Frequently Asked Questions

Answers and information on our most frequently asked questions

How long after sampling should I send samples to the lab?
Samples should be packaged and sent to the receiving laboratory on the day of sampling to ensure analytical hold times are met. If you are submitting sa...
Fri, 8 Apr, 2022 at 10:17 AM
If a result RDL is higher than the criteria, how do we use that data?
In some instances it is possible a result is reported as less than the reportable detection limit (RDL), where the RDL is actually above a particular criter...
Fri, 8 Apr, 2022 at 10:20 AM
My water smells, what should I test for?
Water sources can develop an odour due to a number of reasons.: A chlorine smell could be due to an incomplete chlorination treatment.  Organic matter...
Fri, 8 Apr, 2022 at 11:06 AM
My water is coloured - what should I test for?
Metals, particulates (both inorganic and organic) and tannins & lignins can all be possible causes of coloured water.
Fri, 8 Apr, 2022 at 1:04 PM
I have deposits in my pipes and/or sinks.
Particulate build up can often be contributed to organic material, rusting pipes, scale and/or sediments.   A water quality package can help determine t...
Fri, 8 Apr, 2022 at 1:06 PM
My water tastes off.
Metals are a common culprit of odd tasting water.  However it may not be the only source. A water quality test kit can help determine the possible source of...
Fri, 8 Apr, 2022 at 1:06 PM
I live near an agricultural zone and want to test for pesticides.
We can certainly help with that request.  If you suspect a particular type of pesticide has been used, we can utilize a targeted test scan.   If not...
Fri, 8 Apr, 2022 at 1:07 PM
The RPD (Relative Percent Difference) wasn't calculated.
RPDs are typically calculated when both sample results are greater than 5 times the reporting detection limit (RDL).   When one or both of the sample re...
Fri, 8 Apr, 2022 at 1:08 PM
Using alternative supplier's containers for sampling
When faced with a sampling event where you do not have containers readily available from the laboratory to which you will be submitting your samples, altern...
Fri, 8 Apr, 2022 at 1:09 PM
Why is the turnaround time for hydraulic conductivity so long?
What is the turnaround time for hydraulic conductivity and why is it so long? Hydraulic Conductivity (also known as KSAT) has a longer turnaround time (...
Fri, 8 Apr, 2022 at 1:11 PM