What should be done with a water sample that has been compromised during collection?

When a water sample is compromised during collection, it is crucial to prioritize the integrity of the data and the reliability of the results. Discarding the compromised sample and documenting this decision in the log is essential for several reasons.

First, a compromised sample can lead to inaccurate results, which could misinform decisions regarding water safety, treatment, or regulatory compliance. By discarding it, you ensure that the analysis conducted is based on valid and reliable data, which is critical for the integrity of any environmental monitoring program.

Additionally, noting the discarded sample in the log provides a complete record of the sampling process, which is vital for maintaining transparency and accountability. This documentation can be important for future assessments, audits, or investigations, ensuring that any anomalies in the data can be traced back to their source and that the sampling protocol has been followed appropriately.

In essence, this approach protects the credibility of the sampling process and the decisions based on the data derived from it.