1. How do I open an account with Belmont Labs?
You can open an account by calling our lab toll-free at 800-723-5227 and asking for Sales or Client Services. Our representative will answer your questions on our capabilities, prepare a quotation, and setup a bottle order for you. You will need to supply your billing address and your report-to address. Our standard terms are net 30 days from the invoice date.

2. How much advance notice is needed for bottle kit preparation?
We need to have a minimum of 48 hours advance notice to put together bottle orders and ship them to you. Belmont will not charge you for standard UPS shipping. However, shipping charges are assessed if we must use priority couriers (i.e. FedEx) to ensure that your samples arrive on time due to last minute bottle requests. A charge of $1.00/bottle and $50.00/cooler will be
assessed for bottle kits that are not returned to Belmont Labs.

3. What is your standard turnaround time (TAT)?
Turnaround for analytical results will vary depending upon the analyte(s), matrix type, and regulatory requirements for the samples submitted. In general, however, Belmont Labs provides test results in 7-10 business days. For more information on turnaround times, click the TAT button below.

4. What rush turnaround times are available?
Rush turnaround of samples depends upon the degree of sample prep and extraction that is required by the applicable methods. In general, Belmont Labs offers rush turnaround the same day, 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, 1 week, and weekend/holiday processing. All rush turnaround capability is dependent upon current lab workload.

5. Which commonly performed parameters have short holding times?
Analyte Time
BOD 48hrs
Hexavalent Chromium 24hrs
pH ASAP
Nitrite 48hrs
Total Coliform Bacteria 30hrs
Turbidity 48hrs
MBAS 48hrs
Fecal Coliform Bacteria 6hrs
Orthophosphate 48hrs
Total Residual Chlorine ASAP
Holding Time = The storage time allowed between sample collection and sample analysis when the designated preservation and storage techniques are employed.

6. When are bacteria samples accepted at the laboratory?
Bacteria samples are only accepted Monday thru thurs 8:30 to 5pm. We cannot accept bacteria samples on Fridays, weekends, or before holidays. Monday thru thurs 8:30 to 5pm.

7. What does method detection limit (MDL) mean?
MDL = Minimum level of target analyte that can be determined with 99% confidence.

8. Why are the detection limits sometimes elevated in a result?
The detection limits that can be achieved on actual environmental samples can be influenced by a number of factors such as sample size, final extraction volume, injection volume, dilutions, instrument sensitivity, and matrix interferences. For example, if a dilution of the sample is necessary due to matrix interference, the detection limit must be adjusted to account for the dilution factor used. A ten-fold dilution will result in the detection limit being elevated by a corresponding factor of ten.

9. What are matrix interferences?
Matrix interference refers to sample characteristics that interfere with the test method execution such that reliable data cannot be generated. Examples of matrix interferences include samples with extreme pH, high alkalinity or acidity, and chemical constituents that react with target analytes. Common matrix interference is the presence of a non-target compound in high concentrations. Even though this compound may not be of interest to the client, the sample often requires dilution in order to prevent contamination of instrumentation.

10. What does Practical Quantification Limit (PQL) mean?
The PQL is the lowest level that can be reliably achieved within specified limits of precision and accuracy during routine laboratory operating conditions. The PQL is usually determined by multiplying the MDL by some factor that is decided by the method (SOP) Standard Operating Procedure. The PQL represents where reliable quantitative information can be routinely reported.

11. How do I know if my water is safe to drink?
Belmont Labs does not make evaluations or recommendations regarding results. See our link to the Ohio EPA Division of Drinking Water web site for additional information.

12. Does it matter if soil data is expressed in dry or wet weight?
Yes. In wet weight reporting, the concentration of analytes is reported based on the wet weight of the soil sample. In dry weight reporting, the concentration is adjusted for the percent moisture content of the soil. Results can be converted to either unit of measure provided the moisture determination is performed.