# The Water Framework Directive (Classification, Priority Substances and Shellfish Waters) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015, Paragraph 3: Sampling and analysis


(1) The Department must ensure that the guideline value adopted as a result of paragraph 1 and samples are analysed in accordance with the following provisions of this paragraph.
(2) Subject to sub-paragraph (1), sampling shall be carried out at least at the minimum frequency specified in Table 1 to this Schedule.
(3) Where sampling shows that the guideline value adopted as a result of paragraph 1 is not being met, the Department must establish whether this is the result of chance, a natural phenomenon or pollution, and must adopt appropriate measures to prevent deterioration.
(4) Samples shall be analysed using the reference methods of analysis specified in Table 1 to this paragraph or methods which are at least as reliable as the reference methods.
Table 1
Microbial Standard for shellfish waters
Parameter
Units
Guideline values and comments
Reference methods of analysis
Minimum sampling and measuring frequency
Escherichia coli (E.coli)
cfu/100ml
≤230 in the shellfish flesh and intervalvular liquid
ISO16649 part 3 or equivalent
Quarterly

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Source: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/nisr/2015/351/schedule/5/paragraph/3 (the official version)
Page: https://openlegislation.uk/water-framework-directive-classification-priority-substances-and-shellfish-waters-regulations-northern-ireland-2015/schedule-5/paragraph-3
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Source: legislation.gov.uk, The National Archives.