The Private Water Supplies Regulations 1991

Reduced sampling frequency

15.—(1) Subject to paragraph (4), where–

(a) a local authority sample in accordance with regulation 14 for three successive years and in each of those years the requirement mentioned in paragraph (2) is satisfied in relation to a parameter listed in column (1) of Part I or III of Schedule 3; and

(b) the local authority is of the opinion that the concentration or value in respect of that parameter is unlikely to increase or, in the case of hydrogen ion, decrease to any significant extent in the next following year,

the number of samples to be taken in that year in respect of that parameter may be reduced to the frequency specified in column (2) or, as the case may be, column (5) of that Schedule in relation to that parameter.

(2) The requirement referred to in paragraph (1)(a) is that an analysis of each sample taken in relation to the parameter in question has established–

(a) in the case of hydrogen ion, a pH value that is not less than 6.5 and not more than 8.5;

(b) in any other case, a concentration or value which is less than 50 per cent. of the prescribed concentration or value for that parameter.

(3) Where in accordance with paragraph (1) the number of samples to be taken in any year in respect of the conductivity or hydrogen ion parameter may be reduced to the frequency applicable for that parameter specified in column (2) or, as the case may be, column (5) of Schedule 3, the number of samples to be taken in that year in respect of the qualitative odour and qualitative taste parameters may be reduced to the same frequency.

(4) The preceding provisions of this Regulation shall apply in relation to the period ending on 31st December 1994 so that the reduced frequency of sampling may be adopted in that period in relation to a parameter if–

(a) it would have been permissible if these Regulations had been in force throughout the period of three years mentioned in paragraph (1); or

(b) the local authority did not sample as frequently as required by regulation 14 during the relevant period before these Regulations came into force but they are satisfied on the basis of a scientific assessment of the samples actually taken that the reduction is justified.