Determination of Feacal Coliforms in Sediments by the Pour Plate (PP) Method 47 (Rev.1)

This document, a reference method guide published by the United Nations Environment Programme in collaboration with the World Health Organization, provides a standardized protocol for detecting faecal coliforms in marine sediments using the pour plate (PP) method. Designed for environmental monitoring, it outlines detailed procedures for sampling, sample preparation, dilution, and incubation, ensuring accuracy and comparability of results across regions. The method targets coastal bathing waters and shellfish growing areas, emphasizing the importance of faecal coliforms as indicators of recent faecal contamination. It includes specifications for apparatus, culture media, and confirmatory tests, such as the MacConkey and Brilliant Green Bile broth tests, to validate results. The guide also covers data interpretation, precision estimation, and reporting formats, making it a comprehensive resource for laboratories involved in marine pollution studies.