National Primary and Secondary Drinking Water Regulations: Analytical Methods for Regulated Drinking Water Contaminants

Note: EPA no longer updates this information, but it may be useful as a reference or resource.

[Federal Register: September 3, 1998 (Volume 63, Number 171)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 47097-47114]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr03se98-25]

[[Page 47097]]

_______________________________________________________________________

Part III

Environmental Protection Agency

_______________________________________________________________________

40 CFR Parts 141 and 143

National Primary Water Regulations: Analytical Methods for Regulated
Drinking Water Contaminants; Final Rule and Proposed Rule

[[Page 47098]]

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Parts 141 and 143

[WH-FRL-6132-2]
RIN 2040-AC77

National Primary and Secondary Drinking Water Regulations:
Analytical Methods for Regulated Drinking Water Contaminants

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Direct final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: EPA is approving the use of updated versions of previously
approved American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), Standard
Methods for Examination of Water and Wastewater (Standard Methods or
SM) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) analytical methods for
compliance determinations of chemical and microbiological contaminants
in drinking water. At the same time, the Agency is withdrawing approval
of the previous versions of the 14 EPA methods. Previous versions of
the SM and ASTM methods will continue to be approved. The Agency is
promulgating these methods as a direct final rule because the Agency
does not expect adverse comments and wants to ensure prompt
availability of the methods for compliance monitoring. In addition, the
Agency is making minor technical corrections or clarifications to the
regulations, amending the regulation to change the composition of
Performance Evaluation (PE) samples and require successful analysis of
PE samples once each year.

DATES: This final rule will become effective without further notice on
January 4, 1999, unless EPA receives relevant adverse comment by
November 2, 1998.
If the Agency receives such comments, EPA will withdraw this direct
final rule before its effective date by publishing a timely withdrawal
in the Federal Register informing the public the rule will not take
effect.
The incorporation by reference of the publications listed in
today's rule is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of
January 4, 1999.
In accordance with 40 CFR 23.7, this rule shall be considered final
for purposes of judicial review at 1:00 p.m. (Eastern time) on January
15, 1999.

ADDRESSES: Written comments may be submitted either by mail or
elecrtronically. Comments may be sent to the W-97-04 Drinking Water
Analytical Methods Final Comment Clerk, U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, Water Docket, MC 4101, 401 M Street, SW, Washington, D.C.
20460. Please submit any references cited in your comments. EPA would
appreciate an original and 3 copies of your comments and enclosures
(including references).
This Federal Register document has been placed on the Internet for
public review and downloading at the following location: http://
www.epa.gov/fedrgstr. The record for this rulemaking has been
established under docket number W-97-04. Supporting documents
(including references and methods cited in this notice) are available
for review at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Water Docket,
East Tower Basement, 401 M Street, SW, Washington, D.C. 20460. For
access to the docket materials, call 202-260-3027 on Monday through
Friday, excluding Federal holidays, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Eastern Time for an appointment.
Copies of final methods published by EPA are also available for a
nominal cost through the National Technical Information Service (NTIS),
U.S. Department of Commerce, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA
22161. NTIS also may be reached at 800-553-6847. All other methods must
be obtained from the publisher. Publishers (with addresses) for all
approved methods are cited at 40 CFR Part 141 and in the references
section of today's rule.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jitendra Saxena, Ph.D., Standards and
Risk Management Division, Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water
(MC-4607), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 401 M Street, SW,
Washington, D.C. 20460, (202) 260-9579. Information may also be
obtained from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline. Callers within the
United States may reach the Hotline at (800) 426-4791. The Hotline is
open Monday through Friday, excluding Federal holidays, from 9:00 a.m.
to 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
For technical information regarding microbiology methods, contact
Paul S. Berger, Ph.D., Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water (MC-
4607), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C. 20460,
telephone, (202) 260-3039. For technical information regarding
chemistry methods, contact Richard Reding, Ph.D., Office of Ground
Water and Drinking Water, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268, telephone (513) 569-7961. For a list of
Regional Contacts see SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Potentially Regulated Entities

EPA Regions, as well as States, Territories, and Tribes with
primacy to administer the regulatory program for public water systems
under the Safe Drinking Water Act, sometimes conduct analyses to
measure for contaminants in water samples, but often require the public
water systems themselves to conduct such analysis. If EPA has
established a maximum contaminant level (``MCL'') for a given drinking
water contaminant, the Agency also ``approves'' standardized testing
procedures (i.e., promulgated through rulemaking) for analysis of the
contaminant. Once EPA standardizes such test procedures, analysis using
those procedures (or approved alternate test procedures) is required.
Therefore, States, Territories, Tribes, and public water systems
required to test water samples are potentially regulated by the
standardization of testing procedures in this rulemaking. Categories
and entities that may ultimately be regulated include:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Examples of potentially
Category regulated entities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
State and Territorial Governments and Indian Tribes........................... States, Territories, and Tribes
that analyze water samples on
behalf of public water systems
required to conduct such
analysis; States, Territories,
and Tribes that themselves
operate public water systems
required to conduct analytic
monitoring
Industry...................................................................... Industrial operators of public
water systems
Municipalities................................................................ Municipal operators of public
water systems
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This table is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides a
guide for readers regarding entities likely to be regulated by this
action. This table lists the types of entities that EPA is now aware
could potentially be regulated by

[[Page 47099]]

this action. Other types of entities not listed in the table could also
be regulated. To determine whether your organization is or would be
regulated by this action, you should carefully examine the
applicability language at 40 CFR 141.2 (definition of public water
system). If you have questions regarding the applicability of this
action to a particular entity, consult the person listed in the
preceding FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section.

Regional Contacts

EPA Regional Offices:
I JFK Federal Bldg., One Congress Street, 11th Floor, Boston, MA 02203,
Phone: 617-565-3602, Linda Murphy
II 290 Broadway, 24th Floor, New York, NY 10007, Phone: 212-637-3880,
Walter Andrews
III 841 Chestnut Building, Philadelphia, PA 19107, Phone: 215-597-6511,
Victoria Binetti
IV 345 Courtland Street, N.E., Atlanta, GA 30365, Phone: 404-347-2207,
Stalling Howell
V 77 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60604, Phone: 312-886-6206,
Charlene Denys
VI 1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 1200, Dallas, TX 75202, Phone: 214-655-7150,
Larry Wright
VII 726 Minnesota Avenue, Kansas City, KS 66101, Phone: 913-551-7682,
Robert Morby
VIII One Denver Place, 999 18th Street, Suite 500, Denver, CO 80202,
Phone: 303-293-1652, Jack Rychecky
IX 75 Hawthorne Street, San Francisco, CA 94105, Phone: 415-744-
1817, William Thurston
X 1200 Sixth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101, Phone: 206-553-1893, Larry
Worley

Table of Contents

I. Statutory Authority
II. Regulatory Background
III. Explanation of Today's Action
A. Approval of Updated Version of Compliance Analytical Methods
B. Use of Previous Version of Compliance Analytical Methods
C. Technical Corrections and Amendments
D. Recommendation of Additional Methods for Chloride and Sulfate
E. Performance-based Measurement System
IV. Regulation Assessment Requirements
V. References

I. Statutory Authority

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), as amended in 1996, requires
EPA to promulgate national primary drinking water regulations (NPDWRs)
which specify maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) or treatment techniques
for drinking water contaminants SDWA section 1412, (42 USC 300g-1).
NPDWRs apply to public water systems pursuant to SDWA section 1401, 42
USC 300f(1)(A). According to SDWA section 1401(1)(D) of the Act, NPDWRs
include ``criteria and procedures to assure a supply of drinking water
which dependably complies with such maximum contaminant levels;
including quality control and testing procedures . . . .'' see 42 USC
300f(1)(D). In addition, SDWA section 1445(a) of the Act authorizes the
Administrator to establish regulations for monitoring to assist in
determining whether persons are acting in compliance with the
requirements of the SDWA see 42 USC 300j-4. EPA's promulgation of
analytical methods is authorized under these sections of the SDWA as
well as the general rulemaking authority in SDWA section 1450(a), 42
USC 300j-9(a).

II. Regulatory Background

EPA has promulgated analytical methods for all currently regulated
drinking water contaminants for which it has promulgated MCLs or
monitoring requirements. In most cases, the Agency has approved use of
more than one analytical method for measurement of a contaminant and
laboratories may use any approved method for determining compliance
with an MCL or monitoring requirement. After any regulation is
published, EPA may amend the regulations to approve additional methods
or modifications to approved methods. In addition, the Agency may
withdraw methods that become obsolete or amend other requirements (such
as certification requirements) associated with the use of approved
methods. EPA takes these actions as quickly as possible after new or
revised methods are published.
The most recent actions that included approving new or revised
analytical methods were published on December 5, 1994 (59 FR 62456);
May 14, 1996 (61 FR 24353) and on March 5, 1997 (62 FR 10168). In these
final rules EPA approved use of new methods or modifications of
existing methods that EPA believed were as good as, or better than,
previously approved methods and test procedures. These rules approved
methods for the analysis of chemical, microbiological and radiological
contaminants in drinking water samples.

III. Explanation of Today's Action

This rule approves new versions of currently approved Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) methods, American Society for Testing and
Materials (ASTM) methods, and Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater (Standard Methods or SM) for compliance with
drinking water standards and monitoring requirements. Compared to the
currently approved versions, the new versions contain primarily
editorial or technical changes and other changes that make the methods
easier to conduct or safer. The rule only withdraws previously approved
versions of EPA methods. Previously approved versions of ASTM and
Standard Methods are not withdrawn and laboratories may continue to use
them. By today's action, EPA also recommends additional methods for
monitoring of chloride and sulfate which are regulated under the
National Secondary Drinking Water Regulations. Finally, today's action
also corrects method citations and makes other minor technical
corrections to the regulations.
The Agency is promulgating these regulatory actions as a ``direct
final'' rule. A direct final rulemaking involves publishing of a rule
with a delayed effective date as well as a companion proposed rule
referencing the direct final rule and inviting public comment. The
delayed effective date on the final rule allows for the receipt of
relevant adverse comment before the direct final rule goes into effect.
If EPA receives relevant adverse comments on the companion proposal on
or before November 2, 1998, then EPA will take additional action
necessary to respond to those comments prior to the effective date
(i.e., withdraw any or all of the actions and proceed with a revised
rule based on the companion proposal). EPA has chosen to use the direct
final approach for these regulatory actions because the Agency does not
expect to receive adverse public comments. Additionally, the procedure
allows for the most expeditious implementation possible consistent with
the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). If EPA decides to withdraw any
or all of the actions, EPA will proceed with a revised rule based on
the companion proposal.

