Lab’s work help keeps water safe

The Western Environmental Testing Laboratory’s work is one of the reasons people rarely think about the water they drink. The Sparks-based lab handles wastewater and drinking water testing for private companies, research firms and municipalities to ensure its safety.

The company in December opened a Las Vegas branch at 3230 Polaris Ave., to better accommodate its 10 local clients. Utility Services owner Hollie Daines is a recent addition to WETLab’s client roster. Her company is distribution operator for 45 local small public water systems, ranging from homeowners associations to resorts. WETLab analyzes the water samples Utility Services collects from the systems each month.

The lab looks for contaminants in the water, Daines said, everything from “bacteria to arsenic, nitrates – anything that’s potentially harmful.”

Usually, there’s no problem. If contaminants are found, state-regulated procedures go into effect: resampling, then the installation of secondary purification systems if the water continues to test positive for harmful bacteria.

WETLab also tests Lake Tahoe’s water to maintain its clarity and soil samples around the state for mining companies who have to “make sure they’re not creating any adverse environmental impact,” said Nick Ross, the lab’s operations manager.

WETLab President Michelle Sherven in 2002 purchased the original Sparks lab, growing the company from one location and seven employees to three locations, including Elko, and 30 workers. Two people staff the Las Vegas branch.

Utility Services left its former water testing company to sign on with WETLab in April. WETLab is not the only environmental testing lab in Las Vegas, but Daines said its customer service sets the company apart.

WETLab also has municipal clients in California and may consider expanding out of state if it makes sense down the road, Ross said.

Contact reporter Caitlin McGarry at
cmcgarry@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-5273.