The following words and phrases when used in this chapter shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

“Accreditation.” A determination by the Department of Environmental Protection that an environmental laboratory is capable of performing one or more classes of testing or analysis of environmental samples in accordance with this chapter.

“Certificate of accreditation.” A document issued by the Department of Environmental Protection certifying that an environmental laboratory has met standards for accreditation.

“Department.” The Department of Environmental Protection of the Commonwealth.

“Environmental Hearing Board.” The board established under the act of July 13, 1988 (P.L. 530, No. 94),¹ known as the Environmental Hearing Board Act.

“Environmental laboratory.” A facility engaged in the testing or analysis of environmental samples.

“Environmental Quality Board.” The board established under section 1920-A of the act of April 9, 1929 (P.L. 177, No. 175),² known as The Administrative Code of 1929.

“Environmental sample.” A solid, liquid, gas or other specimen taken for the purpose of testing or analysis as required by an environmental statute.

“Environmental statute.” A statute administered by the Department of Environmental Protection relating to the protection of the environment or of public health, safety and welfare.

“Laboratory supervisor.” A technical supervisor of an environmental laboratory who supervises laboratory procedures and reporting of analytical data.

“NELAC.” The National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Conference.

“NELAP.” The National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program.

“Secretary.” The Secretary of Environmental Protection of the Commonwealth.