How to Determine a Reliable Water Quality Testing Laboratory
Water has numerous uses and it is a precious commodity in most parts of the world. However, it is only high quality water that is important and usable for various purposes. Clear water is not necessarily the best quality and it is difficult to know water quality by just looking at it. If you want to determine whether water is of high quality or not, then you should opt for laboratory water quality testing. No so many water testing laboratories are available, but even from the few that exist, you should choose the right one that will provide reliable results. So, how do you determine if a laboratory is capable of providing the best water quality testing? Here are the key factors that you should examine.
Check if the laboratory has advanced water testing equipment. Technology performs a role in determine water quality. You should opt for a modern laboratory that is properly equipped with the necessary water testing tools and machines. The advanced equipment will not only provide accurate testing and results, but they will produce the results and report within a short time. You do not have to wait for a long period to get the results of the water quality test if choose a modern water testing laboratory.
Find out if the technicians are qualified. Even with the most advanced water testing equipment, the results might not be reliable if the process was conducted by unqualified persons. Therefore, you should inquire whether the laboratory has competent individuals to conduct water testing. You can prove this by requesting to scrutinize the credentials of the technicians. They should have high level water testing training and they should also possess certification by relevant authorities.
Choose a laboratory with extensive experience in water testing. How long has the laboratory been testing water quality? Are there any organizations that the laboratory has served? A good water testing laboratory should have something to show. Well-established water quality testing laboratory should have references to some of it past clients who were satisfied with its services. If a laboratory cannot refer you to any of its past clients, then you should avoid it because it may not be offer high quality services.
Inquire if laboratory produces a report and interpretation of results. As a layperson, you might not be conversant with the interpretation of the results. A reputable water testing laboratory should not just stop at testing, but it should produce a report and interpret the results for you. By understanding the results, you will know what the water lacks and what is available and the measures you can take to improve its quality to suit the intended use.
How affordable is the water quality testing service? Testing water quality comes at a cost and the amount you will pay depends on the laboratory you choose. Consider the services of at least two laboratories and compare their rates to know the most affordable one. Be cautious since some of the laboratories that provide substandard services set low rate to attract customers.