A. Approval of Updated Version of Compliance Analytical Methods

The updated versions of previously approved methods discussed in
this section contain changes that EPA believes will be considered non-
controversial and useful by laboratory personnel and certification
officials.
ASTM and Standard Methods
In this direct final rule, EPA is approving revised versions of
ASTM methods and Standard methods that are

[[Page 47100]]

published respectively in the 1996 Annual Book of ASTM Standards [ASTM
1996] and in the 19th edition of Standard Methods for the Examination
of Water and Wastewater [APHA 1995]. These methods include 6 revised
ASTM Methods and 23 revised Standard Methods. EPA is also approving the
unchanged versions of 19 ASTM methods and 31 Standard Methods that are
published in the 1996 ASTM and 1995 Standard Methods publications.
Although these 50 methods are not changed from previous versions, ASTM
and Standard Methods reprints the unchanged methods along with the
revised methods so that the books include all of the current versions
of the chemical and microbiological methods published by the respective
organization. Because EPA is not withdrawing approval of the currently
approved version of any ASTM or Standard Method, approval of the
revised methods via a direct final rulemaking should not have any
adverse effect on users. Comments are not being solicited on the
unchanged methods.
All 6 of the revised ASTM methods and 11 of the 23 revised Standard
Methods contain only editorial changes or minor editorial
clarifications. Twelve of the revised Standard Methods contain minor
technical clarifications or voluntary but useful options, such as
better explanations on conducting a specific step in the method,
recommendations for safer handling or disposal of hazardous reagents,
and options to use alternative procedures, reagents or equipment. The
changes between the old and new versions of the 12 revised Standard
Methods are described below.
Twelve of the revised Standard methods include eleven microbiology
methods and one turbidity method. The eleven microbiology methods
published in the 19th edition of Standard Methods have been extensively
rewritten to improve clarity and ease of use. The revised methods are
SM 9215B; SM 9221A,B,C,D,E; SM 9222A,B,C,D; and SM 9223. For the
convenience of the user, the new versions contain certain steps that
presently are only specified in the regulations at 40 CFR 141.21(f).
Thus, the new versions eliminate the need to consult the Code of
Federal Regulations to obtain directions for conducting certain steps
in the analysis, such as use of MUG media in SM 9221E. The revised
turbidity method is SM 2130B. Previously, EPA and Standard Methods
adopted the same definition for primary standards in turbidity methods.
In the 19th edition version of SM 2130B, only formazin polymer is
designated as the primary standard reference suspension with all others
being designated as secondary standards. This change is discussed in
more detail by Posavec [AWWA 1996]. EPA considers this change to be
acceptable and approves SM 2130B (19th ed.).
EPA Methods
This section discusses fourteen revised EPA methods, which are
published in the manual ``Methods for the Determination of Organic
Compounds in Drinking Water Supplement III'' (EPA Supplement III) [EPA
1995]. Previous versions of these methods were approved in final rules
published on December 5, 1994 (59 FR 62456, the methods rule) and on
May 14, 1996 (61 FR 24353, the ICR rule). The new versions contain
minor corrections, minor technical enhancements and editorial
improvements. The new versions also include the mandatory method
modifications that were approved in the 1994 methods rule and published
in the EPA document ``Technical Notes on Drinking Water Methods'' (Tech
Notes) [EPA 1994b]. In the 1994 rule, EPA stated that the modifications
in Tech Notes would be placed in the affected method when the method
was revised for the next supplement of the manual of organic methods.
EPA revised these methods in the August 1995 publication of the revised
versions in EPA Supplement III.
Under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) and SDWA, EPA may
approve a new method and withdraw a previously approved method within
30 days and 18 months, respectively, after promulgation of a final
rule. The timing of the withdrawal of the older EPA methods should have
no adverse effect on laboratories because of the 17 month transition
period from the old to the new versions. This overlap in approval and
withdrawal dates gives laboratories sufficient time to become certified
with the new methods. Because the changes between the new and older
versions are minor, EPA expects that States will honor the
certification status long enough for laboratories to conveniently
change to the new versions even if this should take more than 17
months.
As explained in the introduction to EPA's Supplement III manual,
all the methods in EPA Supplement III either have a new revision number
or a new method number. New revision numbers for Methods 502.2, 504.1,
505, 506, 507, 508, 508.1, 515.1, 515.2, 524.2, 525.2 and 531.1
indicate a relatively small modification to the method. New method
numbers for Methods 551.1 and 552.2 indicate a relatively larger change
in the method that significantly enhances the performance of the
method. Differences between the previous version and the new version of
EPA methods (EPA Supplement III) of each method are described below.
Quality Control Improvements in EPA Methods 505, 506, 507, 508, 515.1,
515.2, 531.1, 551.1 and 552.2
EPA changed the quality control requirements in some EPA Supplement
III methods to improve uniformity from EPA method to method and to
ensure the quality of the data. For example, the criteria in methods
505, 506, 507, 508, 515.1, 515.2, 531.1, 551.1 and 552.2 for judging
the acceptability of analyte recoveries have been changed to put an
upper limit on the allowed variability. Without this upper limit the
allowed variability, which was based only on the percent relative
standard deviation (RSD) of previous recoveries and not a fixed
numerical limit, could increase to unacceptable limits if the RSD
continued to increase during routine use of the method.
The revised criteria still allow the recoveries to vary by as much
as three times the RSD provided this value does not exceed a fixed
numerical limit. The fixed (usually <plus-minus>30%) limit is specified
in the initial demonstration of capability section of each EPA method.
EPA uses the initial demonstration of capability to set a fixed upper
limit for analyte recoveries because recoveries should not vary more in
routine use than when the method was first validated by the laboratory.
Detector Substitution in EPA Methods 505, 507, 508 and 508.1
EPA Methods 505 and 508.1 measure several regulated analytes. EPA
Method 508 measures a subset of these analytes and EPA Method 507
measures the remainder. EPA Methods 505, 508 and 508.1 were developed
and validated by EPA only with an electron capture (EC) detector and
Method 507 only with a nitrogen-phosphorous (NP) detector. Previous
versions of EPA Methods 505, 507 and 508 allowed use of either an EC or
NP detector provided the method performance criteria were met. EPA has
data [NY 1996] from the Suffolk County Water Authority (a New York
laboratory) that demonstrate better sensitivity for simazine, atrazine,
alachlor, butachlor and metolachlor using a NP detector with EC Method
508.1 conditions. Because EPA believes interchange of detectors may
work under some circumstances for some analytes, in today's rule EPA
allows use of either an EC or NP detector in EPA Methods 505, 507, 508
and 508.1

[[Page 47101]]

provided all regulatory limits and quality control criteria in the
method are met.
Recommendations to Improve Detection Limits in EPA Method 505 and for
Total Metals
EPA is recommending the use of alternative approved methods when
lower detection limits are needed for contaminants analyzed with EPA
Method 505. Although substitution of a NP detector for the EC detector
specified in EPA Method 505 will improve detection limits for nitrogen-
containing compounds, it will not improve detection of non-nitrogen
analytes, such as aroclors. Rather than change the EC detector in EPA
Method 505, EPA recommends in a footnote to the table of approved
methods at 40 CFR 141.24(e) use of the other approved EPA Methods
508.1, 525.2, 507 and 508. EPA especially recommends use of EPA Method
508.1 when low detection limits are required or when users want to use
small volumes of solvent. Reasons for the difference in detection limit
performance between EPA Method 505 and the alternate methods are
described below.
In 1986 EPA developed EPA Method 505 using the EC detector as an
alternative to EPA Methods 507 and 508. A primary advantage of EPA
Method 505 was the use of less sample (35 ml compared to 1 L) and less
solvent (2 ml of hexane compared to 180 ml of methylene chloride).
However, the analyte-to-water sample concentration factor in EPA
Methods 507 and 508 of 200:1 is more favorable than the 17.5:1 factor
in EPA Method 505. The lower concentration factor means that it is more
difficult to obtain low detection limits with EPA Method 505. EPA
developed Method 508.1 in 1994 as an alternative to EPA Methods 505,
507 and 508. EPA Method 508.1, through use of solid phase extraction
media, combines the advantages of high analyte concentration (1000:1
concentration factor) and small volumes of extraction and rinsing
solvents (about 40 ml).
EPA is also specifying how to achieve lower detection limits in the
analysis of metals. In footnotes to the table of approved methods at 40
CFR 141.23(k)(1), EPA provides instructions on using various
preconcentration techniques to achieve better method sensitivity. EPA
used these techniques to determine many of the detection limits that
are specified in EPA Methods 200.7, 200.8 and 200.9.
Additional Analytes in EPA Supplement III versions of Methods 508.1,
525.2 and 551.1
EPA Method 508.1, Rev. 1.0 covered many EPA Method 507 and 508
analytes, but not butachlor, PCBs or toxaphene. Based on new data that
is published in Rev. 2.0, EPA Method 508.1 now measures butachlor,
toxaphene and PCBs (as aroclors). EPA is also publishing data in EPA
Method 525.2, Rev. 2.0 that supports approval of this method for
Aroclor analysis. EPA Method 551.1, which is replacing EPA Method 551,
contains data to support approval of the method for the analysis of
fourteen additional contaminants. The new regulated analytes measured
by EPA Method 551.1 that were not measured by EPA Method 551 are:
1,1,2-trichloroethane, alachlor, atrazine, endrin, heptachlor,
heptachlor epoxide, hexachlorobenzene, hexachlorocyclopentadiene,
lindane, methoxychlor and simazine. The new unregulated analytes
measured by EPA Method 551.1 are: 1,2,3-trichloropropane, metolachlor
and metribuzin.
Other Differences in Currently Approved and EPA Supplement III Versions
of EPA Methods
Methods in EPA Supplement III are listed below by method and
revision number along with a brief description of some of the changes
new to the EPA Supplement III version of the method.
EPA Method 502.2, Rev. 2.1 This method is unchanged from Rev. 2.0
(as modified by Tech Notes) except for minor editorial clarifications
and the removal of an option to use single point calibration. This
single point calibration option had been carried forward from versions
of EPA Method 502 that were developed in the late 1970's when gas
chromatographs and data systems were much less advanced than today. EPA
Method 502.2 is the only multi-analyte method in which EPA allowed
single point calibration exception to method QC requirements. Single
point calibration was intended for occasional use when one or two
analytes of the sixty analytes failed the continuing calibration check
specified in the method and when these analytes were not routinely
expected to be a source of drinking water contamination. Under the
single point calibration option, if an uncalibrated analyte was
detected in a compliance sample, EPA allowed quantitation using a
standard very close to the unknown amount.
EPA is removing single point calibration from EPA Method 502.2
because advances in GC technology in the last two decades make it
unnecessary. Analytes fall outside the QC criteria of the method less
frequently today and when they do, the calibration can be rechecked
quickly using modern data systems. It is important to recheck the
calibration because, rather than being a random error, the QC failure
may indicate that the method detection limit has changed enough to
produce false negative results in compliance analyses.
EPA Method 504.1, Rev. 1.1 Other than minor editorial
clarifications, this method is unchanged from the previous version of
504.1 (as modified by Tech Notes). The EPA Supplement III version (Rev.
1.1) more clearly states that dibromochloromethane is a commonly
occurring drinking water contaminant that can easily be misidentified
as ethylene dibromide unless the confirmatory procedures described in
the method are adhered to.
EPA Method 505, Rev. 2.1 This method is modified from Rev. 2.0 as
described above regarding substitution of a NP detector and some
changes in the quality control requirements. The EPA Supplement III
version also contains additional instructions on the measurement of
multi-component mixtures, such as aroclors.
EPA Methods 506, 515.1, 515.2, 524.2 and 531.1 Other than minor
editorial clarifications and the quality control changes discussed
above, the EPA Supplement III version of each of these methods is
unchanged from the previous version. Data tables in the EPA Supplement
III versions of EPA Methods 515.1 and 531.1 are reorganized for clarity
and addition of method detection limits.
EPA Method 507, Rev. 2.1 This method is modified from Rev. 2.0 as
described above regarding substitution of an EC detector and some
changes in the quality control requirements. Data tables are
reorganized for clarity and addition of method detection limits.
EPA Method 508, Rev. 3.1 This method was modified from Rev. 3.0 as
described above regarding substitution of a NP detector and some
changes in the quality control requirements. Rev. 3.1 also contains
additional instructions on the measurement of multi-component mixtures,
such as aroclors. Data tables are reorganized for clarity and addition
of method detection limits.
EPA Method 508.1, Rev. 2.0 This method is modified from Rev. 1.0 as
described above regarding substitution with a NP detector and addition
of aroclors, butachlor and toxaphene, as analytes. Sample holding
times, analyte recoveries and other method performance data were
obtained using

