Standards Development

Scope

This British Standard specifies methods for the analysis of water for the detection of non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). Two methods are proposed, by culture and molecular detection. The culture method is based on membrane filtration and subsequent culture on selective agar to determine numbers of NTM in the original sample.

The methods are applicable to analysis of samples from hot and cold water supplies (and associated systems) within the built environment, to include spa pool, hot tub and swimming pool water. It may be suitable for the analysis of waters from washer-disinfectors or endoscope rinse waters, however other standards exist for these water types and analysis according to these standards may be required. It may also be suitable for other liquid samples such as tattoo ink, metal working fluids if suitably validated. The media employed are highly selective with extended incubation times and the method is suitable for the detection of both rapid and slow growing species.

This British Standard is intended for use by all those involved in analysis for NTM

Purpose

Standardised procedure for laboratory analysis of water (and related) samples, typically taken from in-premise water systems including, for example, hot and cold water systems and wastewater etc.
The standard describes the methods of analysis in the laboratory, by culture techniques and by molecular methods. These may form separate Parts 1 and 2 depending on initial discussions in the working groups/drafting committee.

In November 2022 a Coroner published a “prevention of future deaths” report relating to Mycobacteria abscessus and its colonisation in healthcare water systems following two fatalities in a lung transplant facility that were linked to the water systems in use. This has subsequently prompted NHS Estates to publish a Technical Bulletin (no.2024/3 “Designing safe spaces for patients at high risk of infection from non-tuberculous mycobacteria and other waterborne pathogens”) in 2024 that requires hospitals and healthcare premises to sample and test more frequently for NTMs. The bulletin provides simplified descriptions of two culture based test methods, as it acknowledges that there are currently no published standard that are appropriate for these organisms in these water types. Therefore, there is a current gap in standardisation.

Key benefit and unique selling point is – a national standard method is required to meet the requirements of the current updated healthcare estates guidance. Healthcare estates, facilities management companies and laboratories do not currently have suitable standardised method to reference to carry out this testing.

Helps ensure the safety of premises such as hospitals, healthcare facilities and other premises.