Sample Collection
U.S. EPA’s Homeland Security Research Program (HSRP) conducts research to develop sampling strategies and procedures addressing areas affected by wide-area chemical, biological (pathogen and/or biotoxin), or radiological contamination incidents. This research fulfills the need to develop a consistent process to facilitate sampling strategies and procedures that will provide the maximum amount and quality of information while minimizing the required sampling resources.
In addition to sampling strategies and procedures, EPA has published a Sample Collection Information Document (SCID) that provides general information that EPA staff and contractors can use when collecting environmental samples. The information can be used during site assessment, remediation and clearance activities. Information includes: sample containers, collection volume or weight, preservation, holding times, and packaging of samples. The SCID will ensure that proper volumes are collected, preserved, and properly shipped to the laboratory for analysis using the analytical methods listed in Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM). A query tool has been developed to provide quick access to information contained in the SCID.
Documents and tools are published that provide the information necessary for field response:
- Sample Collection Information Document (SCID) provides general information regarding sample size, container, holding time, preservation, packaging and shipping supporting collection of samples to be analyzed for the chemicals, radiochemicals, pathogens and biotoxins listed in SAM.
- Sample Collection Procedures and Strategies provide a framework to assist decision-makers in developing and implementing an approach for sample collection. The documents focus on sample collection during site characterization, remediation and release.
- Visual Sample Plan (VSP) (PNNL.gov) is a software tool supporting sampling plans based on statistical sampling methods and strategies.