Descriptions of Standard Tests

Legionella Water Test

Legionella is a naturally occuring bacteria found in water. In small quantities it is not harmful but in warm damp conditions it can grow rapidly in numbers and become highly dangerous when airborne.

Government legislation ( Approved Code of Practice L8 ) requires commercial enterprises to ensure that their water systems do not provide a risk to health from legionella. Specific risks are showers, spa pools, air-conditioning systems and water systems with dead legs and/or storage tanks. A sample test will determine the total microbial contamination (TVC) and the amount of legionella present which must be less than 50cfu /1 litre for standard water systems and less than .

For further information on tests please check the following Government website
http://www.hse.gov.uk/legionnaires/

Drinking (Potable) Water Quality Check

UK mains water is generally of high quality with low microbial contamination. However not all drinking water is safe and testing may be required for a variety of reasons.

  1. Water source not from mains but private well or reservoir
  2. Water held in storage tank before use
  3. Use of water fountain or water cooler with inbuilt reservoir

A sample test will determine the total microbial contamination (TVC) and the amount of e-coli and coliforms. The e-coli and coliform results must be less than 1cfu/100ml.

For further information on tests please check the following Government website
http://www.dwi.gov.uk/pubs/private/index.htm#3

Drinking Water (Lead)

For many years water pipes in homes and offices were made using lead. Over time as the pipes became old the lead can leech into the water. Lead is considered the number one health threat to children, and the effects of lead poisoning can last a lifetime. Not only does lead poisoning stunt a child’s growth, damage the nervous system, and cause learning disabilities, but it is also now linked to crime and anti-social behaviour in children. The amount of lead in the water must be less than 25µg/litre.

Drinking Water (Nitrates)

Drinking water from private sources such as wells, streams or reservoirs can contain nitrates from agricultural fertilizers. Nitrates in the water can be highly dangerous to babies and have a potential over the long term to cause cancer. The amount of nitrates must be less than 50mg/litre.