Synthetic organic compounds (SOC) measurement context
The drinking-water SOC group combines EPA Methods 525.2, 531.1 and 515.3, described below. Each part can also be ordered on its own, as can glyphosate.
Pesticides and insecticides measurement context
EPA Method 525.2: organic compounds are extracted from the sample on a solid phase sorbent, washed off with solvent, and identified and measured by GC/MS. EPA Method 505: chlorinated pesticides and PCBs (as Aroclors) are extracted into a small volume of hexane and measured by gas chromatography with an electron capture detector. Reported in µg/L.
Compounds in the pesticide and SOC tests measurement context
The pesticide and insecticide test above (EPA Methods 525.2 and 505) covers the regulated drinking-water compounds named in the public water system list. The pesticides are the herbicides alachlor, atrazine and simazine and the insecticides chlordane, endrin, heptachlor, lindane, methoxychlor and toxaphene, with heptachlor epoxide, a breakdown product of heptachlor. The others are not pesticides: benzo(a)pyrene, a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon; the plasticizers di(2-ethylhexyl) adipate and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate; hexachlorobenzene and hexachlorocyclopentadiene, chlorinated industrial chemicals; and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), measured as Aroclor mixtures. All of these compounds are on the analyte list of EPA Method 525.2; EPA Method 505 measures chlorinated pesticides and PCBs by gas chromatography with an electron capture detector. Results are given in µg/L for each compound; PCBs are reported as Aroclor mixtures rather than as single compounds.
Provide the compound list
A class name does not establish every target included. Specify the compounds, applicable drinking-water program and reporting limits; use the prescribed bottle and handling plan for the scope.
Include the complete project requirement
Provide the matrix, target analytes, required method, fraction, units and reporting limits. Include the permit or monitoring instructions where results will support a regulatory submission. Naming this method does not establish blanket compliance eligibility.
Resolve collection before sampling
Use the bottle, preservation and delivery instructions assigned to the agreed scope. Identify each location and collection time, and document any deviation. The final analytical plan must fit the submitted material and its intended use.
Related testing & guidance
Technical & service references
Vanguard service detailsSource review: November 8, 2026. The agreed method and project scope govern the testing.