Field Filtration

Posted on April 7, 2020

TECHNICAL UPDATE – BC MOE TO MANDATE FIELD FILTRATION FOR DISSOLVED METALS AND MERCURY

“Effective May 01, 2020, the Ministry will require field filtration for all environmental water samples collected for the analysis of dissolved metals (including mercury) for Contaminated Sites Regulation (CSR) and permittee compliance monitoring purposes which fall under the Environment Management Act (EMA).”

– BC Ministry of Environment, 2020

What does this mean for CARO and our Clients?

Field filtration of water samples for dissolved metals and mercury analysis has always been recommended as “best practice.”  As of May 1 2020 however, it will become mandatory practice if you wish to compare your data to BC contaminated site regulations, or to any permit which falls under the Environmental Management Act (EMA).  Laboratory qualifiers indicating that the sample was filtered and preserved in the lab will no longer be sufficient to validate the data within these regulatory regimes.

To support this change, the BC Laboratory Manual method for the Preparation of Dissolved Metals or Mercury in Water Samples will be updated effective May 01 2020, clearly outlining this requirement.   If you’re interested in taking a peek into CARO’s world, you can read the method in its entirety here.

How do I field filter?

Check out the Client Resources section of our website for tips and tools to help you run a successful field program. Filter and syringes for manual filtration can also be ordered through our online bottle order system or included in your bottle order request through any of our client service staff.

The BC Field Sampling Manual is also a great resources to help you get going with laboratory filtration, found here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/research-monitoring-and-reporting/monitoring/emre/bc_field_sampling_manual_part_e.pdf.

What if I can’t field filter?

If you submit a sample requiring dissolved metals without a filtered and preserved sample, CARO will continue to provide the option to have it filtered and preserved in-house.  Please be aware that data originating from this test will not be accepted for CSR or permittee purpose, as per the BC MOE, but may still be valuable for internal purposes.

Here at CARO we believe you can do anything if you put your mind to it!  If you require assistance, our team of Client Service Scientists can be reached here: [email protected] and here: 1-888-311-8846.

HAPPY SAMPLING!