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The mission of the ESB is to provide accurate, timely and cost effective environmental analytical laboratory services to local health departments and supported programs.
The Environmental Sciences Branch (ESB) provides consultation and laboratory support for environmental and health related programs in the Department of Health and Human Services. The ESB offers comprehensive analysis of drinking water to local health departments and authorized health care providers. The ESB is also responsible for accrediting/certifying milk and drinking water laboratories. The Environmental Sciences Branch is organized into five units:
Environmental Inorganic Chemistry
The Environmental Inorganic Chemistry Unit analyzes a variety of samples such as water, paints and soils. Water samples from both public and private water systems are examined for chemical and/or physical parameters.
Environmental Microbiology
The Environmental Microbiology Unit performs bacteriological analyses on water samples from both public and private water systems. Samples are examined for the presence of the coliform group of bacteria, which are indicators of fecal contamination. Testing for Grade A milk and dairy products is also performed in this laboratory.
Environmental Organic Chemistry
The Environmental Organic Chemistry Unit analyzes water for a variety of organic chemicals. Eligible submitters include health departments and certain governmental agencies. All water samples should be taken in glass bottles or vials supplied by the Laboratory.
Radiochemistry
The Environmental Radiochemistry Unit analyzes environmental samples submitted by the DHHS Radiation Protection Section, local health departments and other government agencies. Natural and manmade radiation levels in air, water, milk, food and other media, are currently monitored.
Laboratory Certification
The Laboratory Certification area evaluates all laboratories that analyze water from public water supplies which are subject to regulation under the North Carolina Drinking Water Act (G.S.130A-311). Laboratories and analysts that test milk under the Grade A Milk Pasteurized Ordinance are also evaluated. Certification is granted to qualified laboratories and personnel which meet State requirements. In addition, Laboratory Certification provides consultation and guidance to laboratories involved in milk and water testing and offers training through seminars and workshops.
To contact the Environmental Sciences branch of the N.C. State Laboratories, call (919) 733-7308.
Updated: June 4, 2020