Where should sampler connectors for portable samplers be positioned?

Positioning sampler connectors for portable samplers near the sample point is crucial for several reasons. The primary objective is to ensure that the sample collected is representative of the water or wastewater being analyzed. When connectors are situated close to the sample point, it minimizes the potential for contamination and allows for a direct and efficient transfer of the sample into the sampler. This proximity helps in obtaining an undiluted and unaltered sample, which is essential for accurate analysis and compliance with environmental regulations.

By placing the connectors near the sample point, it also facilitates easier access for sampling and reduces the time between collection and analysis, which can be critical for preserving the integrity of the sample. Furthermore, this approach ensures that any potential variables that could alter the sample, such as evaporation or exposure to different atmospheric conditions, are minimized.

The other options, while they may serve certain purposes in different contexts, do not prioritize the integrity and accuracy of the sampling process as effectively as positioning the connectors near the sample point does.