[[Page 47102]]

the same procedures used in EPA Method 525.2. These procedures include
acidification of the sample at the time of collection and use of solid-
phase extraction (SPE) media to extract the analytes from the drinking
water sample. The analytes in EPA Methods 508.1 and 525.2 with SPE are
similar to those measured with EPA Methods 505, 507 and 508, which use
liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) to extract the analytes. Although the
analytes are similar, only the SPE methods (in both the previous and
the EPA Supplement III versions) require that the sample be acidified.
Acidification increases the SPE extraction efficiency for some analytes
and the holding times for some analytes are longer relative to the LLE
methods. EPA develops multi-analyte methods with sample collection and
preparation procedures that are appropriate for the entire analyte
list. Although acidification may not be necessary to measure every EPA
Method 508.1 or 525.2 analyte, EPA did not develop these methods to
allow the omission of some sampling or procedural steps for
laboratories that analyze only a portion of the method analytes. Thus,
EPA continues to require acidification of samples that are analyzed
with EPA Methods 508.1 and 525.2 using SPE.
EPA Method 509, Rev. 1.1 This method is a single analyte method for
the pesticide metabolite ethylenethiourea (ETU). This method is not
proposed in today's rule because there are no drinking water monitoring
requirements for ETU. However, EPA recommends this method for use by
systems wishing to measure ETU in drinking water samples.
EPA Method 525.2, Rev. 2.0 As discussed above, Rev. 2.0 is modified
from Rev. 1.0 to add aroclors as analytes. The method instructions also
clarify that the extract holding time is measured from the time of
extraction and not from the time of sample collection.
EPA Method 551.1, Rev. 1.0 EPA Method 551.1 is an improvement to
EPA Method 551 because it uses a buffer that increases sample holding
times from 2 days to 14 days. EPA Method 551.1 was recently approved
for ICR monitoring at 40 CFR 141.142 in the 1996 ICR rule (61 FR 24383,
table 7). It will be approved as a replacement for EPA Method 551 at 40
CFR 141.24(e) for analysis of trihalomethanes and twenty other organic
chemicals. Besides the buffer, other differences between EPA Methods
551 (as modified by Tech Notes) and 551.1 include use of surrogate and
other quality control standards to improve the precision and accuracy
of the method. The QC sections of the method have been changed to
accommodate these changes to the method.
EPA Method 552.2, Rev. 1.0 This liquid-liquid extraction (LLE)
method was developed as an alternative to EPA Method 552.1, which is a
solid phase extraction (SPE) method. EPA Method 552.2 using LLE was
approved for measurement of several disinfection by-products in the
1996 ICR rule and in today's rule EPA is approving it for analysis of
dalapon. To allow users a choice of either liquid or solid phase
extraction EPA is not withdrawing approval of EPA Method 552.1 using
SPE.

B. Use of Previous Versions of Compliance Analytical Methods

In the 1994 methods rule (59 FR 62456), EPA approved only one
version of each compliance method that was published by ASTM, Standard
Methods or EPA. The effective date of this action was July 1, 1996. EPA
approved only the 1994 versions because these versions generally
contained significant improvements in safety, quality assurance or
performance. In today's rule EPA is approving methods that are in the
1996 ASTM Annual Book and in the 19th edition of Standard Methods, but
EPA is not withdrawing approval of the currently approved versions
which are published in the 1994 ASTM Annual Book and in the 18th
edition of Standard Methods. EPA is approving use of the two versions
of the same method because the differences between the versions are too
minor to require users to purchase new books. Depending on the nature
and extent of future revisions, EPA may propose to approve only the
most recent versions of methods published by ASTM or the relevant
Standard Methods committee.
Previously approved versions of EPA methods will remain available
for compliance monitoring until March 3, 2000. The previous versions of
EPA methods are 502.2 Rev. 2.0, 505 Rev. 2.0, 507 Rev. 2.0, 508 Rev.
3.0, 515.1 Rev. 4.0, 531.1 Rev. 3.0 found in ``Methods for the
Determination of Organic Compounds in Drinking Water'', December 1988,
revised July 1991; methods 506 Rev. 1.0 and 551 Rev. 1.0 found in
``Methods for the Determination of Organic Compounds in Drinking
Water--Supplement I'', July 1990; methods 515.2 Rev. 1.0 and 524.2 Rev.
4.0 found in ``Methods for the Determination of Organic Compounds in
Drinking Water--Supplement II,'' August 1992; and methods 504.1 Rev.
1.0, 508.1 Rev. 1.0, 525.2 Rev.1.0 available from US EPA NERL,
Cincinnati, OH 45268.
Sources for obtaining copies of the approved versions of compliance
methods are listed in the Addresses section at the beginning of this
rule, in the References section below and at 40 CFR Parts 141 and 143.
Users of the Internet can retrieve information about current EPA
methods manuals under the EPA home page at the Internet address: http:/
/www.epa.gov/nerlcwww/methmans.html. This site contains the titles,
ordering information with publication numbers, abstracts, tables of
contents, and analyte-method cross reference lists for EPA manuals that
were published between 1988 and 1995. The cross reference lists are
especially helpful because they match alphabetical lists of analytes
with the corresponding method(s) of analysis.

C. Technical Corrections and Amendments

Today's action also makes corrections in method citations and minor
changes to the regulations. The regulatory changes include corrections
or clarification to current requirements for composition of Performance
Evaluation (PE) samples, frequency of PE-analysis, sample collection,
sample holding times, description of acid herbicides. These technical
corrections and amendments are discussed in detail below.
SM 4110B
The citation for SM 4110B in the tables of methods listed at 40 CFR
141.23(k)(1) and 143.3(b) is incorrect for some contaminants. This
approved method uses ion chromatography in a chemical suppression mode.
In the 1994 methods rule (59 FR 62456), EPA inadvertently listed this
method as 4110 for some contaminants. The 4110 designation may confuse
some readers because it might imply approval of SM 4110C, which is also
contained within the SM 4110 citation. EPA has never approved nor
intended to approve SM 4110C, which uses ion chromatography in an
electronic suppression mode. In today's rule, EPA is correcting all
citations to be SM 4110B.
PE Sample Composition
In the future, EPA may elect to make performance evaluation (PE)
samples more challenging and lower the costs of the PE program by not
including all regulated contaminants in each PE study. This would mean
that a laboratory could be required to report whether or not a
contaminant was detected in the PE sample and correctly report the
concentration of each contaminant that it did detect in the sample.
Correct reporting of

[[Page 47103]]

concentrations is described and specified in regulations as being
within certain ``acceptance limits'' around the true value. EPA would
apply the acceptance limits specified in the regulations only if the
contaminant has been added to the PE sample, i.e., these limits do not
apply for concentrations of zero.
By today's action EPA amends the introduction to the tables of
acceptance criteria in the regulations to clarify that EPA may include
any number of contaminants in any PE sample. The regulations at
Sec. 141.23(k)(3), Sec. 141.24(f)(17) and Sec. 141.24(h)(19) are
revised to change ``Achieve . . . results . . .'' to ``For each
contaminant that has been included in the sample achieve . . . results
. . .''. This amendment means, for example, that although the
acceptance limit for nitrate is <plus-minus>10% at <gr-thn-eq>0.4 mg/L,
the analyst would not need to achieve this acceptance limit if nitrate
is not added to the PE sample and the true value is therefore zero.
Annual PE Requirement
In the State certification of laboratories to measure for a
contaminant, EPA has long recommended that the laboratory analyze a PE
sample within prescribed acceptance limits for that contaminant. EPA
recommends an annual frequency for these tests in the Manual for the
Certification of Laboratories Analyzing Drinking Water [EPA 1997],
though the Agency has not specified a frequency requirement in the
related drinking water regulations. All States that conduct laboratory
certification programs currently require laboratories to pass these
tests at least once a year. EPA believes an annual demonstration is an
appropriate requirement. In today's rule, EPA amends the regulations to
adopt the universal requirement for laboratories to successfully
analyze a PE sample at least once each year. Though not specified in
the regulation, the PE sample may be provided by EPA, the State or by a
third party with the approval of the State or EPA.
EPA already proposed to include such a requirement in a previous
notice at 62 FR 36100 (July 3, 1997). Commenters questioned why EPA
proposed PE sample testing once a year, rather than twice a year
consistent with proposals under consideration by the National
Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Council (NELAC). Today's action
and the NELAC proposals are not inconsistent because today's action
establishes minimum standards; the NELAC standards would establish
higher standards that would be voluntary. NELAC has been considering
standards for accreditation of laboratories under the National
Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP). NELAP
accreditation is voluntary and intended to promote consistency between
State accreditation standards for laboratories who operate in more than
one State. While EPA encourages states to adopt the NELAC standards,
such adoption would also be voluntary. Laboratories conducting analyses
in multiple states may strive for compliance with the NELAC standards,
such as two annual PE sample analyses. Not all laboratories, however,
need to meet such a requirement. Therefore, today's action only
requires laboratories to analyze a single PE sample once a year.
Composite Sample Follow-up Reporting Time
The regulations at 40 CFR 141.23(a)(4), 141.24(f)(14) and
141.24(h)(10) specify criteria for when an individual sample collected
from a compositing point must be analyzed to confirm the results of the
analysis of the composite sample. The confirmatory analysis may be
conducted on either a duplicate sample (collected at each compositing
point) or on follow-up samples collected later. EPA had intended to
allow systems up to 14-days to collect, analyze and report the results
of these samples provided the sample holding time is not exceeded. The
wording in the regulations at 40 CFR 141.23(a)(4)(iii),
141.24(f)(14)(ii) and (h)(10)(ii), however, has caused confusion and
hardship because some States have required some systems to report the
results of the analysis of duplicate confirmatory samples within 14-
days after the composite sample was collected rather than 14-days after
the composite result is obtained. EPA is amending the regulations to
clarify that the confirmatory analysis result may be reported up to 14-
days after completing analysis of the composite sample, provided the
holding time of the sample is not exceeded.
Sample Collection Procedures for Asbestos and Nitrate
The table at 40 CFR 141.23(k)(2) lists preservation procedures and
holding times for several drinking water contaminants. In today's rule,
EPA is correcting errors in the table for measurement of asbestos,
nitrate and total nitrate (nitrate plus nitrite).
EPA is adding the 48 hour holding time and other instructions for
collecting asbestos samples that were inadvertently omitted from the
table. These instructions are in one asbestos compliance method (EPA
Method 100.2) but not in the other asbestos compliance method. Today's
rule changes the regulations to require that the preservation
procedures and holding times specified in Method 100.2 apply to all
compliance analyses of asbestos.
The regulations (40 CFR 141.23(k)(2)) incorrectly list ``nitrate''
as the analyte of concern in two types of samples: chlorinated drinking
water and unchlorinated drinking water to which sulfuric acid
(H<INF>2</INF>SO<INF>4</INF>) has been added as a preservative (see
table 1). The correct analyte of concern in both cases is ``total
nitrate.'' The preservation procedures and holding times for both
entries are also incorrect. Today's rule combines the nitrate entries
into one entry for total nitrate, adds an entry for nitrate-only
determinations, and specifies correct preservation procedures and
sample holding times for nitrate and total nitrate.
The corrected preservation procedures and holding time for nitrate-
only and total nitrate determinations are listed below in table 2 and
in the regulations of today's rule at 40 CFR 141.23(k)(2). Nitrate and
nitrite samples may be held up to 48 hours if kept at 4 deg.C or less.
These criteria are identical to those specified for wastewater samples
at 40 CFR 136.3(e) and in EPA Method 300.0, which is EPA's most
recently developed compliance method for nitrate, nitrite and total
nitrate. Total nitrate samples may be held up to 28 days if the sample
is acidified. These criteria are identical to the criteria in Method
300.0 but differ from criteria specified in Table II at 40 CFR 136.3(e)
in that acidified wastewater samples must be kept at 4 deg.C or less.
Because holding time data developed for the currently approved version
of EPA Method 300.0 (Rev. 2.1, August 1993) showed acidified drinking
water samples to be stable for 28-days when held at ambient
temperature, EPA will no longer require chilling of acidified samples
collected for determination of total nitrate (nitrate-nitrite) in
drinking water. When it is determined that data developed with Method
300.0 on drinking water samples is applicable to samples with
biological activity typical of wastewater samples, EPA may amend the
wastewater regulations to remove the requirement to chill acidified
samples.
Today's rule also adds a footnote to the table at 40 CFR
141.23(k)(2) to explain that analysis of samples disinfected with an
oxidant (such as free chlorine, chlorine dioxide or ozone) or in
acidified samples can only provide a total nitrate result (footnote 4
in table 2). Nitrate cannot be measured separately

[[Page 47104]]

from nitrite in these samples because the acid and most disinfectants
will oxidize nitrite to nitrate. Nitrate may only be measured separate
from nitrite in samples that have not been acidified and that have not
been disinfected or only disinfected with a minimal oxidant, such as
chloramine.

