World Water Day Interactive Compliance Quiz: Is Your Lab Aligned with EN ISO 7704:2023 Standards?

Evaluate your laboratory's adherence to the updated EN ISO 7704:2023 standards for microbiological water testing. This self-assessment focuses on specific requirements and best practices to ensure compliance and optimize testing accuracy. Upon completion, you'll receive a readiness score and tailored recommendations to enhance your laboratory's performance.

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* 1. What is your email address?

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* 2. How does your laboratory verify the performance of membrane filters used in microbial enumeration?

We conduct mandatory batch testing manually for each membrane filter batch in combination with specific culture media, as specified in EN ISO 7704:2023.

We rely on manufacturer-provided performance data without additional in-house testing.

We perform occasional testing but lack a standardised protocol.

We do not perform specific performance testing of membrane filters.

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* 3. When encountering discrepancies in colony morphology or recovery rates, what steps does your lab take?

We perform supplementary qualitative testing to assess properties like hydrophobicity, grid line inhibition, and colony characteristics, following EN ISO 7704:2023 guidelines.

We consult with the membrane filter manufacturer for guidance

We document the discrepancies but do not conduct further testing.

We have not encountered such discrepancies.

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* 4. How does your laboratory prepare test suspensions of microorganisms for performance testing?

We follow EN ISO 7704:2023 and ISO 11133:2014 guidelines, using standardized test strains and certified reference materials.

We outsource the preparation to external laboratories.

We use in-house cultures without standardized protocols.

We do not prepare test suspensions for performance testing.

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* 5. Does your laboratory implement traceability measures for membrane filters and culture media batches?

Yes, we maintain comprehensive records of batch numbers, performance tests, and usage in compliance with EN ISO 7704:2023.

We record batch numbers but lack detailed performance documentation.

Traceability is managed by our suppliers; we do not maintain internal records.

We have not established procedures to address non-compliance.

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* 6. How does your laboratory address non-compliance issues identified during performance testing?

We conduct supplementary testing to identify inhibitory properties of membrane filters or culture media and adjust protocols accordingly.

We consult with suppliers to resolve the issues.

We document the issues but continue with existing protocols.

We have not established procedures to address non-compliance.