Environmental Chemistry

The Environmental Chemistry laboratory provides analytical support for Allegheny County's Health Department. The laboratory specializes in analyzing air, water, and food samples submitted by trained field technicians. All analyses are performed by experienced chemists utilizing state-of-the-art instrumentation such as High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectroscopy.

Air Quality Samples

The Health Department's Division of Air Quality routinely monitors ambient air in Allegheny County. In the same capacity, the laboratory supports the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Delaware, and the City of Philadelphia. In order to determine the contents of the air, air is forced through special fiber filters, and/or sorbent sample tubes. Following the protocols of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these filters or tubes are then analyzed in the laboratory for total suspended particles, organics, inorganics, and known carcinogens.

Non-routine analyses are also performed when an incident occurs that may jeopardize the quality of ambient or indoor air. In the event of an air quality violation, legal action, fines and/or shut down of a facility may be required.

In order to maintain the highest standards, the laboratory participates in the Environmental Protection Agency's National Performance Audit Program. The EPA also conducts a yearly written evaluation of the laboratory and a periodic on-site evaluation.

Food Samples

Food samples are submitted by the Health Department’s Division of Food Protection and from local law enforcement agencies. The food samples are analyzed for evidence of product tampering and for the presence of adulterants. All results are reported to the submitting agency and may also be submitted to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).