How to Test Coal-Tar Salt Water

Laboratory testing is required to test the levels of coal-tar contaminates in salt water. Coal tar is grouped with a type of chemical contaminate known as dense non-aqueous phase liquids (DNAPLs). DNAPLs are heavier than water and will rapidly sink to the ground. Because of its density, coal tar can continue to migrate downward until it reaches a low-permeability layer. It can become a source of ground-water contamination if it pools in an aquifer.

Things You'll Need

• Water-testing kit

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Instructions

• 1

  Contact the local Health Department for a list of recommend water-testing laboratories. Inquire about the Grants-to-Counties program, as mandated by the Groundwater Protection Act of 1987. Make inquiries for funding and testing aid that may be available through the local Health Department.

• 2

  Contact the laboratory online or by phone. Be specific in identifying the body of salt water being tested. Order a test-kit designed to collect samples of salt water containing possible coal-tar organic chemicals called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Ensure the suspect salt-water sample will be tested for toxic levels of volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) and chlorinated solvents.

• 3

  Order, pay and arrange for the shipping of the test kit. Make arrangements for special delivery services that may be required if the test samples must be kept on ice and returned in a cooler. Plan to return-ship all test samples, even if ice is not required, on the same day they're taken.

• 4

  Once the test kit arrives, and without opening test-sample bottles, become familiar with each component of the test kit. Read the detailed instructions very carefully. Ensure each bottle is labeled correctly, and fill out the accompanying form. Prepare the shipping container and forms for the test kit to be return-shipped to the laboratory.

• 5

  Use personal protective equipment such as gloves or hip boots as necessary or recommended. Collect a salt-water sample by following the instructions included in the test-kit. Package and ship the salt water sample as directed. Test results are normally completed seven days after the sample has been received by the laboratory.