The number of monthly bacteriological samples required for analyses is based on which factor?

• A. Water temperature
• B. Population served
• C. Turbidity
• D. Age of the system

Answer: (B)

Population served determines how many monthly bacteriological samples are required. Sampling plans are set so that the number of tests reflects how many people rely on the system and how many distribution points need monitoring. Larger populations mean more potential exposure points and a greater need to regularly check water across the system, which is why the required monthly sample count increases with population size. Water temperature, turbidity, and the age of the system can influence water quality and maintenance considerations, but they don’t decide the sampling frequency.