METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DETECTING MICROORGANISMS ON SURFACES

The invention relates to a method and device for detecting microorganisms on surfaces. According to the invention, the microorganism is irradiated with a light source having a wavelength that enables a photodetection of the microorganism when irradiating the same and/or the microorganism is detected by a color reaction or light reaction. The device for carrying out the method comprises a light source for irradiating a microorganism on a surface to be examined, said light source having a wavelength that enables a photodetection of the microorganism when irradiating the same, and/or comprises a device for applying a reagent to the surface, which enables a color reaction or light reaction for detecting the microorganism. The inventive device also comprises a detection device for detecting a fowling caused by the microorganism and a discriminating device for evaluating the degree of fowling caused by the microorganism. The inventive method and device provide a simplified procedure for detecting microorganisms on surfaces and thus provided a simple decision criterion for exchanging these surfaces or freeing them from microorganisms. The method can be used for monitoring filter systems, brickwork, wallpapers, and wood surfaces or metal surfaces.