Who is responsible for reporting laboratory results to the regulatory agency?

The responsibility for reporting laboratory results to the regulatory agency typically falls on the water system owner. This responsibility arises from the owner's obligation to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations governing water quality and safety. The owner must ensure that the water system meets all regulatory standards, and reporting laboratory results is a crucial part of maintaining transparency and accountability in water management.

While laboratory technicians conduct tests and gather data, and local health departments may oversee public health aspects, the ultimate responsibility for reporting results lies with the water system owner. This person must aggregate the data provided by the laboratory and fulfill the legal requirements to inform regulatory agencies of any potential violations or compliance with water quality standards. Environmental consultants may assist in analyzing data or advising on best practices, but they do not generally have the direct responsibility to report results to regulatory bodies.