Procedures for Water Sample Collection

1. Collect samples for microbiological examination in water sample bottles or "Whirlpak" bags that are obtained from a State of Alaska Certified Laboratory.
2. Remove any devices that are attached to the outlet. Water taps used are free of aerators, screens, strainers, hoses, mixing type faucets and purification devices.
3. Open tap fully and let water run for 3 minutes.
4. Reduce water flow to permit filling bottle without splashing.
5. Hold the bottle in one hand while removing the cap with the other. Do not set the cap down - do not contaminate the inner surface of the cap or neck of bottle, or the inside
   of t he "Whirlpak" bag. Do not rinse the container! A chemical is inside the container that deactivates the chlorine in the water. It must remain in the container.
6. Fill the bottle to its shoulder, leaving 1/2" air space to facilitate mixing before examination. Immediately replace cap.
7. After collection complete the sample report form. Include the name of the facility, the permit number (AK # __), whether fresh or salt water, the sample site location within
   the facility, the date and time of collection, sample type (routing, repeat, special), and the collector's initials.
8. Preferably, samples should be collected at the farthest point in the distribution system from the chlorinator.
9. Samples should not be subjected to extremes of heat and cold, and preferable are iced immediately after collection, and until laboratory examination. Holding/travel time between sampling and analysis is not to exceed 30 hours. Samples received up to 48 hours will be analyzed; however, results of analyses on samples greater than 30 hours old will have the notation that the sample results may be invalid due to prolonged
   transit time. A re-sample may be required.

Example - Laboratory Form, Water Analysis Report for Coliform Bacteria