The purpose of a sample siting plan is to ensure bacteriological samples are taken from:

A sample siting plan is a critical component in the collection of water quality data, especially concerning bacteriological sampling. The purpose of this plan is to guarantee that samples are obtained from representative locations that accurately reflect the overall quality of the water being tested. This ensures the results of the bacteriological tests are valid and can be generalized to the entire water system or source being monitored.

Gathering samples from representative locations helps in identifying potential contamination sources and assessing the water quality throughout the distribution system effectively. A well-designed sampling plan considers factors such as population density, water flow patterns, and historical data regarding water quality to determine the most appropriate sites for sample collection.

Sampling from vacant houses, commercial buildings, or rural areas, while potentially relevant in specific contexts, does not provide a comprehensive overview of water quality across the entire system. Instead, focusing on representative locations ensures that all variations in the distribution system are taken into account, facilitating a more accurate assessment of potential bacteriological hazards.