United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Marine EPA 556/2-88-001
and Estuarine Protection (WH-556F) June 1988
Washington DC 20460
Water
xvEPA
Guide for Preparation of
Quality Assurance Project
Plans for the
National Estuarine Program
Interim Final
Printed on Recycled Paper
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GUIDE FOR PREPARATION OF QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLANS
FOR THE NATIONAL ESTUARY PROGRAM
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
BACKGROUND AND INTRODUCTION. 1
QA PROJECT PLAN GUIDE 2
COVER PAGE 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS 6
PROJECT ELEMENTS 6
1. Project Name 6
2. Project Requested By 6
3. Date of Request. 6
4. Date of Project Initiation 6
5. Project Officer.. 6
6 . Quality Assurance Officer. 6
7. Project Description 6
A. Objective and Scope Statement 8
B. Data Usage . 9
C. Design and Rationale 10
D. Monitoring Parameters and Collection Frequency... 10
E. Parameter Table 11
8. Project Fiscal Information 15
9. Schedule of Tasks and Products.... 15
10. Project Organization and Responsibility 15
11. Data Quality Requirements and Assessments 18
A. Precision 19
B. Accuracy 19
C. Representativeness 21
D. Comparability 21
E. Completeness 21
12. Sampling and Laboratory Procedures 23
13 . Sample Custody Procedures 23
14. Calibration Procedures and Preventive Maintenance... 26
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Page
15. Documentation, Data Reduction and Reporting ......... 26
A. Documentation. . . k ........................ • • • 26
B. Data Reduction and Reporting ................ 27
16 . Data Validation ......... f ........................... 27
17 . Performance and System Audits ....................... 28
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18 . Corrective Action ....... * ........................... 28
19 . Reports ................. i. ........................... 29
LITERATURE CITED ............ . ........................... 29
INDEX ....................... I. ........................... 31
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE 1 . EXAMPLE OF THE EPA DOCUMENT CONTROL FORMAT ....... 4
FIGURE 2. EXAMPLE OF A QA PLAN COVER PAGE PREPARED FOR
THE EPA REGION IV NATIONAL ESTUARY PROGRAM ....... 5
i
FIGURE 3. EXAMPLE OF PAGE li OF A QA PROJECT PLAN PREPARED
FOR THE EPA REGION IV NATIONAL ESTUARY PROGRAM. ... 7
FIGURE 4. EXAMPLE OF A SAMPLING PARAMETER TABLE FOR
A FIELD PROGRAM DESIGNED TO COLLECT WATER
SAMPLES AT ALL STATIONS .... ................ ...... 12
FIGURE 5. EXAMPLE OF A SAMPLING PARAMETER TABLE FOR
A LABORATORY TOXICITY TEST ..................... . . 13
FIGURE 6. EXAMPLE OF A LABORATORY ANALYSIS PARAMETER TABLE. 14
FIGURE 7. EXAMPLE OF A PROJECT SCHEDULE CHART FOR A FIELD
SAMPLING AND LABORATORY ANALYSIS PROJECT ......... 16
FIGURE 8. EXAMPLE OF A PROJECT ORGANIZATION CHART FOR A
FIELD SAMPLING AND LABORATORY ANALYSIS PROJECT... 17
i
FIGURE 9. EXAMPLE OF A DATAJ QUALITY PARAMETER TABLE SHOWING
ANALYTICAL DETECTION LIMITS ............ •> ....... • 20
FIGURE 10 .
FIGURE 11.
EXAMPLE OF A SAMPLE TRANSFER FORM ...... .... ...... 24
EXAMPLE OF A SAMPLE TRACKING FORM ...... . ......... 25
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BACKGROUND AND INTRODUCTION
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires
participation by all Regional offices, Program offices,
Laboratories, and States in a centrally managed Quality Assurance
Program (Administrator's memorandum, May 30, 1979). This EPA
policy for quality assurance includes all monitoring and
measurement efforts mandated by or supported by EPA and therefore
includes all research activities carried out under the National
Estuary Program.
EPA defines quality assurance (QA) as "the total integrated
program for assuring reliability of monitoring and measurement
data." QA includes many items that most scientists take for
granted, items such as having well-defined objectives, including
strict quality control procedures in analytical work, and
ensuring that technicians are properly trained for the work that
they conduct. A key requirement for implementation of EPA's QA
requirements is the preparation of quality assurance project
plans. QA project plans serve two purposes: (1) they assure
EPA's managers of being provided with exactly what they expect to
receive; and (2) they assist the project manager in ensuring that
everyone associated with a project has a common and thorough
understanding of the objectives, scope, methods, and products
associated with the work.
QA project plans for the National Estuary Program are written
according to a format prescribed by EPA (1984) in OWRS QA-1,
"Guidance for the preparation of combined Work/Quality Assurance
Project Plans for Environmental Monitoring." The format
described in OWRS QA-1 is designed to incorporate all information
that will be necessary to conduct the research project and to
eliminate the need for multiple documents, such as standard work
plans and QA project plans. Preparation of a single document can
expedite project initiation and can ensure that proper quality
control procedures are integrated into every project.
