Collecting Water & Effluent Samples

This is a fairly straightforward process. The first thing you need is a clean plastic bottle. The best kind to use is either a 300 ml or 600 ml mineral water bottle (ie. Still Water - no fizz!).

The next step is to rinse the bottle thoroughly using the water source you want tested. Repeat this rinsing at least three (3) times. Then fill the bottle with your sample.

If you are sampling a stream, pond, dam or other source where you can't just turn on a tap and get a continuous fresh flow, then do your rinsing in one spot and then move to another for the sample. Try to get the sample away from the bank, where mud or other materials could contaminate it.

If you are taking the sample from a tap or valve, run some water through it first (before rinsing) to clear any sediment or other potential contaminants.

Now seal the bottle firmly and check that it does not leak. Label it using a permanent marker with your name, the sample ID and the type of test you want. It may also be worth running some strong packing tape around the top to prevent it coming undone in the mail.

You should include a sample information form and payment in the package with your samples, please download and print the Water Sample Details Form to send with your samples. We accept either Cheque, Credit Card or Online Payment - Do Not send Cash in the Mail! Your local Post Office is probably the best to advise on how to pack and label the sample. Having done this, mail with your cheque or credit card details and contact information to:

SWEP Analytical Laboratories
PO Box 583, Noble Park, VIC 3174
Australia.