Methods that were developed and validated at the Hygienic Laboratory to measure the radioactivity in hydraulic fracking flowback wastewater were approved and published by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Radionuclides can be harmful to human health if inhaled or ingested. They are commonly present at low concentrations in geological formations, produced at low levels through interactions between the atmosphere and cosmic radiation, and are produced artificially through human activities, such as power generation, medical therapy and heavy industry. The Radiochemistry section primarily performs analyses of water and soil to determine radioactivity concentrations, but is also capable of analyzing air, food, milk, urine and foliage. The section is also prepared to handle radiation emergency response incidents by performing drills and maintaining the lab in a constant state of readiness.