Nitrate Analysis
High levels of nitrites may indicate a failing septic system or contamination from fertilizers or landfills. Using Federal regulations under the Safe Drinking Water Act (40 CFR 141.23 (a) (4) (i)) as a guideline, the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for Nitrite as Nitrogen is 1.0 mg/L (ppm). The health significance of nitrite higher than this level applies to pregnant women and infants below the age of six months. The major health effect associated with these levels is methemoglobinemia, also known as “blue-baby syndrome”.
Samples will only be accepted from Indiana Department of Health Divisions, IDEM, other State Agencies or Institutions, and Local Health Departments.
Contact: Bharat Patel
Email: Bpatel@health.in.gov
No Charge for Investigations by Local Health Departments, IDEM or other state agencies and institutions
Please contact IDOHChemistryLab@health.in.gov for general questions.
The kit contains:
- Instruction form
- Analysis request form
- Ice pack
- One 125 mL plastic bottle.
Place the ice packs in the freezer overnight. Flush the sample tap for five (5) minutes prior to collecting the sample. Reduce the flow of the water and fill the sample container to the shoulder of the bottle. Replace and tighten the cap to prevent sample leaking. Complete the analysis request form. Place the sample bottle with the frozen ice pack and the analysis request form in the mailing container.
Mail overnight or return to:
IDOH Laboratory
Suite B
550 W 16th St
Indianapolis, IN 46202
The sample must be delivered to the Indiana State Department of Health to allow the laboratory to receive and complete the test before the sample is 48 hours old.
The report will be emailed/faxed or mailed within 15 days after receiving the sample.
Please email IDOHCHemistryLab@health.in.gov
