What is the maximum allowable amount of total coliform bacteria in pool water?

The correct answer is that there should be no detectable coliform bacteria in pool water. This standard is based on the recognition that the presence of coliform bacteria, which can indicate contamination by fecal matter, poses a significant health risk to swimmers. Coliforms are a group of bacteria commonly found in the environment, including in feces of warm-blooded animals. The presence of these bacteria in pool water suggests that there may be harmful pathogens present, which can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses and other health issues.

In regulated swimming pools, maintaining water quality is crucial for user safety, and the absence of coliform bacteria is an important indicator of that quality. Testing for coliforms helps ensure that the pool water is sanitation compliant and safe for public use. Any detectable level would necessitate immediate action, including closing the pool, conducting clean-up procedures, and carrying out additional water treatments.

Other options reflect various contamination levels that would still indicate unsatisfactory water quality and potential health risks, making them unsuitable as acceptable limits for pool water safety.