Sampling is the first and most critical step to ensure accurate ATP test results. Proper sampling techniques minimize contamination, maintain sample integrity, and provide reliable data for microbial analysis. Follow this guide for best practices in sample collection, storage, and testing.
General Sampling Instructions:
1. Safety First:
- Always follow site-specific safety protocols, including wearing PPE.
- Be mindful of hazards such as pressurized vessels, chemical exposure or H2S gas.
2. Minimize Contamination:
- Use sterilized equipment for sampling
- Wear gloves to prevent introducing extracellular ATP from your skin
- Avoid breathing, sneezing, or coughing near the sample to limit ATP contamination
3. Homogenize Liquids:
- Mix or roll liquid samples to ensure even distribution of microbial populations.
4. Best Practice for Collection
- Collect samples in a sterile bottle.
- For the best results, run the ATP test as close to sampling as possible to capture the most representative microbial activity.
What If I Can’t Test My Samples Right Away?
If immediate testing isn’t possible, proper storage is essential to maintain sample integrity.
- Store samples in a cold environment (refrigeration is recommended, but do not freeze). Cold storage slows microbial metabolism and prevents significant ATP degradation.
- Before testing allow cold-stored samples to return to ambient temperature before conducting ATP analysis. Avoid adding or removing treatments beyond what naturally occurs in the system.
- Samples can be stored for up to 24–48 hours before testing. Beyond this, ATP levels may not be representative of microbial activity in the system.
- If you need to pause during testing, ATP extracted in Reagent X remains stable for at least 7 Days. Store the extracted ATP solution in a sealed tube. Note any delays when comparing results to ensure accurate interpretation.
Need Help or Want to Learn More?
Our team of experts is here to assist you with your microbiological monitoring needs. Whether you have questions, need technical support, or want to learn more about LifeCheckTM ATP testing, contact LuminUltra® Support to get started.