The laboratory conforms to all regulations for holding times and preservations. Below is a quick reference guide for holding times, containers, preparation and mimimum volume required for analysis (Referenced from EPA SW-846, Standard Methods, 40 CFR Part 136). Sample holding time, preparation, and analyses follow the specified method requested for analysis:

•   Volatile Organics in Water
•   Volatile Organics in Soil
•   Semivolatile Organics in Water
•   Semivolatile Organics in Soil
•   General Chemistry in Water
•   General Chemistry in Soil
•   Metals in Water
•   Metals in Soil
•   TCLP

1. Clearly label each sample container. Use a permanent marker to indicate the sampling location and the date and time collected.

2. Use the proper container to collect your sample. Specific sample containers, preservatives and provide enough sample for analysis are required for most analyses. Samples may be rejected if collected in improper containers. Click here for Preservative and Container Guide. If you are unsure which sample container is required for your project, please contact our lab before sampling.
3. Do not rinse sample containers. Preservatives necessary to maintain sample integrity may be present.
4. Refrigerate samples until they reach the lab. Most methods require that samples be held at less than 6°C from collection until analysis.
5. Submit the sample to the lab within the holding time required for the requested type of analysis. Samples may be rejected if not received within the holding time. Holding times may vary depending on which type of analysis is being requested. Please submit your sample as soon as possible after collection. Please contact us if you have any questions about the holding time of your sample.
6. Aqueous samples for volatiles should be collected on 40 mL VOA vial with zero headspace or bubble if present should not be greater than 5 mm.
7. Provide Trip Blank when sending samples for Volatiles analysis. Note: Trip Blanks are billable sample.

8. Use coolers that will maintain temperature at 4°C without freezing the samples. Use blue ice packs or ice on double-bagged zip lock bags.
9. Before submitting your sample to the lab, fill up a chain of custody (COC) provided. Click here for a copy of chain of custody and instruction on filling up the COC.
10. Contact us with any questions before sampling. Samples may be rejected if improperly collected or not submitted within the holding time.

A specially preserved 125 mL sterilized plastic sample bottle is required for this test. Use only a bottle provided by Sparger Technology, Inc.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with hot, soapy water before opening the bottle.
2. Select a clean faucet. Avoid collecting from a swivel or hinged faucet, since bacteria regrowth can occur in the cracks.
3. Remove all screens, strainers or aerators, and allow the water to run for 5 minutes before taking the sample.
4. Do NOT rinse the bottle! It contains a preservative that may look like a powder or pellet.
5. Remove and discard the plastic seal from the cap (do NOT leave the seal on the cap). Do not remove the cap from the bottle until just before taking the sample. Do not let the inside surface of the cap or the lip of the bottle touch anything, especially your fingers.
6. Fill the bottle to the 100mL lines. Do NOT fill full bottle, be sure to leave some headspace between the water level and the cap.
7. Use a permanent marker to clearly label the bottle with the sample ID, collection date, time and location.
8. Coliform samples must reach the lab within 30 hours of collection. Samples older than 30 hours cannot be tested.
9. Keep samples refrigerated or cold (if possible) until submit them to the lab. Use coolers that will maintain temperature at 4°C without freezing the samples. Use blue ice packs or ice on double-bagged zip lock bags.
10. Contact us with any questions before sampling. Samples may be rejected if improperly collected or not submitted within the holding time.