To properly collect bacteria samples for lab analysis, field technicians must plan sample collection to ensure delivery to the lab within 6 hours. Samples must be obtained directly from bucket grabs and transferred to labeled sample bags without contamination by carefully pouring water into the bags. Bags are filled to the 100 ml line, sealed, and placed on ice for delivery to the lab within the 6 hour holding time to ensure accurate testing.

1. Collecting Bacteria Samples
1. Plan field collection to ensure samples are delivered to the lab within the 6 hour holding
time
2. Avoid contamination
a. Samples must be obtained from bucket grab sample before any other monitoring
activities occur
b. Never pre-rinse the sample bag
c. Do not touch inside of sample bag
d. Never immerse sample bag in the bucket
e. Always pour water into the sample bag
3. Label sample bag
a. Site ID
b. Date / Time
c. Monitor’s Name or Initials
4. Open sample bag
a. Carefully tear off top at perforation
b. Pull tabs to open bag
c. Do not allow tablet to fall out
5. Pour sample into sample bag
a. Fill to 100 ml line
b. Squeeze out top one inch of water from the bag, pull wire ends to close bag and whirl
three times to seal
c. Shake gently until tablet dissolves
6. Place sample bag on ice
a. Maximum hold time is 6 hours
7. Deliver sample to lab or arrange for pickup within the 6 hour hold time
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