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A common misconception about most laboratories is that the laboratory puts one sample in a box and obtains immense amounts of data within an hour. Unlike our beloved TV shows and movies, that is not the case. Every sample must be treated uniquely based on its matrix and the type of analysis requested. Samples take time to prepare before they can be analyzed, require a very specific time to analyze, followed by quality assurance review by analysts and managers. For example, a bacteriological analysis may take close to 24 hours to complete, however [PFAS/metals/organics] analysis could take up to several weeks depending on the requirements of the test method.
The SELS does not regulate or enforce drinking water compliance. Nor do we work with other agencies or divisions if a PWS is out of compliance or receives hits on samples. SELS works in the same capacity as other laboratories in which we only report results to Drinking Water Watch. However, we will notify customers if MCL violations affect acute health as a service we provide.
Determining whether your water is safe to drink in this simple three part process.
Recommended analysis
Additional analysis may be recommended depending on the type of oil and gas production in the area. If you would like to request materials or have any follow up questions, email us at selsd@deq.ok.gov or call 405-702-1000.
There are no state rules requiring the testing of private water wells. However, most lending institutions require testing of private wells prior to closing a loan on a property. Lenders usually require a minimum of a Total Coliform and E. Coli (bacteria) sample. The underwriter of the property loan and/or the type of loan may require additional testing to be performed. Be aware that the testing needed may take a considerable amount of time to be analyzed and reported, so be sure to sample in plenty of time prior to the closing. If you would like to request materials or have any follow up questions, email us at selsd@deq.ok.gov or call 405-702-1000.
No. All test methods have variable but specific time requirements to process. The lab has no control over these prescribed times.
Every analysis has different turnaround times associated with processing samples. While some analysis may only take 24 hours to process, some can take over several weeks.
The State Environmental Laboratory provides public service to the state of Oklahoma. For this reason, we must remain impartial to the request and suggest investigating local environmental collection companies or home inspectors that could assist with your specific sampling needs.
The State Environmental Laboratory can provide analytical support for your specific needs. However, risks are associated with swimming in any unchlorinated body of water and we do NOT offer an interpretation of sample results to determine the safety of swimming in any waters of the State.
Technically you could sample every analysis SELS is capable of but it would be incredibly expensive and provide a lot of needless information. Instead, talk to the SELS staff about the common issues and concerns you have been encountering, and we can help narrow down a few possibilities to move forward for analysis. If you do contact SELS, please be sure to indicate your concerns and what area of the state you live in.
SELS does not have a method that allows filters to be analyzed. We may however analyze the water that comes through filter.
SELS does not offer sampling services to its customers. Most collections can be accomplished by the homeowner with the collection instructions we provide or you can find guidance on our Sample Collection Assistance Page.
Review your Chain of Custody for sample collection time period (upper right hand corner titled “Please collect and return during the week of:”) If collection time period is not available, please call 405-702-1000 or email us at selsd@deq.ok.gov
Please call 405-702-1000 or email us at selsd@deq.ok.gov to ensure the delivery of your sample. If you contact SELS, please have your Project ID of Sample number handy.
Collection instructions are provided in every kit. You may also find guidance on our Sample Collection Assistance Page. If you have further questions, please call 405-702-1000 or email us at selsd@deq.ok.gov
Sample location should be noted on your Chain of Custody under the descriptions;
You may also review your systems specific monitoring requirements and collection locations at Drinking Water Watch.
If you have further questions, please call 405-702-1000 or email us at selsd@deq.ok.gov
If you believe you have received incorrect sampling supplies, please call 405-702-1000 for assistance.
You may receive a sampling kit for the next monitoring period during the current one. SELS tries to send out kits ahead of time to ensure that you have your supplies ready for sampling. Always check the Chain of Custody that accompanied the kit to see what the collection time frame (upper right hand corner) should be.
Contact your Drinking Water Compliance Coordinator by calling 405-702-8100 or email them at drinkingwater@deq.ok.gov (provide System Name and PWSID# in subject line).
Coordination and updates should be made through your Drinking Water Compliance Coordinator. Contact your Drinking Water Compliance Coordinator by calling 405-702-8100 or email them at drinkingwater@deq.ok.gov (provide System Name and PWSID# in subject line).
Initially to meet the collection needs, you will collect two samples from the positive location (separated by at least 15 minutes) followed by the Upstream sample. Remember to notify you Drinking Water Compliance Coordinator of the situation.
Review you specific monitoring requirements and collection locations at Drinking Water Watch or contact your Drinking Water Compliance Coordinator by calling 405-702-8100 or email them at drinkingwater@deq.ok.gov (provide System Name and PWSID# in subject line).
Still have more questions? Email us at selsd@deq.ok.gov or call 405-702-1000.
