Obtaining The Necessary Sampling Units

Once test requests are selected, the proper sample container units must be obtained. Different tests may require different sample preservatives, sample container cleaning, and/or sample volumes to give reliable results. Consult the test list to get the sample "Unit Number" and fee required for each test.

 

A REQUEST FOR A TEST WHICH DOES NOT ACCOMPANY THE CORRECT SAMPLE UNIT CONTAINER WILL USUALLY NOT BE DONE BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE INACCURACY FOR SUCH TEST RESULTS. 

 

It is sometimes difficult to judge if two or more tests can be requested for the same sample container. This can only be done where the test list indicates that the same "Sample Unit Number" is needed for each test. A number of different tests are provided using sample unit numbers 30, 32, 33, and 36ME. In general, for all other units only a single test should be requested for each sample container submitted for testing unless otherwise instructed by the laboratory. If in doubt, use separate containers to assure proper sample collection and sufficient sample volume for testing.

 

Sample container units are described on the "Requisition of Water Sample Units" form. Note that the numbers identifying each type of unit (under heading, UNIT NUMBER) correspond to those given on available test listings. Sample unit numbers should be used as catalog numbers when ordering sample containers.

 

Containers for use in state and regional laboratories may be obtained without charge in the following ways:

1. County/District Health Departments (Environmental Health Offices) are requested to maintain a small supply of most types of sample units.  Check with your nearest county/district health department office for fastest possible service for small amounts of sampling.
   
2. For bacteriological or partial chemical testing check with any regional laboratories which are nearer to you than the DEQ laboratory in Lansing.
   
3. For all types of sampling units submit a completed sample unit requisition form to:
   
   Water Sample Unit Orders
   Michigan Dept of Environmental Quality
   P.O. Box 30270
   Lansing, MI 48909
   
   Telephone: (517) 335-8184