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Regulations & Permits > Permits & certifications > Environmental lab accreditation > Methods for emerging contaminants

Methods for emerging contaminants

As we learn more, it becomes increasingly apparent that new and emerging contaminants impact critical resources such as salmon, safe drinking water, and recreational waters.

Analytical data are used in the development and implementation of studies and regulations used to protect human health and the environment. We support robust and reliable analytical capability by accrediting labs for emerging contaminants using some of the latest EPA-approved methods.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are persistent synthetic organic compounds found in water, soil, and tissue. They are bioaccumulative and are linked to human health concerns. See the tabs below for the latest methods that we accredit for.

PFAS methods by matrix

A few PFAS compounds are now monitored in drinking water by Washington's Department of Health. See the Department of Health's lab rule at WAC 246-390 for more information.

Allowable Test Methods include EPA Method 537.1 revision 2 and EPA Method 533. These are also the methods specified under the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act 40CFR141.901.

EPA currently regulates five individual PFAS, plus “GenX" chemicals, under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Our accreditation team accredits for 40 PFAS compounds in non-potable water by EPA Method 1633. After several draft versions of this method, the final version was published January 2024.

Method 1633A is part of the proposed Rule 22 and is likely to be incorporated in rule for Clean Water Act Compliance Monitoring.

Our accreditation team accredits for 40 PFAS compounds in solid and chemical materials by EPA Method 1633 and will offer accreditation by EPA Method 1633A.

In this matrix category we also accredit for 24 PFAS by EPA Method 8327, designed for analysis of aqueous waste, part of the SW846 compendium.

Our agency's Chemical Action Plan for PFAS lists analytical methods in Appendix 2.

6PPD-quinone

We currently accredit for lab analysis of 6PPD-q in water by EPA draft Method 1634. Requests for accreditation of 6PPD-q in solid materials will be considered as appropriate methodology is developed.

Learn more about how we are addressing 6PPD-quinone.