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Initially, some scientists find writing QA project plans
difficult. This perception is probably because the plans require
so much more detailed information than the proposals that have
traditionally guided research. With experience, most people find
that the plans can improve the quality of research by providing
all participants in the project with the same clear guidelines
and goals for implementation.
The document entitled "Guidance for Preparation of Combined
Work/Quality Assurance Project Plans for Bays Program Studies"
(Werme, 1985) was produced for EPA Region I in 1985 based on OWES
QA-1. In the Region I document, existing guidance on preparing
work/quality assurance project plans was modified to be specific
for projects conducted for the Bays Program. Although that
document has been used successfully since it was produced,
creation of the National Estuejry Program has increased both the
number of estuary projects and the level of institutional
experience related to managing such projects. These factors
indicated that an update of the document was necessary. The
current document, therefore, is a revision of the Region I
document and a modification of OWRS QA-1. Its format and
philosophy are identical to OWRS QA-1, but the guidance and
examples are extended to encompass the multifaceted research and
monitoring conducted for and required by the National Estuary
Program.
QA PROJECT PLAN GUIDE
This document presents guidance for completing the elements
of a QA project plan specified by OWRS QA-1, "Guidance for the
Preparation of Combined Work/Quality Assurance Project Plans for
Environmental Monitoring," May 1984. Further guidance for
preparation of QA project plans may be obtained by consulting
OWRS QA-1 (EPA, 1984) and QAMS-005/80, "Interim Guidelines and
Specifications for Preparing Quality Assurance Project Plans"
, 2
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(EPA, 1980). The guidance presented in this document includes
examples from projects similar to those that have been conducted
under Comprehensive Estuarine Management —Pollution and
Abatement (66.456, 40 CFR 29), commonly known as the "Bays
Program." Because Bays Program studies are varied, each example
is not relevant for each type of study. Additional guidance can
be obtained from the EPA Project Monitors.
The QA project plan is made up of a cover page, a table of
contents, and 19 sections as indicated below. All of these
elements should be included in the plan. If a particular section
does not apply to the work assignment, the section should be
listed and marked with "Not Applicable."
QA project plans are controlled documents for EPA. The
document control format should consist of the following
information on each page: section number, revision number, date
of revision, and page, presented as page of . This
information should be placed in the upper right-hand corner as
shown in Figure 1.
COVER PAGE
Each QA project plan should include a cover page with spaces
for signatures of the Principal Investigators, EPA Project
Monitor, EPA Project Officer, and EPA QA Officer as well as a
title, the complete address of the individual or institution
preparing the Plan, and the date that the Plan is submitted to
EPA. if the project is to be carried out by people from more
than one institution, a Principal Investigator from each
institution should sign the cover page. An example of a title
page is shown in Figure 2.
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Section No.
Revision No.
Date
Page
of
FIGURE 1. EXAMPLE OF THE EPA DOCUMENT CONTROL FORMAT.
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QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN
for
A SCOPING STUDY OF THE DISTRIBUTION, COMPOSITION,
AND DYNAMICS OF WATER-COLUMN AND BOTTOM SEDIMENTS:
ALBEMARLE-PAMLICO ESTUARINE SYSTEM
prepared by
JOHN T. TOLLS
INSTITUTE OF MARINE SCIENCES
UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA, CHAPEL HILL
prepared for
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
REGION IV WATER MANAGEMENT DIVISION
8 JUNE 1987
APPROVALS:
Dr. John T. Wells, Principal Investigator
Date
Dr. Douglas Rader, Project Director
Date
Dr. Ted F. Bisterfield, Region IV Project Office Date
Dr. Wade Knight, QA Officer
Date
FIGURE 2. EXAMPLE OF A QA PLAN COVER PAGE PREPARED FOR THE
EPA REGION IV NATIONAL ESTUARY PROGRAM.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS i
The table of contents for a QA project plan should include
the 19 major elements of the plan and a listing of all
appendices. At the end of the !table of contents, all individuals
receiving official copies of the plan and any subsequent
revisions should be indicated.
PROJECT ELEMENTS
1. PROJECT NAME
2. PROJECT REQUESTED BY
3. DATE OF REQUEST
4. DATE OF PROJECT INITIATION
5. PROJECT OFFICER
6. QUALITY ASSURANCE OFFICER
These elements are one-line, fill-in-the-blank sections.
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"Project name" is a short, descriptive title for the project;
"Project requested by" is the EPA component requesting the work,
such as U.S. EPA Region I; "Date of request" is the date that EPA
issues a Scope of Work for the [project; "Project Officer" is the
EPA official responsible for trie project; and "Quality Assurance
Officer" is the EPA QA Officer responsible for the project. An
example of a first page of a QA project plan including these
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sections is provided in Figure i3.
7. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
This section describes the [project objectives and explains how
the project fits into the overall objectives of the National
Estuary Program, the relevant National Estuary Program work plan,
and the project's scope of workj as provided by EPA. The section
also includes background information and a description of exactly
what will be done during the project. In many cases, this
description can be repeated from an original proposal to EPA.
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QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN
for
A SCOPING STUDY OF THE DISTRIBUTION, COMPOSITION,
AND DYNAMICS OF WATER-COLUMN AND BOTTOM SEDIMENTS:
ALBEMARLE-PAMLICO ESTUARINE SYSTEM
1. PROJECT NAME: A Scoping Study of the Distribution,
Composition, and Dynamics of Water-Column
and Bottom Sediments: Albemarle-Pamlico
Estuarine System
2. PROJECT REQUESTED BY: U.S. EPA Region IV
3. DATE OF REQUEST: 1 May 1987
4. DATE OF PROJECT INITIATION: 1 September 1987
5. PROJECT OFFICER: Dr. Ted Bisterfield
PROJECT DIRECTOR: Dr. Douglas Rader
6. QUALITY ASSURANCE OFFICER: Mr. Wade Knight
FIGURE 3. EXAMPLE OF PAGE 1 OF A QA PROJECT PLAN PREPARED
FOR THE EPA REGION IV NATIONAL ESTUARY PROGRAM.
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This section includes threejmajor parts: (a) a statement of
objectives and scope of the project; (b) a statement of the
intended use of the data generated; and (c) an overall description
of the project design. If relevant to the project, EPA also
requires tables describing: (d) samples to be collected in the
field, and (e) parameters to be measured in the field or in the
laboratory.
EPA suggests the use of subheadings reflecting these parts as
described below. These specified headings are not required by EPA
if another organization better suits a project.
A. Objective and Scope Statement
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This section should clearly! state the project objectives and
should explain these objectives; with sufficient detail to justify
and support the decisions to be: based upon the results. Reference
should be made to background and historical information when
applicable. The following example could be an objective and scope
statement for a project examining the sedimentary processes in an
estuarine system:
In shallow-water systems like the Albemarle-Pamlico
Estuarine System, the water column and surficial
sediments interact continually, exchanging and
redistributing particles and solutes so as to impact the
operation of the entire system. Consideration of
sedimentary processes and their dynamics in the
estuaries is therefore essential to management, and
research into these processes is a vital part of any
system-wide management effort. However, in contrast to
the water, the sediments arje often an unseen and
apparently passive component in an estuary. Sediment
distribution and properties are slow to change, and
their role in water-column levents is not always
apparent. Yet, sediments may play a critical role in
transporting pollutants, mddulating productivity, and
releasing nutrients.
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This project specifically addresses E.6 (Sediment
Distribution and Motion) and provides background for
addressing E.15 (Chronic Effects of Suspended
Sediments), both included in the Water Quality and
Estuarine Relationships section of the Albemarle-Pamlico
Sound (APES) Work Plan. The study is relevant to APES
in that 1) the objectives are to generate an
understanding of sediments that will be needed for
management purposes, and 2) the product will be a
user-oriented series of maps that will serve as a
multidisciplinary tool for physical, chemical, and
biological studies.
Specific objectives of this project are to: 1) collapse
approximately 20 data sets from maps of various small
scales (as presented in the literature) into a series of
high-quality, professionally-drafted maps that reflect,
in addition to sample locations, the distribution of
mean grain size (or some other measure of central
tendency), percent biogenic sediment, percent organic
material, and grain size contours, 2) collect
approximately 100 additional bottom samples in areas
where no data have been collected or where overlapping
sample locations show conflicting data, and 3) provide
a regional survey of suspended sediments of the
Albemarle-Pamlico estuarine system under several
different environmental conditions using Landsat
Thematic Mapper imagery.
B. Data Usage
This section should clearly describe how the data generated
during the project will be used. A precise description of data
usage is important because use of the data will dictate the data
quality requirements and assessments discussed in Section 11.
The data usage for the project used as an example above could
read as follows:
The data on bottom sediments will be used to provide:
1) A reference for benthic habitat studies where
substrate is a critical factor.
2) A first-order map showing potential storage sites
for sediments of different sizes and composition.
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3) An index for sediment•resuspension, where the
resuspension threshold is governed largely by grain
size.
4) A characterization ofibottom type that can be used
as input to future modelling studies of water
motion and sediment dispersal.
The Laridsat imagery will be used to observe and map the
distribution of suspended solids, the spreading of
freshwater plumes during high river flow, and the
regional surface dispersal patterns under varying wind
conditions. Acquisition of Landsat data will serve as
a means of 1) identifying specific areas that should
be examined more closely in subsequent field studies,
2) developing hypotheses in which suspended sediments
may play a role, 3) identifying areas of resuspension
and persistently high background suspended-sediment
concentrations, and 4) determining inferred routes of
sediment transport, regardless of source.
