New water quality testing device will reduce health risk

A CORNWALL-BASED technology company has launched a first-of-its-kind water quality testing device to protect public health, giving everyday water users real-time insight into the health risk posed by taking a dip.

- by ANDY GREENWOOD

Released just in time for the start of the official bathing water season on May 15, Bactiquick takes the unknown out of diving in.

While traditional water quality tests take 24 hours or more to produce results, potentially putting people at risk of exposure to high levels of bacteria, the handheld innovation provides reliable results in just 15 minutes putting the decision to dive in or stay dry in the hands of swimmers, surfers and adventurers.

Beyond the standard E. coli test, it also assesses the chance of picking up a range of nasty bugs which can lead to typhoid fever, Legionnaires' disease and many more illnesses.