REGION I, EPA-NEW ENGLAND

    COMPENDIUM OF QUALITY ASSURANCE

PROJECT PLAN REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDANCE
           U.S. EPA-NEW ENGLAND
                   Region I
           Quality Assurance Unit Staff
 Office of Environmental Measurement and Evaluation
                 October 1999
                    Final

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Preface
The Region I, EPA-New EngThnd Quality Assurance Unit has restructured its Quality Assurance Project
Plan (QAPP) Program in response to the recently reissued EPA Order 5360.1 CHG 1, July 1998. Among
other requirements, this “QA Order” requires the development,ureview and approval of QAPPs for all
environmental data operations performed by or on behalf of EPA. The term “environmental data
operations” refers to activities involving the collection, generation, compilation, analysis, evaluation and
use of environmental data. In addition, these requirements are incorporated into voluntary, censentual or
unilateral enforcement agreements, decrees and orders. The Region I. EPA-New England Compendium
of Oualitv Assurance Project Plan Recuirements and Guidance and its attachments implement within
EPA-NE the national QAPP requirements specified in “EPA Requirements for Quality Assurance Project
Plans for Environmental Data Operations”, EPA QA/R-5, October 1998, or most recent revision, and the
“EPA Quality Manual for Environmental Programs”, 5360, July 1998.
As a Regional implementation document, the Region I. EPA-New England Compendium of Ouali(y
Assurance Project Plan Reaufrements and Guidance ;
-outlines a Regional systematic planning process to ensure project quality objectives are
appropriately identified
-defines a minimum set of project QAIQC activities and procedures to ensure that data collected
for this Region are of known and documented quality and can be used in environmental decision
making
-specifies project information that must be compiled and included in a QAPP to document that
project activities have been properly planned
-and, assigns roles and responsibilities to project management/personnel and to EPA-NE to
establish accountability.
2.

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Notes on the third printing of the Region 1, EPA New England
Compendium of Quality Assurance Project Plan Guidance (EPA NE
QAPP Compendium).
1. This revised version of the “EPA NE QAPP Compendium”, which
outlines the policies and procedures of the EPA NE QAPP Program, was
made a Final Version on October 1, 1999.
2. Attachment A, the Region 1, EPA New England Quality Assurance
Project Plan Manual (QAPP Manual), September 1998, is still a Draft
version. The text of the QAPP Manual has not been changed; however, the
example worksheets have been updated to reflect format changes that will
be incorporated into the Final Version. Also, three new QAPP worksheets
were included in this printing of the document.
3. WordPerfect electronic templates have been created to assist the user in
compiling and presenting required project and QA information in tabular
format. Electronic copies of QAPP worksheets may be obtained by sending
an e-mail request to Moira LataiI1e epamail.epa.gov
4. Once the QAPP Manual has been finalized, it will be put on the EPA NE
Web site: Http://www.epa.gov/regionO 1 / oeme/toc . html

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REGION I, EPA-NEW ENGLAND COMPENDIUM OF
QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDANCE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION I
2.0 SCOPE
3.0 REQUIRED QAPP ELEMENTS 3
4.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 5
5.0 QAPP REVIEW AND APPROVAL 7
6.0 IMPLEMENTATION OF APPROVED QAPP 7
7.0 REVISION AND MODIFICATION OF APPROVED QAPP 7
7.1 ANNUAL REVIEW OF APPROVED QAPP 8
7.2 MODIFICATION OF APPROVED QAPP 8
8.0 QAPP ARCHIVAL 8
9.0 REFERENCES 9
A1TACHMENTS
A. REGION I, EPA-NEW ENGLAND QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN
MANUAL, DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 1998
B. THE VOLUNTEER MONITOR’S GUIDE TO QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT
PLANS, EPA 841-B-96-003, SEPTEMBER 1996
C. GENERIC QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN GUIDANCE FOR PROGRAMS
USING COMMUNITY LEVEL BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT IN WADEABLE
STREAMS AND RIVERS, EPA 841-B-95-004, JULY 1995
D. QUALITY ASSURANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR CONDUCTING BROWNFIELDS
SITE ASSESSMENTS, DRAFT, OCTOBER 1996