C. Design and Rationale
This section should be a complete and detailed description
of the project and the rationale behind the project design. It
Should include a full description of EPA-approved sampling and
analytical procedures to be us'ed. Often, much of this
information can be derived frqm the original proposal to EPA.
This section may also be entitled "Technical Approach" or
"Monitoring Network and Design" if these headings better reflect
a description of the particular project.
Procedures for sampling arid laboratory analyses that are not
EPA methods may be discussed in this section, but they are
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better included in Section 12.
D. Monitoring Parameters 'and Collectiqn Frequency
If a program involves field sampling, a table of all field
samples and measurements to be taken should be included. If
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parameters are collected on individual schedules or at
individual locations, that information should be included in the
table. If all parameters are measured during all sampling
periods at all stations, duplication of that information is
unnecessary. Figure 4, for example, shows a monitoring
parameters table for a field program involving water sample
collections at all stations for each sampling period.
A table of laboratory studies may also be included in this
section. Figure 5 shows a typical monitoring parameter table
for a 96-hour toxicity test.
E. Parameter Table
If the program includes laboratory analyses, a table
describing the analyses to be conducted and the methods to be
employed should be included. If analysis of samples within a
designated time period is important to the integrity of the
samples, holding times should be specified on the laboratory
analysis parameter table. Analysis methods should also be
included in the table, as a reference to EPA-published or other
methods. EPA-published methods are required whenever they are
appropriate and available. Under some circumstances where more
than one EPA-published method is applicable, justification
should be provided for the particular method selected. If the
method includes more than one option, the option to be used
should be cited or described. If methods other than
EPA-published methods are to be used, a justification for their
use should be included. In addition, any modifications, whether
to EPA or non-EPA methods, should be fully described and
justified. An example of a laboratory analysis parameter table
is included in Figure 6.
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TABLE X. SAMPMHQ PATTERNS
Pacwuter Saaple Voluaa
(liters)
PCB 19
(5 gal)
Copper 1
Total 0-1
suspended solids
Particulato 0-1
organic carbon
Salinity
current
Sample I^Mdiata Shipboard
Container Processing and Storage
Glass; Glass Filter water; store filter
fiber filter on dry ice; store filtrate
in darkness.
Polyethylene Refrigerate.
Polyethylene; Filter water; record volume
Huclcopore filter to nearest 0.1 ml.
Glass; Glass Filter water; record volume
fiber filter to nearest 0.1 ml.
and 0.01 knot.
FIGURE 4. EXAMPLE OF A SAMPLING PARAMETER TABLE FOR A FIELD PROGRAM
DESIGNED TO COLLECT WATER SAMPLES AT ALL STATIONS.
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3ABUS X. JMU.TUR1NU VAKMMBXISltS
Parameter Stapling Teat Replicate
Frequency Sampled
Survival 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, All chambers
72, and 96 h
Toxicant 0, 48, and 96 h All chandlers
Dissolved 0, 48, and 96 h Control, low, mid,
oxygen high concentrations
pH 0 and 96 h Control, low, mid,
high concentrations
Salinity Daily All chambers
Temperature Daily All chambers
Hourly One chamber
Total Organic 0 and 96 h Control
Carbon
iBndiate Processing
or Measurement
Record number alive;
remove carcasses.
Collect in glass ;
label; deliver to
analytical laboratory.
Record to nearest
0.1 ppm
Record to nearest
0.01 pH unit.
Record to nearest 0.5°/00
Record to nearest 0.5°C.
Record to nearest 0.1°C.
Collect in glass;
label; deliver to
analytical laboratory.
FIGURE 5. EXAMPLE OF A SAMPLING PARAMETER TABLE FOR A LABORATORY
TOXICITY TEST.
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Parameter Matrix Units Methodology Reference'*' EPA Maximum
Method Holding Time
Volatiles Sediment j/g/kg:*' Purge + trap (d) 14 days
Fish tissue j/g/kg GC/MS (d) .
Water //g/L EPA 1982a 8010
Water (part.) //gAg (d) - —
Water //g/L EPA 1982a 608, 625
Neuteals Sediment //gAg!?! Extraction/ (d) 7 days/
Tish tissue //gAg; ' GC/KS (d) 40 days'c)
Water (part.) //gAg ' (d)
Water //g/L EPA 1982a 625
Water (part.) //gAg (d)
Water //g/L EPA 1982a 625
Tracn Metals:
Cr, Cu, Pb, Sediment //gAgi"! Graphite or EPA 1982b SW-846 6 months
Hi, Ag Water (part.) //gAg Flame AA; EPA 1982b SW-846
Water //g/L ICP EPA 1979 218.2, 220.2,
239.2, 249.2,
and 272.2
Cd Sediment pgAg!*! Graphite AA EPA 1982b SW-846 6 months
Water (part.) //gAg EPA 1982b SW-846
Water //g/L ICP ; EPA 1979 213.2
Hg Sediment 0gAg(a> Cold vapor AA EPA 1982b SW-846 6 months
Water //g/L EPA 1979 245.2
Cd, Hg Fish Tissue //gAg(b> Graphite AA/ EPA 1982b SW-846 6 months
Cold vapor AA
Zn Fish Tissue //gAg Flame or EPA 1982b SW-846 6 months
Graphite AA
Preservation
refrigerate
refrigerate
refrigerate
refrigerate
acidify with
HN03 to pH<2
as above
as above
freeze
freeze
a) Dry weight basis.
