The need to incorporate environmental actions into business models has never been more urgent than ever. Violation of environmental laws may cause irreversible damage to the brand, reputation, investor trust, and operation of the business.
Compliance is important to minimise damage to natural waters, air, and soil, as well as to ensure product safety. To uphold compliance, you can tap various contamination testing labs and here’s what you should consider.
1.Reliability
Reliable testing labs should first have secured accreditation from the government. Inquire about their testing procedure, including collection, sampling methods, data treatment, and presentation. Look up and check their previous work and history, if available, and look for proof of competency. Explore their website and read up on their mission and related work to ensure that they are indeed reputable and competent in contamination testing.
2.Equipment used
The quality of testing equipment determines the success and accuracy of results in contaminant testing, PFAS testing, coolant testing, and other substance detection. Technology evolves fast and detection tools have become more and more advanced over time. A high-quality testing lab should make a significant investment in laboratory equipment and software for faster collection, more accurate findings, and better data presentation. If they are better equipped, the presence of toxic or harmful substances can be detected efficiently and eliminated accordingly.
3.Turn-around time
You don’t want the results to be rushed, but you should have them as soon as possible. That way, if there’s anything amiss, you can immediately correct it and address the problem. If there’s contamination, you can quickly respond to the situation and contain the spread. Policies can be made to ensure the safety of workers, employees, and the consumers who buy the products. A shorter turnaround time means you don’t have to wait until the problem worsens to uncontrollable levels before taking action.
4.Location
Location is highly important, especially when talking about sample collection. Apparently, it’s better if your company is closer to the testing lab. That way, the testing lab has easier access to collect the samples themselves and then transport them back for testing. Samples can always be sent, transported, or delivered. It’s just more convenient if the testing lab is closer.
5.Transparency
Not only the methodology should be transparent, but also the personnel and operators involved in the process so there’s accountability and security. Properly documented calibration should be demonstrated along with the findings to ensure that the contamination detection has undergone the complete and right process.
6.Cost
Contaminant testing requires a company to spend money, so cost is indeed a factor to consider. However, it should not be treated solely as an expense but rather as an investment in security and sustainability. Besides, the company will incur more damages if it’s found to have violated environmental regulations than if it constantly monitors and keeps its factory and products safe.
7.Developed technology
You will know that a testing lab is competent and well-equipped if, aside from established reliability, they have also contributed to actually developing equipment or methods for better contamination detection. This is a good sign that they have a stable investment in technological innovation and are therefore committed to presenting accurate results for product and environmental assessment for the health and safety of both the industry and consumers.
Ensuring health and safety should be a priority so keep the workplace and the products free from harmful contamination by tapping a reliable testing lab.