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Example of bioluminescence in nature .
• Definitive ( EC 50
) to determine how toxic a sample is and what remedial procedures to follow .
Definition of EC 50
This is the effective concentration of test material that will kill 50 % of a test organism culture .
Performing the tests
Test organisms are counted before and after adding a test substance . The sample to be tested is then introduced to the organism culture . After a predetermined time-lapse , the organisms are again counted and in doing so , the mortalities caused by the sample is determined . Because of the test duration of the vertebrate , invertebrate and algal growth inhibition all exceed two days . Where quick remedial procedures are required , the Bioluminescent Bacteria Test proves to be the most effective in that it can also be done in the field .
Status
Since the start of the century , several toxicity testing labs — most of which now have SANAS ISO 17025 accreditation — have emerged . However , uncertainty and anxiety still exist regarding the provision of standardised training procedures to potential toxicity analysts . The next , most logical step is the setting up of an accredited training facility specialising in toxicity procedures . At the end of August or early in September 2018 ( date and venue still to be announced ), the Aquatox Forum of South Africa will be presenting a symposium on research and development regarding not only whole effluent toxicity testing , but also regulatory implications . Presentations will include experts from South Africa and Europe . Toxsolutions Kits & Service , Renaissance Hub , and Aqualytic will be offering a training course on the complete battery of whole effluent toxicity tests as well as correct sampling procedures . Notifications will be sent out and enquiries may be directed to hesmarie @ telkomsa . net ; aletia . chapman @ vodamail . co . za ; or anna @ aqualytic . co . za . u
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About the author
Anna Loots has worked in laboratories at various companies after completing second year Languages and Psychology at UNISA . In 1986 , she was employed as a representative for laboratory and scientific products and started up Aqualytic Laboratory & Environmental in April 2000 . She is now managing director of a Level 2 B-BBEE enterprise .
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Water Sewage & Effluent March / April 2018