Water sampling is the process of collecting and analysing measurements from key areas within a water system.

Performing one-off and routine water sampling ensures the quality of drinking supplies, and can also be used to test for the presence of Legionella and other harmful microbes in other systems.

It’s therefore an important part of any water management strategy and is essential when it comes to determining whether any treatment, such as chlorination, is required.

However, the process of water sampling is more complicated than many facility managers or building owners often think. Adherence to procedures is imperative, in order to ensure a water sample does not become contaminated and thus inaccurate.  Collecting the measurement is also only the first step too, with analysis, logging, and required remedial work all part of the complete process

Here’s a look at the main stages involved in water sampling …

1) Collecting the sample

A sterile water sample bottle must be used for collection with care being taken to completely avoid contact with the tap or any other contaminants. This way, you can be sure that any reading represents the state of water within the system itself.

2) Top transportation

Samples can also give inaccurate readings if they are not stored or transported in the correct way and taken for analysis within the required time frame. All samples should be taken for analysis within 24 hours, prior to which they should be kept in a cool box or a refrigerator.

 3) Expert water sampling analysis

Identifying the presence of micro-organisms requires the right degree of technical knowledge. At Brodex, our samples are labelled and taken to a laboratory accredited by UKAS, the national body for the accreditation of testing and calibration laboratories.

 4) Recording the results

It is essential that up-to-date records are kept once results are available. Usually this will be within ten days, at which point certificates can be issued, indicating where water standards have met legal requirements

5) Taking action

If any contamination is identified during the testing process, remedial actions will be required. This could involve chlorination, to disinfect the water supply, as well as a number of other chemical procedures used to eradicate harmful microbes. Once this work has been carried out the above steps should be repeated until analysis proves the supply is free from contamination.

For more information on water sampling click here. To contact Brodex’s friendly team of experts click here.