Gross Alpha or Gross Beta – Drinking Water

Laboratory Fee Schedule

Group: Radiochemistry

Procedure: EZZ0144A

Synonym(s): Gross Alpha or Gross Beta in Water
Requisition Form G-22
Test Description The determination of gross alpha or gross beta particle activities in drinking water samples.
Pre-Approval Needed N/A
Supplemental Information Required N/A
Supplemental Form(s) N/A
Performed on Specimens from (sources) Environmental
Sample/Specimen Type for Testing Potable water, non-potable water
Minimum Volume/Size Required Hard or soft plastic; 1 gallon + 1 liter
Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping None  -  Sample must be submitted to the laboratory within 5 days of collection.
Transport Medium N/A
Specimen Labeling Label each bottle with a water proof marker. Pre-printing labels is acceptable.   Must match information on submission form.
Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements Sample must be submitted to the laboratory within 5 days of collection.
Method EPA 900.0
Turn-around Time Sample must be analyzed within 180 days of sample collection. The target sample turnaround time is 120 days from date of receipt.
Interferences/Limitations N/A
Common Causes for Rejection Insufficient quantity, unacceptable specimen type or source, improper shipping conditions, expired media or collection container, discrepancies between specimen label and submission form, incomplete or missing submission form
Additional Information

All radiochemical drinking water samples are analyzed for gross alpha (4002), gross beta (4100), radium 228 (4030) and uranium mass. If the combined gross alpha and radium 228 radioactivity exceeds 5 pCi/L, then radium 226 is also analyzed.

If gross beta radioactivity exceeds 50 pCi/L, then the Beta radiochemicals group is scheduled for collection and analysis.