Microbiological Testing and Analysis

Element’s experts use highly sensitive techniques and the latest analytical methods to provide a wide array of microbiological testing to meet customer specifications and regulatory requirements..

To protect both the environment and human health, the potentially toxic effects of microbes and pollutants in the environment must be consistently monitored. Our environmental laboratories routinely perform specialized microbiological testing for customers in highly regulated industries, including oil and gas, pulp and paper, mining, petrochemicals, and municipal water supplies to ensure that protocols are followed according to regulatory guidelines.

We monitor water, air and soil samples to determine if E. coli, Salmonella, yeast, mold and other microorganisms are present at harmful levels.

Microbiological testing of water

Testing the microbiology and potential toxicity of potable and raw water is extremely important to ensure water is safe for the environment and meets municipal, federal, and state regulatory requirements.

Microbiological testing and analytical procedures use samples of water to determine the concentration of bacteria in a water source. The enumeration of common bacteria, total coliforms, E. coli, Enterococcus spp, Legionella, sulphate-reducing bacteria, iron-related bacteria, and slime-forming bacteria are performed using culture, biochemical, and microscopic methods. Based on expert analysis, Element’s state-of-the-art laboratory helps determine the suitability of the water for various uses, including human consumption.

Our experts are leaders in the field, and we ensure results are right the first time and delivered quickly.

Microbiological testing for soil

Soil microbiology governs how nutrients are processed and recycled in soil. It also affects the decomposition of organic matter, and the soil’s salinity and acidity, impacting soil fertility. Microbiological testing of soil is extremely important to provide a better environment for healthier and more productive crops.

Element’s soil testing experts detect the presence of various microorganisms in soil, including fungi, bacteria, yeast, and species like nematodes that can impact soil biology, biochemistry and other properties of soil. Microbiology testing is a valuable tool for many industries, from agriculture to oil and gas, providing valuable insight into future soil amendments for your project.

Microbiological analysis of bacteria, yeast and mold

Element’s microbiological analysis services can detect microorganisms such as specific bacteria, yeast, and molds. Our global laboratories offer testing in water, soil, sludge, sewage and sediment to identify dangerous pathogens that may put human health at risk.

We analyze a diverse range of materials and liquids to identify common bacteria and molds. Our services include characterization, enumeration, contamination source evaluation, and impact assessment of hazardous microorganisms to ensure water, soil, and consumer products comply with regulations and are safe for consumption.

Soil is a favorable habitat for microscopic organisms, including bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa, and viruses. Bacteria make up the most abundant group of microorganisms in soil, followed by actinomycetes and fungi. Although microscopic life is essential to the nutrient process, many bacterial life forms are detrimental to plant growth, and the identification of detrimental bacteria or fungi is important for treating plant disease.

We can identify a wide range of bacteria, molds and yeasts from water samples using culture plates or site visits. We can test for coliforms, E. coli, yeast and mold, staphylococcus, salmonella, sulfate, legionella, and iron using microscopic examination.

Environmental toxicity testing

Element’s environmental toxicology testing services assess the potential effects of compounds released into the natural environment, preventing damaging toxins from becoming a headline concern. Our highly specialized laboratories determine how toxic a substance is to marine and aquatic organisms. For more information, visit our aquatic toxicity testing page.

The Element advantage

With dedicated experts for testing water and soil, our capabilities allow us to be a single-source provider for all your microbiology testing needs. For more information on our microbiology tests, and to learn what services are available in your region please contact our environmental experts today.