Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Sewage

The minimum quantity necessary for making the ordinary physical, chemical, and microscopical analyses of water or sewage is 2 liters; for the bacteriological examination, 100 cc. In special analyses larger quantities may be required. The bottles for the collection of samples shall have glass stoppers, except when physical, mineral, or microscopical examinations only are to be made. Jugs or metal containers shall not be used.

Sample bottles shall be carefully cleansed each time before using. This may be done by treating with sulfuric acid and potassium bichromate, or with alkaline permanganate, followed by a mixture of oxalic and sulfuric acids, and by thoroughly rinsing with water and draining. The stoppers and necks of the bottles shall be protected from dirt by tying cloth, thick paper or tin foil over them.

For shipment bottles shall be packed in cases with a separate compartment for each bottle. Wooden boxes may be lined with corrugated fibre paper, felt, or similar substance, or provided with spring corner strips, to prevent breakage. Lined wicker baskets also may be used.