This part of ISO 5667 sets out the general principles for, and provides guidance on, the design of sampling programmes and sampling techniques for all aspects of sampling of water (including waste waters, sludges, effluents and bottom deposits).

It does not include detailed instructions for specific sampling situations, which are covered in the various other parts of ISO 5667. Also, it does not include microbiological sampling, which is covered in ISO 19458^[23].