Drinking water analysis
Trinkwasseranalyse Labor

Microbiological analysis of drinking water by an accredited laboratory

Design

Sampling

Analysis

Results

Drinking water analysis from the Rostock laboratory

Drinking water is society’s most important foodstuff

Drinking water is society’s most important foodstuff. The quality of water is therefore of particular importance and is strictly regulated by the German regulation „Trinkwasserverordnung“

It must be free of pathogens, fit for human consumption and clean. From your own well to the water supplier, water must meet the requirements of the „Trinkwasserverordnung“ and be tested regularly. BIOSERV is an officially recognised laboratory for microbiological drinking water testing by the Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania State Office for Health and Social Affairs. In this way, we make an important contribution to consumer protection

Legally compliant drinking water analysis by BIOSERV

As an accredited testing laboratory, we offer you a complete service from planning, sampling and analysis to the test report. With us and the experts in our network, you have access to risk-oriented problem management and control strategies.

Analysis range of microbiological parameters for laboratory drinking water analysis

  • Legionella
  • Colony count 22 °C / 36 °C
  • Escherichia coli (E. coli)
  • Coliform bacteria
  • Enterococci
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa
  • Clostridium perfringens
Trinkwasseranalysen Legionellen

Standardised sampling for laboratory drinking water analysis

The „Trinkwasserverordnung“ stipulates that samples may only be taken by qualified personnel from approved testing laboratories.

We meet the requirements of the „Trinkwasserverordnung“and DIN EN ISO 19458 “Water quality – Sampling for microbiological analysis”. Drinking water testing is indicated in both commercial properties and where water is accessible to the general public. This can include residential buildings, hotels/holiday homes, medical facilities (hospitals, health care facilities, nursing homes), care facilities and community accommodation.

Normgerechte Probenahme Trinkwasseranalyse Bioserv

Water quality also plays an important role in the manufacture of products such as food, pharmaceuticals or medical devices and must be closely monitored to ensure good product quality and safety.

Our competent and trained samplers guarantee correct and standard-compliant sampling in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and the neighbouring federal states, as well as the fastest possible transport to our own laboratory.

Process water analysis in dentistry

As soon as water from the drinking water network is fed into a medical device, such as a dental treatment or dental unit, it becomes process water. Process water is intended to come into contact with the mucous membranes of patients, and the aerosols it produces can also be inhaled. In order to protect health, high quality requirements apply to water from dental units.

Inspection intervals must be defined internally. If there are no indications of defects, intervals of 12 months are usual and reasonable. According to KRINKO recommendations, samples should be taken by trained, experienced personnel.

Who should have their drinking water analysed by an accredited laboratory?

Hospitals, health, nursing and care facilities
Dentists and doctors
shared accommodation
Food, pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers
Landlords of residential properties or the person acting on their behalf

Other hygiene-related questions about consumer and product safety are answered here.

After drinking water analysis in the laboratory:

BIOSERV takes care of transmitting the results

After the drinking water samples have been analysed in the laboratory, you will receive the results in an uncomplicated manner and, in the event of a positive result, we will assume the obligation to inform and forward the results to the authorities in a timely and legally compliant manner.

Would you like a quotation for a drinking water analysis from our laboratory?

How drinking water analysis with our laboratory works

Order + Appointment

Contact us now to receive your personal quote for a drinking water analysis. As the price for such an analysis depends on the distance and effort involved, the cost is always calculated individually. If you are happy with our quote, we will be happy to arrange an appointment for professional sampling by our trained staff.

Laboratory analysis

Once the sample arrives at our laboratory, our drinking water specialists test it for microbiological contaminants such as Legionella, E.coli, Pseudomonas and total bacteria. Only accredited methods that meet strict legal requirements are used.

Findings + result

Depending on the type of test, you will receive the results within three to twelve days. Our experts will evaluate the results in accordance with the guidelines and will also report to the relevant health authority if critical limits are exceeded. Within our network we can also provide risk analysis and specialists to eliminate the causes.

Trinkwasseranalyse Labor in Rostock

Laboratory drinking water analysis versus a quick test at home

As a certified laboratory for water analysis, we would like to show you the advantages of a microbiological water analysis in our laboratory compared to a quick test at home. Our laboratory analyses provide a comprehensive and accurate examination of your water quality that goes far beyond the capabilities of home tests.

First and foremost, the reliability and accuracy of our microbiological analysis is a key advantage. While home tests are convenient and cost-effective, they often provide limited information and can be prone to user error. The sensitivity and accuracy of rapid tests are often insufficient to reliably detect all potential microorganisms, including harmful bacteria such as E. coli and coliform bacteria.

Our laboratory analyses are carried out by highly qualified professionals using the latest technologies and methods to ensure a comprehensive and accurate assessment of your water quality. We can identify and quantify a wide range of micro-organisms, which is essential for safety and health.