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REGION I, EPA-NEW ENGLAND COMPENDIUM OF
QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDANCE
1.0 INTRODUCTION
A Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) is a required planning document that provides a “blueprint”
for obtaining the type, quantity and quality of data needed to support environmental decision making.
The QAPP documents all quality assurance (QA), quality control (QC) and technical activities and
procedures associated with planning, implementing and assessing all environmental data operations.
EPA-New England (EPA-NE) recognizes the following two types of QAPPs;
“Project-specific QAPPs” provide a QA “blueprint” specific to one project or task. Project-
specific QAPPs are used when projects are limited in scope and time and, in general, can be
considered the sampling and analysis plan/workplan for the project.
“Generic program QAPPs” provide an overarching plan describing a program’s quality
objectives, and documents the comprehensive set of sampling, analysis, QA/QC, data validation
and evaluation, and assessment Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) specific to one program
or group. In contrast to the project-specific QAPP, the generic program QAPP serves as an
umbrella under which project-specific tasks may be conducted over an extended period of time.
Project or task-specific information, not covered by the umbrella, is documented in detailed
sampling and analysis plans/workplans, which use the generic program QAPP as an
informational reference whenever appropriate.
EPA Order 5360.1 CHG I requires that a QAPP be prepared and approved for all environmental data
operations performed by or on behalf of EPA prior to the initiation of those data operations. In addition
to the QAPP requirement, this Order also mandates that documented Quality Systems be in place to
support the development, review, approval, implementation and assessment of all environmental data
operations and to ensure that environmental technologies are designed, constructed, and operated
according to defined expectations. EPA-NE designates those organizations performing work for or on
behalf of EPA as Lead Organizations and includes those organizations performing work in response to
voluntary, consentual or unilateral enforcement agreements, decrees and orders. Lead Organizations
must develop, operate and document their own Quality Systems in Quality Management Plans (QMPs) to
ensure that environmental data acquired for the Agency are of known and documented quality and are
suitable for their intended use.
For guidance in developing Quality Systems, refer to Specifications and Guidelines for Oualitv Systems
for Environmental Data Collection and Environmental Technology Programs , American National
Standard, ANSI/ASQC E4-1994; EPA Reauirements for Oualitv Management Plans . EPA QAIR-2,
October 1998 or most recent revision; and EPA Oualitv Manual for Environmental Programs , 5360, July
1998.
2.0 SCOPE
The Region I. EPA-NE Compendium of Oualitv Assurance Project Plan Requirements and Guidance
(hereafter referred to as the EPA-NE QAPP Compendium) is based on Agency requirements as outlined
in EPA ReQuirements for Ouality Assurance Project Plans for Environmental Data Onerations
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N
EPA-NE Management Syatems RCViC
aial Technical Syateina Audit SOPs
EPA-NE Compendium of QAPP
R.cquizcmcats and Guidance
EPA-NE QAPP Memaal
Sampling and Analytical SOPs
Figure 1
EPA-NE Quality System for Environmental Data Operations and
Supporting EPA-NE Requirements and Guidance Documents
EPA QAJR-5, October 1998 or most recent revision. The EPA-NE QAPP Compendium provides the
framework for all project-specific and generic program QAPPs prepared for environmental data
operations conducted in EPA-NE. It is a companion document to other documents written by the Region
I, EPA-NE Quality Assurance Unit. These documents (refer to Figure 1) form the basis for the EPA-NE
Quality System supporting Regional environmental data operations. These documents should be
included in applicable interagency agreements and voluntary. consentuat or unilateral enforcement
agreements, decrees and orders.
Attachment A of the EPA-NE QAPP Compendium, the Region I, EPA-New England Oualitv Assurance
Prolect Plan Manual (hereafter referred to as the EPA-NE QAPP Manual) specifies requirements and
provides comprehensive, detailed guidance for developing project-specific and generic program QAPPs.
All actions, activities and procedural steps described as “must” in the EPA-NE Compendium and EPA-
NE QAPP Manual are required. All actions, activities and procedural steps described as “should” in the
EPA-NE QAPP Compendium and EPA-NE QAPP Manual are suggested but not required. The EPA-NE
QAPP Manual must be used by EPA-NE and other Lead Organizations when performing environmental
data operations. The EPA-NE QAPP Manual requires that specific QAPP elements be addressed and that
specific project information, as itemized in Table 1, be included in the QAPP. QAPP Worksheets are
provided in Appendix A of the EPA-NE QAPP Manual to help compile this critical project information.
All applicable worksheet information must be incorporated directly into the QAPP as Tables, flowcharts,
Diagrams, Attachments, etc.
Additional QAPP guidance is provided in Attachments B through D of the EPA-NE QAPP Compendium
and must be followed when so directed by the applicable EPA-NE program office. Even if program-
specific guidance is followed (Att. B-D), the required QAPP elements and the information specified in
Table I still must be included in the QAPP. Additional Agency programlinitiative-specific QAPP
guidance documents will be developed as needed.
EPA-NE Data Validation Fi.mctional Guidelines
for Eva1i ting Environmental Analy.es
• EPA-NE Data Validation Manual
(C
L
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Since the content and level of detail in individual QAPPs will vary according to the work being
performed and the intended use of the data, EPA-NE supports a “graded approach” when
preparing QAPPs. In other words, the degree of documentation and detail will vary based upon
the complexity and cost of the project. Appropriate consideration should be given to the
significance of the environmental problem to be investigated, the environmental decision to be
made, and the impact on human health and the environment.
3.0 REQUIRED QAPP ELEMENTS
In accordance with EPA QA/R-5, there are four basic element groups that must be addressed in a QAPP,
refer to Figure 2. In order to piece these interrelated elements together and to ultimately meet project
objectives, the Region I Systematic Planning Process as outlined in Figure 1 of the EPA-NE QAPP
Manual must be utilized and planning meetings (a.k.a. scoping meetings) must be held.
Specific requirements for each element group are detailed in Attachment A, the EPA-NE QAPP Manual,
and in the program-specific guidance documents provided in Attachments B through D.
It is strongly recommended that generic program QAPPs and project-specific QAPPs be prepared
using the format described in the attached EPA-NE QAPP Manual and sections titled accordingly.
However, if some, or all, of the required QAPP elements are incorporated into other project planning
documents (i.e., Sampling and Analysis Plans (SAPs), Field Sampling Plans (FSPs), Field Operations
Plans (FOPs), Project Operations Plans (POPs) or General Project Workplans (WPs)), then a cross-
reference tabLe, similar to Table I, must be provided to identify where each required QAPP element and
all required information, as defined by the EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets, are located in the inclusive
project document. The reference location must be exact and must specify the complete document title,
date, section number, page numbers, and location of all QAPP elements and information in the inclusive
document.
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3.0 Assessment/Oversight
1.0 Project Management and Objectives
I’his element group details the procedures used to
ensure proper implementation of the QAPP. It
describes minimum requirements for QA Reports to
Management and for Final
Project Reports.
4.0 Data Validation and Usability
This element group details the QA activities that will be
performed to ensure that the collected data are
scientifically defensible, properly documented, of
known quality, and meet the project objectives. All
analytical data collected for EPA-NE must be validated
according to the most recent revision of the Region 1,
EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for
Evaluating Environmental Analyses . If alternate
validation guidance and/or modifications to the EPA-
NE validation criteria will be used, then this must be
documented and justified in the QAPP. After data have
been validated, the impact of sampling error and spatial
variability must also be assessed. Prior to use in project
decision making, data must be assessed for usability,
and interpreted statistically for environmental trends.
I
This element group describes the design and
implementation of all measurement systems that will be
used during the project. All sampling procedures,
analytical methods/procedures, and data handling and
documentation procedures are described completely. If
standard operating procedures (SOPs) exist, then they
are referenced and included as attachments to the
QAPP. All quality control procedures, frequency
requirements, acceptance criteria, and corrective action
procedures associated with all methods/procedures are
documented.
Figure 2. EPA-NE QAPP Elements
This element group encompasses all aspects of project
management, objectives and background. It identifies
the roles and responsibilities of project personnel,
describes communication procedures and details the
proposed project schedule.
2.0 Measurement/Data Acquisition
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4.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Lead Organization
Lead Organizations are those entities that are responsible and accountable for all phases of the
environmental data operation. The Lead Organization may perform the project work directly or contract
for field sampling and/or analytical services and/or data validation and/or data assessment and/or audits
and assessments.
The Lead Organization is responsible for ensuring that there is an approved QAPP in place priOr to
beginning any environmental data operation. Also, the Lead Organization is responsible for ensuring that
organization personnel, contractors and/or subcontractors perform project work as prescribed in the
approved QAPP. To that end, Lead Organizations are responsible for planning and conducting internal
assessments of project activities.
Lead Organizations may include the following:
• EPA-NE
• Other Government Agencies under interagency agreements and Memoranda of Understanding
(MOUs) with EPA-NE
• States, Tribes and Local governments under financial agreements, including grants and
cooperative agreements with EPA-NE
• Non-profit Organizations (e.g., Volunteer Organizations, Interstate Associations, etc.) under
financial agreements with EPA-NE, including institutions of higher education and hospitals
• Regulated Facilities (e.g., potentially responsible parties) under voluntary, consentual or
unilateral enforcement agreements, decrees and orders.
Project Manager
The Project Manager is responsible for directing and/or overseeing and coordinating all project activities
for the Lead Organization. He/she is responsible for submitting QAPPs and QAPP revisions and
amendments to appropriate personnel, with sufficient lead time, for review and approval. QAPPs should
be submitted to the approval authority for review and approval no less than 30 days in advance of the
scheduled environmental data operation. The Project Manager must ensure that all technical issues
identified during QA review are satisfactorily addressed and documented prior to beginning the data
collection activity. The Project Manager is also responsible for reviewing the QAPP annually and
