Laboratory Selection and Questions for the Lab

Having identified the parameters a facility needs to test, the next step is to select a laboratory to perform the tests. To ensure the selected laboratory is able to do quality testing using the analytical methods specified under Monitoring Requirements in the permit, a certified laboratory is required to carry out the stormwater analysis. A list of labs can be found from State or EPA’s websites.

Before the real sampling event, the facility operator needs to ask the lab the following questions:

• The type and size of bottle that will be supplied for each water quality parameter to be sampled and tested

• How full to fill the bottle

• Any safety concerns with materials supplied by the lab

• How to preserve water samples: It is critical to know the type of preservatives used for each parameter

• How to fill out labels for sample bottles

• Whether the lab will supply the following materials:

  • pH paper

  • sample bottles

  • tags or labels for the bottles

  • blank forms

• How bottles and other supplies from the lab will be delivered to the facility site

• The holding times for each water quality parameter to be sampled and tested

• How and when samples will be delivered to the lab. Make sure the lab can receive samples before the parameters with the shortest holding time reach their holding time

Copyright @ January,2005 Prepared by Transportation Environmental Resource Center (TERC)