.
Proper Collection of Drinking Water
Samples for Coliform Analysis
*You must use the sample container provided by the laboratory. This container has been sterilized and contains a special chemical
(in the form of a white powder) that is required for the test.
*Find a proper location to take a sample, preferably an outside faucet that does not leak. Remove any hoses (if present) prior to collecting a sample.
*If an inside faucet is used, remove any aerators or filtration systems (if present) prior to collecting a water sample.
*Do not collect on windy or rainy days, as this could lead to contamination of the sample.
*Sterilize the faucet from which the sample is to be collected in order to eliminate any bacteria present on the faucet which may contaminate your sample. The faucet may be sterilized by using a swab with bleach to wipe inside and outside of the faucet opening or use a flame (such as a lighter - do not use matches). Flame sterilization should only be used on outside faucets, as inside faucets could be discolored or tarnished.
*Turn on the cold water, and allow the faucet to flow for 2-3 minutes in order to clear the line. Reduce the flow to a slow, steady, and sprayless stream in order to collect the sample.
*Remove the sterility seal from the sample container and discard.
*Remove the cap from the sample container, taking care not to touch the inside of the lid or the lip of the container.
*DO NOT RINSE THE SAMPLE CONTAINER. The container contains a powder residue which is require for the test.
*Fill the sample container only to the fill line, and seal tightly. Sufficient headspace is needed to properly mix the sample. Make sure the volume is at or slightly above the fill line. The fill line is the absolute MINIMUM amount of sample needed for analysis. Samples with insufficient volume will be rejected.
*Complete the sample submittal form. Make sure all information requested on the form is completed.
*Submit the sample the laboratory as soon as possible but not to exceed 24 hours.
*Find a proper location to take a sample, preferably an outside faucet that does not leak. Remove any hoses (if present) prior to collecting a sample.
*If an inside faucet is used, remove any aerators or filtration systems (if present) prior to collecting a water sample.
*Do not collect on windy or rainy days, as this could lead to contamination of the sample.
*Sterilize the faucet from which the sample is to be collected in order to eliminate any bacteria present on the faucet which may contaminate your sample. The faucet may be sterilized by using a swab with bleach to wipe inside and outside of the faucet opening or use a flame (such as a lighter - do not use matches). Flame sterilization should only be used on outside faucets, as inside faucets could be discolored or tarnished.
*Turn on the cold water, and allow the faucet to flow for 2-3 minutes in order to clear the line. Reduce the flow to a slow, steady, and sprayless stream in order to collect the sample.
*Remove the sterility seal from the sample container and discard.
*Remove the cap from the sample container, taking care not to touch the inside of the lid or the lip of the container.
*DO NOT RINSE THE SAMPLE CONTAINER. The container contains a powder residue which is require for the test.
*Fill the sample container only to the fill line, and seal tightly. Sufficient headspace is needed to properly mix the sample. Make sure the volume is at or slightly above the fill line. The fill line is the absolute MINIMUM amount of sample needed for analysis. Samples with insufficient volume will be rejected.
*Complete the sample submittal form. Make sure all information requested on the form is completed.
*Submit the sample the laboratory as soon as possible but not to exceed 24 hours.
EnviroChem, Inc. 4320 Midmost Drive Mobile, Alabama 36609 Phone: (251) 344-9106 email: smaynord@ecilabs.com