Specimen Collection and Transport Manual - Erie County

ECPHL Specimen Collection and Transport ManualColiform TestingContainerContentsNotesColiform / Colilert bottleSterile, with sodium isothiosulfateDo not open until ready to sampleDirection for Sampling1. Select a sample point, the faucet that is representative of the service throughout thelocation. Do not choose a faucet connected to a storage tank. In addition, choose a sitethat looks clean.2. If faucet is a mixing type, that is one handle, carefully remove the faucet screen oraerator, if possible. Do NOT force removal.3. Open cold water faucet and allow water to run for at least 2-3 minutes or sufficient timefor service line to clear. If faucet is mixing type, run hot water for 2 minutes followed bycold water for 2-3 minutes. NOTE: If sample is collected from a well fitted with a handpump, pump water for about 5 minutes before collection.4. Reduce flow of water to avoid splashing.a. Unscrew cap but do not place it on the surface to avoid contamination.b. Sample bottle contains a powder that will remove residual chlorine, if present.DO NOT RINSE OUT BOTTLE!5. Fill the bottle just over the molded fill line that surrounds the bottle, cap immediately.6. Bring sample to the testing laboratory by 2:00 PM the day of collection or refrigerate anddeliver the next day. Sample must be processed with 24 hrs of collection.7. Complete a requisition for each sample bottle includinga. Date and Time of collectionb. Name of collectorc. Sample location (address and location with the residence (i.e. kitchen)d. Billing addressECPHL effective 3/1/2012 Page 26 of 38