Another key benefit of our services is the detailed reporting and advice we provide. Following the analysis, you will receive a detailed report that not only breaks down the results, but also provides clear recommendations and guidance. This detailed information is essential for making informed decisions about possible actions to improve water quality. Home rapid tests do not usually provide this level of detail and explanation, making it difficult to interpret the results.

In addition, analysis in a certified laboratory provides greater assurance and compliance. Our tests are recognised and meet the strict standards and guidelines required for drinking water analysis. This is particularly important for businesses, public institutions or households that need to ensure their water meets legal requirements. Home rapid tests cannot guarantee these safety standards and do not provide legally recognised results.

Of course, we understand that the cost and time required for laboratory testing is higher than for home testing. However, this investment is justified when it comes to the health and safety of your family, employees or customers. The long-term benefits of accurate and comprehensive water analysis far outweigh the short-term savings of rapid testing.

In summary, microbiological water analysis by our certified laboratory offers unbeatable accuracy, reliability and comprehensive advice that rapid home testing cannot provide. We are confident that our services will give you peace of mind and confidence that your water is clean and safe. Invest in the health and safety of your water source by choosing professional laboratory analysis.

FAQs on laboratory drinking water analysis

What microbiological parameters are regulated in the “Trinkwasserverordnung”?

The “Trinkwasserverordnung” sets limit values for various microorganisms, including

  • Escherichia coli (E. coli): An indicator of faecal contamination.
  • Coliform bacteria: General indicators of water quality.
  • Enterococci: Other indicators of faecal contamination.
  • Clostridium perfringens (including spores): Indicators of past faecal contamination.
  • Legionella: Bacteria that thrive in warm water and can cause Legionnaires’ disease.
What is a microbiological analysis of drinking water according to the Drinking Water Ordinance?

A microbiological drinking water analysis according to the German “Trinkwasserverordnung” (TrinkwV) tests drinking water for the presence of harmful microorganisms to ensure that the water meets legal requirements and is safe for human consumption.

How often should drinking water be tested for microbes?

The frequency of testing depends on the type of water supply:

  • Public water supplies: regular and frequent testing in accordance with the requirements of the “Trinkwasserverordnung”.
  • Private households with their own water supply (e.g. well water): At least once a year.
  • Rented accommodation and public buildings: Depending on local regulations, often at least once a year.
What are the most common sources of microbiological contamination in drinking water?
  • Faecal contamination: From sewage discharges, leaking sewers or flooding.
  • Natural sources: Surface water entering wells or drinking water pipes.
  • Internal contamination: Biofilm formation in poorly maintained pipes and tanks.
What is the correct way to take a water sample for microbiological analysis?
  • Use a sterile sample container: The sample container should be sterile to avoid contamination.
  • Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly before taking a sample.
  • Let the water run: Run the water for at least 2-3 minutes to flush any standing water from the pipes.
  • Collect the sample: Hold the sterile container under the stream of water and fill without touching the rim or lid.
  • Transport: The sample should be transported to the laboratory as quickly as possible and kept cool.
What happens if the microbiological analysis exceeds the limits?
  • Informing consumers: Consumers must be informed immediately of the contamination.
  • Remedial action: Immediate measures to eliminate the contamination and ensure water quality, e.g. disinfection of pipes.
  • Follow-up testing: Repeated tests to ensure that the contamination has been eliminated and the water is back to legal requirements.
Who does the microbiological analysis?

Certified and accredited laboratories working in accordance with the Drinking Water Ordinance are responsible for carrying out the microbiological analyses. These laboratories guarantee accurate and reliable results.

What is the legal basis for microbiological analysis of drinking water?

The legal basis is the “Trinkwasserverordnung”, which regulates the quality requirements for drinking water in Germany. This ordinance is based on the EU Drinking Water Directive and defines the limit values for microorganisms and other parameters that drinking water must meet.

Where can I get more information about drinking water regulations and microbiological analysis?

Further information can be found on the websites of:

  • Federal Ministry of Health (BMG)
  • Federal Environment Agency (UBA)
  • Regional health authorities
  • Certified water laboratories
Why is Legionella so dangerous?

Legionella are dangerous because they can cause serious respiratory diseases such as Legionnaires’ disease and Pontiac fever. Legionnaires’ disease can lead to severe pneumonia, which in some cases is fatal, especially in older people, smokers and those with weakened immune systems. The bacteria thrive in warm water environments such as hot water pipes, air conditioning systems and hot tubs and are spread by inhaling water droplets contaminated with Legionella. Control and prevention are difficult because Legionella live in biofilms in water systems and large, complex water systems present particular challenges.

Why is microbiological analysis of drinking water important?

Microorganisms in drinking water can cause serious illness. Regular testing ensures that drinking water is free from pathogens, protecting the health of consumers.

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