Table 1.--Current Preservation and Holding Times at 40 CFR 141.23(k)(2)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contaminant Preservative \1\ Container \2\ Time \3\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Asbestos......................... Cool, 4 deg.C.............. P or G................. .......................
Nitrate: ......................... .....................
Chlorinated.................. Cool, 4 deg.C.............. P or G................. 28 days.
Non-chlorinated.............. Conc H<INF>2SO<INF>4 to pH <2........ P or G................. 14 days.
Nitrite.......................... Cool, 4 deg.C.............. P or G................. 48 hours.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ P=plastic, hard or soft; G=glass, hard or soft.
\2\ In all cases samples should be analyzed as soon after collection as possible.
\3\ See method(s) for the information for preservation.

Table 2.--Corrected Preservation and Holding Times at 40 CFR 141.23(k)(2)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contaminant Preservative\1\ Container\2\ Time\3\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Asbestos......................... 4 deg.C.................... P or G................. 48 hours.\6\
Nitrate\4\....................... 4 deg.C.................... P or G................. 48 hours.
Nitrate-Nitrite\5\............... H<INF>2SO<INF>4...................... P or G................. 28 days.
Nitrite\4\....................... 4 deg.C.................... P or G................. 48 hours.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ When indicated, samples must be acidified at the time of collection to pH < 2 with concentrated acid. When
chilling is indicated the sample must be shipped and stored at 4 deg.C or less.
\2\ P=plastic, hard or soft; G=glass, hard or soft.
\3\ In all cases samples should be analyzed as soon after collection as possible. Follow additional (if any)
information on preservation, containers or holding times that is specified in method.
\4\ Nitrate may only be measured separate from nitrite in samples that have not been acidified and that have not
been disinfected or only disinfected with a minimal oxidant, such as chloramine. Measurement of acidified
samples or waters disinfected with free chlorine, chlorine dioxide or ozone provides a total nitrate (sum of
nitrate plus nitrite) concentration.
\5\ Nitrate-Nitrite refers to a measurement of total nitrate. Acidification is not required if total nitrate is
determined within 48 hours in a sample held at 4 deg.C or less. However, acidification is required if a sample
is to be held for longer than 48 hours because the disinfectant residual may not be maintained.
\6\ Instructions for containers, preservation procedures and holding times as specified in Method 100.2 must be
adhered to for all compliance analyses including those conducted with Method 100.1.

Analysis of Acid Herbicides
The herbicide, 2,4-D, is applied as an ester form and not as the
acid, 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid. The MCL for 2,4-D is listed in a
table at 40 CFR 141.61(c) with the CAS number, 94-75-7. This CAS number
is assigned to the ester, acid and salt forms of 2,4-D. To clarify what
is being regulated and analyzed, today's rule changes the description
of the contaminant in the table of approved methods at 40 CFR 141.24(e)
from ``2,4-D'' to ``2,4-D as acid, salts and esters''. Today's rule
also clarifies in the footnotes to this table that ``accurate
determination of the chlorinated esters'' of 2,4-D and other regulated
acid herbicides ``requires hydrolysis of the sample as described in
Methods 515.1, 515.2 and 555.''

D. Recommendation for Additional Methods for Chloride and Sulfate

In view of the fact that National Secondary Drinking Water
Regulations are not federally enforceable, EPA only recommends
analytical methods for monitoring of secondary contaminants. These
methods are recommended at 40 CFR 143.4(b). EPA is aware that some
States exercise their prerogative to disallow use of any method that is
not listed at 40 CFR 143.4(b). EPA is also aware that titrimetric
methods for chloride and turbidimetric methods for sulfate monitoring
are specified for wastewater monitoring at 40 CFR 136.3 but not for
drinking water at 40 CFR 143.4(b). This discrepancy in approval can
increase analytical costs by requiring a laboratory to set up and
support different analytical methods for the same contaminant.
Because EPA seeks to eliminate unnecessary hardships, EPA
reexamined the available methods for secondary monitoring of sulfate
and chloride and compared them to those proposed (60 FR 53988, October
18, 1995) or approved at 40 CFR 136.3 (table 1B). Based on this
evaluation, today's rule recommends additional methods for chloride and
sulfate monitoring.
Today's rule recommends the silver nitrate titrimetric methods SM
4500-Cl-B and ASTM D 512-89B for secondary monitoring of chloride. EPA
is not recommending any titrimetric methods for chloride that use
mercuric nitrate for drinking water analysis because the method
produces a mercury-containing waste that is considered ``hazardous''
under the Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA). This action is
consistent with EPA's proposal on July 25, 1995 to withdraw approval of
mercuric nitrate methods for monitoring under RCRA (60 FR 37976).
Today's rule also recommends two turbidimetric methods, SM 4500-
SO<INF>4</INF>E and ASTM D516-90, for secondary monitoring of sulfate.
Although the ASTM and Standard Method turbidimetric methods for sulfate
are similar to EPA Method 375.4, EPA has not and will not recommend the
EPA method because EPA Method 375.4 is outdated relative to D516-90 and
SM4500-SO<INF>4</INF>E. Although recommending turbidimetric methods for
sulfate at Sec. 143.4(b) results in approval of these methods for
unregulated contaminant monitoring at Sec. 141.40(n)(12), this does not
require the Agency to adopt these methods in future rulemakings (if
any) on sulfate.

E. Performance-based Measurement System

On October 6, 1997, EPA published a Notice of the Agency's intent
to implement a Performance Based

[[Page 47105]]

Measurement System (PBMS) in all of its programs to the extent feasible
(62 FR 52098). The Agency is currently determining the specific steps
necessary to implement PBMS in its programs and preparing an
implementation plan. Final decisions have not yet been made concerning
the implementation of PBMS in water programs. However, EPA is currently
evaluating what relevant performance characteristics should be
specified for monitoring methods used in the water programs under a
PBMS approach to ensure adequate data quality. EPA would then specify
performance requirements in its regulations to ensure that any method
used for determination of a regulated analyte is at least equivalent to
the performance achieved by other currently approved methods. Our
expectation is that EPA will publish its PBMS implementation strategy
for water programs in the Federal Register by the end of calendar year
1998.
Once EPA has made its final determinations regarding implementation
of PBMS in programs under the Safe Drinking Water Act, EPA would
incorporate specific provisions of PBMS into its regulations, which may
include specification of the performance characteristics for
measurement of regulated contaminants in the drinking water program
regulations.

IV. Regulation Assessment Requirements

A. Executive Order 12866

Under Executive Order 12866 (58 FR 51735; October 4, 1993), the
Agency must determine whether the regulatory action is ``significant''
and therefore subject to OMB review and the requirements of the
Executive Order. The Order defines ``significant regulatory action'' as
one that is likely to result in a rule that may:
(1) Have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more,
or adversely affect in a material way the economy, a sector of the
economy, productivity, competition, jobs, the environment, public
health or safety, or State, local, or tribal governments or
communities;
(2) Create a serious inconsistency or otherwise interfere with an
action taken or planned by another agency;
(3) Materially alter the budgetary impact of entitlements, grants,
user fees, or loan programs or the rights and obligations of recipients
thereof; or
(4) Raise novel legal or policy issues arising out of legal
mandates, the President's priorities, or the principles set forth in
the Executive Order.
It has been determined that this rule is not a ``significant
regulatory action'' under the terms of Executive Order 12866 and is
therefore not subject to OMB review.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA), EPA generally is
required to conduct a regulatory flexibility analysis describing the
impact of the regulatory action on small entities as part of
rulemaking. However, under section 605(b) of the RFA, if EPA certifies
that the rule will not have a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities, EPA is not required to prepare a
regulatory flexibility analysis. Pursuant to section 605(b) of the
Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 605(b), the Administrator
certifies that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on
a substantial number of small entities.
The rule approves new versions of currently approved EPA Methods,
ASTM Methods and Standard Methods for compliance with drinking water
standards and monitoring requirements and is making minor technical
corrections or amendments. Previous versions of these ASTM and Standard
Methods will not be withdrawn, public water systems and laboratories
performing analyses on behalf of these systems may continue to use them
after the promulgation of today's rule. Previous versions of EPA
Methods, however, will be withdrawn after 18 months, but this delayed
effective date should provide ample time for the changeover. The
incremental change in cost associated with the use of the new versions
of EPA methods will be very minor because the new versions contain only
technical enhancements and editorial improvements.

C. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA), Pub.L.
104-4, establishes requirements for Federal agencies to assess the
effects of their regulatory actions on State, local, and tribal
governments and the private sector. Under section 202 of the UMRA, EPA
generally must prepare a written statement, including a cost-benefit
analysis, for proposed and final rules with ``Federal mandates'' that
may result in expenditures to State, local, and tribal governments, in
the aggregate, or to the private sector, of $100 million or more in any
one year. Before promulgating an EPA rule for which a written statement
is needed, section 205 of the UMRA generally requires EPA to identify
and consider a reasonable number of regulatory alternatives and adopt
the least costly, most cost-effective or least burdensome alternative
that achieves the objectives of the rule. The provisions of section 205
do not apply when they are inconsistent with applicable law. Moreover,
section 205 allows EPA to adopt an alternative other than the least
costly, most cost-effective or least burdensome alternative if the
Administrator publishes with the final rule an explanation why that
alternative was not adopted. Before EPA establishes any regulatory
requirements that may significantly or uniquely affect small
governments, including tribal governments, it must have developed under
section 203 of the UMRA a small government agency plan. The plan must
provide for notifying potentially affected small governments, enabling
officials of affected small governments to have meaningful and timely
input in the development of EPA regulatory proposals with significant
Federal intergovernmental mandates, and informing, educating, and
advising small governments on compliance with the regulatory
requirements.
EPA has determined that this rule does not contain any Federal
mandate that may result in expenditures of $100 million or more for
State, local, and tribal governments, in the aggregate, or the private
sector in any one year. Thus, today's rule is not subject to the
requirements of section 202 and 205 of the UMRA. Today's rule approves
use of additional analytical methods by laboratories conducting
analysis for contaminants in drinking water and thus provides
operational flexibility to laboratory analyst. Although, the rule
withdraws earlier versions of some methods, and provides for amendments
to change Performance Evaluation sample composition and requires yearly
analysis of PE samples, EPA anticipates no increase in expenditure or
burden on the testing laboratories, and thus, no increase in
expenditure or burden on the laboratories' client public water systems.
For example, the differences between the replacement methods and the
withdrawn methods are very minor. In fact, the newer versions are
easier to use. The cost of the PE program should decrease because the
testing laboratories have to analyze for fewer analytes. Requiring PE
sample analysis once a year will not adversely affect the testing
laboratories because all states that conduct laboratory certification
programs currently require yearly PE sample analysis.
In view of the fact that today's rule provides regulatory relief in
the form of increased operational flexibility to laboratory analysts,
and thus relief to laboratories' client public water

[[Page 47106]]

systems, EPA has determined that this rule contains no regulatory
requirements that might significantly or uniquely affect small
governments. Therefore, today's rule is not subject to section 203 of
UMRA.

