The laboratory will make every effort to correctly process specimens received. However, the laboratory is not responsible for specimen shipment. Special provisions may be needed for critical samples to be received during other than normal working time for lab staff.

Testing is performed from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday-Saturday for Bacteriological samples and 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday-Friday for Chemistry samples. Samples which arrive after noon on Saturday may not be tested until the following Monday. Samples may be delivered to the Lansing laboratory Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.

NOTE: IF AN EMERGENCY SITUATION INVOLVES IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARDS, ALERT THE LABORATORY BY PHONE PRIOR TO HAND CARRYING THE SAMPLE TO THE LABORATORY.

Chain of custody documentation is the responsibility of laboratory clients. This must be submitted with specimens for laboratory signature and return to the submittor. Notify the person receiving the specimen if samples are hand carried to a laboratory location.

The time required to perform testing depends on procedures requested. Routine partial chemistry and bacteriology may require 2-3 days in the laboratory. Other procedures are performed weekly, and results may not be available for up to seven days. These estimates can be affected by staffing or equipment problems. Situations involving potential immediate harm will be given prompt attention if the laboratory is so notified.

After completion of testing, a result report is generated for each sample. This will include all "legible" information submitted with the sample and all testing results requested for the sample. Reports are routinely mailed to the reporting address entered on the sample submission form. Copies of most reports are also routinely sent to the MDEQ Environmental Science and Services Division, Laboratory Services Section for all public supplies and to county health department offices for these and other sample sources.

Any technical information found in result report is primarily intended for environmental health and water supply professionals. Others should be aware of the value of consulting professionals for interpretation of the results from the tests performed. A professional may recommend additional testing.

Sample tracking is available to clients, although we ask that several days be allowed to complete work before clients contact the laboratory. Inquiries should be directed to the records area, telephone (517) 335-8184.