Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse group of synthetic chemicals used in a range of industries, including aviation, automotive, construction, manufacturing and electronics. They are also found in many consumer products, including food packaging and cosmetics. However, they are now known to present a significant threat to human health and the environment due to their persistence, mobility and toxicity, as well as the tendency of some PFAS to bio magnify through the food web.
Canadian Water Testing
Specialty Water Testing Services in Canada
SGS Canada offers comprehensive water testing services that comply with Canadian regulations, including drinking water, surface water, groundwater, municipal discharge, process water, and compost and sludge analysis. Their expertise supports public safety, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance across various sectors.
- Drinking water testing services: SGS ensures water safety and quality by adhering to Canadian guidelines such as the Safe Drinking Water Act and Regulation 170, providing licensed and accredited testing since 1994.
- Environmental PFAS testing: SGS offers precise identification of PFAS contaminants in water, soil, air, waste, biological samples, and firefighting foams using validated methods including the EPA 1633 and PFASafe approach, which includes screening, target analysis, and TOP assay steps.
- Surface water analysis: SGS provides testing to meet Canadian regulatory requirements and Provincial Water Quality Objectives, including microbiological and chemical parameters, supporting clients such as municipalities and environmental consultants with over 20 years ofexperience.
- Groundwater testing: SGS identifies contaminants in groundwater, including microorganisms and chemicals, ensuring compliance with Canadian and US EPA guidelines, offering fast processing and online data access with over 20 years of expertise.
- Municipal discharge water testing: SGS analyzes sanitary, storm, and combined sewage water to meet Canadian regulations such as Wastewater System Effluent Regulations and Ontario Water Resources Act, serving municipalities, industries, and environmental consultants with over 20 years of experience.
- Process water testing: SGS provides testing for industrial process waters, mining effluent, sanitary discharge, and storm water, complying with Canadian regulations including the Fertilizers Act and Ontario Safe Drinking Water Act, with quick turnaround and licensed since 1994.
- Compost and sludge analysis: SGS tests compost and sludge materials to ensure compliance with Canadian regulations, analyzing nutritional content and contaminants such as heavy metals, pathogens, and organic compounds, supporting sewage treatment plants, farms, and non-commercial clients.
Drinking Water Testing
Drinking water testing from SGS – ensure public safety with comprehensive water testing that is in compliance with Canadian regulations and standards, such as the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA).
In Canada, drinking water quality, regulations, analysis, and treatment are stringent. To help you meet your obligations and thus ensure public safety, we offer you comprehensive water quality testing that meets all provincial and national regulatory requirements, including the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA).
Contact SGSWhy choose drinking water testing from with SGS?
We can help you:
- Ensure the safety and quality of the drinking water you provide to your stakeholders
- Gain in-depth knowledge of Canadian and Ontario drinking water guidelines, such as the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and Regulation 170, Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines (CDWQG)
- Comply with all Canadian drinking water regulations and standards
Trusted drinking water testing from SGS, Canada’s leading test provider
As a leading provider of drinking water testing in Canada, we have been licensed to provide you with water analysis and testing by the Ontario Ministry of Environment since 1994. We have also maintained a comprehensive scope of testing, compliant with ISO/IEC 17025, since 1993.
Our drinking water testing services include:
- Testing of all water samples (including treated water) from any public or private body or organization
- Water quality testing focused on public safety with full consideration of provincial and national regulatory requirements
- Regulatory drinking water testing – including lead – under Ontario Regulations 243/07, 319/08, 170/03 and 169/03
- Comprehensive analysis under the CDWQG and the Safe Drinking Water Act 2002
Environmental PFAS Sampling & Testing
Accurate and precise PFAS testing for water, soil and air samples to protect the environment and human health.
Through our global network of accredited laboratories, we can perform environmental PFAS sampling and testing tailored to the PFAS contamination source.
Contact SGSWe can identify PFAS, at even the lowest levels, in:
- Water (drinking, surface, storm, waste and groundwater)
- Soil, sediment and biosolids
- Air (stack emission, soil gas, ambient air and indoor air)
- Waste
- Blood, tissue and biofluids
- Plants, leaves and vegetables
- Firefighting foams
Working with us gives you access to:
- A wide range of solutions
- Carefully researched and validated sample handling procedures and analysis methods
- Sampling kits to support field collection
- Large capacity
PFASafe
To detect the presence of PFAS and measure them, we have developed PFASafe.
This innovative three-step approach improves understanding of PFAS-related risks by combining detection and measurement techniques enabling improved assessment and decision-making.
Step 1: Screening parameter
We determine whether the sample contains PFAS. If so, we proceed to step 2.
Step 2: Target analysis
We examine the sample for the 40 to 60 known PFAS compounds. This provides an initial insight into the presence of PFAS in the material being analyzed.
Step 3: TOP assay
We examine whether the sample contains other PFAS components. This enables us to assess the risk in a more targeted way, so you can adjust your policy or actions accordingly.
