Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2012, 9 2.5. Microbiological and Endotoxin Controls Assumption 2764 In agreement with microbiologists, the authors opted to extend tests to a higher spectrum of micro-organisms frequently detected in previous studies, particularly as the hydro-geographic situation in Sardinia is almost exclusively characterised by the presence of surface waters collected in artificial basins. Indeed, in view of the latter and to the high temperatures registered during summer months, the Italian Department of Health has not ruled out the potential development of harmful bacteria, including cyanobacteria [14] resulting in the release of cyanotoxins. Preparations are therefore currently being made to assemble procedures for use in detecting the latter. Sampling is carried out according to a series of procedures aimed at allowing an appropiate aliquot of water to be obtained for analysis. Depending on the test to be performed, prior to sampling the volume of water required for testing should be ascertained. Bottles and vials used to collect samples for microbiological analysis should never be washed at time of sampling. In addition to exposing recipients to possible contamination, rinsing would remove traces of sodium thiosulphate present in the tap. Water should be left to run long enough to eliminate disinfectants prior to sampling. Taps should be cleaned and disinfected prior to sampling; both taps and the inside of collars should be cleaned and residues, dust, mucilage, detergents and disinfectants, and other substances capable of affecting the outcome of microbiological analysis should be removed. A solution of sodium hypochlorite or similar types of disinfectant should be used in cleansing: 10% solutions of commercially available sodium hypochlorite or sodium dichloroisocyanurate may be used. Due to the corrosive nature of these products, particular caution should be applied in using the solutions. Fatty deposits should be removed by rubbing with isopropyl alcohol. The disinfectant solution should be left on the taps for 2–3 minutes, and all traces of the product subsequently removed. It is fundamental that during sampling procedures contamination should be avoided and the quality of water sample maintained. In addition to the mandatory cleansing and disinfection procedures, metal taps may also be flame gouged. However, if the latter procedure is performed in a perfunctory manner, it will not produce the desired effect on potential microbial contamination. As previously, the tap should be left to run for 2–3 minutes and flow left untouched during sample collection. On collection, open the sterile bottle taking care to not touch the inside of the cap or the inside of the bottle neck which will come into direct contact with the sample, and close immediately after sampling. Particular care should be taken to not overfill the bottle in order to enhance effective lab homogenisation of the sample at the time of testing. 2.6. Transportation During transportation and storage of samples for microbiological testing, the representative nature of samples should be ensured by preventing regrowth of micro-organisms. As far as possible alterations which may at times be inevitable in a small aliquot of water stored in a closed container, should be kept to a minimum. The sample should be stored away from the light (both ultraviolet and visible) and from high temperatures, and appropriate conditions of hygiene applied during transportation. From the time of sampling to arrival in the lab, all samples should be stored at a