Fecal and Total Coliform Test
Fecal and Total Coliform Testing for Compost – Verify Pathogen Reduction
Why Test for Fecal and Total Coliform?
Fecal and Total Coliform are key indicators used to assess pathogen reduction in compost. Testing ensures your compost is safe for use and meets the strict standards required for Class A Compost under US EPA 503 and US Composting Council (USCC) guidelines.
Whether you're preparing for certification or simply verifying the safety of your compost, this test gives you the data you need to demonstrate compliance and protect your end users.
What’s Included:
✔ Fecal Coliform Testing
- Reported in MPN/g dry weight
- Must be <1,000 MPN/g to meet Class A requirements
- Includes clear PASS/FAIL designation based on USCC and EPA guidelines
✔ Total Coliform Testing
- Also reported in MPN/g dry weight
- Useful for overall microbial monitoring, though not required for Class A status
Class A Compost Pathogen Limits:
To be classified as Class A Compost, you must meet either of the following:
- Fecal Coliform: <1,000 MPN/g dry
- Salmonella: <3 MPN / 4g dry
Your report will include a clear “Pathogen Reduction – PASS / FAIL” designation below the fecal coliform result.
Note: Pathogen Reduction and 503 Heavy Metals are the only two parameters that can result in a compost product officially “failing” Class A designation.
Sample Requirements:
- Minimum Sample Volume: 1 gallon of compost
- Shipping: Overnight delivery required
- Packaging: Use an insulated container with ice packs to preserve sample integrity
- Label Clearly: Mark package as “PERISHABLE”
Full shipping instructions will be provided after order confirmation.
Turnaround Time:
5–7 business days from receipt of sample
Ensure Compost Safety with Confidence
This simple and reliable test confirms whether your compost meets microbiological safety standards. Ideal for composters, landscapers, farmers, and anyone who needs to ensure their material is safe and compliant.
FAQs:
Q: What if my sample fails the fecal coliform threshold?
A: We’ll provide expert insight on corrective actions and retesting options.
Q: Is this test required for USCC STA certification?
A: Yes, either a passing Fecal Coliform
or Salmonella
result is required for Class A compost certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are your business hours?
Our office is open Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. We do close for major holidays, so we recommend ordering your testing and sending your sample early if a holiday is coming up. You can always reach us by email. Just send us a message at info@tpslab.com
- When will I get my results?
We understand that you need your results as soon as possible. That is why we make sure to begin processing your samples as soon as they arrive at our laboratory. When the results are ready, we will email them to the email address you provided on your submittal form. The list below will give you an idea of our usual turnaround times.
Soil Tests: 5-7 Business days
Water Tests: 5 - 7 Business days
Plants Tests: 24 - 48 Hours
Compost Tests: 7 - 14 Business days
Fertilizer Tests: 3 - 5 Business days
Heavy Metals Test: 7 - 14 Business days
We offer a rush option for an additional 50% of the testing cost, but we would encourage you to give yourself time to test before you get to a point where a rush is needed.
