Sampling Stations

In the recently revised Total Coliform Rule (2014) the EPA included language allowing for the use of sampling stations as a best practice for taking bacteriological samples for the following reasons: "To reduce potential contamination of the sampling taps. Utilities will have more control to prevent contamination of the sampling tap by preventing its use by unauthorized persons and allowing no routine use of the tap except for sampling." / "To facilitate access to sampling taps. Currently systems may be constrained by where they sample, e.g., only public buildings or in certain individual customer’s house." / "To improve sampling representation of the distribution system. Allowing dedicated sampling taps in areas where systems have not been able to gain access will facilitate better representation of the distribution system." Kupferle sampling stations give water utilities unrestricted access to sample sites, provide a dedicated tap for sample retrieval with no outside cross-contamination, and allow for samples to be taken directly from the water main.