documenting this review in a letter to the approval authority. Refer to Figure 3 for an outline of the
QAPP development process.
Case Team
The Project Manager assembles a Case Team consisting of technical personnel including data generators,
QA scientists, and data users to plan the project. The size of the Case Team should reflect the
complexity of the project. For example, small volunteer monitoring projects may have Case Teams
comprised of only two or three people.
Planning (scoping) meetings are convened to identify project objectives; environmental questions that
must be answered; project Action Limits; the type and quantity of data; and how “good” the data must be
(the data quality) to ensure that scientifically defensible environmental decisions are made. The Case
Team defines the quality of the data by setting acceptability limits for the project, otherwise known as
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measurement performance criteria. Once measurement performance criteria have been decided upon, the
Case Team can select sampling and analytical methods that have appropriate quantitation limits and
quality control limits to achieve project objectives.
The Case Team is responsible for compiling all project information as defined in the EPA-NE QAPP
Manual and on the EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets and resolving all technical issues prior to the preparation
of the QAPP document. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the project Case Team, not the QAPP
preparer alone, to design a QA “blueprint” that meets project objectives.
QAPP Preparation Team/Writer
The QAPP should be written by a team/person that has been involved in the project planning phase.
Members of the QAPP Preparation Team should be experienced in many aspects of environmental
science, including chemistry, engineering, hydrogeology and risk assessment. In addition, the QAPP
Preparation Team should have experience with the sample collection procedures, analytical methods and
data evaluation and assessment procedures that will be used for the project.
Project Personnel
An organizational chart must clearly show the reporting relationships between EPA-NE and project
personnel from the Lead Organization, including contractors and subcontractors.
All project personnel are responsible for reading and understanding the QAPP before beginning field
work. All individuals that have project responsibilities must sign a Project Personnel Sign-off Sheet
(EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #4) to document that they have read all relevant portions of the QAPP.
All project personnel are responsible for implementing the QAPP as prescribed.
EPA-NE QA UNIT
The EPA-NE QA Unit is responsible for reviewing and approving all intramural and extramural QAPPs,
except in the case where the review and approval authority has been delegated by the EPA-NE Regional
Quality Assurance Manager (RQAM) to:
A non-EPA partner organization such as a State, Tribe, or other Federal Agency.
Delegation of this authority to a non-EPA organization is contingent upon having an EPA-
approved Quality Management Plan (QMP). An EPA-approved QMP documents that the
organization has an acceptable Quality System to support all technical operations, including
environmental data operations and environmental technology operations.
An EPA-NE program (i.e., Superfund, RCRA).
Delegation of this authority to an EPA-NE program is documented in the Region I QMP. In
addition, the program is responsible for providing to the QA Unit copies of the completed QAPP
“Title and Approval Page” and copies of DQO7IPQO Summary Forms prior to the initiation of
environmental data operations.
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5.0 QAPP REVIEW AND APPROVAL
Internal Review and Approval
• The QAPP should undergo internal review at all levels. The Lead Organization is responsible for
ensuring that the QAPP includes all required QAPP elements and information in accordance with
Table 1 of this document and that project quality objectives (PQOs), technical activities and
related QA/QC will result in data of known and documented quality that can be used in
environmental decision making. To that end, the Lead Organization is responsible for
performing a completeness check and should require that organizational personnel, cqntractors,
and subcontractors review applicable sections of the QAPP to ensure technical adequacy of the
document prior to submitting it to EPA-NE (or the delegated approval authority, if applicable).
External Review and Approval
• In accordance with EPA Order 5360.1 CHG 1, EPA-NE must review and approve all intramural
and extramural QAPPs before environmental data operations can begin. This Order specifies
that the authority to review and approve QAPPs may be delegated to a partner organization such
as a State, Tribe, or other Federal Agency. Delegation of this authority by the EPA-NE RQAM
is contingent upon that organization having an acceptable Quality System documented in an
EPA-approved Quality Management Plan (QMP).
• EPA-NE requires all QAPPs to be complete and technically adequate. To that end, a Level 1
QAPP Completeness Check is performed to ensure that all required QAPP elements and
information, as specified in Table 1 of this document, are present in the QAPP. When a QAPP is
deemed complete, a Level 2 Technical QAPP Review is performed to ensure that project quality
objectives, technical activities and related QA/QC will result in data of known and documented
quality that can be used in environmental decision-making.
• All comments provided by EPA-NE (or the delegated approval authority, if applicable) must be
acceptably addressed in writing before environmental data operations can begin, The response
document (either a revised QAPP or letter responding to specific deficiencies) should contain
complete identifying information, as it is presented on the original QAPP Title and Approval
Page, with updated signatures and dates. Any revisions to the original QAPP document should
be identified with a red-line or side bar to expedite document review and approval.
6.0 IMPLEMENTATION OF APPROVED QAPP
The approved QAPP must be implemented as prescnbed, however, the QAPP may be modified at any
time, after undergoing the proper approval process, to ensure project objectives are met.
7.0 REVISION AND MODIFICATION OF APPROVED QAPP
Project-specific QAPPs and generic program QAPPs are approved for a fixed period of time, specific to
the environmental data operation. Project-specific QAPPs and generic program QAPPs must be kept
current and revised whenever necessaiy, or when so directed by the approival authority, or at a minimum
of every five years until the project is completed.
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7.1 ANNUAL REVIEW OF APPROVED QAPP
Approved project-specific QAPPs and approved generic program QAPPs must be reviewed annually by
the Lead Organization, and this annual review must be documented in a letter to the appropriate approval
authority. If minor revisions are made to the approved QAPP that require reapproval (i.e.,
revisionS do not impact data quality), then these minor revisions must be documented in either a letter
that outlines the revisions or in a revised QP%PP document. U’kewise, if minor revisions are made to the
approved QAPP that require reapproval, then these minor revisions must be documented in either a
letter that outlines the revisions or in a revised QAPP document and must be submitted for review and
reapproval. If extensive revisions are necessary (i.e., greater than 10 pages and/or there are multiple
impacts on data quality) requiring reapproval, then a revised QAPP document must be submitted for
review and reapproval.
7.2 MODIFICATION OF APPROVED QAPP
When procedures and/or activities described in the original QAPP must be modified immediately to
achieve project objectives, then the QAPP must be amended. This amendment must be reviewed and
approved in the same manner as the original QAPP. The amendment should contain complete identifying
information, as presented on the original QAPP Title and Approval Page, with updated signatures and
dates. Only after the amendment has been approved can the change be implemented.
Verbal approval of modifications may be obtained to expedite project work. Descriptions of
modifications and verbal approvals must be documented in telephone logs which are retained in the
project file. Subsequently, this verbally approved modification must be documented in an amendment to
the QAPP and submitted to EPA-NE (or other approval authority, if applicable) within 7 working days
for formal signature approval.
8.0 QAPP ARCHIVAL
All QAPPs, including reviewers’ comments and responses to reviewers’ comments (revised QAPPs,
QAPP amendments, and response letters addressing specific issues) must be archived in the appropriate
project/program file according to the procedures specified by the Lead Organization in the QAPP and/or
their QMP.
Project files must be retained for the period of time specified in the interagency agreement, MOU,
cooperative agreement, financial agreement, contract, or voluntary, consentual or unilateral enforcement
agreement, decree or order.
EPA-NE retains the authority to request project/program files for any extramural project/program during
the period of performance of the extramural agreement.
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9.0 REFERENCES
1. Soecifications and Guidelines for Oualitv Systems for Environmental Data Collection and Environmental
Technology Programs. American National Standard, ANSI/ASQC E4-1994.
2. EPA Requirements for Oualitv Management Plans . October 1998, (EPA QAIR-2)
Website: http://es.epa.gov/ncerqalqaiindex.hmil
3 EPA Ouality Manual for Environmental Programs . 5360, July 1998
Website: http://es.epa.gov/ncerqalqalindex.htnii
4. March 2, 1999 Memorandum From Norine E. Noonan (AA) to Assistant Administrators and Regional
Administrators Re: Clarification of Teiminology for the EPA Quality System with attachments
5. EPA Reauirements for Oualitv Assurance Project Plans . October 1998, (EPA QA/R-5)
Website: hnp:/Ie.epa.gov/ncerqa/qalmdex.htinl
6. EPA Guidance for Oualitv Assurance Project Plans , Draft Final-July 1998, (EPA QA/G-5)
Website: http://es.epa.gov/ncerqalqaiindex.html
7. Guidance for the Data Ouality Objective Process , EPA/600/R-98/018, February 1998, (EPA QA/G-4)
Website: http://es.epa.gov/ncerqalqalindex.htm l
8. Region I. Ouality Assurance Management Plan . Revision 2, Approved by EPA’s Quality Assurance
Division 10t24196
9. Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses .
December 1996
Website: hctp://www.epa.gov/regionol/oeme/toc.h(ml
Contact Dr. Steve Stodola, EPA-NE OEME, 781-860-4634
10. Guidance for the Prenaration of Standard Operating Procedures for Oualitv-Related Onerations ,
EPA/6001R-961027, November 1995, (EPA QA/G-6)
Website: http://es.epa.gov/ncerqalqalindex.html
11. Guidance for Data Ouallty Assessment: Practical Methods for Data Analysis . EPA/6001R-9M)84, January
1998, (EPA QA/G-9)
Website: http:I/es.epa.govlncerqalqafindex.hunl
12. National Enforcement Investigations Center ( NEIC) Policies and Procedures .
EPA-33019-78-00I-R, May 1978, Rev. December 1981
NTIS: 1-800-553-6847
13. The Volunteer Monitor’s Guide To Ouality Assurance Project Plans , EPA/841/B-96/003, September 1996
14. Generic Ouality Assurance Project Plan Guidance for Programs Using Community Level Biological
Assessment in Wadeable Streams and Rivers , EPA/8411B-95/004, July 1995
Website: hup://www.ntis.gov/index.hunJ
NTIS: 1-800-553-6847
15. Implementation of Quality Assurance Requirements for Organizations Receiving EPA Financial
Assistance
Website: hup:llwww.epa.gov/ogd/qa.htm
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Figure 3. Outline of QAPP Development
Environmental Problem
Assemble Case Team
Schedule and Convene Planning Meetings
Plan Project and Compile QAPP Worksheet Information
Prepare Project-Specific or Generic Program QAPP
Perform Internal Review
Submit QAPP for Approval
Revise QAPP as Required and Submit for Approval
I I

