Lesson 3/Learning Event 2
LEARNING EVENT 2:
COLLECT BIOLOGICAL AGENT SAMPLES
USING THE M34 CB AGENT SAMPLING KIT
Biological agent samples can be collected using the M34 CB Agent Sampling Kit. Before the
mission, the kit should be checked for sufficient components to conduct the mission, broken seals,
and broken vials. Personnel collecting biological agent samples should select shady or protected
areas that have not been flushed by rain or ground water. Samples should be taken as close to the
point of release of the agent as possible. One member of the team should take swabs of moisture
from vegetation while the other member collects samples of water and munition fragments. Each
sample must be carefully marked with the date, time, location, and sample number.
The Procedure for Collecting a Water Sample
The procedure for collecting a water sample is performed according to the following steps.
Step 1. Remove the seal and cap (red) from an empty, sterile vial.
Step 2. Dip the vial just below the water surface and fill the vial (figure 30 on page 60).
Step 3. Recap and reseal the vial.
Step 4. Rinse the outside of the vial with uncontaminated water, if available.
Step 5. Mark a shipping tag to identify the sample and attach it to the vial with a tie.
Step 6. Place the vial in the soil sampling kit.
Step 7. Forward the samples to higher headquarters as prescribed in the SOP.
The Procedure for Collecting a Sample on Surfaces
This procedure is performed according to the following steps.
Step 1. Remove the seal and cap (blue) from the vial containing holding solution.
Step 2. Dip the cotton tip of an applicator into the liquid. Remove the applicator and recap the vial.
Step 3. Rub and roll the wetted applicator tip over the suspected surface covering an area of
approximately 36 square inches.
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