PFAS FAQs
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse group of synthetic chemicals used in a range of industries, including aviation, automotive, construction, manufacturing and electronics. They are also found in many consumer products, including food packaging and cosmetics. However, they are now known to present a significant threat to human health and the environment due to their persistence, mobility and toxicity, as well as the tendency of some PFAS to bio magnify through the food web.
There are a variety of methods, which can differ from region to region: please reach out to SGS, and we will propose the appropriate method for your sample type and question. We offer target and non-target screenings, Organic Fluorine measurements (TOF, AOF, EOF), the Top Assay, and Ultra Short Chains. The test methods applied, such as EPA 1633, DIN 38407-42, HJ 1334-2023, will depend on the matrix, the local legislation requirement or your project needs.
We can measure PFAS in all environmental matrices:
- Water (drinking-, surface-, storm-, waste- and groundwater)
- Soil, sediment and biosolids
- Air (stack emission, soilgas, ambient air, indoor air)
- Waste
- Blood, tissue and biofluids
- Plants, leaves and vegetables
- Firefighting foams
Beyond environmental matrices, we can measure PFAS in manufactured products, food, food packaging material, cosmetics.
Surface Water Analysis
Surface water analysis from SGS – quality testing and analysis for surface water to help you meet your Canadian regulatory requirements and Provincial Water Quality Objectives (PWQO) testing guidelines.
Whether you are an environmental consultant or municipality, township or conservation authority, you must comply with a range of Canadian regulatory requirements for surface water. We offer you comprehensive surface water analysis to help you meet your obligations.
Contact SGSWhy Choose Surface Water Analysis from SGS?
We can help you:
- Comply with government water regulations – our reports show that all required standards have been met
- Follow all relevant Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) and Provincial Water Quality Objectives (PWQO) testing guidelines
- Report in accordance with all relevant regulations
- Understand your data with a dedicated customer service representative to answer your questions
Trusted Surface Water Analysis from Canada’s Leading Provider of Testing
In Canada, we offer you 20 years of experience in surface water analysis. As a result we can provide you with unrivaled knowledge and expertise in water quality analysis, along with state-of-the-art equipment and efficient processing.
Our surface water analysis includes:
- Surface water analysis to suit your specific needs
- Surface water testing for microbiological parameters as well as a wide range of organic and inorganic parameters under ISO/IEC 17025 scopes of accreditation
- LIMS reporting
- Lake water testing for swimming safety
- Surface water testing for drinking safety
We also offer a range of related services, including groundwater testing, effluent or waste water testing and drinking water testing.
Groundwater Testing
Groundwater testing from SGS – we can identify groundwater contaminants, provide effluent or waste water analysis and ensure compliance with all relevant Canadian regulations.
Groundwater may contain many constituents, such as microorganisms, gas, inorganic and organic chemicals that could affect the environment and the well being of humans. Our groundwater testing offers you a broad scope of analytical services, including effluent or waste water analysis, to help you identify water contaminants.
Contact SGS
Why Choose Groundwater Testing from SGS?
We can help you determine water contaminants that may have negative environmental effects and thus comply with a range of Canadian guidelines, including:
- Protocol of Analytical methods used for the evaluation of properties Ontario Regulation 511
- Provincial Water Quality Objectives (PWQO)
- Ontario Safe Drinking Water Act
- Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) guidelines
- United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) guidelines
Trusted Groundwater Testing from Canada’s Leading Supplier
In Canada, we have been conducting groundwater testing for more than 20 years. We adhere to all Canadian federal and provincial regulations and guidelines. With our analytical instrumentation, our expert staff can process high volumes of samples quickly and efficiently. We also offer you unique live data online – so you can access and act upon your results, fast.
We offer a range of related services, including surface water testing, effluent or waste water testing and drinking water testing.
Municipal Discharge Water Testing
Municipal discharge water testing from SGS – analyze your sanitary water, storm water and combined sewage water to meet your Canadian regulatory obligations.
To meet Canadian regulatory requirements, you must limit the discharge of your sanitary and storm water effluent into the environment. Our municipal discharge water testing offers you a broad range of analysis, including composite and grab sample analysis, to help you meet all regulatory obligations and ensure your reputation is maintained.
Contact SGSWhy Choose Municipal Discharge Water Testing from SGS?
We can help you:
- Gain accurate test results for a range of sample types, including sanitary water discharge, storm water discharge, industrial process waters and mining effluent
- Comply with the Wastewater System Effluent Regulations and municipal guidelines relating to the release of process water into municipal combined sewage systems
- Get testing appropriate for the treatment and distribution of drinking water as per the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002
- Comply with the Ontario Water Resources Act – Ontario Regulation 525 1998
- Identify a broad range of heavy metals
- Access analysis to complete your composite or grab sample requirements
- Benefit from analysis under Municipal Industrial Strategy for Abatement (MISA) guidelines and according to Metal Mining Effluent Regulations (MMER)
Effective Sanitary, Storm and Combined Sewage Testing from a Leading Provider
Our expert lab professionals in Canada offer you over 20 years of experience in waste water testing and a reputation for providing reliable and fast results across a range of industries. We examine the composition of waste water, analyzing samples with care and accuracy for their chemical, biochemical or microbiological quality for a variety of clients, including:
- Municipal and township authorities
- Non-municipal year-round residential facilities that operate their own sewage treatment systems
- Industries with effluent
- Conservation authorities
- Mining engineers
- Environmental consultants
We also provide industrial, landfill and mining effluent testing for contaminants produced and discharged by a range of industrial companies, including:
- The textile industry
- Car washes
- Metal finishing plants
- Food processing plants
- The mining industry
Process Water Testing
Process water testing from SGS – comprehensive process water testing to help you meet all relevant Canadian regulations.
