Babcock Laboratories, Inc. follows The NELAC Institute’s ISO-based Quality Management System.  Part of the management system includes a regular internal review of our analytical methods, corresponding standard operating procedures (SOPs), and additional quality documentation. As a result of a recent method holding time review, Babcock Labs will observe a 24-hour holding time for Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC) by SM 9215B for drinking water samples effective July 1, 2021.

Drinking water samples requiring HPC analysis must be collected and transported to the laboratory in a timely manner to ensure analysis can begin within twenty-four (24) hours of collection. Sample must be submitted during normal business hours, Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm. Drinking water samples that must follow the Surface Water Treatment Rule (SWTR) and non-potable liquids, including wastewater samples, must be analyzed within eight (8) hours of collection. If submitting a sample for compliance with the SWTR, please note this on the chain of custody to inform the laboratory of the regulatory requirements.

Please review your current sampling schedules to ensure samples are received at the laboratory with adequate time to perform the analysis. Time of sample collection may require adjustment to guarantee timely submission to the laboratory.

Please contact your Project Manager if you have any questions or would like to discuss sampling schedules.