Proceed as follows
Agree on sampling in advance by phone or email. THL sends a sample bag containing the necessary equipment and instructions.
- Take samples according to the instructions.
- Deliver samples to the laboratory in Kuopio.
- THL confirms receipt of samples by email.
- Sample amounts required for analysis: 1 liter of water or 1 gram of solid sample (e.g., soil).
Preparation
The customer usually takes the sample. THL provides a cooler box, sample bottles, forms, instructions, and cold cartridges. The customer freezes the cold cartridges, so they are cold when sending samples. If the water contains disinfectants (e.g., chlorine), inform THL in advance – a sample bottle with neutralizing agent (e.g., sodium thiosulphate) will be used. If sampling is associated to a suspected illness case or there is a need to ensure no exposure to possible legionella during sampling, use FFP3-level respiratory protection and protective gloves.
Sampling methods
Cold drinking water and hot domestic water samples
Take the sample directly from tap, shower, or valve without flushing. Do not remove parts or disinfect the tap before sampling. Measure water temperature from a separate container after sampling (not from the sample bottle). Measure immediately after sampling, after 1 minute of flushing, and after 2–3 minutes of flushing (minimum and maximum temperatures).
Pools
Submerge the bottle below the surface or use a clean sampler. Avoid contamination when closing the cap. Measure temperature immediately after sampling from the pool or a separate container.
Solid samples (soil, compost)
Take into a sterile tube with a sterile spatula. One-third full is sufficient. 1 gram of solid material is required for analysis.
Sample shipping address
Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare
Microbiology Unit
Water Microbiology Laboratory (contact person’s name)
Neulaniementie 4
70210 Kuopio