The mWater testing guide
Low-cost Water Microbiology Tests
the mWater guide
by John Feighery, PhD
Microbial contamination is the most common reason that water systems fail to meet World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines; therefore, microbial testing is a logical first step in monitoring water quality. The detection of actual human pathogens in water is complex and requires advanced microbiology techniques. Instead, we look for fecal indicator bacteria that are commonly associated with the contamination of water supplies by untreated sewage. Although many fecal indicators have been proposed, we recommend E. coli because it is most closely associated with sewage and is preferred by the WHO.
In this guide, we discuss the most common methods used for field microbiology tests, the tests that we believe are most suitable and where to purchase supplies. We are constantly evaluating new test technologies and updating this guide. We have only included tests that we have direct experience using and that have accumulated some evidence documenting their validity for surface, ground (or drinking) water quality monitoring. If you would like to suggest new tests to be evaluated, please contact us.