Implement QAPP as Prescribed
Amend QAPP as Needed to Address Unexpected Conditions
Submit Amendments for Approval
Modify Project Work after Approval Received
Archive QAPP in Project or Program File
Review QAPP Annually
Revise QAPP as necessary, or when directed by Approval Authority, or at a minimum every 5 years

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Table 1. Region I, EPA-NE QAPP Requirement Summarization
EPA QA/R-S
QAPP
ELEMENTS
REQUIRED EPA-NE QAPP ELEMENTS
and CORRESPONDING EPA-NE QAPP
SECTIONS
EPA-NE
QAPP
Worksheet
REQUIRED INFORMATION
Project Management and Objectives
Al
1.0 Title and Approval Page
1
- Title and Approval Page
A2
2.0 Table of Contents and Document Format
2.1 Table of Contents
2.2 Document Control Format
2.3 Document Control Numbering System
2.4 EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2
2
- Table of Contents
- EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet
A3
3.0 Distribution List and Project Personnel
Sign-off Sheet
3
4
- Distribution List
- Project Personnel Sign-off Sheet
A4, A8
4.0 Project Organization
4.1 Project Organizational Chart
4.2 Communication Pathways
4.2.1 Modifications to Approved QAPP
4.3 Personnel Responsibilities and
Qualifications
4.4 Special Training Requirements/
Certification
5a
5b
6
7
- Organizational Chart
- Communication Pathways
- Personnel Responsibilities and
Qualifications Table
- Special Personnel Training Requirements
Table
AS
5.0 Project Planning/Project Definition
5.1 Project Planning Meetings
5.2 Problem Definition/Site History and
Background
8a
Sb
- Project Scoping Meeting Attendance Sheet
with Agenda and other Project Planning
Meeting Documentation
- Problem Definition/Site History and
Background
- EPA-NE DQO Summary Form
- Site Maps (historical and present)
A6
6.0 Project Description and Schedule
6.1 Project Overview
6.2 Project Schedule
9a
9b
9c
9d
10
- Project Description
- Contaminants of Concern and Other Target
Analytes Table
- Field and Quality Control Sample Summary
Table
- Analytical Services Table
- System Designs
- Project Schedule Timeline Table
A7
7.0 Project Quality Objectives and
Measurement Performance Criteria
7.1 Project Quality Objectives
7.2 Measurement Performance Criteria
1 la
1 lb
- Project Quality Objectives/Decision
Statements
- Measurement Performance Cri teria Table
Measurement/Data Acquisition
B 1
I
8.0 Sampling Process Design
8.1 Sampling Design Rationale
12a
12b
- Sampling Design and Rationale
- Sampling Locations, Sampling and Analysis
Method!SOP T Requirements Table
- Sample Location Map

