Why BOD sample submissions will be paused on Monday 16th December 2024
Unlike most chemistry analyses, samples analysed for Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) require a 5-day incubation period. Both before and after this incubation, measurements of dissolved oxygen levels must be taken to ensure accurate results.
To maintain consistency, the 5-day reading must be performed on time, meaning the incubation period must end on a day when the laboratory is operational. Consequently, the test can typically only start on specific days, usually Wednesday and Friday.
However, during the Christmas period, midweek bank holidays disrupt this schedule. These holidays may interfere with either the start or end date, preventing us from initiating the test.
Additionally, our logistics network must be considered. For example, samples dropped off in Exeter on Monday, 16th December will be delivered to our Heathrow Laboratory before being sent on to our Wolverhampton Laboratory on Wednesday 18th December, the final day of the year when analysis can be started.
BOD analysis will resume on Friday 3rd January 2025
