The CSIR`s Environmental Laboratories are based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, and Pretoria, Gauteng. These facilities are equipped to conduct comprehensive water quality testing, encompassing a wide array of parameters and harmful impurities, including minerals, chemicals, inorganic, microbiological and parasitology substances. Additionally, specialised water services related to these analyses are also available.

The CSIR Water Chemistry Laboratories in Stellenbosch and Pretoria offer analytical services across various water domains, including:

• Groundwater – boreholes;
• Surface water (pools, ponds, dams, lakes, rivers, streams and drinking water);
• Wastewater: industry effluents, leachates and mine water;
• Bottled water; and
• Nearshore and offshore marine water.

 The test results serve various regulatory and compliance purposes, including:

• Blue Drop certification for drinking water;
• Green Drop wastewater treatment plant requirements;
• Waste characterisation;
• Land/site remediation projects;
• Groundwater monitoring;
• Quality control and regulatory requirements standards for drinking water (SANS 241) and for bottled water (SANS 1657); and
• Marine water quality monitoring in ports and harbours in accordance with the London Convention.

The Stellenbosch-based laboratory facility has long been engaged in the analysis of samples derived from estuarine and marine environments. As a result, the laboratory has developed the capacity to analyse water, biological tissue and sediments from these environments, focusing on general physiochemical properties, nutrients, metals and inorganic chemicals. The laboratory is also adept at analysing water and effluent samples for similar constituents.

To assure the quality of analytical results, the laboratories strictly adhere to the ISO 17025 standard, which details the necessary quality policies and procedures expected of an accredited laboratory. Both laboratories are accredited by the South African National Accreditation System.