b) Wet weight basis.
c) Uhere two times are given, the first refers to Maximum time prior to extraction;
the second refers to maximum time prior to instrumental analysis.
d) Ho EPA-published methods exist at required detection limits. The methods for this
project are described in Section 12.
•) References: U.S. Environaental Protection Agency. 1979 (revised 1983). Methods for
chemical analysis of water and wastes. EPA-600/4-79-020 .
Environmental Monitoring and Support Laboratory, Cincinnati, OH.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1982a. Methods for organic chemical
analysis of municipal and industrial "wastewater. EPA-600/4-82-057.
Environmental Monitoring and Support Laboratory,. Cincinnati, OH.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1982b. Test methods for evaluating
solid waste physical/chemical methods . SW-846, 2nd edition.
FIGURE 6. EXAMPLE OF A LABORATORY ANALYSIS PARAMETER TABLE.
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8. PROJECT FISCAL INFORMATION
This section may be a one-line reference to identify a cost
proposal previously submitted to EPA. If the QA project plan is
being prepared as a proposal, EPA will specify what fiscal
information to include.
9. SCHEDULE OF TASKS AND PRODUCTS
This section describes the major project milestones. It
must include dates that are important to EPA, such as dates for
submission of reports and commitments that EPA must mee.t so that
the project can continue on schedule. Charts showing the
duration of major project activities, such as the one depicted
in Figure 7, are recommended.
10. PROJECT ORGANIZATION AND RESPONSIBILITY
This section should identify all key personnel associated
with the project and should explain how they will relate to each
other during the project, It should identify the person with
direct responsibility to EPA. Inclusion of a project . ....
organization chart is advisable for this section; an example of
a project organization chart is included in Figure 8.
A description of each key person's responsibilities for the
program, either in a table or as text, should accompany the
project organization chart. Telephone numbers of key personnel
should be included to facilitate communications. If several
organizations are involved in the program., c;pmpl.ete addresses
should also be provided. An example of text to accompany Figure
8 could read as follows:
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FIGURE 7. PROJECT SU1E1JDLE
, . r. , Jan F«b Mar Apr May Jun . Jul
Project Management
Field Sampling
Laboratory Analysis
Data Analysis
Progress Reports
. Final Report
6 — & 6 — A
A A & A A
A
FIGURE 7. EXAMPLE OF A PROJECT SCHEDULE CHART FOR A FIELD SAMPLING
" - AND "LABORATORY ANALYSIS^PROJECT,
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FIELD LEADER
Ms. C. Nette
(617) 548-3705
PROJECT MONITOR
Dr. Carol Kilbride
(617) 223-1429
QUALITY ASSURANCE OFFICER
.Mr. Charles Porfert
(617) 861-6700 (ext. 205)
PROJECT MANAGER
Dr. James Fishe
(617) 548-3705
ANALYSIS LEADER
Ms. E. Flaske
(617) 548-3705
DATA MANAGEMENT
Mr. W. Cipher
(617) 548-1400
FIGURE X. PROJECT ORGANIZATION.
FIGURE 8. EXAMPLE OF A PROJECT ORGANIZATION CHART FOR A FIELD
SAMPLING AND LABORATORY ANALYSIS PROJECT.
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Dr. James Fishe (Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole,
MA 02543, Tel. (617) 548-3705) will be the Principal
Investigator for this project. He will be directly
responsible to EPA for the quality and timely completion of
the project. He will also be responsible for data
interpretation and for preparation and submission of reports
to EPA.
Dr. Fishe will be assisted by three Task Leaders as shown in
Figure X. Ms. C. Nette (Marine Biological Laboratory, (617)
548-3705) will be the Field Task Leader. She will be
responsible for coordination and logistics of the field
sampling activities and fqr sample tracking and control. As
Analysis Task Leader, Ms. IE. Flaske (Marine Biological
Laboratory, (617) 548-3705) will oversee all laboratory
activities and will review and evaluate all analytical data
generated during the project. Data management will be the
responsibility of Mr. W. Cipher (Woods Hole Oceanographic
Institution, Woods Hole, MA, -Tel. (617) 548-1400). Mr.
Cipher will manage the storage, retrieval, and manipulation
of data generated during the project.