D. Paperwork Reduction Act

In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980, 44 U.S.C.
3501 et seq., EPA must submit an information collection request
covering information collection requirements in a rule to the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval. This rule contains
no collection requirements. Therefore, preparation of an information
collection request to accompany this rule is unnecessary.

E. Science Advisory Board and National Drinking Water Advisory Council,
and Secretary of Health and Human Services

In accordance with Section 1412 (d) and (e) of the SDWA, the Agency
submitted this proposal to the Science Advisory Board, the National
Drinking Water Advisory Council, and the Secretary of Health and Human
Services for their review. They had no comments.

F. Submission to Congress and the General Accounting Office

The Congressional Review Act, 5 U.S.C. 801 et seq., as added by the
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, generally
provides that before rule may take effect, the agency promulgating the
rule must submit a rule report, which includes a copy of the rule, to
each House of the Congress and to the Comptroller General of the United
States. EPA will submit a report containing this rule and other
requirement information to the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of
Representatives, and the Comptroller General of the United States prior
to publication of the rule in the Federal Resigter. This action is not
a ``major rule'' as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2). This rule will be
effective January 4, 1999.

G. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act

Under section 12(d) of the National Technology Transfer and
Advancement Act, the Agency is directed to use voluntary consensus
standards in its regulatory activities unless to do so would be
inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. Voluntary
consensus standards are technical standards (e.g., material
specifications, test methods, sampling procedures, business practices,
etc.) that are developed or adopted by voluntary consensus standard
bodies. Where available and potentially applicable voluntary consensus
standards are not used by EPA, the Act requires the Agency to provide
Congress, through the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), an
explanation for the reasons for not using such standards.
In this rulemaking EPA is approving new versions of ASTM and
Standard Methods for many regulated drinking water contaminants. ASTM
and SM are both voluntary consensus standard bodies responsible for
promoting adoption of uniform and efficient methods for analysis. EPA
recognizes that other consensus methods may also be available for the
contaminants covered by this rule. In order to expedite publication of
this rule EPA has chosen not to perform an exhaustive search for other
consensus methods at this time. EPA plans to address the availability
of other voluntary consensus methods for these analytes in subsequent
rules.

H. Executive Order 13045--Protection of Children From Environmental
Health Risks and Safety Risks

Today's action is not subject to Executive Order 13045 [62 FR 19885
(April 23, 1997)], which requires agencies to identify and assess the
environmental health and safety risks of their rules on children.
Pursuant to the definitions in section 2-202, Executive Order 13045
only applies to rules that are economically significant as defined
under Executive Order 12886 and concern an environmental health or
safety risk that may disproportionately affect children. This rule is
not economically significant and does not concern a risk
disproportionately affecting children.

V. References

APHA 1992. Eighteenth edition of Standard Methods for the
Examination of Water and Wastewater, 1992, American Public Health
Association, 1015 Fifteenth Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20005.
APHA 1995. Nineteenth edition of Standard Methods for the
Examination of Water and Wastewater, 1995, American Public Health
Association, 1015 Fifteenth Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20005.
ASTM 1994. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, 1994, Vol. 11.01 and
11.02, American Society for Testing and Materials, 101 Barr Harbor
Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.
ASTM 1996. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, 1996, Vol. 11.01 and
11.02, American Society for Testing and Materials, 101 Barr Harbor
Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.
AWWA 1996. ``Standard Methods--A Closer Look'', Posavec, Steve,
in Opflow, Vol. 22, No.2, February 1996, American Water Works
Association, 6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, CO 80235.
EPA 1990a. ``Methods for the Determination of Organic Compounds
in Drinking Water--Supplement I'', July 1990, NTIS PB91-146027.
EPA 1991. ``Methods for the Determination of Organic Compounds
in Drinking Water'', December 1988, revised July 1991, NTIS PB91-
231480.
EPA 1992. ``Methods for the Determination of Organic Compounds
in Drinking Water--Supplement II,'' August 1992, NTIS PB92-207703.
EPA 1993. ``Methods for the Determination of Inorganic
Substances in Environmental Samples'', August 1993, NTIS PB94-
120821.
EPA 1994. ``Methods for the Determination of Metals in
Environmental Samples--Supplement I'', May 1994, NTIS PB95-125472.
EPA 1994b. Technical Notes on Drinking Water Methods, EPA-600/R-
94-173, October 1994, NTIS PB95-104766.
EPA 1995. ``Methods for the Determination of Organic Compounds
in Drinking Water--Supplement III,'' EPA-600/R-95-131, August 1995,
NTIS PB95-261616.
EPA 1997. Manual for the Certification of Laboratories Analyzing
Drinking Water, Fourth Edition, Office of Water Resource Center (RC-
4100), 401 M. Street SW, Washington, D.C. 20460, EPA 81-B-97-001,
March 1997.
NY 1996. Suffolk County Water Authority 1996. Data Package
pertaining to EPA Method 508.1 and the use of a NP detector. Suffolk
County Water Authority Laboratory 260 Motor Parkway, P.O. Box 18043,
Hauppauge, New York 11788-8843.
USGS 1989. Methods I-3720-85, I-3300-85, I-1030-85, I-1601-85,
I-2598-85, I-1700-85 and I-2700-85 in Techniques of Water Resources
Investigations of the U.S. Geological Survey, Book 5, Chapter A-1,
3rd ed., 1989, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Information Services,
Box 25286, Federal Center, Denver, CO 80225-0425.
USGS 1993. Method I-2601-90 in Methods of Analysis by the U.S.
Geological Survey National Water Quality Laboratory--Determination
of Inorganic and Organic Constituents in Water and Fluvial
Sediments, Open File Report 93-125, 1993, U.S. Geological Survey
(USGS) Information Services, Box 25286, Federal Center, Denver, CO
80225-0425.

List of Subjects

40 CFR Part 141

Environmental protection, Analytical methods, Chemicals,
Incorporation by reference, Indians-lands, Intergovernmental relations,
Radiation protection, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Water
supply.

40 CFR Part 143

Environmental protection, Analytical methods, Chemicals,
Incorporation by reference, Indians-lands, Water supply.

[[Page 47107]]

Dated: July 23, 1998.
Carol M. Browner,
Administrator.
For the reasons set out in the preamble, parts 141 and 143 of title
40, Code of Federal Regulations, are amended as follows:

PART 141--NATIONAL PRIMARY DRINKING WATER REGULATIONS

1. The authority citation for part 141 continues to read as
follows:

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 300g, 300g-1, 300g-2, 300g-3, 300g-4, 300g-
5, 300g-6, 300j-4, and 300j-9.

2. Section 141.21 is amended by revising paragraph (f)(3), revising
the next to last sentence of paragraph (f)(5), revising the second
sentence of paragraph (f)(6)(i), revising the second sentence of
paragraph (f)(6)(ii), and revising the second sentence of paragraph
(f)(8) to read as follows:

Sec. 141.21 Coliform sampling.

* * * * *
(f) * * *
(3) Public water systems must conduct total coliform analyses in
accordance with one of the analytical methods in the following table:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Organism Methodology Citation 1
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Coliforms: 2 Total Coliform Fermentation Technique 9221A, B.
3,4,5.
Total Coliform Membrane Filter Technique 9222A, B, C.
Presence-Absence (P-A) Coliform Test 5,6 9221D
ONPG-MUG Test 7......................... 9223.
Colisure Test 8 ........................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Methods 9221A, B, 9222A,B,C, 9221D and 9223 are contained in Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and
Wastewater, 18th edition, 1992 and 19th edition, 1995, American Public Health Association, 1015 Fifteenth
Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20005; either edition may be used.
2 The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 30 hours. Systems are encouraged but
not required to hold samples below 10 deg.C during transit.
3 Lactose broth, as commercially available, may be used in lieu of lauryl tryptose broth, if the system conducts
at least 25 parallel tests between this medium and lauryl tryptose broth using the water normally tested, and
this comparison demonstrates that the false-positive rate and false-negative rate for total coliforms, using
lactose broth, is less than 10 percent.
4 If inverted tubes are used to detect gas production, the media should cover these tubes at least one-half to
two-thirds after the sample is added.
5 No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed tubes.

6 Six-times formulation strength may be used if the medium is filter-sterilized rather than autoclaved.
7 The ONPG-MUG Test is also known as the Autoanalysis Colilert System. A source for this test is referenced at
paragraph (f)(5)(iii) of this section.
8 The Colisure Test must be incubated for 28 hours before examining the results. If an examination of the
results at 28 hours is not convenient, then results may be examined at any time between 28 hours and 48 hours.
A description of the Colisure Test may be obtained from the Millipore Corporation, Technical Services
Department, 80 Ashby Road, Bedford, MA 01730. The toll-free phone number is (800) 645-5476.

* * * * *
(5) * * * The preparation of EC medium is described in Method 9221E
(paragraph 1a) in Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and
Wastewater, 18th edition, 1992 and in the 19th edition, 1995; either
edition may be used. * * *
(6) * * *
(i) * * * EC medium is described in Method 9221E as referenced in
paragraph (f)(5) of this section. * * *
(ii) * * * Nutrient Agar is described in Method 9221B (paragraph 3)
in Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 18th
edition, 1992 and in the 19th edition, 1995; either edition may be
used. * * *
* * * * *
(8) * * * Copies of the analytical methods cited in Standard
Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater (18th and 19th
editions) may be obtained from the American Public Health Association
et al.; 1015 Fifteenth Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20005. * * *
* * * * *
3. Section 141.23 is amended by revising paragraphs (a)(4)(iii),
(k)(2) including the table, (k)(3)(i), (k)(3)(ii) introductory text,
and revising the table and footnotes in paragraph (k)(1) to read as
follows:

Sec. 141.23 Inorganic chemical sampling and analytical requirements.

