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How,
Where, and Why Water Sampling and Testing:
Although
ground water has historically been thought to be free of microbial contamination, recent research indicates that some ground waters are a source of waterborne disease. Most cases of waterborne disease are characterized
by gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, vomiting, etc.) that are frequently self limiting
in healthy individuals and rarely require medical treatment. However, these same
symptoms are much more serious and can be fatal for persons in sensitive subpopulations
(such as, young children, elderly and persons with compromised immune systems).
In addition, research indicates that some viral pathogens found in ground water are linked to long term health effects (for example, adult onset diabetes, myocarditis). EPA does not believe all ground water systems
are fecally contaminated; data indicate that only a small percentage of ground water
systems are contaminated. However, the severity of health impacts and the number
of people potentially exposed to microbial pathogens in ground water indicate that a
regulatory response is warranted.
Overview: This section approves and/or certifies all environmental
laboratories (private, municipal, and state operated) which test drinking water, sewage,
solid waste, soil, air, food, and other environmental samples for bacteria, inorganics,
organics, and radiochemicals. The authority for this function is found in the Connecticut General
Statues Sections 19a-29a and 25-40 and Public Health Code Regulations 19-4-1; 19a-36-a25 through A33; and 19a-36-A57 through A63. We also enforce U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations for the laboratory testing of public drinking water, waste effluent and solid waste.
CONNECTICUT online listing
(860) 509-7389
Department of Public Health
Environmental Health - Labratory Certification Program
P.O. Box 340308, Mail Stop # 51LAB
410 Capital Avenue
Hartford, CT 06106
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