Step By Step Sampling Guide For Schools

Step By Step Guide to Drinking Water Sample Collection:

PLEASE NOTE → Two containers will be required at each sampling point (1st draw and 2nd draw).

• 1st draw shall be collected after the sample location has remained out of use for at least 8 and no more than 18 hours (IL regulatory requirement).

• Ensure that the date/time of last use is recorded for the sinks/fountains to be collected.

• 2nd draw shall be collected after the 1st draw collection followed by a 30-second flush

Sample Collection Procedure

1. First Draw Sample Collection

  • Do not remove aerators or screens from faucets.
  • Label the first draw container with the sample ID.
  • Carefully remove the lid to avoid contamination.
  • Place the container under the faucet, start the water flow, and fill it to the threads/neck.
  • Stop the flow and carefully cap the container.
  • Label the container with the date and time of collection.

2. Second Draw Sample Collection

  • Label the second draw container with the sample ID.
  • Run water for 30 seconds before starting the sample collection (per IL regulatory requirement).
  • After 30 seconds, follow the same steps as the first draw sample.
  • Place both the first and second draw samples in the provided re-sealable baggie.

Chain of Custody Preparation

Before Shipping:

  • Complete the client information section (school/district name, address, contact info).
  • Answer all listed questions and note the sample container size.
  • Provide a project name, sample collector’s name/signature, and requested turnaround time.
  • List each sample on a new line in the “Sample Identification” column with location/designation.
  • Record the sample collection date and time, container type (1 – UNP), matrix (Drinking Water), and analysis (check “Lead” box).
  • If using numeric sample IDs (e.g., 001, 005), include a sampling plan with location details for the report.

Sample Delivery

Laboratory Receipt Guidelines:

  • Delivery Timeline: Samples should arrive at the lab within 7 days of collection.

Shipping Instructions:

  1. Ensure all containers are tightly capped.
  2. Place the re-sealable baggies of samples in a larger bag and secure it in a box or cooler.
  3. Include the signed chain of custody forms (in a re-sealable baggie) and ship via your preferred method.

In-Person Delivery:

  1. Ensure containers are tightly capped and place samples in the box or cooler provided.
  2. Upon lab arrival, you will sign the chain of custody with the receiving staff.

 

You may also review 3Ts for Reducing Lead in Drinking Water in Schools (USEPA) for in-depth instructions on collecting samples for compliance.

Need a Quote or want more information?

Call or email Liz Hurley at: [email protected]

Toll free: (877) 344-1003 EXT 33

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Teklab adheres to strict guidelines and standards to participate in the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP). We warmly invite both current and prospective clients to visit our facility, meet with a project manager, or review our Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

We believe that a great business starts with a passion for perfection and outstanding customer service. To uphold this standard, we consistently train our chemists and analysts to maintain peak efficiency. While our customers are a top priority, the safety and well-being of our employees always come first.

With over 42 years of experience in the environmental testing industry, our mission is to deliver reliable, accurate results promptly. Learn more about our commitment to excellence by exploring our mission statement.

Get The Lead Out!

Download a PDF copy of our Sampling Guide for Schools through the link below.

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