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EPA QAYR-5
QAPP
ELEMENTS
REQUTREI) EPA-NE QAPP ELEMENTS
and CORRESPONDING EPA-NE QAPP
SECTIONS
EPA-NE
QAPP
Worksheet
REQUIREI) INFORMATION
B2, B6,
B7, B8
9.0 Sampling Procedures and Requirements
9.1 Sampling Procedures
9.2 Sampling SOP Modifications
9.3 Cleaning and Decontamination of
Equipment/Sample Containers
9.4 Field Equipment Calibration
9.5 Field Equipment Maintenance,
Testing and Inspection Requirements
9.6 Inspection and Acceptance
Requirements for Supplies/ Sample
Containers
13
12b
14
15
- Sampling SOPs
- Project Sampling SOP Reference Table
- Sampling Container, Volumes and
Preservation Table
- Field Sampling Equipment Calibration
Table
- Cleaning and Decontamination SOPs
- Field Equipment Maintenance, Testing and
Inspection Table
B3
10.0 Sample Handling, Tracking and
Custody Requirements
10.1 Sample Collection Documentation
10.1.1 Field Notes
10.1.2 Field Documentation
Management System
10.2 Sample Handling and Tracking
System
10.3 Sample Custody
16
- Sample Handling, Tracking and Custody
SOPs
- Sample Handling Flow Diagram
- Sample Container Label (Sample Tag)
- Chain-of-Custody Form and Seal
B4, B6,
B7, B8
11.0 Field Analytical Method Requirements
11.1 Field Analytical Methods and SOPs
11.2 Field Analytical Method/SOP
Modifications
11.3 Field Analytical Instrument
Calibration
11.4 Field Analytical Instrumentl
Equipment Maintenance, Testing and
Inspection Requirements
11.5 Field Analytical Inspection and
Acceptance Requirements for
Supplies
17
18
19
- Field Analytical Methods/SOPs
- Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference
Table
- Field Analytical Instrument Calibration
Table
- Field Analytical Instrument/Equipment
Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table
B4, B6,
B7, B8
12.0 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method
Requirements
12.1 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Methods
and SOPs
12.2 Fixed Laboratory Analytical
Method/SOP Modifications
12.3 Fixed Laboratory Instrument
Calibration
12.4 Fixed Laboratory Instrument!
Equipment Maintenance, Testing and
Inspection Requirements
12.5 Fixed Laboratory Inspection and
Acceptance Requirements for
Supplies
20
21
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical
Methods/SOPs
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method/SOP
Reference Table
- Fixed Laboratory Instrument Maintenance
and Calibration Table
B5
13.0 Quality Control Requirements
13.1 Sampling Quality Cantpol
13.2 Analytical Quality Control
13.2.1 Field Analytical QC
13.2.2 Fixed Laboratory QC
22a
22b
23a
23b
24a
24b
Sampling
- Fuefid Snniipling’QC Table
- Field Sampling QC Table cont.
Analytical
- Field Analytical QC Sample Table
- Field Analytical QC Sample Table cont.
- Field Screening/Confirmatory Analysis
Decision Tree
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample
Table
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample
Table cont.