11. DATA QUALITY REQUIREMENTS AND ASSESSMENTS
Central to EPA's QA program is the requirement that data be
of known and acceptable quality. EPA environmental data-
collection programs are based ion the development of data quality
objectives (DQOs). The DQO development process defines the
quality of the data needed to taake decisions, and balances this
against the time and resources available. The process results
in project objectives that are responsive to meeting
decision-making needs in a cost effective manner.
This section defines data, quality requirements for each type
of measurement made during a project and describes methods for
data quality assessment. Data quality parameters to be discussed
in this section are (a) precision; (b) accuracy; (c)
representativeness; (d) comparability; and (e) completeness.
These parameters should be defined in terms of quantitative
objectives in order to permit their use for determination of data
acceptability and usability during data validation in Section 16.
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For analytical measurements, numerical detection limits, where
known, should be defined as shown in Figure 9. The procedures
described in this section should include the equations used to
calculate accuracy, precision and completeness and the methods
used to gather data for the accuracy and precision calculations.
This section should also include field and laboratory quality
control checks, including QC protocols, frequencies, and
acceptance criteria. A summary table of the necessary quality
control samples might be included.
A. Precision
Precision is the degree of mutual agreement among
independent, similar, or repeated measurements. Typically,
precision is monitored through the use of replicate samples or
measurements and is reported as a standard deviation, standard
error, or relative standard deviation. Multiple replicates are
normally taken to assess precision in field sampling.
B. Accuracy
Accuracy is the degree of agreement between a measured value
and the true value. It may be monitored in a program through the
use of blank samples or standard reference materials.
Taxonomists monitor accuracy through the use of voucher
collections that can be sent to experts for confirmation of
organism identifications. For field quality control, samples are
routinely spiked with a known reference material. In an
analytical laboratory, accuracy is generally expressed in terms
of percent recovery of a standard.
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TM3IE Z. OBJECTIVES FOE HEASUREHEOT DATA.
(a) Iower
Variable Matrix Units ' Detection Accuracy Precision Completeness
Limits
Resin acids, Sediment //g/kg <1 (b) (b) 99%
Chlorinated
phenolics and
guaiacols
Total organic Sediment Percent 0.01 ±10% ±10% 99%
carbon
Water-soluble Sediment ng/kg 1 ±10% ±10% 99%
sulfide
Total volatile Sediment Percent 0.01 ±5% 99%
solids ._ . .. ._. ' _....... . . . .
Grain size Sediment Percent 0.01 ±5% 99%
Oil and grease Sediment mg/kg 10 ±10% 99%
Total nitrogen Sediment Percent 0.01 ±5% ±5% 99%
Method Eeforence
Extraction (c)
Derivatization
High-temp. Tetra Tech, 1986
combustion
Titrimetric; Tetra Rech, 1986
ion probe
550° combustion; Tetra Tech, 1986
gravimetric, . _
Sieve and pipet Tetra Tech, 1986
Freon extraction; Tetra Tech, 1986
infrared
High-temp. Tetra Tech, 1986
combustion
Kiximm
Holding
TUB
7 days(d>
28 days(d)
7 days
24 hours (d)
6 months
28 days(d)
6 months
a) Dry weight basis.
b) Accuracy to be determined with appropriate reference standard if available;
precision to be determined by replicate analyses performed during the study.
c) There are no appropriate U.S. EPA approved methods for analysis of these organic compounds in sediment.
The methods recommended for this study are based upon methods developed in industry and research.
A more detailed summary of the methods is provided in Section 12 (Analytical Procedures ) .
d) If frozen, the samples may he held 6 months prior to extraction.
FIGURE 9. EXAMPLE OF A DATA QUALITY PARAMETER TABLE SHOVING ANALYTICAL DETECTION LIMITS.
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C. Representativeness
Representativeness is the degree to which samples represent
true systems. For most studies, representativeness is considered
during project design rather than monitored throughout a project,
and this section describes any bias that may be inherent in the
sampling design or techniques or in the analytical protocols.
For example, a program designed to monitor PCB levels in
fisheries species could discuss representativeness in terms of of
the status of winter flounder in the commercial and recreational
fisheries.
D. Comparability
Comparability is the degree to which data from one study can
be compared to other, similar studies. Like representativeness,
comparability is considered during project design. A discussion
of comparability could include discussion of other studies in
which similar methods have been employed.
E. Completeness
Completeness is the measure of the amount of data obtained
during a project compared to the amount of data expected under
ideal conditions. A discussion of completeness could include
definition of what percentage of the total number proposed
samples must be taken for the data generated by a project to be
meaningful.
The following text provides an example of how data quality
parameters might be addressed:
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Precision will be measured as the relative standard
deviation (RSD) of triplicate sample analyses.
Triplicate analyses will be performed on at least 10
percent of samples and on |at least one sample from each
run. Each analyst will conduct the same number of
parallel analyses. If the jRSD exceeds 30 percent, the
analyses conducted prior to the previous triplicate
analyses will be repeated.
