Water intended for human use must be regularly tested to eliminate the presence of dangerous microorganisms. Sewage is also subject to detailed analysis – in this case, however, it is mainly about protecting the natural environment. Are you wondering which entities should be interested in these studies and how they are conducted? You will find this information (and much more) in the article below.
Water testing – purpose, scope and available methods
Specialist water tests are conducted to assess its composition in terms of its suitability for human consumption or potential use. Importantly, it is not only the waterworks that are checked. In accordance with applicable regulations, appropriate tests are also carried out on underground water, technological water, surface water, and water found in swimming pools and catering establishments.
In their case, systematicity is important, as well as the methods used. So if you want to be sure that everything will be done not only efficiently and quickly, but also precisely, choose cooperation with a proven, experienced entity that has specialist equipment.
Scope and method of water testing – it’s worth knowing!
The basic activities in this field include microbiological and physicochemical tests, the aim of which is to check the quality of water intended for consumption and use. Within their framework, water is analyzed for:
- the occurrence of pathogenic microorganisms,
- occurrence of parasites,
- amounts of chemical compounds (too high a concentration may pose a threat to health and life).
In addition, there are basic and extended water analyses. Before testing, samples are taken and then transported to the laboratory. Both the activities performed during sampling (method of collection, type of containers) and the conditions and method of transporting samples to be tested are important. During sampling and transport, certain conditions must be ensured so that the sample subjected to testing after a certain time retains its properties that it had when it was collected. The testing method is also important. Contrary to appearances, this is a very important stage, because if a mistake is made or the wrong method is used, the analysis results may be inaccurate or even false.
Sewage testing – what do they involve? When should they be ordered?
According to the applicable regulations, selected entities are required to conduct periodic measurements of the quantity and quality of sewage. This includes, among others, plants discharging industrial sewage that contains hazardous substances, as well as sewage treatment plants, companies and even individuals producing municipal or domestic sewage and discharging it into the ground or water.
Why are sewage tests carried out? In order to assess whether they pose a threat to the natural environment. Experts look for compounds such as:
- heavy metals,
- surface-active substances
- suspensions,
- petroleum substances,
- dangerous microorganisms,
- radioactive substances.
Of course, the scope of research depends on the type of sewage. It is slightly different in the case of industrial sewage than in the case of precipitation and meltwater. In the case of industrial sewage, sewage from different types of plants also differ in composition. Often, even sewage from plants operating within the same industry sector differ in composition, and this is the result of, for example, differences in production processes or differences in the raw materials used for production.
Of great importance is also the sampling itself, which can be done manually or automatically, using specialist devices, e.g. an autosampler. The choice of a specific method is influenced by the location of the sewage and the conditions there.
How much do water and sewage tests cost? What does the price depend on?
Water and wastewater testing are ordered by industrial and manufacturing companies, institutions, service companies, and individual customers. For each order, the quote is prepared individually. The cost of the study is influenced by many factors, including:
- number of samples,
- scope and type of study,
- specificity of the parameters checked,
- location of sewage or water source,
- examination date.
Specialist analysis of water and sewage properties allows to confirm or exclude the risk associated with the presence of harmful compounds and microorganisms, for which the Ordering Party orders tests. For this reason, it is worth entrusting it to entities that can boast considerable experience and appropriate equipment. Sometimes it makes sense to ask additional questions to specialists who have knowledge and experience in the subject and can suggest what should be additionally examined in the face of the problem that the interested party is struggling with. Check out our offer and use the available contact forms to order a test.
