Key Terms
The cfu/ml (colony-forming units per milliliter) measurement serves to approximate the quantity of living bacteria or fungal cells present in a given sample.
The environmental group known as coliforms contains bacteria which exist in water and other natural settings. The detection of coliforms in water samples suggests possible contamination from fecal matter.
E. coli (Escherichia coli) represents a particular coliform bacterial species which inhabits human and animal intestinal tracts. Water containing E. coli serves as a definitive sign of fecal contamination.
Free chlorine represents the active chlorine component in water which functions to eliminate bacteria together with other microorganisms.
Legionella represents a bacterial species responsible for causing Legionnaires’ disease which leads to severe pneumonia.
The bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa leads to skin and ear and eye infections mostly affecting people whose immune systems are weakened.
Biofilm represents a slimy microbial structure which develops on surfaces located in moist environments including hot tubs.
The process of disinfection involves the destruction of harmful microorganisms through killing or inactivation methods.
Back siphoning occurs when contaminated water from drains reverses its flow to enter clean water supply systems.
PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) consists of protective equipment which helps reduce contact with hazardous substances including gloves and eye protection.