Accuracy will be measured ,as percent recovery of blank
samples spiked with a PCB standard mix (including
Aroclors 1016, 1242, and 1254). These fortified blanks
will be substituted for every third blank extraction.
If recoveries are not within 90-110 percent of the spike
mixture, analyses conducted within the batch will be
repeated. Accuracy will also be assessed as percent
recovery of a standard reference material (SRM)
including NRC SRM HS-2 (PCBs in marine sediment). An
equal amount of deionized ;water will be added to a
weighed amount of the SRM to simulate the moisture
content of the sediments, iand the mixture will be
extracted and analyzed by 'GC/ECD.
Samples will be taken with a 0,1-square-meter grab and
will be sieved to 0.3 mm. This smaller grab and smaller
sieve size has been shown :to be statistically more
representative of infauna than the 0.25-square-meter
grab and 1.0 or 0.5-mm sieve size that were
traditionally used in coastal benthic surveys.
Samples will be prepared and analyzed using the same
methods that are currently being employed for the New
Bedford Harbor/Buzzards Bay Remedial Action Feasibility
Study for preparation and janalysis of ultra low levels
of metals in environmental samples. Procedures will
follow the same quality cqntrol and data quality
assessment protocols and will meet the same data quality
requirements specified by that program.
Completeness will be measured as the percentage of total
samples collected that were completely analyzed.
Because excess material will be collected at each
station during each survey, we anticipate achieving 100
percent completeness. Should a sample be lost or
destroyed during the analytical procedure, loss of that
sample will be reported to' EPA. If completeness is less
than 80 percent for any sampling period, the area will
be resampled.
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12. SAMPLING AND LABORATORY PROCEDURES
This section should describe sampling procedures and
analytical procedures that have not been approved by EPA or
fully described in Section 7. If analytical methods are
discussed in this section, the section title should be changed
to "Sampling and Analytical Methods." A table of laboratory
analysis parameters similar to Figure 6 should be prepared.
If the laboratory conducting sampling has written standard
operating procedures (SOPs) covering these methods, the SOPs
may be referenced in this section and appended to the QA
project plan.
13. SAMPLE CUSTODY PROCEDURES
Proper identification and control of samples is an
important consideration, particularly if the persons taking
samples do not also conduct the analyses or if samples are
stored for any period of time prior to analysis. For small
projects with few people collecting and analyzing samples, this
section is less important. This section describes the methods
used to identify and track samples. The section should include
examples of sample labels, sample transfer forms (Figure 10),
and sample tracking forms (Figure 11) as applicable to the
project, with instructions for their completion. Sample logs,
if used, should be described. Responsibilities for verifying
that samples are properly labeled should be discussed, and if
sample transfer forms are used, the procedures for completing
the forms and signing them should be described. If samples are
to be archived, the archive procedures and location should be
described.
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CHEMISTRY LABORATORY
SAMPLE CUSTODY AND [IDENTIFICATION FORM
Project Name:
Project Number:
Number of Samples:
Type of Samples:
Batch Number:
Chemistry
Laboratory
Identification
Number
Sample Description
Relinauished By
Date
Received By
Date
Time
Comments
FIGURE 10. EXAMPLE OF A SAMPLE TRANSFER FORM.
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SAMPLE CONTROL FORM
Project No.
Chemistry Laboratory ID No..
Sample description
Date received
Batch No.
Other ID No.
Preservative necessary? D No
Initial laboratory storage location
Initials
D Yes (type, amount)
Comments.
Date.
Initials
TRANSFERRED FOR SAMPLE PREPARATION
Relinquished by Date
Relinquished by Date
(Refer to Sample Preparation Form, page
Comments
Received by.
Received by .
Date
Date
TRANSFERRED FOR INSTRUMENTAL ANALYSIS
Relinquished by Date Received by
Relinquished by Date Received by
Type analysis D GC/MS D GC ECD D GC FID D AA D UV D Other (specify)
Date analyzed Analyst Comments _____
Date
Date
TRANSFERRED TO OUTSIDE ANALYTICAL FACILITY (specify).
Contact Address
Shipped Via
Comments
Date.
Initials
FINAL DEPOSITION OF ARCHIVED MATERIAL
Amount surplus sample __
Relinquished by Date.
FINAL DEPOSITION OF SAMPLE EXTRACTS
Storage location
Relinquished by Date.
Received by.
D Discarded
_ Received by.
Date
Date,
Approved by.
Date
FIGURE 11. EXAMPLE OF A SAMPLE TRACKING FORM.
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14. CALIBRATION PROCEDURES AND PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
I
This section should list .each key piece of equipment or
instrumentation used for the :project, state how frequently the
equipment is calibrated and routine maintenance is performed
on it, reference calibration and maintenance procedures, and
indicate where calibration and maintenance records are kept in
the laboratory or project files. Contingency plans, such as
back-ups or alternative equipment, should also be listed for
major pieces of equipment.
