What should be done to a new sample bottle before collecting a total coliform sample?

In preparing a new sample bottle for total coliform sampling, it is crucial to ensure that the bottle is free from any contaminants that could affect the sample results. The correct approach is to start with a properly prepped bottle, which, in the case of specific testing protocols for total coliform, is designed to be ready for use without further rinsing or treament.

New sample bottles are typically sterilized and packaged in a way that maintains their cleanliness and integrity until the time of sampling. This means that they are manufactured under controlled conditions, often made of materials that are inert and do not leach any harmful substances. Additionally, they might come with special preservatives or pre-measured media, specifically for total coliform analysis. Because of this, they are prepared to be used directly for sample collection without any further preparation.

In contrast, rinsing with distilled water or applying a disinfectant could introduce contaminants or residues that could compromise the sampling process and ultimately yield unreliable results. Labeling is certainly an important part of the sampling procedure but is a step that occurs after the bottle is deemed ready for use. Therefore, no additional steps are necessary before collecting a total coliform sample with a new bottle if it has been handled and stored properly.