ASTM International’s water committee (D19) has approved a new standard that will help water producers and users identify and quantify bacteria in potable (drinking, dental, and bottled water) as well as non- potable water (cooling towers). Heterotrophic bacteria count (HPC) determines the overall number of bacteria in a water sample, allowing water system managers and water treatment professionals to make informed decisions based on testing results.

The test method described in the new standard (D8516) uses reduced-size plates with dehydrated media which are spiked with small volumes of water. This standard provides an easy and reliable method that eliminates media preparation and reduces laboratory waste.

“This standard supports clean water by making water testing easier and more accessible to laboratories,” said ASTM member Jody Frymire. “Additionally, the smaller plate size reduces plastic waste compared to traditional pour plate or spread plate methods.”

This effort directly relates to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #6 on clean water and sanitation and #12 on responsible consumption and production.

“This standard will be beneficial to companies that produce, bottle or treat water by providing an easy standardized method to measure HPC," said  Frymire, regulatory specialist, IDEXX Water. “By following this test method, manufacturers can ensure the effectiveness of their control measures and maintain quality and water safety.”