* * * * *
(a) * * *
(4) * * *
(iii) If duplicates of the original sample taken from each sampling
point used in the composite sample are available, the system may use
these instead of resampling. The duplicates must be analyzed and the
results reported to the State within 14 days after completion of the
composite analysis or before the holding time of the initial sample is
exceeded whichever is sooner.
* * * * *
(k) * * *
(1) * * *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contaminant Methodology \13\ EPA ASTM \3\ SM \4\ Other
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Antimony................... ICP-Mass Spectrometry...... \2\ 200.
8
Hydride-Atomic Absorption.. ........ D-3697-92
Atomic Absorption; Platform \2\ 200.
9
Atomic Absorption; Furnace. ........ ........................... 3113B
Arsenic \14\............... Inductively Coupled Plasma. \2\ 200. ........................... 3120B
7
ICP-Mass Spectrometry...... \2\ 200.
8
Atomic Absorption; Platform \2\ 200.
9
Atomic Absorption; Furnace. ........ D-2972-93C 3113B
Hydride Atomic Absorption.. ........ D-2972-93B 3114B
Asbestos................... Transmission Electron \9\ 100.
Microscopy. 1
Transmission Electron \10\ 100
Microscopy. .2
Barium..................... Inductively Coupled Plasma. \2\ 200. ........................... 3120B
7
ICP-Mass Spectrometry...... \2\ 200.
8

[[Page 47108]]

Atomic Absorption; Direct.. ........ ........................... 3111D
Atomic Absorption; Furnace. ........ ........................... 3113B
Beryllium.................. Inductively Coupled Plasma. \2\ 200. ........................... 3120B
7
ICP-Mass Spectrometry...... \2\ 200.
8
Atomic Absorption; Platform \2\ 200.
9
Atomic Absorption; Furnace. ........ D-3645-93B 3113B
Cadmium.................... Inductively Coupled Plasma. \2\ 200.
7
ICP-Mass Spectrometry...... \2\ 200.
8
Atomic Absorption; Platform \2\ 200.
9
Atomic Absorption; Furnace. ........ ........................... 3113B
Chromium................... Inductively Coupled Plasma. \2\ 200. ........................... 3120B
7
ICP-Mass Spectrometry...... \2\ 200.
8
Atomic Absorption; Platform \2\ 200.
9
Atomic Absorption; Furnace. ........ ........................... 3113B
Cyanide.................... Manual Distillation ........ D2036-91A 4500-CN-C
followed by.
Spectrophotometric, ........ D2036-91B 4500CN-G
Amenable.
Spectrophotometric:
Manual ........ D2036-91A 4500-CN-E \5\ I-3300-855
Semi-automated \6\ 335.
4
Selective Electrode........ ........ ........................... 4500CN-F
Fluoride................... Ion Chromatography......... \6\ 300. D4327-91 4110B
0
Manual Distill.; Color. ........ ........................... 4500F-B,D
SPADNS.
Manual Electrode........... ........ D1179-93B 4500F-C
Automated Electrode........ ........ ........................... ........................... \11\ 380-75WE.
Automated Alizarin......... ........ ........................... 4500F-E \11\ 129-71W.
Mercury.................... Manual, Cold Vapor......... \2\ 245. D3223-91 3112B
1
Automated, Cold Vapor...... \1\ 245.
2
ICP-Mass Spectrometry...... \2\ 200.
8
Nickel..................... Inductively Coupled Plasma. \2\ 200. ........................... 3120B
7
ICP-Mass Spectrometry...... \2\ 200.
8
Atomic Absorption; Platform \2\ 200.
9
Atomic Absorption; Direct.. ........ ........................... 3111B
Atomic Absorption; Furnace. ........ ........................... 3113B
Nitrate.................... Ion Chromatography......... \6\ 300. D4327-91 4110B \8\ B-1011.
0
Automated Cadmium Reduction \6\ 353. D3867-90A 4500-NO<INF>3-F
2
Ion Selective Electrode.... ........ ........................... 4500-NO<INF>3-D \7\601.
Manual Cadmium Reduction... ........ D3867-90B 4500-NO<INF>3-E
Nitrite.................... Ion Chromatography......... \6\ 300. D4327-91 4110B \8\ B-1011.
0
Automated Cadmium Reduction \6\ 353. D3867-90A 4500-NO<INF>3-F
2
Manual Cadmium Reduction... ........ D3867-90B 4500-NO<INF>3-E
Spectrophotometric......... ........ ........................... 4500-NO<INF>3-B
Selenium................... Hydride-Atomic Absorption.. ........ D3859-93A 3114B
ICP-Mass Spectrometry...... \2\ 200.
8
Atomic Absorption; Platform \2\ 200.
9
Atomic Absorption; Furnace. ........ D3859-93B 3113B
Thallium................... ICP-Mass Spectrometry...... \2\ 200.
8
Atomic Absorption; Platform \2\ 200.
9
Lead....................... Atomic absorption; furnace. ........ D3559-95D 3113B
ICP-Mass spectrometry...... \2\ 200.
8
Atomic absorption; platform \2\ 200.
9
Copper..................... Atomic absorption; furnace. ........ D1688-95C 3113B
Atomic absorption; direct ........ D1688-95A 3111B
aspiration.
ICP........................ \2\ 200. ........................... 3120B
7
ICP--Mass spectrometry..... \2\ 200.
8
Atomic absorption; platform \2\ 200.
9
pH......................... Electrometric.............. \1\ 150. D1293-95 4500-H+-B
1
........................... \1\ 150.
21
Conductivity............... Conductance................ ........ D1125-95A 2510B
Calcium.................... EDTA titrimetric........... ........ D511-93A 3500-Ca-D
Atomic absorption; direct ........ D511-93B 3111B
aspiration.
Inductively-coupled plasma. \2\ 200. ........................... 3120B
7
Alkalinity................. Titrimetric................ ........ D1067-92B 2320B
Electrometric titration.... ........ ........................... ........................... \5\ I-1030-85.
Ortho-phosphate \12\....... Colorimetric, automated, \6\ 365. ........................... 4500-P-F
ascorbic acid. 1
Colorimetric, ascorbic ........ D515-88A 4500-P-E
acid, single reagent.
Colorimetric, ........ ........................... ........................... \5\ I-1601-8.
phosphomolybdate;.
automated-segmented flow;.. ........ ........................... ........................... \5\ I-2601-90.
automated discrete......... ........ ........................... ........................... \5\ I-2598-85.
Ion Chromatography......... \5\ 300. D4327-91 4110B
0
Silica..................... Colorimetric, molybdate ........ ........................... ...........................
blue;.
automated-segmented flow... ........ ........................... ........................... \5\ I-1700-85.
Colorimetric............... ........ ........................... D859-94 \5\ I-2700-85.
Molybdosilicate............ ........ ........................... 4500-Si-D

[[Page 47109]]

Heteropoly blue............ ........ ........................... 4500-Si-E
Automated method for ........ ........................... 4500-Si-F
molybdate-reactive silica.
Inductively-coupled plasma. \2\ 200. ........................... 3120B
7
Temperature................ Thermometric............... ........ ........................... 2550
Sodium..................... Inductively-coupled plasma. \2\ 200.
7
Atomic Absorption; direct ........ ........................... 3111B
aspiration.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The procedures shall be done in accordance with the documents listed below. The incorporation by reference of the following documents was approved by
the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies of the documents may be obtained from the sources
listed below. Information regarding obtaining these documents can be obtained from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791. Documents may be
inspected at EPA's Drinking Water Docket, 401 M Street, SW., Washington, DC 20460 (Telephone: 202-260-3027); or at the Office of Federal Register, 800
North Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, Washington, DC.
\1\ ``Methods for Chemical Analysis of Water and Wastes'', EPA-600/4-79-020, March 1983. Available at NTIS, PB84-128677.
\2\ ``Methods for the Determination of Metals in Environmental Samples--Supplement I'', EPA-600/R-94-111, May 1994. Available at NTIS, PB 95-125472.
\3\ Annual Book of ASTM Standards, 1994 and 1996, Vols. 11.01 and 11.02, American Society for Testing and Materials. The previous versions of D1688-95A,
D1688-95C (copper), D3559-95D (lead), D1293-95 (pH), D1125-91A (conductivity) and D859-94 (silica) are also approved. These previous versions D1688-
90A,C; D3559-90D, D1293-84, D1125-91A and D859-88, respectively are located in the Annual Book of ASTM Standards, 1994, Vols. 11.01. Copies may be
obtained from the American Society for Testing and Materials, 101 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.
\4\ 18th and 19th editions of Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 1992 and 1995, respectively, American Public Health
Association; either edition may be used. Copies may be obtained from the American Public Health Association, 1015 Fifteenth Street NW, Washington, DC
20005.
\5\ Method I-2601-90, Methods for Analysis by the U.S. Geological Survey National Water Quality Laboratory--Determination of Inorganic and Organic
Constituents in Water and Fluvial Sediments, Open File Report 93-125, 1993; For all other Methods See Techniques of Water Resources Investigation of
the U.S. Geological Survey, Book 5, Chapter A-1, 3rd ed., 1989, Methods I-1030; I-1601-85; I-1700-85; I-2598-85; I-2700-85; and I-3300-85; Available
from Information Services, U.S. Geological Survey, Federal Center, Box 25286, Denver, CO 80225-0425.
\6\ ``Methods for the Determination of Inorganic Substances in Environmental Samples'', EPA-600/R-93-100, August 1993. Available at NTIS, PB94-120821.
\7\ The procedure shall be done in accordance with the Technical Bulletin 601 ``Standard Method of Test for Nitrate in Drinking Water'', July 1994, PN
221890-001, Analytical Technology, Inc. Copies may be obtained from ATI Orion, 529 Main Street, Boston, MA 02129.
\8\ Method B-1011, ``Waters Test Method for Determination of Nitrite/Nitrate in Water Using Single Column Ion Chromatography August 1987''. Copies may
be obtained from Waters Corporation, Technical Services Division, 34 Maple Street, Milford, MA 01757.
\9\ Method 100.1, ``Analytical Method For Determination of Asbestos Fibers in Water'', EPA-600/4-83-043, EPA, September 1983. Available at NTIS, PB83-
260471.
\10\ Method 100.2, ``Determination Of Asbestos Structure Over 10-<greek-m>m In Length In Drinking Water'', EPA-600/R-94-134, June 1994. Available at
NTIS, PB84-201902.
\11\ Industrial Method No. 129-71W, ``Fluoride in Water and Wastewater'', December 1972, and Method No. 380-75WE, ``Fluoride in Water and Wastewater'',
February 1976, Technicon Industrial Systems. Copies may be obtained from Bran & Luebbe, 1025 Busch Parkway, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089.
\12\ Unfiltered, no digestion or hydrolysis.
\13\ Because MDLs reported in EPA Methods 200.7 and 200.9 were determined using a 2X preconcentration step during sample digestion, MDLs determined when
samples are analyzed by direct analysis (i.e., no sample digestion) will be higher. For direct analysis of cadmium and arsenic by Method 200.7, and
arsenic by Method 3120 sample preconcentration using pneumatic nebulization may be required to achieve lower detection limits. Preconcentration may
also be required for direct analysis of antimony, lead, and thallium by Method 200.9; antimony and lead by Method 3113B; and lead by Method D3559-90D
unless multiple in-furnace depositions are made.
\14\ If ultrasonic nebulization is used in the determination of arsenic by Methods 200.7, 200.8, or SM 3120, the arsenic must be in the pentavalent
state to provide uniform signal response. For methods 200.7 and 3120, both samples and standards must be diluted in the same mixed acid matrix
concentration of nitric and hydrochloric acid with the addition of 100 <greek-m>L of 30% hydrogen peroxide per 100ml of solution. For direct analysis
of arsenic with method 200.8 using ultrasonic nebulization, samples and standards must contain one mg/L of sodium hypochlorite.

(2) Sample collection for antimony, asbestos, barium, beryllium,
cadmium, chromium, cyanide, fluoride, mercury, nickel, nitrate,
nitrite, selenium, and thallium under this section shall be conducted
using the sample preservation, container, and maximum holding time
procedures specified in the following table:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contaminant Preservative \1\ Container \2\ Time \3\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Antimony........................... HNO<INF>3 P or G 6 months.
Asbestos........................... 4 deg.C P or G 48 hours.\6\
Barium............................. HNO<INF>3 P or G 6 months.
Beryllium.......................... HNO<INF>3 P or G 6 months.
Cadmium............................ HNO<INF>3 P or G 6 months.
Chromium........................... HNO<INF>3 P or G 6 months.
Cyanide............................ 4 deg.C, NaOH P or G 14 days.
Fluoride........................... None P or G 1 month.
Mercury............................ HNO<INF>3 P or G 28 days.
Nickel............................. HNO<INF>3 P or G 6 months.
Nitrate \4\........................ 4 deg.C P or G 48 hours.
Nitrate-Nitrite \5\................ H<INF>2SO<INF>4 P or G 28 days.
Nitrite \4\........................ 4 deg.C P or G 48 hours.
Selenium........................... HNO<INF>3 P or G 6 months.
Thallium........................... HNO<INF>3 P or G 6 months.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ When indicated, samples must be acidified at the time of collection to pH < 2 with concentrated acid or
adjusted with sodium hydroxide to pH > 12. When chilling is indicated the sample must be shipped and stored at
4 deg.C or less.
\2\ P=plastic, hard or soft; G=glass, hard or soft.
\3\ In all cases samples should be analyzed as soon after collection as possible. Follow additional (if any)
information on preservation, containers or holding times that is specified in method.

