Gamma Emitting Isotopes – Drinking Water

Laboratory Fee Schedule
Group: Radiochemistry
Procedure #: EZZ0142A

Synonym(s): Gamma in Water
Requisition Form G-22
Test Description The determination of gamma emitters in drinking water samples.   Cesium 134, Cesium 137, Iodine 131, Potassium, Gamma emitting isotopes with energies between 59.5 keV and 2000 keV as detected.
Pre-Approval Needed N/A
Supplemental Information Required N/A
Supplemental Form(s) N/A
Performed on Specimens from (sources) Environmental
Sample/Specimen Type for Testing Potable water, non-potable water
Minimum Volume/Size Required Hard or soft plastic; 1 gallon + 1 liter
Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping None  -  Sample must be submitted to the laboratory within 5 days of collection.
Transport Medium N/A
Specimen Labeling Label each bottle with a water proof marker. Pre-printing labels is acceptable. Sample identification must match submission form.
Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements Sample must be submitted to the laboratory within 5 days of collection.
Method EPA 901.1
Turn-around Time Sample must be analyzed within 180 days of sample collection. The target sample turnaround time is 120 days from date of receipt.
Interferences/Limitations Due to short half-life of I-131, this method does not meet the required detection limit of 1.0 pCi/L.
Common Causes for Rejection •    Insufficient quantity
•    unacceptable specimen type or source
•    improper shipping conditions
•    expired media or collection container
•    discrepancies between specimen label and submission form
•    incomplete or missing submission form
Additional Information This method is conducted as follow up to samples that exceed 50 pCi/L for gross beta radioactivity. The resulting analytical results are used to calculate the beta/photon emitter MCL in mrem/yr.