved.
9221 D
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 21 st Edition
2005
Standard Methods
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Six-times formulation strength may be used if the medium is filter-sterilized rather than autoclaved.
9221 D-99 Standard Online version of Standard Methods for the
Methods Examination of Water and Wastewater.
Online Approval year by Standard Methods
Committee is designated by last 2 digits.
This is the only online version that is
approved.
No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.
Six-times formulation strength may be used if the medium is filter-sterilized rather than autoclaved.
http://www.standardmethods.org/
9222 A
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition
1992
Standard Methods
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., etal, 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 5 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Total Coliforms
9222 A
9222 A
9222 A
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition
1995
Standard Methods
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 20th Edition
1998
Standard Methods
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 21 st Edition
2005
Standard Methods
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 6 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Total Coliforms
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
9222 A-97 Standard Online version of Standard Methods for the http://www.standardmethods.org/
Methods Examination of Water and Wastewater.
Online Approval year by Standard Methods
Committee is designated by last 2 digits.
This is the only online version that is
approved.
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
9222 B
9222 B
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition
1992
Standard Methods
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition
1995
Standard Methods
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 7 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Total Coliforms
9222 B
9222 B
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 20th Edition
1998
Standard Methods
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 21 st Edition
2005
Standard Methods
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
9222 B-97 Standard Online version of Standard Methods for the http://www.standardmethods.org/
Methods Examination of Water and Wastewater.
Online Approval year by Standard Methods
Committee is designated by last 2 digits.
This is the only online version that is
approved.
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 8 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Total Coliforms
9222 C
9222 C
9222 C
9222 C
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition
1992
Standard Methods
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition
1995
Standard Methods
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 20th Edition
1998
Standard Methods
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 21 st Edition
2005
Standard Methods
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 9 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Total Coliforms
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
9222 C-97 Standard Online version of Standard Methods for the http://www.standardmethods.org/
Methods Examination of Water and Wastewater.
Online Approval year by Standard Methods
Committee is designated by last 2 digits.
This is the only online version that is
approved.
MI agar also may be used. Preparation and use of MI agar is set forth in the article, "New medium for the simultaneous detection of total coliform and
Escherichia coli in water" by Brenner, K.P., et al., 1993, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 59:3534-3544. EPA/600/J-99/225. Available at:
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm. Verification of colonies is not required.
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
9223
Standard Standard Methods for the Examination of 1 992
Methods Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition
The ONPG-MUG Test is also known as the Autoanalysis Colilert System.
Standard Methods
9223
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition
1995
Standard Methods
The ONPG-MUG Test is also known as the Autoanalysis Colilert System.
9223
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 20th Edition
1998
Standard Methods
The ONPG-MUG Test is also known as the Autoanalysis Colilert System.
9223
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 21 st Edition
2005
Standard Methods
The ONPG-MUG Test is also known as the Autoanalysis Colilert System.
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 10 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Total Coliforms
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
9223 B-97 Standard Online version of Standard Methods for the
Methods Examination of Water and Wastewater.
Online Approval year by Standard Methods
Committee is designated by last 2 digits.
This is the only online version that is
approved.
The ONPG-MUG Test is also known as the Autoanalysis Colilert System.
http: //www. standardmethods.org/
Chromocult® EM Science Chromocult® Coliform Agar
Coliform Agar Presence/Absence Membrane Filter Test
Method for Detection and Identification of
Coliform Bacteria and Escherichia coli in
Finished Waters, Version 1.0
November
2000
EMD Chemicals
Colisure Test
Colitag®
IDEXX
Laboratories,
Inc.
CPI
International,
Inc.
Colisure Test
Colitag® Product as a Test for Detection and
Identification of Coliforms and E. coli
Bacteria in Drinking Water and Source Water
as Required in National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
February IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.
28, 1994
August CPI International, Inc.
2001
E*Colite® Test Charm Presence/Absence for Coliforms and E. coli December
Sciences, Inc. in Water 21,1997
Charm Sciences, Inc
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 11 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Total Coliforms
m-ColiBlue24®
Test
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
Hach Co.
m-ColiBlue 24 Test, "Total Coliforms and£. August 17,
coli Membrane Filtration Method with m- 1999
ColiBlue 24 Broth," Method No. 10029,
Revision 2.
Hach Company
Ready cult®
Coliforms 100
Presence/Absence
Test
EM Science Ready cult® Coliforms 100 Presence/Absence November EMD Chemicals
Test for Detection and Identification of 2000
Coliform Bacteria and Escherichia coli in
Finished Waters," Versonl.O
Fluorocult® is approved as an acceptable version of Ready cult® under the ATP program. It is available from EMD Chemicals (formerly EM Science).
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 12 of 18
-------
EPA Publication
n . •- «. .
