S4103 - Laboratory testing of soil and chemicals

Operational Details
Special laboratories are set up to test soil and analyze its composition. This is done primarily for the agricultural community and natural resource industries. In Southern Saskatchewan, alkalinity is a problem. In other parts of the province, tests are required on soil because of chemical spills, runoff caused by chemicals and mineral effluents from mining and oil exploration, as well as fertilizer exigibles that seep into the soil and pollute streams, sloughs, lakes and generally contaminate surrounding areas. Soil analysis is used to confirm its suitability for growing crops.

Laboratory workers set up and conduct chemical analysis of the soil, using techniques such as chromatography, spectrography, physical and chemical separation techniques and microscopy. They operate and maintain the equipment and prepare solutions, reagents, sample formulations and soil samples. They then compile records and interpret experimental or analytical results. The laboratories can assist the farmer and agricultural community by advising on what remedial action is necessary to restore or correct soil conditions. They are also qualified to recommend to mining and oil companies remedies for reconditioning, or what can be used to neutralize chemicals that exist in the soil. Chemical companies also have a need for soil analysis as they too are often in the position of needing to clean up the environment around their plant or refinery.

Ongoing research is also undertaken to improve soil management and developing new remedial action to existing problems with the soil. In some cases, this work is sponsored by resource companies, other private industry employers, or the government, who in cooperation may consult with the laboratory. Environmentalists, ecologists and water users may also use laboratory services to confirm or prove what the soil conditions are and whether there are dangers to wildlife, to plant life or trees. Their findings may be shared with the universities and government bodies and certain reports must be reported or registered with the province.

SIC Codes
000000785 - Laboratory testing of soil and chem