1.1 This test method covers the determination of viable active biomass in cooling tower water in the range from 10² to 10⁸ cfu/mL. It is a semiquantitative test method.

1.2 This test method was used successfully with reagent water, physiologic saline, and cooling tower waters. It is the user's responsibility to ensure the validity of this test method for waters of untested matrices.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard statements, see Section 9.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.