The Microbiology, Fermentation, and Biotechnology Division of ICAR-CIFT, Cochin, recently organized a three-day training program titled “Microbiological Analysis of Water Samples and Documentation as per IS 15185:2016 Requirements” for the staff of Kerala Water Authority (KWA). Held from July 17 to 19, 2024, this program aimed to support the Quality Control Labs of KWA in setting up microbiological testing laboratories and preparing them for NABL accreditation.
Staff from various Quality Control Laboratories across Kerala, including Trivandrum, Wayanad, Ernakulam, Kollam, Kottayam, Kannur, Alappuzha, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Pathanamthitta, and the State Reference Institute in Ernakulam, participated in the training. The program provided an overview of microbiological testing activities as per NABL requirements, preparation and maintenance of documentation for NABL purposes, guidance on participating in Proficiency Testing and Inter-Laboratory Comparison programs, and testing of samples as per IS 15185:2016 standards. Additionally, the training covered the calculation of measurement uncertainty for biological scope
The event concluded with a valedictory function, featuring a presidential address by Dr. George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT, and a welcome address by Dr. T. Raja Swaminathan, Convener and Head of the MFB Division. Dr. Toms C. Joseph, Convener and NABL Consultancy Cell In-charge, delivered the vote of thanks. The training program underscored ICAR-CIFT’s commitment to enhancing water quality and safety through rigorous scientific training and capacity building.
By equipping the KWA staff with essential skills and knowledge in microbiological analysis and documentation, ICAR-CIFT aims to ensure the highest standards of water quality across Kerala. This initiative is a significant step towards improving public health and environmental safety in the region.