ABSTRACT
For the Total Coliform Rule, laboratories must test all total coliform-positive cultures for the presence of either fecal coliforms or E. coli.
For the Total Coliform Rule, laboratories must promptly notify the proper authority of a positive total coliform, fecal coliform, or E. coli result, so that appropriate follow-up actions (e.g. collection of repeat samples) can be conducted [see CFR 141.21(b) and (e), 40 CFR 141.31, etc.]. A total coliformpositive result is based on a confirmed phase for the Multiple Tube Fermentation Technique and Presence-Absence (P-A) Coliform Test, or verified test for Membrane Filter Technique. No requirement exists for confirmation of positive Colilert=Colisure tests, fecal coliform test, or E. coli tests. In those rare cases where a presumptive total coliform-positive culture does not confirm=verify as such, but is found to be fecal coliform or E. coli positive, the sample is considered total coliform-positive and fecal coliform=E. coli positive.
