The intent of the bacterial test is to determine the potability of the water by employing a positive/negative test for coliform and e-coli bacteria per accepted laboratory standards by a certified laboratory.
A passed report, indicated by a "negative" designation of the coliform group and e-coli, signifies that the water was of a satisfactory sanitary quality when the sample was collected and meets locally accepted standards. No guarantee of future sanitary quality is included.
A failed report, indicated by a "positive" designation of the coliform group or e-coli, signifies that the water was not of satisfactory sanitary quality and that treatment is recommended.
The intent of the lead-in-water test is to determine the lead content by weight in the sampled water. The test may be taken as a first draw after 8 hours of inactivity in the system to gauge lead absorption from the piping, or as a flush draw following normal use, per direction of the client and as site conditions dictate. A lead content over 0.015 mg/L exceeds accepted maximum contamination levels for municipal systems. Further investigation or correction would be advised.
The intent of the nitrate/nitrite tests is to determine their content by weight in the sampled water. A nitrate content over 10 mg/L or a nitrite content over 1 mg/L exceeds accepted maximum contamination levels. Further investigation or correction would be advised.
The type of testing will be determined solely by the client. Further testing for a wide range of potential contaminants beyond those listed above, may be available at additional cost.