Water Analysis SANS 241 Microbiology & Potability

Drinking Water Analysis (Microbiological & Chemical)

Includes:

Physical & Aesthetic Determinands

• EC (Electrical Conductivity — measures total soluble salts)
• TDS (Total Dissolved Solids — often estimated from EC)
• pH (Measure of acidity/alkalinity)
• CO₃²⁻ (Carbonate)
• HCO₃⁻ (Bicarbonate)
• CaCO3 (Alkalinity)
• Langelier Index
• Saturation pH (pHs)
• Turbidity
• Total Hardness as CaCO3
• Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR)

Macro Chemical Determinands

• Chloride as Cl *
• Total Ammoniacal Nitrogen (TAN) as N Nitrate (NO3) as N
• (NO2) Nitrite as N
• (Na) Sodium Dissolved
• (Ca) Calcium Dissolved
• (Mg) Magnesium Dissolved
• (K) Potassium Dissolved
• (S) Sulphur Dissolved
• (SO4) Sulphate
• (P) Phosphorus Total

Micro Chemical Determinands

• (B) Boron Total
• (Cu) Copper Total
• (Fe) Iron Dissolved
• (Fe) Iron Total
• Manganese (Mn)
• Total Manganese (Mn)
• Dissolved Zinc (Zn)
• Total Zinc (Zn)

Microbiology Determinands

• Heterotropic Plate Count (Total Bacteria)
• Total coliforms (Membrane Filtration)
• E.coli (Membrane Filtration)

Further dilutions at additional charge - please enquire.

Here is how to safely collect water directly from a borehole or wellpoint:

1. Flush the System

• Run the water: Open the tap fully.
• Wait two minutes: Let water run to clear standing water.
• Clear the lines: This ensures you collect fresh groundwater.

2. Prepare the Container

• Use clean bottles: Select food-grade plastic or glass containers.
• Wash thoroughly: Clean with warm, soapy water first.
• Rinse completely: Use safe, clean water to remove residue.
• Sanitise if testing: Use a sterile container for bacterial tests.

3. Collect the Sample

• Avoid contact: Do not touch the inside of the cap.
• Keep tap clear: Do not let the tap touch the container.
• Fill carefully: Reduce the flow to prevent splashing.
• Seal immediately: Screw the cap on tightly right away.

4. Label the Sample Container

Print out and sign the downloadable "Water Analysis Request Form" as per the instructions and label the water sample container as directed to assist in processing and tracking

Let me know the type of lab test you require (e.g., chemical or bacterial) or your intended use (drinking, irrigation) please fill these details out on the form.