Publication Order
Method Organization ReferenceTitle Date Number Number Source of Method
Escherichia coli The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
9222 G Standard Standard Methods for the Examination of 1995 Standard Methods
Methods Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition
Alternatively, the 18th edition of Standard Methods may be used forE. coli detection if the following protocol is used: at least 10 mL of EC medium is
supplemented with 50 ug/mL of 4-methylumbelliferyl-beta-D-glucuronide (MUG) (EC-MUG) before autoclaving. The inner inverted fermentation tube may
be omitted. Transfer the total coliform-positive culture by one of the following methods:
•remove the membrane containing the total coliform colonies from the substrate with a sterile forceps and carefully curl and insert the membrane into a tube
of EC-MUG (the laboratory may first remove a small portion of selected colonies for verification),
•swab entire membrane filter surface with a sterile cotton swab and transfer the inoculum to the EC-MUG (do not leave the cotton swab in the EC-MUG), or
•inoculate individual total coliform-positive colonies into EC-MUG.
Gently shake the inoculated tubes of EC-MUG to insure adequate mixing and incubate in a waterbath at 44.5 ± 0.2°C for 24 ± 2 hours. Following incubation,
observe fluorescence with an ultraviolet light (366 nm) in the dark. If fluorescence is visible, E. coli are present.
Alternatively, the 18th edition (1992) may be used if the membrane filter containing a total coliform-positive colony(ies) is transferred to nutrient agar, as
described in Standard Method 9221 B.3 (18th edition), supplemented with 100 ug/mL ofMUG. If the 18th edition is used, incubate the agar plate at 35°C for
4 hours and then observe the colony(ies) under ultraviolet light (366 nm) in the dark for fluorescence. If fluorescence is visible, E. coli are present.
9222 G Standard Standard Methods for the Examination of 1998 Standard Methods
Methods Water and Wastewater, 20th Edition
Alternatively, the 18th edition of Standard Methods may be used forE. coli detection if the following protocol is used: at least 10 mL of EC medium is
supplemented with 50 ug/mL of 4-methylumbelliferyl-beta-D-glucuronide (MUG) (EC-MUG) before autoclaving. The inner inverted fermentation tube may
be omitted. Transfer the total coliform-positive culture by one of the following methods:
•remove the membrane containing the total coliform colonies from the substrate with a sterile forceps and carefully curl and insert the membrane into a tube
of EC-MUG (the laboratory may first remove a small portion of selected colonies for verification),
•swab entire membrane filter surface with a sterile cotton swab and transfer the inoculum to the EC-MUG (do not leave the cotton swab in the EC-MUG), or
•inoculate individual total coliform-positive colonies into EC-MUG.
Gently shake the inoculated tubes of EC-MUG to insure adequate mixing and incubate in a waterbath at 44.5 ± 0.2°C for 24 ± 2 hours. Following incubation,
observe fluorescence with an ultraviolet light (366 nm) in the dark. If fluorescence is visible, E. coli are present.
Alternatively, the 18th edition (1992) may be used if the membrane filter containing a total coliform-positive colony(ies) is transferred to nutrient agar, as
described in Standard Method 9221 B.3 (18th edition), supplemented with 100 ug/mL ofMUG. If the 18th edition is used, incubate the agar plate at 35°C for
4 hours and then observe the colony(ies) under ultraviolet light (366 nm) in the dark for fluorescence. If fluorescence is visible, E. coli are present.
Revised June 2008 Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations Page 13 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Escherichia coli The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
9223/ONPG-
MUG (Colilert)
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition
1992
Standard Methods
Edberg, et.al, Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 55:1003-1008, 1989.
The Autoanalysis Colilert System is an MMO-MUG test.
9223/ONPG-
MUG (Colilert)
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition
1995
Standard Methods
Edberg, et.al., Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 55:1003-1008, 1989.
The Autoanalysis Colilert System is an MMO-MUG test.
9223/ONPG-
MUG (Colilert)
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 20th Edition
1998
Standard Methods
Edberg, et.al., Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 55:1003-1008, 1989.
The Autoanalysis Colilert System is an MMO-MUG test.
9223/ONPG-
MUG (Colilert)
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 21 st Edition
2005
Standard Methods
Edberg, et.al., Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 55:1003-1008, 1989.
The Autoanalysis Colilert System is an MMO-MUG test.
9223-97/ONPG- Standard Online version of Standard Methods for the
MUG (Colilert) Methods Examination of Water and Wastewater.
Online Approval year by Standard Methods
Committee is designated by last 2 digits.
This is the only online version that is
approved.
Edberg, et.al., Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 55:1003-1008, 1989.
The Autoanalysis Colilert System is an MMO-MUG test.
http://www.standardmethods.org/
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 14 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Escherichia coli The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
Chromocult® EM Science Chromocult® Coliform Agar
Coliform Agar Presence/Absence Membrane Filter Test
Method for Detection and Identification of
Coliform Bacteria and Escherichia coli in
Finished Waters, Version 1.0
November
2000
EMD Chemicals
Colisure Test
Colitag®
IDEXX
Laboratories,
Inc.
CPI
International,
Inc.
Colisure Test
Colitag® Product as a Test for Detection and
Identification of Coliforms and E. coli
Bacteria in Drinking Water and Source Water
as Required in National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations
February IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.
28, 1994
August CPI International, Inc.