15. DOCUMENTATION, DATA REDUCTION AND REPORTING
Because data generated by projects conducted under the
National Estuary Program may ;be used by EPA long after the
projects are complete, careful documentation and reporting
procedures are very important.
A. Documentation
This section should describe how raw data will be recorded
and organized. Because EPA may wish to use data generated
during the National Estuary Program for uses beyond one final
report, careful record-keeping practices are very important.
If standardized data sheets will be used as part of the
program, examples should be included with instructions for
their completion.
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B. Data Reduction and Reporting
This section should include a description of how project
data will be analyzed and reported to EPA, including
descriptions of calculations and statistical methods. It
should also include a brief description of steps taken to
avoid making errors during data transcription, reduction, and
transmittal, as applicable to the project.
16. DATA VALIDATION
Data validation involves all procedures used to accept or
reject data after collection and prior to use, including
editing, screening, checking, auditing, verification, and
review. It should include an assessment of the instrument
calibration information required in Section 14. These
processes may be carried out by more than one person involved
in a project.
An example of a data validation section for a program
could be as follows:
All data reported for this project will be subject to a
100 percent check for errors in transcription,
calculation, or computer input by the Laboratory
Supervisor, Ms. J. Doe. Additionally, the Project
Manager, Dr. I. Green, will review all sample logs and
data forms to ensure that requirements for sample
holding times, sample preservation, sample integrity,
data quality assessments, and equipment calibration have
been met. At the discretion of the Project Manager,
data which do not meet these requirements will either
not be reported or will be reported with an explanation
of associated problems.
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17. PERFORMANCE AND SYSTEMS AUDITS
EPA may require or may perform performance or systems
audits. Projects conducted under the National Estuary Program
will be audited by EPA on an average of once a year. A
performance audit is an independent measurement taken for
comparison with similar, routinely obtained data. A systems
audit consists of an on-site review of an entire project to
determine whether work is progressing in accordance with the QA
project plan. This section should describe special provisions
for performance audits if they have not been described under
Section 11, Data Quality Requirements and Assessments, and
should describe internal systems reviews to be conducted by the
laboratory's management or QA personnel.
18. CORRECTIVE ACTION
Ability to identify and correct problems is an important
part of all research activities, both from a management and a
quality control perspective. This section should explain how
problems will be identified and corrected, and what records of
the corrective action process will be maintained. An example of
the corrective action section might read as follows:
Data quality objectives and validation procedures for
this program have been designed to ensure that personnel
will be able to quickly identify and correct analytical
problems. Should the results of data validation
measures indicate that the integrity of data associated
with the sample set is questionable, the analyses would
be repeated. Quality assurance audits of the program
have been proposed in the work plan to ensure that work
is performed by individuals who understand the
objectives and methods to be used. Audit results will
be documented and reported to the Program Manager who
will be responsible for implementing all necessary
corrective actions.
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19. REPORTS
This section should describe all reports, including progress
reports, interim reports, and monthly reports that will be
generated during the course of the project. The section should
include internal reports as well as those issued to EPA. The
reporting schedule should be identified, and a general outline
of critical reports should be provided.
LITERATURE CITED
Environmental Protection Agency. 1979 (revised 1983). Methods
for chemical analysis of water and wastes. EPA-600/
4-79-020. Environmental Monitoring and Support Laboratory,
Cincinnati, OH.
Environmental Protection Agency. 1980. Interim guidelines and
specifications for preparing quality assurance project
plans. QAMS 005/80. Office of Research and Development,
Washington, DC.
Environmental Protection Agency. 1982a. Methods for organic
chemical analysis of municipal and industrial wastewater.
EPA-600/4-82-057. Environmental Monitoring and Support
Laboratory, Cincinnati, OH.
Environmental Protection Agency. 1982b. Test methods for
evaluating solid waste physical/chemical methods. SW-846,
2nd edition.
Environmental Protection Agency. 1984. Guidance for
preparation of combined work/quality assurance project plans
for environmental monitoring. OWRS QA-1. Office of Water
Regulations and Standards, Washington, DC.
Tetra Tech, Inc. 1986. Recommended protocols for measuring
selected environmental variables in Puget Sound. Final
Report prepared for Puget Sound Estuary Program under
Contract No. TC-3991-04.
Werme, C. 1985. Guidance for preparation of combined
work/quality assurance project plans for Bays Program
studies. Battelle Washington Environmental Program Office,
Washington, DC.
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INDEX
Page
Accuracy 19, 22
Audits 28
Calibration Procedures , 26
Comparability 21, 22
Completeness 21, 22
Corrective Action 28
Data Quality Objectives (DQOs) 18
Data Reduction 27
Data Validation 27
Documentation 26
Precision 19, 22
Project Organization 15
Quality Assurance 1
Reporting 27, 29
Representativeness 21, 22
Sample Custody 23
Scheduling 15
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$EPA
WH-556F
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Washington, DC 20460
Official Business
Penalty for Private Use
$300
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