Interlaboratory performance and quantitative PCR data acceptance metrics for NIST SRM® 2917.

Surface water quality quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technologies are expanding from a subject of research to routine environmental and public health laboratory testing. Readily available, reliable reference material is needed to interpret qPCR measurements, particularly across laboratories. Standard Reference Material® 2917 (NIST SRM® 2917) is a DNA plasmid construct that functions with multiple water quality qPCR assays allowing for estimation of total fecal pollution and identification of key fecal sources. This study investigates SRM 2917 interlaboratory performance based on repeated measures of 12 qPCR assays by 14 laboratories (n = 1008 instrument runs). Using a Bayesian approach, single-instrument run data are combined to generate assay-specific global calibration models allowing for characterization of within- and between-lab variability. Comparable data sets generated by two additional laboratories are used to assess new SRM 2917 data acceptance metrics. SRM 2917 allows for reproducible single-instrument run calibration models across laboratories, regardless of qPCR assay. In addition, global models offer multiple data acceptance metric options that future users can employ to minimize variability, improve comparability of data across laboratories, and increase confidence in qPCR measurements.

Implications of SARS-CoV-2 on current and future operation and management of wastewater systems.

While researchers have acknowledged the potential role of environmental scientists, engineers, and industrial hygienists during this pandemic, the role of the water utility professional is often overlooked. The wastewater sector is critical to public health protection and employs collection and treatment system workers who perform tasks with high potential for exposures to biological agents. While various technical guidances and reports have initially provided direction to the water sector, the rapidly growing body of research publications necessitates the constant review of these papers and data synthesis. This paper presents the latest findings and highlights their implications from a water and wastewater utility operation and management perspective. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Extrapolation from SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV, as well as other surrogates, has helped predicting SARS-CoV-2 behavior and risk management. Data from treated wastewater effluent suggest that current processes are sufficient for SARS-CoV-2 control. Scientific evidence supports the possibility of fecal-oral transmission for SARS-CoV-2. Limited evidence supports the potential survival of infective SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces and in aerosols and the efficacy of control measures at reducing transmission. Protective practices and PPE can protect workers from SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens found in wastewater.