Water-system operators · Consultants · Industrial projects
Define the method.
Keep the project moving.
Build a water-testing scope from the analytes, matrix and reporting requirements. Plan bottle sets, chain of custody and repeat submissions before the first sample is collected.
Choose a testing path
Start with the requirements that govern the project.
Services built around your sample
One scope for the field team and the laboratory.
Drinking-water system & facility projects
Plan analysis around the sampling purpose, applicable program and defined target list.
Review testing
Wastewater & industrial discharge testing
Build the analytical scope from permit parameters or a defined process-control question.
Review testing
Stormwater monitoring projects
Coordinate outfall identities, event requirements and analytical logistics.
Review testing
Scheduled & recurring water monitoring
Standardize repeat submissions while keeping permit and process changes visible.
Review testing
From question to useful evidence
A method number alone is not a complete scope.
Drinking-water, Clean Water Act and environmental-investigation methods have different applications. The matrix, purpose, jurisdiction and reporting requirements determine whether a proposed method fits the project.
Bottles & sample deliveryThe testing process
A clear path from sample to result.
Provide requirements
Send the matrix, analytes, methods, limits and permit or project instructions.
Resolve the sample plan
Define locations, fractions, collection approach and field measurements.
Prepare bottles & records
Coordinate containers, preservation, labels, custody and delivery.
Review project reporting
Keep sample IDs, units, methods, qualifiers and project requirements aligned.
Plan for the next submission
Set up the next monitoring round before the first one ships.
For scheduled sampling, agree the routine analyte list, locations, bottle sets, reporting and anticipated volume. Flag permit and process changes before they affect the next order.
Explore the program
Before you send samples
Questions worth answering first.
Define the intended use of the results before selecting tests or collecting material.
Does this domain mean the laboratory is part of EPA?
No. The website is operated by Vanguard Laboratory. It does not imply EPA ownership, endorsement or blanket certification.
Can any EPA method be used for a discharge permit?
No. The permit and applicable program requirements govern method eligibility. SW-846, drinking-water and Clean Water Act methods are not automatically interchangeable.
Should I collect bottles before the scope is set?
No. Different analytes can require different containers, preservation, fractions and timing. Define the work first.
Can you plan repeat sampling submissions?
Yes. Include the locations, cadence, methods, reporting needs and expected sample volume in the project request.