Environmental FAQs
     
     
       
     
 
 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you provide rush services?
Yes. In cases where the client requests expedited analysis and reporting of results, surcharges shall apply. RUSH samples received at the laboratory before 2:00 PM ET will be entered into the rush analysis system immediately. RUSH samples received after 2:00 PM ET will be entered into the system at 8:00 AM ET the next business day. For rush analysis, QC Laboratories requires a minimum of 24 hours notice in order to schedule effectively.

What certifications does your lab maintain?
A table of our certifications can be found here.

How do I submit samples to QC?
Samples may be submitted to QC Laboratories directly by the client, by one of QC's field representatives (who may have collected samples for you), or by any common carrier. In any case the following information, at a minimum, should be submitted with the samples:

  • Your name or the name of your company, along with the complete address to which the final report should be sent.
  • A complete billing address.
  • A full description of the samples submitted, including collection date(s), time(s), and an identification label unique to each sample.
  • The analysis being requested, including method citation(s), if available
  • A Chain of Custody form

How long do you retain samples after receiving them?
Our retention time for wastewater and sludge samples is up to 28 days. Potable water samples are generally discarded immediately after analysis. If longer retention times are required, client must notify QC Laboratories at time of sample submission or before the final analytical report is released.

Please see the table that lists the holding times for our offered tests. QC Laboratories cannot assume responsibility for holding times that are exceeded due to delivery of samples past 4:30 PM or on weekends without prior arrangements for receipt.

Can you pick up samples at my facility?
QC Laboratories operates a fleet of vehicles to provide flexible pick-up service. Our service area for pick-up includes: central and eastern Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey. With QC's pick-up service, you don't have to deal with packing samples for travel via an overnight courier and samples arrive the same day they are picked up. Rush services are also available for an additional surcharge.

How does QC return my samples?
Please indicate on your sample chain of custody form that you want unused samples to be returned.  Indicate how the samples should be returned and list the account number of the courier you wish QC to use (FedEx or Airborne).

What policies or procedures does QC follow to ensure quality of its results?
QC follows standard operating procedures based on EPA, USP, USDA and FDA and other regulatory agencies.

Does QC provide test results online?
Yes. When you open an account with QC, we will create an online account for you to view your test results.

How can I acquire a copy of an old report?
QC can provide copies of archived report(s). We may require additional charges depending on the quantity of records you request.

Will our results be kept confidential?
Yes, QC Laboratories assures its clients of the strictest adherence to a policy of confidentiality. In no case will QC Laboratories disclose to anyone the identification of a client or results of sample analysis without the expressed written consent of the client. In situations where a regulatory agency or the courts are subpoenaing information or results, QC Laboratories will notify the client promptly. In return, the client agrees that QC Laboratories or its name shall not be used in any manner that will cause harm to the company's business and/or reputation.

How do I open an account with QC Laboratories?
Please call our client service representatives at 1-800-289-8378 or submit a quote request . A business development representative will discuss your requirements and then send you a quotation and supplies, if required.

How do I get a price quotation?
Request a quote here or call one of our client service representatives at 1-800-289-8378 to request a quotation or preparation of a formal proposal. Quantity and frequency discounts are available.

May we visit your facility?
We believe an on-site visit is critical when you are making a decision as important as selecting an environmental laboratory. When you visit QC, we will arrange a tour of the facility, a meeting with our QA staff to discuss our QA program and review our SOPs, and a meeting with our technical staff to discuss any specific requirements or questions you might have. If you're unable to visit, we can arrange conference calls with our QA and technical staff and provide you with a copy of our Quality Assurance Manual.

Where is QC located?
Our corporate office and main laboratory are located in Southampton , Pennsylvania . For directions click here .

Who should I talk to when I call QC Laboratories?
Any questions you may have regarding our services, including scheduling a sample collection or pick up, should be directed to our client service department. Our knowledgeable representatives will assist you in submitting your samples to QC, tracking their status during analysis and guide you in interpreting the results when you receive your report. We can also provide you with all the necessary sample containers. Please contact a representative at 1-800-289-8378 or 1-215-355-3900.

What are your business hours?
Our business hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time), Monday through Friday.


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