Paragraph 1 Samples: general

The Department must ensure that each sample taken in accordance with a monitoring programme is—

(a)

representative of the water at the sampling point at the time of sampling;

(b)

not contaminated in the course of being taken;

(c)

for the chemical parameters copper, lead and nickel taken without prior flushing and is a random daytime sample of one litre volume;

(d)

for chemical parameters in the distribution network be undertaken in accordance with ISO 5667-5, other than where the sample is taken from a consumer's tap;

(e)

for microbiological parameters taken and handled according to EN ISO 19458, sampling purpose A and B;

(f)

kept at such temperature and in such conditions as will secure that there is no material alteration of a concentration, value or state of any parameter/measurement/observation for which the sample is to be analysed; and

(g)

analysed as soon as may be possible after it has been taken—

(i)

by a person who is competent to perform that task; and

(ii)

with the use of such equipment as is suitable for the purpose.