How to Sample for Lead and Copper

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires water utilities to test for lead at the tap in homes, schools, and child care facilities served by a lead service line, galvanized service line, or service line of unknown material. Samples collected must include the first draw, which means the water must go unused for six hours prior to collection.

• 1 bottle for each tap you will sample
• Chain of custody form
• Return shipping label

Schools are required to collect five samples from the following taps:

• Two samples at drinking water fountains
• One sample at a kitchen faucet used for food or drink preparation
• One classroom faucet or other outlet used for drinking
• One nurse's office faucet, as available

Child Care Facilities are required to collect two samples from the following applicable taps:

• One at a drinking water fountain
• One at a kitchen faucet used for food or drink preparation, classroom faucet, or other outlet used for drinking

In addition to the chain of custody form, your testing kit might include a survey. Fill out both forms immediately after collecting your samples.

• Fill out the yellow highlighted areas on the chain of custody form.
• Add your name to the Collected by section and fill in date and time.
• Fill out any surveys or questionnaires completely.

• Tightly close each bottle, place them into their zip bag, and seal it.
• Put the chain of custody form along with any other forms and seal them in the other zip bag.
• Put bags into the box.
• Put return shipping label over the previous label on the box.
• Reseal the box using strong shipping tape.

• Ship the samples within 7 days of collection.
• Schedule a free UPS pickup at www.ups.com/pickup or call 1-800-742-5877.
• Give UPS your phone number and label tracking number.
• Place your box outside for UPS pickup.