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EPA QAIR-5
QAPP
ELEMENTS
REQUIRED EPA-NE QAPP ELEMENTS
and CORRESPONDING EPA-NE QAPP
SECTIONS
EPA-NE
QAPP
Worksheet
REQUIRED INFORMATION
B9
14.0 Data Acquisition Requirements
25
- Non-Direct Measurements Criteria and
Limitations Table
A9, BlO
15.0 Documentation, Records and Data
Management
15.1 Project Documentation and Records
15.2 Field Analysis Data Package
Deliverables
15.3 Fixed Laboratoiy Data Package
Deliverables
15.4 Data Reporting Formats
15.5 Data Handling and Management
15.6 Data Tracking and Control
26
- Projeët Documentation and Records Table
- Data Management SOPs
AssessmentlOversight
Cl
16.0 Assessments and Response Actions
16.1 Planned Assessments
16.2 Assessment Findings and Corrective
Action Responses
16.3 Additional QAPP Non-Conformances
27a
27b
27c
- Assessment and Response Actions
- Project Assessment Table
- Project Assessment Plan
- Audit Checklists
C2
17.0 QA Management Reports
28
- QA Management Reports Table
Data Validation and Usability
Dl
18.0 Verification and Validation
Requirements
- Validation Criteria Docwnents *
D2
19.0 Verification and Validation Procedures
29a
29b
29c
- Data Evaluation Process
- Data Validation Summary Table
- Data Validation Modifications
D3
20.0 Data Usability/Reconciliation with
Project_Quality_Objectives
30
- Data Usability Assessment
* Include Data Validation Criteria Document as an attachment to the QAPP if Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional
Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses will not be used for validating project data.
Note: Required project-specific information should be provided in tabular format, as much as practicable. However, sufficient
written discussion in text format should accompany these tables. Certain sections, by their nature, will require more
written discussion than others. In particular, Section 8.0 should provide an in-depth explanation of the sampling design
rationale and Sections 18-20 should describe the procedures and criteria that will be used to verify, validate and assess data
usability.

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Attachment A
“Region I, EPA-New England Quality Assurance Project Plan Manual,”
Draft, September 1998

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REGION I, EPA-NEW ENGLAND
QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN MANUAL
___ 1
U.S. EPA-NEW ENGLAND
Region I
Quality Assurance Unit Staff
Office of Environmental \Ieasurement and Evaluation
eptemner I9WS
DRAFT

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REGION I, EPA-NEW ENGLAND
QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN MANUAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INTRODUCTION 1
PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND OBJECTIVES ELEMENTS 10
1.0 Title and Approval Page 10
2.0 Table of Contents and Document Format 11
2.1 Table of Contents 11
2.2 Document Control Format 12
2.3 Document Control Numbering System 12
2.4 EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2 13
3.0 Distribution List and Project Personnel Sign-Off Sheet 14
4.0 Project Organization 16
4.1 Project Organizational Chart 16
4.2 Communication Pathways 17
4.2.1 Modifications to Approved QAPP 17
4.3 Personnel Responsibilities and Qualifications 18
4.4 Special Training Requirements/Certification 20
5.0 Project Planning/Problem Defmition 21
5.1 Project Planning Meetings (Scoping Meetings) 21
5.2 Problem DefinitioniSite History and Background 24
6.0 Project Description and Schedule 26
6.1 Project Overview 26
6.2 Project Schedule 30
7.0 Project Quality Objectives and Measurement Performance Criteria . . . 32
7.1 Project Quality Objectives 32
7.2 Measurement Performance Criteria 34
MEASUREMENT/DATA ACQUISITION ELEMENTS 49
8.0 Sampling Process Design 50
8.1 Sampling Design Rationale 50
9.0 Sampling Procedures and Requirements 52
9.1 Sampling Procedures 52
9.2 Sampling SOP Modifications 54
9.3 Cleaning and Decontamination of EquiipmentJ
Sample Containers 54
9.4 Field Equipment Calibration 55
9.5 Field Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection
Requirements 56
9.6 Inspection and Acceptance Requirements for Supplies/
Sample Containers 57

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Page
10.0 Sample Handling, Tracking and Custody Requirements 58
10.1 Sample Collection Documentation 58
10.1.1 Field Notes 58
10.1.2 Field Documentation Management System 59
10.2 Sample Handling and Tracking System 59
10.3 Sample Custody 62
11.0 Field Analytical Method Requirements 65
11.1 Field Analytical Methods and SOPs 65
11.2 Field Analytical Method/SOP Modifications 67
11.3 Field Analytical Instrument Calibration 67
11.4 Field Analytical Instrument/Equipment Maintenance,
Testing and Inspection Requirements 68
11.5 Field Analytical Inspection and Acceptance
Requirements for Supplies 70
12.0 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method Requirements 71
12.1 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Methods and SOPs 71
12.2 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method/SOP Modifications 73
12.3 Fixed Laboratory Instrument Calibration 73
12.4 Fixed Laboratory Instrument/Equipment Maintenance,
Testing and Inspection Requirements 74
12.5 Fixed Laboratory Inspection and Acceptance
Requirements for Supplies 74
13.0 Quality Control Requirements 75
13.1 Sampling Quality Control 76
13.2 Analytical Quality Control 80
13.2.1 Field Analytical QC 88
13.2.2 Fixed Laboratory QC 90
14.0 Data Acquisition Requirements (Non-direct Measurements) 92
15.0 Documentation, Records and Data Management 97
15.1 Project Documentation and Records 97
15.2 Field Analysis Data Package Deliverables 99
15.3 Fixed Laboratory Data Package Deliverables 100
15.4 Data Reporting Formats 105
15.5 Data Handling and Management 105
15.6 Data Tracking and Control 107
ASSESSMENT/OVERSIGHT ELEMENTS 108
16.0 Assessments and Response Actions 108
16.1 Planned Assessments 109
16.2 Assessment Findings and Corrective Action Responses 112
16.3 Additional QAPP Non-Conformances 113

