If the water tested positive for coli-form bacteria. What does this exactly mean and what can we do about it?

water found with contamination of coliform bacteria means water quality is suitable for further use but it also depends on the purpose for which you are going to use that contaminated water. as for example if there is a presence of coliform bacteria 50CFU/ml in water is not suitable for drinking purpose but it still suitable for bathing, Cleaning, gardening etc. and also the coliform contamination from water can be removed by the process of disinfection.

If water testing is E.coli positive than this sample send for total bacterial count because this coliform bacteria themselves are usually not pathogenic but they are indicate the presence of other pathogenic organisms

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Its mean there is a source from which sewer water is getting entry to clean drinking water. Sewer water is the main source of Coli-form or e-coli bacteria.

Coliform bacteria are actually found in high concentrations in the fecal matter of  dogs, deer, and humans.  Some coliform bacteria can cause disease in humans, but most do not.  But, when any coliform bacteria are detected in a water  it is a clear indication that the water has been contaminated with mostly by animal fecal matter.The presence or absence of coliform bacteria suggests the presence or absence of more dangerous disease-causing agents in the water. E-coli is the one most dangerous.

If the results of laboratory tests to check bacterial water indicated the presence of a positive E. coli according to the applicable specifications are collected the same confirmation and if the results confirmed the presence of pollution must stop the water source and the investigation into the causes of pollution and treatment. If the sample taken from the raw water. If the preparation of E. coli <50/100 ml are processed sterilization if the preparation of E. coli> 50/100 ml must stop the water source, and an inquiry into the causes of pollution and treatment.

Shock high concentration of chlorine to the water for a short time

this means that this type of water is bacteria contaminated and not suitable for drinking we have to sterilization by chlorine gas or ozone  or ultraviolet 

Hello dear

Coli-form positive results indicates that there is a CHANCE but NOT sure fecal contamination from a warm-blooded animals.

what to do?

check your treatment and disinfection and distribution systems.

hope I helped you.

best regards.