Whether you are an environmental consultant, factory operator, municipality, township or conservation authority, your process water must meet a range mandatory requirements. Our process water testing can help you meet all your regulatory obligations.
Whether you are an environmental consultant, factory operator, municipality, township or conservation authority, your process water must meet a range mandatory requirements. Our process water testing can help you meet all your regulatory obligations.
Why choose process water testing from SGS?
- Take advantage of expert testing for your process water
- Meet all relevant Canadian regulatory guidelines.
- Benefit from quick turnaround times to help you maintain your reputation and protect the environment
Trusted Process Water Testing from Canada’s Leading Provider
Our professionals in Canada have been analyzing water for over 20 years. We have been designated as a licensed laboratory by the Ministry of Environment since 1994 and have conformed to the ISO/IEC 17025 standard since 1993 for specific tests.
We conduct testing for a range of sample types, including industrial process waters, mining effluent, sanitary discharge and storm water. We offer you in-depth knowledge of all relevant regulations concerning process water. Guidelines we comply with include:
- Guidelines to the Fertilizers Act and Regulations
- Ontario Regulation 511 – Protocol of Analytical methods used for the evaluation of properties
- Provincial Water Quality Objectives (PWQO)
- Ontario Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002
- Canadian Council of the Ministers of the Environment (CCME) Guidelines
- United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA)
- Wastewater and effluent characterization
- Comprehensive testing for unregulated private wells
- Regulatory lead testing (including Ontario Regulation 243/07)
Compost and Water Sludge Analysis
Compost and sludge analysis from SGS – comprehensive testing for your compost and sludge suitable for all relevant Canadian regulations.
Whether you operate a sewage treatment plant, wastewater treatment plant or farm, or are a non-commercial client, you must ensure your compost and sludge meets all relevant regulations. Our compost and sludge analysis offers you a broad spectrum of analyses, including biosolid testing, to ensure you meet your regulatory obligations.
Why Choose Composting and Sludge Analysis from SGS?
We can help by:
- Testing your Non-Agricultural Source Materials (NASM), such as treated and recycled materials from non-agricultural sources, including yard waste, discarded fruit and vegetables, food processing waste, pulp and paper biosolids and sewage biosolids
- Ensuring that your NASM materials have nutritional benefit for the soil and the crops grown on the land
- Analyzing your lagoon sludge (the semi-solid material left from industrial waste water or sewage treatment processes) and sewage biosolids to ensure they pose no health threat prior to composting
- Analyzing contaminants, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), heavy metals, semi-volatile organic compounds (VOC) and other toxins that can be found in compost and sludge samples
We can test your compost and sludge for:
- Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN)
- Ammonium
- Nitrate and nitrite
- Total phosphorus
- Microbes
- All regulated metals (such as lead and nickel)
- Fats, oils and grease
- Pathogens (such as E. coli and salmonella)
Trusted compost and sludge analysis from Canada’s leading provider
In Canada, we offer unrivaled experience and expertise in compost and sludge analysis. Our advanced instrumentation enables us to provide you with a broad spectrum of analyses.
NASM has been divided into three distinct categories. At SGS, we are able to conduct the analysis required for each of the three categories, which are:
- Unprocessed plant material (such as vegetable culls)
- Processed plant material (such as organic waste materials from grain processing)
- Animal-based NASM (such as organic residual material from meat processing plant, pulp and paper)
We offer you in-depth knowledge of all relevant regulations concerning composting and sludge and can help you comply with the following guidelines:
- Ontario Regulation 267/03 (regulation guidelines to be adhered to before NASM can be applied to land)
- Ontario Regulation 511
- A range of Canadian regulations, including Ontario Environmental Protection Act Regulation 153 (in relation to property, specifically “agricultural uses”)
- Ontario Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002
- Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) guidelines, United States Environment Protection Agency (US EPA) guidelines
- Guidelines to the Fertilizers Act and Regulations
- Ontario Regulation 511– Protocol of Analytical Methods used for the Evaluation of Properties
- Provincial Water Quality Objectives (PWQO)
Why SGS for your Testing Needs?
- Global Reach, Local Expertise: A worldwide laboratory network backed by local knowledge to meet your needs.
- Regulatory Compliance: Expertise in regional and international guidelines, including EPA, CCME, and more.
- Customized Analytical Plans: Tailored testing protocols to address unique project challenges.
- Proven Track Record: Decades of experience delivering high-quality data to industries across North America.
