Follow this procedure when collecting a water sample for pesticides analysis for a NSW Health project.
Sample container
Use a solvent-washed amber glass bottle capable of holding at least 200 mL of sample, together with a plastic screw-top cap lined with aluminium foil.
Label
For a NSW Health approved project sample:
- Use the yellow label supplied by the NSW Health Water Unit.
- Using a waterproof pen record the sample details on the label.
- Ensure the outside surface of the container is completely dry before attaching the label to the sample container.
A sample submission form is not required for approved project samples.
Collection tips
- Before sampling, rinse the bottle and aluminium foil at least once with the water to be collected.
- Fill the bottle with the sample.

Transporting samples
- Pack the samples into an insulated container with sufficient freezer bricks to keep the sample cool (2–10oC) during transportation.
- Attach a copy of the address label to the insulated container.
Dispatch the samples to the Forensic & Analytical Science Service Lidcombe as soon as possible.
