MPL Laboratories

Microbiology is the study of organisms that are generally too small to be seen by the unaided human eye. Micro-organisms include protozoa, algae, fungi, bacteria and viruses. Microbiology is one of the most important and exciting of the biological sciences.

As a basic biological science, microbiology has provided much of our current understanding of the chemical and physical principles behind living processes.

It is also an applied biological science, dealing with aspects of medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, food technology and pollution control.

Some of the most significant diseases in humans, animals and plants are caused by micro-organisms. MPL Laboratories’ microbiological department tests water for the presence of potentially harmful microorganisms to human health. 

When analysing drinking water samples there are several tests which are performed to provide an indication as to whether water is fit for human consumption. As it is not possible to test for every pathogen, MPL tests for a select group of organisms that are found in faeces known as indicator organisms.