SAMPLE CONTAINERS

• Samples being tested for coliform bacteria should be collected in a sterile container. SDHD provides the containers at no charge. If a bacteria test is requested and the sample is submitted to the lab in a non-sterile container, the results could be impacted and the lab may have to qualify the test results accordingly.

• Water that is chlorinated must be collected in a bottle that contains a chemical that neutralizes the chlorine. If chlorine is not neutralized prior to analysis, the bacteria results may be inaccurate and the lab may have to qualify the test results accordingly.

   

• Bottles that contain the chlorine neutralizer cannot be used for chemical testing.

SAMPLING LOCATION

• Samples collected from fire hydrants, yard hydrants, dirty or leaking faucets, hoses, or soft water systems may give false results by introducing bacteria into the water.

   

  COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

• Sample bottles are sterile, so be careful not to contaminate inside of bottles or caps.
• Don’t remove the cap until you are ready to fill the bottle.
• Do not rinse bottle out.
• If possible, remove aerator and wire screen from end of faucet.
• Open cold water faucet and allow to run 2-3 minutes.
• Carefully remove cap and fill bottle to shoulder without splashing.
• Replace cap immediately and secure tightly.

Coliform bacteria samples must be received in laboratory within 30 hours of sampling.

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