What is required by TCEQ for raw water sampling on the discharge pipe of each PWS well?

The requirement for raw water sampling on the discharge pipe of each Public Water Supply (PWS) well indeed specifies that a faucet must be provided. This is because a faucet enables the operator to take samples in a controlled manner, ensuring the integrity and cleanliness of the sample. A correctly installed faucet allows for easy access to the water and helps prevent contamination that might occur if samples were taken from other types of discharge mechanisms. It also facilitates compliance with sampling protocols by allowing operators to collect water directly in suitable containers without introducing potential contaminants.

In contrast, although a valve may control the flow of water, it does not provide the necessary access for sampling in a precise way. A hose could complicate the sampling process by introducing the potential for contamination and lack of control over the flow. A pump, while useful for moving water and maintaining pressure in a system, is not the appropriate mechanism for taking raw water samples directly from the discharge pipe. Thus, the requirement for a faucet is fundamental to ensuring reliable and accurate sampling results.