The State Lab at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s mission is to provide critical and specialized expertise in laboratory services to protect the health and environment for all of Colorado. Our team addresses these challenges through a wide variety of testing to detect, investigate, prevent, and control these public health hazards.
Programs at The State Lab
Clinical testing laboratories
Tests for microorganisms and diseases that have an impact on public health, which includes influenza, rabies, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), foodborne illnesses, as well as emerging diseases such as COVID-19 and mpox. This includes the clinical microbiology, molecular, and serology labs.
Food testing program
Tests for potentially harmful microorganisms in food products, milk, and water. This program also actively participates in foodborne illness outbreak investigations initiated by local public health agencies.
Evidential breath alcohol testing (EBAT) program
Repairs, calibrates, and certifies instruments used statewide to test subjects suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol.
Lab certification program
Inspects, certifies, and educates other laboratories that perform lab testing.
Cannabis inspection and certification program
Coordinates the inspection of retail and medical marijuana testing facilities and performs certification of hemp testing laboratories.
Newborn screening program
Tests newborn babies for a variety of conditions that cannot be seen at birth, but can be detected and treated if found early.
Water testing program
Tests for chemicals and microorganisms that may be found in water systems of private homes, well owners, and water providers.
Wastewater testing program
Partners with other labs and wastewater facilities statewide to test for disease virus particles in the wastewater system. This has become an important public health tool that helps us find early warnings about potential emerging diseases in a community that could impact the rest of the population.