What is Soil Testing?
Assessing the safety of soil is crucial to ensure sources are safe not only for human health but aquatic ecosystems and wildlife. Soil testing allow us to examine and measure levels of contaminants and pollutants.
At ECT we offer UKAS* and MCERT-accredited soil testing service to help identify, monitor and assess the risk of any potential issues related to contaminated materials.
Our Soil Analysis Services
Our highly experienced team of chemists provides high-quality results performed by both prescribed and leading in-house methodologies.
Our prescribed soil testing, leachate, and water chemistry testing methods include:
- BS 1377-3:2018 Methods of test for soils for civil engineering purposes. Chemical and electrochemical tests
- BS3882:2015 British Standard Topsoil
- BS 8601:2013 Specification for subsoil
In addition to the prescribed methods listed above we offer soil testing, leachate, and water chemistry tests for the following parameters:
- Total petroleum hydrocarbons (total/banded/CWG)
- BTEX
- Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)
- Metals and Metalloids
- Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
- Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs)
- Asbestos (identification, quantification)
- Anions
- Cyanide (Total, Complex & Free)
- Total organic carbon
- Loss on ignition
- Asbestos (ID & Quantification)
At ECT we offer a comprehensive range of soil testing, leachate, and water chemistry testing not limited to the above. Please get in touch for more information regarding your testing requirements.
Waste Classification and Waste Acceptance Criteria (WAC) Testing
Our dedicated Team is on call to support all soil classification needs, combining our in-house laboratory capabilities with our sister companies’ expertise we offer turnkey solutions for any type of soil testing and ground investigation.
With expedited options for fast-track results, you can rely on ECT to deliver the results you require for muck away and disposal to landfill in a timely manner reducing added costs from unexpected delays on site.
Why Choose ECT for Soil Testing?
- Accurate and Reliable Results. Our laboratories adhere to stringent quality control measures, ensuring precise and consistent outcomes for soil testing, that you can trust.
- Cutting-Edge Technology. ECT remains at the forefront of scientific innovation, employing the latest technologies to deliver state-of-the-art testing and analysis.
- Expert Team. Our team of experienced chemists and technicians brings deep knowledge and insights to every project, offering unparalleled expertise.
- Customised Solutions. We understand that each environmental challenge is unique. That's why we tailor our services to meet your specific requirements, providing personalised testing solutions.
- Timely Delivery. We recognise the importance of timely results. Our streamlined processes ensure that you receive your reports promptly, enabling you to make informed decisions quickly.
- Comprehensive Reporting. Our detailed and easy-to-understand reports provide a comprehensive overview of the findings, aiding in effective communication and decision-making.
To find out more about our soil testing services, please get in touch with a member of the ECT team today, and we’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our services and how we can help you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some laboratory tests for soil sample?
Soil sample laboratory tests include:- Asbestos, Heavy Metals, Water Soluble Boron, pH Value of Soils, Electrical Conductivity of Soils, Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (Total / Banded / CWG), Fuel Identification, Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs), Asbestos (Identification, Quantification), Anions, Cyanides, Dissolved Oxygen, Total Organic Carbon, Loss on Ignition and Topsoil Tests
What is laboratory testing in soil?
Soil are tested for a number of parameters by Environmental Chemistry laboratories. Laboratories utilise a number of techniques to carry out the testing including:-
- Inductively Coupled Plasma- OES
- Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS)
- Gas Chromatography – Flame Ionisation Detection (GC-FID)
- Liquid Chromatorgaphy
- Wet Chemistry
What are the types of soil tests?
Types of tests include: Geotechnical Testing, Environmental Chemistry to determine levels of Chemical Contamination in soils and Compliance to BS standards (Example Topsoil testing to BS 3882)
What are the methods and tests involved in soil investigation and construction?
Contamination Testing is often required as part of the due diligence process when acquiring land, during planning when a site is being redeveloped, to characterise materials for reuse or disposal or following a pollution incident.
Tests include:
• Asbestos
• Waste Characterisation Testing
• Waste Acceptance Criteria testing
• Contamination testing based on Site History
• Metals, Anions, Sulphates
How can you tell if soil is hazardous?
Various laboratory chemical tests can confirm contamination levels in soils. Hazardous soils may also give off distinctive odours.