[[Page 47110]]

\4\ Nitrate may only be measured separate from nitrite in samples that have not been acidified and that have not
been disinfected or only disinfected with a minimal oxidant, such as chloramine. Measurement of acidified
samples or waters disinfected with free chlorine, chlorine dioxide or ozone provides a total nitrate (sum of
nitrate plus nitrite) concentration.
\5\ Nitrate-Nitrite refers to a measurement of total nitrate. Acidification is not required if total nitrate is
determined within 48 hours in a sample held at 4 deg.C or less. However, acidification is required if a sample
is to be held for longer than 48 hours because the disinfectant residual may not be maintained.
\6\ Instructions for containers, preservation procedures and holding times as specified in Method 100.2 must be
adhered to for all compliance analyses including those conducted with Method 100.1.

(3) * * *
(i) Analyze Performance Evaluation (PE) samples provided by EPA,
the State or by a third party (with the approval of the State or EPA)
at least once a year.
(ii) For each contaminant that has been included in the PE sample
achieve quantitative results on the analyses that are within the
following acceptance limits:
* * * * *
4. Section 141.24 is amended by revising paragraph (e), revising
paragraphs (f)(14)(ii), (f)(17)(i)(A), (f)(17)(i)(B), (f)(17)(ii)(A),
(h)(10)(ii), (h)(13) introductory text, (h)(13)(i), (h)(19)(i)(A) and
(h)(19)(i)(B) introductory text to read as follows:

Sec. 141.24 Organic chemicals other than total trihalomethanes,
sampling and analytical requirements.

* * * * *
(e) Analyses for the contaminants in this section shall be
conducted using the following EPA methods or their equivalent as
approved by EPA:
(1) The following documents are incorporated by reference. This
incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the Federal
Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies
may be inspected at EPA's Drinking Water Docket, 401 M Street, SW,
Washington, DC 20460; or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800
North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC. Method 508A is in
Methods for the Determination of Organic Compounds in Drinking Water,
EPA-600/4-88-039, December 1988, Revised, July 1991. Methods 547, 550
and 550.1 are in Methods for the Determination of Organic Compounds in
Drinking Water--Supplement I, EPA-600-4-90-020, July 1990. Methods
548.1, 549.1, 552.1 and 555 are in Methods for the Determination of
Organic Compounds in Drinking Water--Supplement II, EPA-600/R-92-129,
August 1992. Methods 502.2, 504.1, 505, 506, 507, 508, 508.1, 515.1,
515.2, 524.2 525.2, 531.1, 551.1 and 552.2 are in Methods for the
Determination of Organic Compounds in Drinking Water--Supplement III,
EPA-600/R-95-131, August 1995. Method 1613 is titled ``Tetra-through
Octa-Chlorinated Dioxins and Furans by Isotope-Dilution HRGC/HRMS'',
EPA-821-B-94-005, October 1994. These documents are available from the
National Technical Information Service, NTIS PB91-231480, PB91-146027,
PB92-207703, PB95-261616 and PB95-104774, U.S. Department of Commerce,
5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, Virginia 22161. The toll-free number
is 800-553-6847. Method 6651 shall be followed in accordance with
Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 18th
edition, 1992 and 19th edition, 1995, American Public Health
Association (APHA); either edition may be used. Method 6610 shall be
followed in accordance with the Supplement to the 18th edition of
Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 1994 or
with the 19th edition of Standard Methods for the Examination of Water
and Wastewater, 1995, APHA; either publication may be used. The APHA
documents are available from APHA, 1015 Fifteenth Street NW,
Washington, D.C. 20005. Other required analytical test procedures
germane to the conduct of these analyses are contained in Technical
Notes on Drinking Water Methods, EPA-600/R-94-173, October 1994, NTIS
PB95-104766, as follows:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contaminant Method \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Benzene...................................... 502.2, 524.2.
Carbon tetrachloride......................... 502.2, 524.2, 551.1.
Chlorobenzene................................ 502.2, 524.2.
1,2-Dichlorobenzene.......................... 502.2, 524.2.
1,4-Dichlorobenzene.......................... 502.2, 524.2.
1,2-Dichloroethane........................... 502.2, 524.2.
cis-Dichloroethylene......................... 502.2, 524.2.
trans-Dichloroethylene....................... 502.2, 524.2.
Dichloromethane.............................. 502.2, 524.2.
1,2-Dichloropropane.......................... 502.2, 524.2.
Ethylbenzene................................. 502.2, 524.2.
Styrene...................................... 502.2, 524.2.
Tetrachloroethylene.......................... 502.2, 524.2, 551.1.
1,1,1-Trichloroethane........................ 502.2, 524.2, 551.1.
Trichloroethylene............................ 502.2, 524.2, 551.1.
Toluene...................................... 502.2, 524.2.
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene....................... 502.2, 524.2.
1,1-Dichloroethylene......................... 502.2, 524.2.
1,1,2-Trichloroethane........................ 502.2, 524.2, 551.1.
Vinyl chloride............................... 502.2, 524.2.
Xylenes (total).............................. 502.2, 524.2.
2,3,7,8-TCDD (dioxin)........................ 1613.
2,4-D \4\(as acid, salts and esters)......... 515.2, 555, 515.1.
2,4,5-TP \4\ (Silvex)........................ 515.2, 555, 515.1.
Alachlor \2\................................. 507, 525.2, 508.1, 505, 551.1.
Atrazine \2\................................. 507, 525.2, 508.1, 505, 551.1.
Benzo (a) pyrene............................. 525.2, 550, 550.1.
Carbofuran................................... 531.1, 6610.
Chlordane.................................... 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505.
Dalapon...................................... 552.1, 515.1, 552.2.

[[Page 47111]]

Di(2-ethylhexyl)adipate...................... 506, 525.2.
Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate.................... 506, 525.2.
Dibromochloropropane (DBCP).................. 504.1, 551.1.
Dinoseb \4\.................................. 515.2, 555, 515.1.
Diquat....................................... 549.1.
Endothall.................................... 548.1.
Endrin....................................... 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505, 551.1.
Ethylene dibromide (EDB)..................... 504.1, 551.1.
Glyphosate................................... 547, 6651.
Heptachlor................................... 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505, 551.1.
Heptachlor Epoxide........................... 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505, 551.1.
Hexachlorobenzene............................ 508, 525.2, 508.l, 505, 551.1.
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene.................... 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505, 551.1.
Lindane...................................... 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505, 551.1.
Methoxychlor................................. 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505, 551.1.
Oxamyl....................................... 531.1, 6610.
PCBs \3\ (as decachlorobiphenyl)............. 508A.
(as Aroclors)............................ 508.1, 508, 525.2, 505.
Pentachlorophenol............................ 515.2, 525.2, 555, 515.1.
Picloram \4\................................. 515.2, 555, 515.1.
Simazine \2\................................. 507, 525.2, 508.1, 505, 551.1.
Toxaphene.................................... 508, 508.1, 525.2, 505.
Total Trihalomethanes........................ 502.2, 524.2, 551.1.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ For previously approved EPA methods which remain available for compliance monitoring until March 3, 2000,
see paragraph (e)(2) of this section.
\2\ Substitution of the detector specified in Method 505, 507, 508 or 508.1 for the purpose of achieving lower
detection limits is allowed as follows. Either an electron capture or nitrogen phosphorous detector may be
used provided all regulatory requirements and quality control criteria are met.
\3\ PCBs are qualitatively identified as aroclors and measured for compliance purposes as decachlorobiphenyl.
Users of Method 505 may have more difficulty in achieving the required detection limits than users of Methods
508.1, 525.2 or 508.
\4\ Accurate determination of the chlorinated esters requires hydrolysis of the sample as described in Methods
515.1, 515.2 and 555.

(2) The following EPA methods will remain available for compliance
monitoring until March 3, 2000. The following documents are
incorporated by reference. This incorporation by reference was approved
by the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C.
552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies may be inspected at EPA's Drinking
Water Docket, 401 M Street, SW, Washington, DC 20460; or at the Office
of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 700,
Washington, DC. EPA methods 502.2 Rev. 2.0, 505 Rev. 2.0, 507 Rev. 2.0,
508 Rev. 3.0, 515.1 Rev. 4.0, 531.1 Rev. 3.0 are in ``Methods for the
Determination of Organic Compounds in Drinking Water'', December 1988,
revised July 1991; methods 506 and 551 are in ``Methods for the
Determination of Organic Compounds in Drinking Water--Supplement I'',
July 1990; methods 515.2 Rev. 1.0 and 524.2 Rev. 4.0 are in ``Methods
for the Determination of Organic Compounds in Drinking Water--
Supplement II,'' August 1992; and methods 504.1 Rev. 1.0, 508.1 Rev.
1.0, 525.2 Rev. 1.0 are available from US EPA NERL, Cincinnati, OH
45268, as follows:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contaminant Method \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Benzene...................................... 502.2, 524.2.
Carbon tetrachloride......................... 502.2, 524.2, 551.
Chlorobenzene................................ 502.2, 524.2.
1,2-Dichlorobenzene.......................... 502.2, 524.2.
1,4-Dichlorobenzene.......................... 502.2, 524.2.
1,2-Dichloroethane........................... 502.2, 524.2.
cis-Dichloroethylene......................... 502.2, 524.2.
trans-Dichloroethylene....................... 502.2, 524.2.
Dichloromethane.............................. 502.2, 524.2.
1,2-Dichloropropane.......................... 502.2, 524.2.
Ethylbenzene................................. 502.2, 524.2.
Styrene...................................... 502.2, 524.2.
Tetrachloroethylene.......................... 502.2, 524.2, 551.
1,1,1-Trichloroethane........................ 502.2, 524.2, 551.
Trichloroethylene............................ 502.2, 524.2, 551.
Toluene...................................... 502.2, 524.2.
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene....................... 502.2, 524.2.
1,1-Dichloroethylene......................... 502.2, 524.2.
1,1,2-Trichloroethane........................ 502.2, 524.2.
Vinyl chloride............................... 502.2, 524.2.
Xylenes (total).............................. 502.2, 524.2.
2,4-D \4\(as acid, salts and esters)......... 515.2.
2,4,5-TP \4\ (Silvex)........................ 515.2.
Alachlor \2\................................. 507, 525.2, 508.1, 505.
Atrazine \2\................................. 507, 525.2, 508.1, 505.
Benzo(a)pyrene............................... 525.2.

