If at least 40 samples per month are collected from a public water system, what is the minimum percentage of routine/repeat samples that must test negative for coliform?

If at least 40 samples per month are collected from a public water system, what is the minimum percentage of routine/repeat samples that must test negative for coliform?

• A. 80%
• B. 95%
• C. 85%
• D. 90%

Answer: (B)

In the context of water quality monitoring, particularly when testing for coliform bacteria, regulatory standards dictate that a significant majority of routine or repeat samples must demonstrate acceptable water quality. For a public water system collecting a minimum of 40 samples per month, it is essential that the system maintains public safety by ensuring that a high percentage of these samples test negative for coliform. Choosing a threshold of 95% for negative test results establishes a rigorous standard aimed at minimizing the risk of contamination. This percentage reflects a commitment to stringent water quality measures, ensuring that if coliform is detected, it is addressed swiftly to protect public health. Regulatory bodies impose such high standards to safeguard communities from potential waterborne diseases associated with high levels of coliform bacteria. Lower percentages might suggest a more lenient approach; however, they could fail to adequately protect public health. The 95% threshold effectively balances the need for safety while allowing for routine operations and necessary monitoring. This helps water systems to quickly identify and mitigate potential contamination issues.

In the context of water quality monitoring, particularly when testing for coliform bacteria, regulatory standards dictate that a significant majority of routine or repeat samples must demonstrate acceptable water quality. For a public water system collecting a minimum of 40 samples per month, it is essential that the system maintains public safety by ensuring that a high percentage of these samples test negative for coliform.

Choosing a threshold of 95% for negative test results establishes a rigorous standard aimed at minimizing the risk of contamination. This percentage reflects a commitment to stringent water quality measures, ensuring that if coliform is detected, it is addressed swiftly to protect public health. Regulatory bodies impose such high standards to safeguard communities from potential waterborne diseases associated with high levels of coliform bacteria.

Lower percentages might suggest a more lenient approach; however, they could fail to adequately protect public health. The 95% threshold effectively balances the need for safety while allowing for routine operations and necessary monitoring. This helps water systems to quickly identify and mitigate potential contamination issues.