9.10.1 Sample integrity

If the data collected as part of a monitoring program are to be meaningful, the samples need to be collected from appropriate locations, by trained personnel, working to a predetermined plan, and the procedures employed in the collection, preservation and transport of samples to the laboratory should be chosen with regard to the characteristics being measured.

Procedures for sampling and sample preservation are provided in Information Sheet 2.1, Sampling Information – Handling Requirements and Preservation.