What happens if a sample is positive for Total or Fecal Coliform?
In accordance with the TCR, if any routine sample is Total Coliform positive it must be analyzed for fecal coliform. If any sample is found to be Total Coliform positive, the water system must collect a set of repeat samples for each positive sample. The repeat samples confirm the presence of Total Coliform bacteria in the distribution system. A sample must be collected from the sampling station that had the initial positive sample and samples must also be collected from locations upstream and downstream of that sampling station. In most cases these upstream and downstream locations are kitchen or bathroom faucets in homes or businesses located around the sampling stations. Total Coliform In accordance with the Total Coliform Rule, five (5) percent of a water system’s monthly samples can be Total Coliform positive. A water system is in violation of the rule if more than five percent of its monthly samples are positive. Such a violation requires that a public notice be advertised in the
