Caltest Sampling Guides

We’ve created these sampling guides to provide guidance on proper, method and/or permit-specified sampling protocol. Proper sampling is critically important for a variety of reasons including those noted below. The guides include details you’ll need to collect a variety of types of samples and analyses.

If you have any questions, or if there is a method that isn’t noted, please feel free to contact our client services team to get more information. Call 707/258-4000 or email pmgr@CaltestLabs.com.

If you need sampling containers, request a bottle order using the online request form.

If you need samples picked up, request a pickup using the online form.

Proper sampling techniques, why are they important?

Minimize/eliminate non-compliance data
- Meet method requirements
- Comply with permit requirements
Reduce interferences
Maintain integrity of the sample

Developing a sampling plan to ensure proper sample collection

What analysis and method do you need?
What is your matrix (e.g., stormwater, wastewater, drinking water etc.)? Who is your regulator?
What containers, sample volume, preservation and holding times are noted for the method?
What else? Need gloves? Need pretreatment (Chlorine or Nitrates?)
Check the Bottle Preservation and Holding Time Chart.
What type of sample are you collecting?
- Grab or comp
- Raw water vs distribution
Do I need any specific QC – e.g., MS/D?
Field blanks and trip blanks—some permits and/or methods may require field or trip blanks, some may suggest them.
Location and timing
Representative sample
Coordinate with your Caltest Project manager to order supplies arrange for pickups and alert lab of any analyses with short holding times
Request project-specific COC and review the “Instructions for completing a Chain of Custody form“

Reminder– when in doubt, check your permit or check with your regulator!

After sampling

Deliver or ship samples to the laboratory to ensure that holding times are met. Holding time starts at sample collection and ends at preparation and/or analysis. Be sure to allow time for the laboratory to process the samples. See Shipping Instructions for more specifics on shipping samples to Caltest.

For more information