Put on a clean overcoat and wash hands thoroughly prior to sampling. Sterile gloves are not necessary
unless the sample is likely to lead to legal proceedings.
2. Select the area to be investigated. If the surface is not flat and indicator organisms are being sought
estimate the area to be swabbed.
3. If the area is flat remove a template from its bag by the handle and hold it between the thumb and index
finger of one hand. Ensure that the template does not come into contact with any other object and place in
the selected position.
4. Open the swab pack (do not remove the sterile swab from the pack at this stage).
5. Remove the lid from the tube containing neutralising buffer.
6. Remove the swab from the packaging and insert it into the neutralising buffer to moisten it. Squeeze
excess liquid from the swab by pressing the cotton tip against the side of the tube