Sample Collection Instructions

Lead and/or Copper Test

A “FIRST DRAW” sample is required. Flush the cold water from a kitchen or bathroom faucet for at least five minutes, then shut off the tap. NOTE: If the residence has been vacant, the system should be purged or flushed for at least 30 minutes to avoid an artificially high result. After flushing, do not draw any water from the system for at least six hours, but not more than 24 hours. After the system rest period, turn on the cold water and immediately collect exactly one liter of cold water from the kitchen tap into a clean plastic container. Seal the bottle and shut off the tap. Record the date and time collected, who collected the sample, the sampling point (kitchen), and the complete mailing address where the sample was taken (source). This entire sample will be used for the lead and/or copper test. If other chemical tests are requested, they must be taken in a second one-liter bottle.

Total Coliform/E. coli Test

The sample should be taken from the kitchen tap. Remove the aerator and allow the cold water to run at medium force for 5 minutes. Slow the flow to the width of a pencil. Carefully remove the cap from the STERILE container (5 ounces or 125 ml capacity). Fill the container with 4 ounces or 100mL. Do NOT fill the container completely. Avoid any splashing during the filling of the container. Immediately seal the container when filled. Shut off the tap. Record the date and time collected, who collected the sample, the sampling point (kitchen), and the complete mailing address where the sample was taken (source). DEP regulations stipulate that the sample must be kept on ice until received at the lab. The delivered sample must be free of chlorine. Total hold time must not exceed 30 hours.

Chemical Test (other than lead & copper)

The sample should be taken from the kitchen tap. Remove the aerator and allow the cold water to run at medium force for 3–5 minutes. Collect at least one quart (one liter) of cold water in a clean glass or plastic bottle. Slow the flow to the width of a pencil and fill the bottle so that no headspace is present. Record the date and time collected, who collected the sample, the sampling point (kitchen), and the complete mailing address where the sample was taken (source). Chemical samples must be held on ice until delivered to the lab. The sample should be delivered immediately. Some results may not be accurate if not tested in a timely manner.