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Page
17.0 QA Management Reports 114
DATA VALIDATION AND USABILITY ELEMENTS 116
18.0 Verification and Validation Requirements 118
19.0 Verification and Validation Procedures 120
20.0 Data UsabilityfReconciliation with Project Quality Objectives 122
Glossary of Acronyms
Diagrams
1. EPA-NE Systematic Planning Process 8
2. Example Data Comparison Flow Diagram and Criteria for Individual
Aqueous Split Sample Results . 40
3. Comparability Determination . 42
4. Determining Project Quantitation Limits . 46
5. Acquired Data Evaluation Process . 93
6. Preliminary Data Review Decision Tree 123
Figures
Figure 1. Example Title and Approval Page 10
Figure 2. Example EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2 13
Figure 3. Example Distribution List 14
Figure 4. Example Project Personnel Sign-Off Sheet 15
Figure 5. Example Organizational Chart 16
Figure 6. Example Personnel Responsibilities and Qualifications Table 19
Figure 7. Example Special Personnel Training Requirements Table 20
Figure 8. Example Project Scoping Meeting Attendance Sheet 23
Figure 9a. Example Contaminants of Concern and Other Target Analytes Table . 26
Figure 9b. Example Field and Quality Control Sample Summary Table 28
Figure 9c. Example Analytical Services Table 29
Figure 10. Example Project Schedule Timeline Table 30
Figure 11. Example Measurement Performance Criteria Table 47
Figure 12. Example Sampling Locations, Sampling and Analysis Method/SOP
Requirements Table 51
Figure 13. Example Project Sampling SOP Reference Table 53
Figure 14. Example Field Sampling Equipment Calibration Table 55
Figure 15. Example Field Equipment Maintenance, Testing and
Inspection Table 56
Figure 16. Example Sample Handling Flow Diagram 61
Figure 17. Example Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table 66
Figure 18. Example Field Analytical Instrument Calibration Table 67
Figure 19. Example Field Analytical Instrument/Equipment Maintenance,
Testing and Inspection Table 69
Figure 20. Example Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method/SOP
Reference Table 72

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Page
Figure 21. Example Fixed Laboratory Instrument Maintenance and
Calibration Table 73
Figure 22a. Example Field Sampling QC Table t. 78
Figure 22b. Example Field Sampling SOP Precision and Accuracy Table 79
Figure 23a. Example Field Analytical QC Sample Table 88
Figure 23b. Example Field Analytical Method/SOP Precision and
Accuracy Table 89
Figure 24a. Example Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample Table 90
Figure 24b. Example Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Precision and
Accuracy Table 91
Figure 25. Example Non-Direct Measurements Criteria and Limitations Table . . 94
Figure 26. Example Project Documents and Records Table 98
Figure 27. Example Project Assessment Table 109
Figure 28. Example QA Management Reports Table 114
Figure 29. Example Data Validation Summary Table 121
Tables
1. Region I, EPA-NE QAPP Requirement Summarization 2
2. Types of Field QC Samples and Required Frequency 77
3. Types of Field Analytical and Fixed Laboratory QC Checks/Samples and
Required Frequency 81
4. Information Derived from Quality Control Checks and Samples 83
5. Complete Laboratory Data Package Documentation 101
6. Laboratory Data Package Elements 102
Appendices
1. EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets (QAPP Workbook)
2. EPA-NE DQO Summary Form
3. Example Field Sampling Forms
i. Well Purging - Field Water Quality Measurements Form
ii. Soil Boring Log Forms
iii. Well Development Record
iv. Chain-of-Custody Form
4. Environmental Monitoring Management Council (EMMC) Method Format
5. Example TSA Audit Questionnaire and Example TSA Audit Report
6. Example Overall Evaluation of Data - Data Validation Memorandum - Table II

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 1 of 129
REGION I, EPA-NEW ENGLAND
QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN MANUAL
INTRODUCTION
This Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) Manual is Attachment A of the Region I. EPA-New
England Compendium of Quality Assurance Project Plan Guidance . It is intended to provide
Region-specific instruction and guidance regarding the preparation of QAPPs in accordance with
EPA Requirements for Ouality Assurance Project Plans for Environmental Data Operations , EPA
QA/R-5, November 1997. This Manual must be used by EPA Region I, New England (hereafter
referred to as EPA-NE); and its Federal, State, Tribal and Local partners; the regulated
community; or any other Lead Organization and any contractor thereof when performing
environmental data collection operations that are partially or completely funded by EPA-NE.
Lead Organizations may include the following:
• Other Federal Government Agencies under interagency agreements and Memoranda of
Understanding (MOU) with EPA-NE.
• States, Tribes and Local governments under financial agreements, including grants and
cooperative agreements.
• Non-profit Organizations (e.g., Volunteer Organizations, Interstate Associations, etc.)
under financial agreements, including institutions of higher education and hospitals.
• Regulated Entities/Facilities (e.g., potentially responsible parties) under voluntary or
enforcement consent decrees, agreements and orders.
Lead Organizations must develop, operate and document Quality Systems to ensure that
environmental data collected or compiled for the Agency are scientifically sound, of known and
documented quality and are suitable for their intended use.
This guidance is not program-specific and is intended to be as comprehensive as possible. Since
the content and level of detail in each QAPP will vary according to the work being
performed and the intended use of the data, parts of this guidance may not be applicable to
all programs. Additional program-specific QAPP guidance documents, which have been
developed to address specific programmatic issues, are provided in Attachments B - XXX of the
QAPP Compendium and must be followed hen so directed by the applicable EPA-NE program
office. Even if program-specific guidance is followed, the information specified in Table 1 must I
still be provided in a QAPP submitted to Region 1. Additional Agency program/initiative-
specific QAPP guidance documents will be developed as needed.
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Table 1. Region I, EPA-NE QAPP Requirement Summarization
EPA QAIR-5
QAPP
ELEMENTS
REQUIRED EPA-NE QAPP ELEMENTS
and CORRESPONDING EPA-NE QAPP
SECTIONS
EPA-NE
QAPP
Worksheet
REQUIRED INFORMATION
Project Management and Objectives
Al
1.0 Title and Approval Page
1
- Title and Approval Page
A2
2.0 Table of Contents and Document Format
2.1 Table of Contents
2.2 Document Control Format
2.3 Document Control Numbering System
2.4 EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2
2
- Table of Contents
- EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet
A3
3.0 Distribution List and Project Personnel
Sign-off Sheet
3
4
- Distribution List
- Project Personnel Sign-off Sheet
A4, A8
4.0 Project Organization
4.1 Project Organizational Chart
4.2 Communication Pathways
4.2.1 Modifications to Approved QAPP
4.3 Personnel Responsibilities and
Qualifications
4.4 Special Training Requirements/
Certification
5a
5b
6
7
- Organizational Chart
- Communication Pathways
- Personnel Responsibilities and
Qualifications Table
- Special Personnel Training Requirements
Table
A5
5.0 Project Planning/Project Definition
5.1 Project Planning Meetings
5.2 Problem Defmition/Site History and
Background
8a
8b
- Project Scoping Meeting Attendance Sheet
with Agenda and other Project Planning
Meeting Documentation
- Problem Definition/Site History and
Background
- EPA-NE DQO Summary Form
- Site Maps (historical and present)
A6
6.0 Project Description and Schedule
6.1 Project Overview
6.2 Project Schedule
9a
9b
9c
9d
10
- Project Description
- Contaminants of Concern and Other Target
Analytes Table
- Field and Quality Control Sample Summary
Table
- Analytical Services Table
- System Designs
- Project Schedule Timeline Table
A7
7.0 Project Quality Objectives and
Measurement Performance Criteria
7.1 Project Quality Objectives
7.2 Measurement Performance Criteria
1 Ia
1 lb
- Project Quality Objectives/Decision
Statements
- Measurement Performance Criteria Table
Measurement/Data Acquisition
Bl
8.0 Sampling Process Design
8.1 Sampling Design Rationale
12a
12b
- Sampling Design and Rationale
- Sampling Locations, Sampling and Analysis
Method SOP Requirements Table
- Sample Location Map