[[Page 47112]]

Carbofuran................................... 531.1.
Chlordane.................................... 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505.
Dalapon...................................... 515.1.
Di(2-ethylhexyl)adipate...................... 506, 525.2.
Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate.................... 506, 525.2.
Dibromochloropropane (DBCP).................. 504.1, 551.
Dinoseb \4\.................................. 515.2.
Endrin....................................... 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505.
Ethylene dibromide (EDB)..................... 504.1, 551.
Heptachlor................................... 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505.
Heptachlor Epoxide........................... 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505.
Hexachlorobenzene............................ 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505.
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene.................... 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505.
Lindane...................................... 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505.
Methoxychlor................................. 508, 525.2, 508.1, 505.
Oxamyl....................................... 531.1.
PCBs \3\ (as Aroclors)....................... 508.1, 508, 525.2, 505.
Pentachlorophenol............................ 515.2, 525.2, 515.1.
Picloram \4\................................. 515.2, 515.1.
Simazine \2\................................. 507, 525.2, 508.1, 505.
Toxaphene.................................... 508, 508.1, 525.2, 505.
Total Trihalomethanes........................ 502.2, 524.2, 551.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ [Reserved].
\2\ Substitution of the detector specified in Method 505, 507, 508 or 508.1 for the purpose of achieving lower
detection limits is allowed as follows. Either an electron capture or nitrogen phosphorous detector may be
used provided all regulatory requirements and quality control criteria are met.
\3\ PCBs are qualitatively identified as aroclors and measured for compliance purposes as decachlorobiphenyl.
Users of Method 505 may have more difficulty in achieving the required detection limits than users of Methods
508.1, 525.2 or 508.
\4\ Accurate determination of the chlorinated esters requires hydrolysis of the sample as described in Methods
515.1 and 515.2.

(f) * * *
(14) * * *
(ii) If duplicates of the original sample taken from each sampling
point used in the composite sample are available, the system may use
these instead of resampling. The duplicates must be analyzed and the
results reported to the State within 14 days after completion of the
composite analysis or before the holding time for the initial sample is
exceeded whichever is sooner.
* * * * *
(17) * * *
(i) * * *
(A) Analyze Performance Evaluation (PE) samples provided by EPA,
the State or by a third party (with the approval of the State or EPA)
at least once a year.
(B) Achieve the quantitative acceptance limits under paragraphs
(f)(17)(i)(C) and (D) of this section for at least 80 percent of the
regulated organic contaminants included in the PE sample.
* * * * *
(ii) * * *
(A) Analyze Performance Evaluation samples provided by EPA, the
State or by a third party (with the approval of the State or EPA) at
least once a year.
* * * * *
(h) * * *
(10) * * *
(ii) If duplicates of the original sample taken from each sampling
point used in the composite sample are available, the system may use
these instead of resampling. The duplicates must be analyzed and the
results reported to the State within 14 days after completion of the
composite analysis or before the holding time for the initial sample is
exceeded whichever is sooner.
* * * * *
(13) Analysis for PCBs shall be conducted as follows using the
methods in paragraph (e) of this section:
(i) Each system which monitors for PCBs shall analyze each sample
using either Method 508.1, 525.2, 508 or 505. Users of Method 505 may
have more difficulty in achieving the required Aroclor detection limits
than users of Methods 508.1, 525.2 or 508.
* * * * *
(19) * * *
(i) * * *
(A) Analyze Performance Evaluation (PE) samples provided by EPA,
the State or by a third party (with the approval of the State or EPA)
at least once a year.
(B) For each contaminant that has been included in the PE sample
achieve quantitative results on the analyses that are within the
following acceptance limits:
* * * * *
5. Section 141.40 is amended by revising paragraphs (g) and (n)(11)
introductory text, and by revising the entries in the table for
``metolachlor'' and ``metribuzin'' in paragraph (n)(11) to read as
follows:

Sec. 141.40 Special monitoring for inorganic and organic contaminants.

* * * * *
(g) Analysis for the unregulated contaminants listed under
paragraphs (e) and (j) of this section shall be conducted using EPA
Methods 502.2 or 524.2, or their equivalent as determined by EPA,
except analysis for bromodichloromethane, bromoform,
chlorodibromomethane and chloroform under paragraph (e) of this section
also may be conducted by EPA Method 551.1, and analysis for 1,2,3-
trichloropropane also may be conducted by EPA Method 504.1 or 551.1. A
source for the EPA methods is referenced at Sec. 141.24(e).
* * * * *
(n) * * *
(11) The following documents are incorporated by reference. This
incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the Federal
Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies
may be inspected at EPA's Drinking Water Docket, 401 M Street, SW,
Washington, DC 20460; or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800
North Capitol Street, N.W., Suite 700, Washington, DC. Systems shall
monitor for the unregulated organic contaminants listed below, using
the method(s) identified below and using the analytical test procedures
contained in Technical Notes on Drinking Water Methods, EPA-600/R-94-
173, October 1994, which is

[[Page 47113]]

available at NTIS, PB95-104766. Method 6610 shall be followed in
accordance with the Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and
Wastewater 18th Edition Supplement, 1994, American Public Health
Association (APHA) or with the 19th edition of Standard Methods for the
Examination of Water and Wastewater, 1995, APHA; either edition may be
used. A source for APHA method 6610 and for EPA Methods 505, 507, 508,
508.1, 515.2, 525.2 and 531.1 is referenced at Sec. 141.24(e).

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contaminants Method
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * * *
*
Metolachlor.................................. 507, 525.2, 508.1, 551.1
Metribuzin................................... 507, 525.2, 508.1, 551.1

* * * * * *
*
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
6. Section 141.74 is amended by revising the first five sentences
of paragraph (a) introductory text, the table and footnotes in
paragraph (a)(1), and the first and second sentences in paragraph
(a)(2) to read as follows:

Sec. 141.74 Analytical and monitoring requirements.

(a) Analytical requirements. Only the analytical method(s)
specified in this paragraph, or otherwise approved by EPA, may be used
to demonstrate compliance with Secs. 141.71, 141.72 and 141.73.
Measurements for pH, turbidity, temperature and residual disinfectant
concentrations must be conducted by a person approved by the State.
Measurement for total coliforms, fecal coliforms and HPC must be
conducted by a laboratory certified by the State or EPA to do such
analysis. Until laboratory certification criteria are developed for the
analysis of fecal coliforms and HPC, any laboratory certified for total
coliforms analysis by the State or EPA is deemed certified for fecal
coliforms and HPC analysis. The following procedures shall be conducted
in accordance with the publications listed in the following section. *
* *
(1) * * *

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Organism Methodology Citation \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Coliforms \2\......................... Total Coliform Fermentation 9221A, B, C.
Technique 3,4,5.
Total Coliform Membrane Filter 9222A, B, C.
Technique.
ONPG-MUG Test \6\................. 9223
Fecal Coliforms \2\......................... Fecal Coliform MPN Procedure \7\.. 9221E.
Fecal Coliform Membrane Filter 9222D.
Procedure.
Heterotrophic bacteria \2\.................. Pour Plate Method................. 9215B.
Turbidity................................... Nephelometric Method.............. 2130B.
Nephelometric Method.............. 180.1.\8\
Great Lakes Instruments........... Method 2.\9\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Except where noted, all methods refer to Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 18th
edition, 1992 and 19th edition, 1995, American Public Health Association, 1015 Fifteenth Street NW,
Washington, D.C. 20005; either edition may be used.
\2\ The time from sample collection to initiation of analysis may not exceed 8 hours. Systems are encouraged but
not required to hold samples below 10 deg.C during transit.
\3\ Lactose broth, as commercially available, may be used in lieu of lauryl tryptose broth, if the system
conducts at least 25 parallel tests between this medium and lauryl tryptose broth using the water normally
tested, and this comparison demonstrates that the false-positive rate and false-negative rate for total
coliforms, using lactose broth, is less than 10 percent.
\4\ Media should cover inverted tubes at least one-half to two-thirds after the sample is added.
\5\ No requirement exists to run the completed phase on 10 percent of all total coliform-positive confirmed
tubes.
\6\ The ONPG-MUG Test is also known as the Autoanalysis Colilert System. A source for this test is referenced at
Sec. 141.21(f)(5)(iii).
\7\ A-1 Broth may be held up to three months in a tightly closed screwcap tube at 4 deg.C.
\8\ ``Methods for the Determination of Inorganic Substances in Environmental Samples'', EPA-600/R-93-100, August
1993. Available at NTIS, PB94-121811.
\9\ GLI Method 2, ``Turbidity'', November 2, 1992, Great Lakes Instruments, Inc., 8855 North 55th Street,
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53223.

(2) Public water systems must measure residual disinfectant
concentrations with one of the analytical methods in the following
table. The methods are contained in both the 18th and 19th editions of
Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 1992 and
1995; either edition may be used. * * *
* * * * *
7. Section 141.89 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(1)(i) and by
removing the semicolon at the end of paragraph (a)(1)(ii)(B) and adding
a period in its place to read as follows:

Sec. 141.89 Analytical methods.

(a) * * *
(1) * * *
(i) Analyze Performance Evaluation samples which include lead and
copper provided by EPA, the State or by a third party (with the
approval of the State or EPA) at least once a year.
* * * * *

PART 143--NATIONAL SECONDARY DRINKING WATER REGULATIONS

1. The authority citation for part 143 continues to read as
follows:

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 300f et seq.

2. Section 143.4 is amended by revising the table and footnotes in
paragraph (b) to read as follows:

Sec. 143.4 Monitoring.

* * * * *
(b) * * *

[[Page 47114]]

\2\ 200.8 ............................... 3113B
\2\ 200.9 ............................... 3111D
Chloride............................. \1\ 300.0 D4327-91 4110B
.............. ............................... 4500-Cl-D
.............. D512-89B 4500-Cl-B
Color................................ .............. ............................... 2120B
Foaming Agents....................... .............. ............................... 5540C
Iron................................. \2\ 200.7 ............................... 3120B
\2\ 200.9 ............................... 3111B
.............. ............................... 3113B
Manganese............................ \2\ 200.7 ............................... 3120B
\2\ 200.8 ............................... 3111B
\2\ 200.9 ............................... 3113B
Odor................................. .............. ............................... 2150B
Silver............................... \2\ 200.7 ............................... 3120B I-3720-85.\5\
\2\ 200.8 ............................... 3111B
\2\ 200.9 ............................... 3113B
Sulfate.............................. \1\ 300.0 D4327-91 4110B
\1\ 375.2 ............................... 4500-SO<INF>4-F
.......<INF>....... .......<INF>........................ 4500-SO<INF>4-C,D
.......<INF>....... D516-90 4500-SO<INF>4-E
TDS.................................. .............. ............................... 2540C
Zinc................................. \2\ 200.7 ............................... 3120B
\2\ 200.8 ............................... 3111B
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The procedures shall be done in accordance with the documents listed below. The incorporation by reference of the following documents was approved by
the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies of the documents may be obtained from the sources
listed below. Information regarding obtaining these documents can be obtained from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791. Documents may be
inspected at EPA's Drinking Water Docket, 401 M Street, SW, Washington, DC 20460 (Telephone: 202-260-3027); or at the Office of Federal Register, 800
North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 700, Washington, D.C. 20408.
\1\ ``Methods for the Determination of Inorganic Substances in Environmental Samples'', EPA-600/R-93-100, August 1993. Available at NTIS, PB94-120821.
\2\ ``Methods for the Determination of Metals in Environmental Samples--Supplement I'', EPA-600/R-94-111, May 1994. Available at NTIS, PB 95-125472.
\3\ Annual Book of ASTM Standards, 1994 and 1996, Vols. 11.01 and 11.02, American Society for Testing and Materials. Copies may be obtained from the
American Society for Testing and Materials, 101 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.
\4\ 18th and 19th editions of Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 1992 and 1995, American Public Health Association; either
edition may be used. Copies may be obtained from the American Public Health Association, 1015 Fifteenth Street NW, Washington, DC 20005.
\5\ Techniques of Water Resources Investigation of the U.S. Geological Survey, Book 5, Chapter A-1, 3rd ed., 1989, Method I-3720-85; Available from
Information Services, U.S. Geological Survey, Federal Center, Box 25286, Denver, CO 80225-0425.

[FR Doc. 98-22204 Filed 9-2-98; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-U

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National Primary and Secondary Drinking Water Regulations: Analytical Methods for Regulated Drinking Water Contaminants

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