Abstract:

Collect samples for microbiological examination in clean, sterile, wide-mouth, nonreactive borosilicate glass or plastic bottles, or in presterilized plastic bags appropriate for microbiological use. The bottles must have nonleaking ground glass stoppers or caps with nontoxic liners that withstand repeated sterilization. For sludge analysis, disposable wide-mouth sterile cups may be convenient. If legal action may be involved, consider using tamper-evident closures.