After samples are received they are stored in a cooler until they are processed. This is important in order to obtain accurate analytical results for the sample.

The Sample Receiving lab accepts samples collected from creeks, groundwater wells, stormwater outfalls, and a variety of cleanup projects around the city - for testing at the Center for Urban Waters.

Sample Receiving staff document all field sampling activities for compliance with research or investigation criteria following a rigorous protocol modeled after Environmental Protection Agency guidelines.

In this lab:

• Staff create comprehensive documentation for every sample requiring laboratory analysis.  This documentation captures important details essential to maintaining sample integrity and vital to the analytical process.
• Staff assess sample condition, composite, filter, and preserve samples before they are delivered to various areas in the laboratory for analysis.
• Any deviations from standard protocols are noted and all the information is transferred into the laboratory information management system.
• This lab also serves as a support area for sampling equipment. Field instrumentation is calibrated; minor repairs and maintenance are performed to ensure equipment is functioning properly.