Environmental Sampling and Analytical Methods (ESAM) Program

  • Components of ESAM

    ESAM is a comprehensive program to facilitate a coordinated response following an intentional or accidental homeland security-related contamination incident. This site provides information that supports field and laboratory efforts to characterize contaminated sites and to remediate contamination.

  • ESAM Program

    Image of videos explaining ESAM

    Find out more about the ESAM program, tools, documents and website content.

    Read more about the ESAM Program

  • Sample Collection

    Procedures and Strategies

    Sampling strategies and procedures addressing indoor/outdoor areas including the Sample Collection Information Document (SCID).

    Read more about Sample Collection

  • Analytical Methods and Protocols

    Methods and Protocols

    Tools for planning and coordinating laboratory activities, including Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM).

    Explore Methods and Protocols

  • Data Management and Visualization

    Data Management

    Resources, tools and technologies that can be used during data management.

    Explore Data Management Resources

  • Data Quality and Planning

    Data Quality and Planning

    Resources for developing plans for sample collection and analysis.

    Explore Data Quality & Planning

  • Homeland Security Research Program Tools and Resources

    Tools and Resources

    Videos and tools developed by EPA's Homeland Security Research Program (HSRP) that highlight sampling and analysis research.

    Explore Videos and Resources

Hover over the components of ESAM below to read a description of that step.

Image of the components of ESAMInformation is provided for collection and handling of samples that are to be analyzed using the methods and procedures included in EPA's Selected Analytical Method for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM). Multi-agency work groups have selected procedures to be used for analysis of environmental samples for chemical, radiochemical, pathogen and biotoxin contaminants following an intentional or accidental homeland security-related contamination incident. Quality control procedures and planning tools are provided to assist with data collection, evaluation and reporting. EPA's Environmental Sampling and Analytical Methods (ESAM) program is intended to facilitate a coordinated response to a contamination incident, by providing documents, information and tools that support planning, reporting, field and laboratory efforts during site characterization, remediation and release.

Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on April 3, 2025