Laboratory

Analytical Services

The laboratory is an essential part of the facility. The laboratory functions on a daily basis in analyzing the waste stream that flows through the facility. Samples are taken at different stages of the process and through the examination from skilled laboratory staff, vital data is generated.

Reliable, quality analytical services are required to accurately determine the concentrations of the contaminants that the wastewater plant discharges into the Puget Sound. These contaminant concentrations are limited by the Department of Ecology by an NPDES permit which the plant must meet. Much of the generation and documentation of this important data is done in the laboratory. Additionally, many of the operator’s process changes and decisions are based on the data provided by the analysts.

The lab provides general chemistry and microbiological analyses, and manages all other required analyses through contracted lab services. The staff is committed to continuous process improvement. The laboratory maintains accreditation through the Department of Ecology and follows specific quality assurance processes. A list of the lab's accredited methods is available through Ecology's Laboratory Accreditation website