10A NCAC 42D .0247. MICROBIOLOGY EQUIPMENT/SUPPLIES/ASSOCIATED QUALITY CONTROL

(a)  A laboratory seeking certification for microbiological analyses of water shall have available, or have access to, the items required for the total coliform and fecal coliform procedures as listed in the EPA "Manual for the Certification of Laboratories Analyzing Drinking Water", Chapter 5, Section 3, Laboratory Equipment and Supplies which is hereby incorporated by reference including any subsequent amendments and editions, except that Sections 3.2.2, 3.5.4 and 3.11.6 are not incorporated by reference.  A copy is available for inspection at the Division of Public Health, 1915 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1915.  Nonprofit organizations or government agencies may obtain a copy by contacting the EPA Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.  Other organizations may obtain a copy from the National Technical Information Service at 800-336-4700 for thirty five dollars ($35.00).

(b)  In addition to the items and procedures incorporated by reference in Paragraph (a) of this Rule the laboratory shall have available the items and follow the procedures listed in this Paragraph:

(1)           Balance.  Calibrate the balance monthly using class S or S-1 reference weights.  Check the balance with a minimum of three traceable weights which bracket the laboratory weighing needs.

(2)           Autoclave.  The autoclave shall be checked at least weekly with a maximum registering thermometer.  Heat sensitive tape or spore strips or ampules may be used during each autoclave cycle and results recorded.

(3)           Fecal Coliform Waterbath:

(A)          A temperature of 44.5C  0.2C shall be maintained.

(B)          A thermometer graduated in 0.1C increments shall be used to monitor temperature.

(C)          The water level shall be sufficient to reach the upper level of media in tubes.

(D)          On days used, record temperature at least twice per day with readings separated by at least four hours.

 

History Note:        Authority G.S. 130A‑315;

Eff. December 1, 1991;

Amended Eff. January 1, 1996.