What is the purpose of the Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC) analysis and is it a replacement for Total Coliform analysis? What are the action limits for the HPC analysis?
TestAmerica Expert: Alex Spears
Expert's Response:
The purpose of the HPC (heterotrophic plate count) test is to determine the total heterotrophic (environmental) bacteria load present in the water sample, and is not used in lieu of the total coliform test, as the total (and fecal) coliform tests are used in determining the possible presence of pathogens in the water. The EPA action limit for potable (drinking) water is 500 cfu/mL. More information about the EPA guidelines and action limits can be found at http://water.epa.gov/drink/contaminants/index.cfm#3.
If you detect high levels of total coliforms in a borehole located close (+-100m) from a sewage plant, is it posible that is can be caused by the sewage plant's dams leaking into the groundwater or are there other factors that cause the high plate count?
ReplyDeleteAlthough it is possible that it is caused by leakage from the sewage plant, a total coliform test is not specific enough to prove it. To prove that there are indeed sewage related organisms present more specific tests for indicator organisms such as E. coli and Enterococcus would need to be done.
ReplyDeleteWhat test needs to be performed to count the hydrocarbon utiliing bacteria in a water sample?
ReplyDeleteIf our HPC Count is 8,900/ml and Total Coliform is 16.1 mpn/100ml, what health risks could this potentially pose on children?
ReplyDeleteWe tested our reverse osmosis water. I'm concerned about their health but don't know where to look for information.