Bacteriological samples are used to detect fecal contamination.

Bacteriological samples are used to detect fecal contamination.

• A. Only for surface water
• B. False
• C. Only in treated water
• D. True

Answer: (D)

Bacteriological sampling is used to detect fecal contamination by testing water for indicator organisms such as total coliforms, fecal coliforms, and E. coli. Their presence indicates that fecal matter may have entered the water, signaling potential pathogens and a safety risk. Sampling is conducted at various points and water types—from raw source water to treated water and distribution water—because contamination can occur anywhere along the system, not just in surface water. Therefore, the statement is true. The other options are misleading because testing isn’t limited to surface water or to treated water, and denying the purpose doesn’t reflect how these samples are used to protect public health.

Bacteriological sampling is used to detect fecal contamination by testing water for indicator organisms such as total coliforms, fecal coliforms, and E. coli. Their presence indicates that fecal matter may have entered the water, signaling potential pathogens and a safety risk. Sampling is conducted at various points and water types—from raw source water to treated water and distribution water—because contamination can occur anywhere along the system, not just in surface water. Therefore, the statement is true. The other options are misleading because testing isn’t limited to surface water or to treated water, and denying the purpose doesn’t reflect how these samples are used to protect public health.