3–4 Day Culture-Based Legionella Testing — Faster Than ISO & Rapid Methods
AEMTEK is the first laboratory in the U.S. to offer Legionella pneumophila testing using the MICA® Advance system by Diamidex — an internationally validated, AOAC-certified method that delivers culture-based results in just 3–4 days instead of the 10–14 days required by ISO 11731.
This breakthrough combines the accuracy of the ISO reference method with the speed, automation, and reliability of next-generation microbiology, providing the fastest defensible Legionella pneumophila culture results available.
Legionella pneumophila is the leading cause of Legionnaires’ disease, a severe respiratory infection that can be fatal in 10–25% of cases and causes lasting health effects for survivors. The bacteria thrive in water systems such as showers, cooling towers, hot tubs, spas, water heaters, and decorative fountains.
Humidifiers & Water Filters
Architectural Fountains & Waterfalls
Cooling Towers
Faucets
Emergency Water Systems
Ice Machines
Misters & Atomizers
Shower Heads
Pools & Spas
Cooling Towers
Faucets
Emergency Water Systems
Ice Machines
Misters & Atomizers
Shower Heads
Pools & Spas
Even small amounts of Legionella can trigger outbreaks, most of which are preventable with regular surveillance testing and proper maintenance. As regulations tighten and outbreaks rise, testing is essential to protect public health and reduce liability.
Regular surveillance testing helps facilities:
Facilities with complex water systems should conduct routine testing for Legionella pneumophila to verify the effectiveness of water management and control programs. These include:
With AEMTEK’s Legionella testing, you get accurate, reliable, and actionable results in just 3–4 days, empowering you to act quickly and stay compliant.
|
|
ISO 11731
|
MICA® Advance
|
|---|---|---|
|
Detects Culturable L. pneumophila
|
YES
|
YES
|
|
Serogroups Detected
|
ALL
|
ALL
|
|
Reported in CFU/mL
|
YES
|
YES
|
|
Turnaround Time
|
7-10 DAYS
|
3-4 DAYS
|
|
Colony Counting
|
MANUAL
|
AUTOMATED (AI)
|
|
False Positives
|
POSSIBLE
|
NONE
|
|
Confirmation Required
|
YES
|
NO
|
|
Method Reliability vs. ISO Standard
|
STANDARD
|
EQUAL OR BETTER
|
|
|
ISO 11731
|
MICA® Advance
|
|---|---|---|
|
Detects Culturable L. pneumophila
|
YES
|
YES
|
|
Serogroups Detected
|
ALL
|
ALL
|
|
Reported in CFU/mL
|
YES
|
YES
|
|
Turnaround Time
|
7-10 DAYS
|
3-4 DAYS
|
|
Colony Counting
|
MANUAL
|
AUTOMATED (AI)
|
|
False Positives
|
POSSIBLE
|
NONE
|
|
Confirmation Required
|
YES
|
NO
|
|
Method Reliability vs. ISO Standard
|
STANDARD
|
EQUAL OR BETTER
|
Results are reported in CFU/mL, consistent with ISO 11731 and aligned with CDC, OSHA, and AIHA criteria.
AEMTEK provides clear, visual reports optimized for compliance documentation, audits, and water management plans.
AEMTEK provides sampling water bottles, with the required sodium thiosulfate neutralizer, and swabs for taking proper samples. For assistance with sampling, see our Legionella Sampling Instruction Video.
Sampling kits include 250 mL bottles with sodium thiosulfate (available in packs of 10, 30, or 60). We also offer swabs.
Collect water samples as usual and ship overnight to AEMTEK.
Water Bottles
We recommend 250mL of water per sample
Swabs
Use swabs to sample shower heads, pipes, faucets, or water tanks.
Ship Overnight
Collected samples should be packed securely and shipped overnight in an insulated box with ice packs.
Samples are filtered onto membranes and incubated on agar containing a patented compound.
If L. pneumophila are present, they absorb this compound as they grow. After 48 hours, the colonies fluoresce under the MICA® scanner, ensuring exclusive detection of L. pneumophila.
An AI-powered system scans and counts microcolonies with precision, eliminating human subjectivity.
Final results are expressed in CFU/mL — ready for direct comparison to regulatory and internal thresholds.
Request sampling kits, pricing, or a consultation on your Legionella monitoring program.
Get help solving your most complicated challenges from our team of seasoned industry professionals and Ph.D. scientists. We have experience in every aspect of laboratory testing, from chemistry and microbiology to product formulation and processing technology.
Gain more confidence in your product and food safety decisions by taking advantage of easy access to our Ph.D. scientists. We make sure our knowledgeable staff is easily accessible to address all your questions and provide advice in a timely manner, so you can do your job more efficiently.
Work with a laboratory that cares about your business. For almost two decades, we have partnered with a range of companies to help solve challenges and support company growth. From early start-ups to established names, AEMTEK tailors it’s services to support your goals.
Breathe easier and sleep more soundly recognizing AEMTEK’s focus on analytical integrity.
We use the latest accredited methods and state-of-the-art equipment to deliver only the most accurate and reliable results to our clients.
Get results faster at competitive prices. All microbiology samples are prepped immediately upon arrival to ensure the quickest turnaround times possible.
Our chemistry testing has quick standard turnaround times.
Experience industry leading customer service. Get prompt replies to your questions whether via email, phone, or through our website chat. Our knowledgeable staff knows the importance of timeliness in the manufacturing industry and is here to address your questions and requests with speed and a smiling face.
Analyses are performed using various rapid and classical methods, including the FDA Bacteriological Analytical Manual (BAM), the Compendium of Methods for the Microbiological Examination of Foods, the APHA Standard Methods for the Examination of Dairy Products, and the AOAC International Official Methods of Analysis. We employ rigid quality assurance guidelines in all testing. We offer modern rapid methods of analysis for reliable, timely results. Reports are electronically generated in a user-friendly language and format. In addition, our scientists are always ready to answer your questions and address your concerns.
