Abstract

Specifies a method for isolating and estimating the number of Legionella pneumophila and a range of other Legionella spp. in water with low microbial loads.

Scope

This Standard sets out a method for isolating and estimating the number of Legionella pneumophila and a range of other Legionella spp. in water with low microbial loads. The target matrix for this Standard is water samples from reticulated water systems where colonisation by Legionella spp. is of public health concern. While this Standard is not restricted to this matrix, it may not be suitable for some environmental and recreational samples, such as industrial, waste and natural waters. This is because samples are concentrated and the high microbial loads in these samples could interfere with the detection of Legionella spp., leading to the possibility of false negative results.
This Standard has a lower limit of detection than AS 3896. Therefore, it is suitable when—
(a) the detection of lower levels is sought; or
(b) higher precision is desired for levels close to the lower limit of detection of AS 3896.
NOTES:
1 A flow chart of the procedure is shown in Appendix A.
2 This method will isolate L. pneumophila but not all other Legionella spp. L. pneumophila serogroup 1 accounts for the majority of legionellae infections.
3 Conditions that favour the isolation of L. pneumophila do not necessarily apply to some Legionella spp. However, treatments and media included in this method are designed to enhance the recovery of other species in addition to L. pneumophila.

General Product Information

Published
Document Type	Standard
Status	Current
Publisher	Standards Australia
Pages
ISBN
Committee	FT-020
Supersedes	DR AS 5132:2016