2001
E*Colite® Test Charm Presence/Absence for Coliforms and E. coli December
Sciences, Inc. in Water 21,1997
Charm Sciences, Inc
Filter Membrane
Method with MI
Medium
EPA
Brenner, K.P., et.al, Applied and
Environmental Microbiology, 59:3534-3544
1993
EPA/600/J-99/225
http://www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/online.htm
Coliscan® is approved as a modification of MI under the ATP program. It is available from Micro logy Laboratories, P.O. Box 340, Goshen, IN 46527-0340.
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 15 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Escherichia coli The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
m-ColiBlue24®
Test
Hach Co.
m-ColiBlue 24 Test, "Total Coliforms and£. August 17,
coli Membrane Filtration Method with m- 1999
ColiBlue 24 Broth," Method No. 10029,
Revision 2.
Hach Company
Ready cult®
Coliforms 100
Presence/Absence
Test
EM Science Ready cult® Coliforms 100 Presence/Absence November EMD Chemicals
Test for Detection and Identification of 2000
Coliform Bacteria and Escherichia coli in
Finished Waters," Versonl.O
Fluorocult® is approved as an acceptable version of Ready cult® under the ATP program. It is available from EMD Chemicals (formerly EM Science).
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 16 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Fecal Coliforms
9221 E
Public water systems need only determine the presence or absence of fecal coliforms; a determination of fecal coliform density is not required.
When the MTF Technique or Presence-Absence (PA) Coliform Test is used to test for total coliforms, shake the lactose-positive presumptive tube or P-A vigorously
and transfer the growth with a sterile 3-mm loop or sterile applicator stick into brilliant green lactose bile broth and EC medium to determine the presence of total
and fecal coliforms, respectively.
When EPA-approved total coliform membrane filtration methods are used, transfer the total coliform-positive culture by one of the following methods:
•remove the membrane containing the total coliform colonies from the substrate with a steril forceps and carefully curl and insert the membrane into a tube of EC
medium (the laboratory may first remove a small portion of selected colonies for verification),
•swab the entire membrane filter surface with a sterile cotton swab and transfer the inoculum to the EC medium (do not leave the cotton swab in the EC medium), or
•inoculate individual total coliform-positive colonies into EC medium.
Gently shake the inoculated tubes of EC medium to insure adequate mixing and incubate in a waterbath at 44.5 ± 0.2 °C for 24 ± 2 hours. Gas production of any
amount in the inner fermentation tube of the EC medium indicates a positive fecal coliform test.
The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
EPA strongly recommends that laboratories evaluate the false-positive and negative rates for the methods(s) they use for monitoring total coliforms. EPA also
encourages laboratories to establish false-positive and false-negative rates within their own laboratory and sample matrix (drinking water or source water) with the
intent that if the method they choose has an unacceptable false-positive or negative rate, another method can be used. The Agency suggests that laboratories perform
these studies on a minimum of 5% of all total coliform-positive samples, except for those methods where verification/confirmation is already required, e.g., theM-
Endo and LES Endo Membrane Filter Tests, Standard Total Coliform Fermentation Technique, and Presence-Absence Coliform Test. Methods for establishing false-
positive and negative-rates may be based on lactose fermentation, the rapid test for B-galactosidase and cytochrome oxidase, multi-test identification systems, or
equivalent confirmation tests. False-positive and false-negative information is often available in published studies and/or from the manufacturer(s).
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition
1992
Standard Methods
The preparation of EC medium is described in paragraph la.
9221 E
Standard Standard Methods for the Examination of 1995
Methods Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition
The preparation of EC medium is described in paragraph la.
Standard Methods
9221 E
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 20th Edition
1998
Standard Methods
The preparation of EC medium is described in paragraph la.
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 17 of 18
-------
Contaminant
Method Organization ReferenceTitle
Method
Date
EPA
Publication
Number
Publication
Order
Number
Source of Method
Heterotrophic Bacteria The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but not required to hold samples below 10°C during
transit.
9215withR2A
Medium
9215withR2A
Medium
9215withR2A
Medium
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition
1992
Standard Methods
Any method in Standard Methods Section 9215, Heterotrophic Plate Count, may be used with R2A medium, for enumerating heterotrophic bacteria in
drinking water.
May be used if public water system operates under a variance to the Total Coliform Rule.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition
1995
Standard Methods
Any method in Standard Methods Section 9215, Heterotrophic Plate Count, may be used with R2A medium, for enumerating hetero trophic bacteria in
drinking water.
May be used if public water system operates under a variance to the Total Coliform Rule.
Standard
Methods
Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater, 20th Edition
1998
Standard Methods
Any method in Standard Methods Section 9215, Heterotrophic Plate Count, may be used with R2A medium, for enumerating hetero trophic bacteria in
drinking water.
May be used if public water system operates under a variance to the Total Coliform Rule.
Contact information for methods that are not available on the Internet are summarized in the report titled
"Sources of Approved Analytical Methods for National Drinking Water Regulations."
Revised June 2008
Approved Methods for the Total Coliform Rule - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
Page 18 of 18
------- |