For healthy bird production a fresh water supply free from any bacterial burden is essential. Sampling may take place at various times.
- When birds are in situ it is possible to test the water to evaluate exactly what challenge they are experiencing.
- The heaviest bacterial burden in a water system will be experience immediately after clear out and therefore sampling is useful at this point.
- Cleaning and disinfection should effectively reduce this burden. The quality of these techniques can be reassessed by re-sampling at this juncture.
Samples should be taken from the supply, header tank, water line and drinkers. These sites should be noted in detail for future repeat sampling.
The inside of the tube is sterile until the top is removed. At this point, it is essential to avoid contamination of the tube. Do not, therefore, touch the inside of the tube or cap with your fingers or any object, egthe sampling point. The top should be firmly replaced after filling the container with water and samples and submission forms returned to the Minster Laboratory within 24 hours (tubes should be labelled appropriately). If there is any delay the samples should be stored in the fridge (but not frozen). Water Sanitation
To test the quality of your water you will need:
- Sterile universal containers
- Water Testing sample submission form
- Select sampling points from supply, tank and line etc.
- Only remove container top when ready to sample and avoid touching the sample point
- Fill container with water and replace lid firmly. Place all containers back in the plastic bag
- Complete all paperwork but do not put it directly into the bag with samples. Return to the lab ASAP but avoid posting on a Friday or Saturday. Refrigerate if any delay.
Downloads
You may need to download and install Adobe Reader to view these files.
