You need to test your water if you are on a well water system.
A water sample must be taken. Sterile bottles should
be used. You can pick these up at the Health
Unit. Bring the water sample to the Health
Unit on the same day you take it.
Steps to taking a water sample:
1. Turn on the cold water tap and let the water run for one to two minutes.
2. Open the bottle just before you take the water sample.
3. Fill with water to the fill line indicated on the bottle.
4. Please fill out the attached form and provide a stamp on the form. Your
test results are mailed directly from the laboratory. You may also obtain the
results by telephone by calling 1-877-723-3426 and entering your pin number
from your bottle.
5. After taking the water sample, refrigerate it until it is delivered to
the Health Unit. This will prevent the germs from growing.
anything floating inside the well
a root system from trees inside the well
an unsuitable well cover
a problem in the structure of the well itself
These four things will contribute to an "unsafe"water result.
What is the water tested for in the lab?
The water is tested for "germs" or bacteria
called total coliform and e. coli. If these germs
are in the water, it means other germs are there too which could make you ill. A
water result with no total coliform or e. coli is considered to be safe. To make
sure your water is safe, three (3) water samples should be taken one to three
weeks apart.
If your water result is "unsafe":
1. Call the Health unit and talk to a Public Health Inspector who will tell
you how to treat the well, or how else to proceed.
2. Until your water is "safe", you should boil the
water at a rumbling boil for 10 minutes, or using a dropper, add 2 drops of
bleach to one (1) litre of water, stir with a clean metal spoon and allow to
stand 15 minutes.
Other Water Tests
The Central Public Health Lab in Toronto (sent through the lab at the
Psychiatric Hospital in London) will test for fluoride and nitrate.
For other chemical tests, you will have to use a private lab.
For more information, contact a Public Health Inspector at the Elgin-St.
Thomas Health Unit, 99 Edward Street. St. Thomas, Ontario 519-631-9900
