Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the questions we get most often. If yours isn't here, call the laboratory or start a portal chat.
Turnaround & rush schedule
| Option | Turnaround | Surcharge |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 5 business days | No surcharge (base price) |
| 96-hour rush | 4 business days | +25% |
| 72-hour rush | 3 business days | +50% |
| 48-hour rush | 2 business days | +75% |
| 24-hour rush | 1 business day | +100% |
| Same day | Same business day | +200% |
Day 0 is the date the laboratory receives the samples and the accompanying chain-of-custody paperwork.
What is the standard turnaround time?
Routine analysis is 5 business days. Turnaround is calculated from the date the samples and accompanying forms are received by the laboratory (that date counts as Day 0). Rush turnaround is available at a surcharge — see the Turnaround section above.
How long should I sample for?
Sampling time depends on the site (residential or industrial), the analysis requested, and the flow rate for active sampling. For active sampling, time = sample volume ÷ flow rate. Our team can help plan the sampling event — reach out before you collect.
Do you rent sampling pumps?
Yes. We rent SKC low-flow pocket pumps and Gillian high-flow pumps, along with BIOS calibrators. Rental fees include pre- and post-calibration of the pump.
Where do I submit samples?
Ship samples to CASSEN Testing Laboratories, 51 International Blvd., Etobicoke, ON M9W 6H3, Canada. Include a completed Chain of Custody form (available on the Resources page) with every shipment.
Can I submit a sample for unknown compound identification?
Yes. CASSEN specializes in unknown chemical characterization, typically via thermal-desorption GC-MS for VOCs (up to ~300 compounds detectable in a single indoor sample), and GC-MS headspace for bulk materials.
Do you support expert testimony and litigation?
Yes. Our specialized services include data interpretation and litigation support, including reports prepared for legal proceedings.
Do I need a field blank with my samples?
Yes for quantitative analysis. A field blank is an unopened sampling medium that travels with the field samples and quantifies any contamination introduced during shipping or handling. Qualitative (screening) analysis can run without a blank, but the result is reported as indicative only.
How long can I store thermal-desorption tubes after sampling?
Cap both ends with the supplied brass caps and refrigerate. Tubes are stable for two weeks under refrigeration; for VOCs susceptible to loss (e.g. low-MW alcohols, ketones), ship to the laboratory within 72 hours.
How do I cap and ship sorbent tubes / canisters?
Brass swage caps for TD tubes; aluminum-foil seal for sample wrap; for Summa canisters confirm the valve is closed and ship in the original padded shipping box. Don't use parafilm — solvent vapours migrate.
Can you help interpret a report?
Yes. Our chemists and senior staff can walk through your report, compare results against ACGIH / OSHA / Health Canada limits, and prepare a written interpretation suitable for management or legal review. Bill is hourly.
Do you provide expert witness reports?
Yes. CASSEN scientific staff have provided expert testimony in Canadian environmental and occupational-health proceedings. Engagement is on a per-matter basis with a written scope.
Are you on the Ontario MOL approved laboratories list?
Yes. CASSEN is recognized by the Ontario Ministry of Labour as an approved laboratory for analytical work supporting workplace evaluations.