What are the core parameters for routine water monitoring?

Core parameters include Temperature, pH, Electrical Conductivity, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), and Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) as per Table 3.

How often should a river be monitored?

The suggested frequency for rivers is monthly for core parameters and quarterly for the complete list of parameters (Table 1).

What is the correct way to preserve a water sample for BOD testing?

The sample should be collected in a glass bottle, stored in the dark, and cooled to 4°C. The maximum holding time is 48 hours (Annex A).

Does this standard specify the test methods for parameters?

No, it provides monitoring strategy. For specific test methods, it refers to the relevant parts of the IS 3025 series.

IS 16301

: 2014

Guidelines for water quality monitoring

CurrentFrequently UsedGuidelinesEnvironmental · Environmental and Sanitation

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This standard provides comprehensive guidelines for establishing and operating a water quality monitoring program. It covers setting objectives, designing monitoring strategies (location, frequency, parameters), sampling procedures, laboratory practices, data management, and reporting for various surface and groundwater bodies.

Provides guidelines for planning, implementing, and interpreting water quality monitoring programs for various water bodies.

Quick Reference Values

Recommended preservation temperature for most samples4°C

Minimum sample volume for general analysis1 litre

Maximum holding time for pH analysis24 hours

Maximum holding time for BOD analysis48 hours

Maximum holding time for Coliform analysis24 hours

Recommended river monitoring frequency (core parameters)Monthly

Practical Notes

This is a guidance document; for specific permissible limits, always refer to IS 10500 (drinking water), IS 2296 (surface water), or CPCB/SPCB norms for effluents.

Strict adherence to sample preservation techniques and holding times detailed in Annex A is critical for obtaining accurate and legally defensible data.

The selection of monitoring stations is crucial; ensure they represent background conditions, pollution sources, and points of water abstraction or use.