If an initial sample is positive for total coliforms, when must public notice be given if a repeat sample is positive for fecal coliform or E. coli?

When an initial sample tests positive for total coliforms, it indicates a potential issue with water quality, which necessitates further testing. If subsequent testing, referred to as repeat sampling, shows positive results specifically for fecal coliforms or E. coli, this finding is particularly serious because it signals the presence of fecal contamination in the water supply.

In such cases, public health regulations dictate that a public notice must be issued promptly to inform the community of the potential health risks associated with consuming or utilizing the contaminated water. The requirement mandates that this public notice be delivered within 24 hours of receiving the repeat sample results. This rapid notification is crucial to ensure protective measures can be taken to safeguard public health, such as providing alternative drinking water sources or advising against swimming.

This urgent timeframe emphasizes the importance of timely communication about water quality issues, as fecal coliforms and E. coli are direct indicators of pathogens that can cause serious illness.