HOW TO TAKE A WATER SAMPLE FOR BACTERIAL TESTING

Water samples can sometimes become contaminated during sampling if the correct procedure is not used. The following sampling procedure is recommended:

1.    Obtain a 200 ml sample bottle from your local health unit or Public Health Laboratory. Keep the bottle sealed, clean and dry until ready to fill. The bottle is sterile and should not be opened until immediately prior to filling. Also, the bottle contains a neutralizing chemical in pellet or powder form. Do not rinse out the bottle before filling.

2.    The sample should be taken the same day it is to be submitted for testing. Take the sample at a tap such as the kitchen sink. Do not take a sample from a hose.

3.    Let the cold water run for two to three minutes before sampling.

4.    Fill the bottle to the "fill line" directly from the tap without changing the flow rate of the water. Do not remove the cap until immediately before sampling and do not place the cap on the counter. Be careful not to touch the inside of the cap or the lip of the bottle with your fingers.