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EPA QAIR-5
QAPP
ELEMENTS
REQUIRED EPA-NE QAPP ELEMENTS
and CORRESPONDING EPA-NE QAP?
SECTIONS
EPA-NE
QAPP
Worksheet
REQUIRED INFORMA flON I
B2, 86,
B7, B8

9.0 Sampling Procedures and Requirements
9.1 Sampling Procedures
9.2 Sampling SOP Modifications
9.3 Cleaning and Decontamination of
Equipment/Sample Containers
9.4 Field Equipment Calibration
9.5 Field Equipment Maintenance,
Testing and Inspection Requirements
9.6 Inspection and Acceptance
Requirements for Supplies! Sample
Containers
13
12b
14
15
- Sampling SOPs
- Project Sampling SOP Reference Table
- Sampling Container, Volumes and
Preservation Table
- Field Sampling Equipment Calibration
Table
- Cleaning and Decontamination SOPs
- Field Equipment Maintenance, Testing and
Inspection Table
B3
10.0 Sample Handling, Tracking and
Custody Requirements
10.1 Sample Collection Documentation
10.1.1 Field Notes
10.1.2 Field Documentation
Management System
10.2 Sample Handling and Tracking
System
10.3 Sample Custody
16
- Sample Handling, Tracking and Custody
SOPs
- Sample Handling Flow Diagram
- Sample Container Label (Sample Tag)
- Chain-of-Custody Form and Seal
84, B6,
B7, B8
11.0 Field Analytical Method Requirements
11.1 Field Analytical Methods and SOPs
11.2 Field Analytical Method/SOP
Modifications
11.3 Field Analytical Instrument
Calibration
11.4 Field Analytical Instrument/
Equipment Maintenance, Testing and
Inspection Requirements
11.5 Field Analytical Inspection and
Acceptance Requirements for
Supplies
17
18
19
- Field Analytical Methods/SOPs
- Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference
Table
- Field Analytical Instrument Calibration
Table
- Field Analytical Instrument/Equipment
Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table
B4, B6,
B7, B8

12.0 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method
Requirements
12.1 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Methods
and SOPs
12.2 Fixed Laboratory Analytical
Method/SOP Modifications
12.3 Fixed Laboratory Instrument
Calibration
12.4 Fixed Laboratory Instrument/
Equipment Maintenance, Testing and
Inspection Requirements
12.5 Fixed Laboratory Inspection and
Acceptance Requirements for
Supplies
20
21
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical
Methods/SOPs
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method/SOP
Reference Table
- Fixed Laboratory Instrument Maintenance
and Calibration Table
B5
13.0 Quality Control Requirements
13.1 Sampling Quality Cantrol
13.2 Analytical Quality Control
13.2.1 Field Analytical QC
13.2.2 Fixed Laboratory QC
22a
22b
23a
23b
24a
24b
Sampling
- Field Sampling QC Table
- Field Sampling QC Table cont.
Analytical
- Field Analytical QC Sample Table
- Field Analytical QC Sample Table cont.
- Field Screening/Confirmatory Analysis
Decision Tree
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample
Table
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample
Table cont.

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EPA QAJR-5
QAPP
ELEMENTS
REQUH D EPA-NE (?)Jh PP ELEMENTS .1
and CORRESPONDING EPA-NE QAPP
SECTIONS
‘EPA-NE
QAPP
Worksheet
REQUffiEDINFORMATION
B9
14.0 Data Acquisition Requirements
25
- Non-Direct Measurements Criteria and
Limitations Table
A9, BlO
15.0 Documentation, Records and Data
Management
15.1 Project Documentation and Reoords
15.2 Field Analysis Data Package
Deliverables
15.3 Fixed Laboratory Data Package
Deliverables
15.4 Data Reporting Formats
15.5 Data Handling and Management
15.6 Data Tracking and Control
26
- Project Documentation and Records Table
- Data Management SOPs
Assessment/Oversight
Cl
16.0 Assessments and Response Actions
16.1 Planned Assessments
16.2 Assessment Findings and Corrective
Action Responses
16.3 Additional QAPP Non-Conformances
27a
27b
27c
- Assessment and Response Actions
- Project Assessment Table
- Project Assessment Plan
- Audit Checklists
C2
17.0 QA Management Reports
28
- QA Management Reports Table
Data Validation
and Usability
Dl
18.0 Verification and Validation
Requirements
- Validation Criteria Documents *
D2
19.0 Verification and Validation Procedures
29a
29b
29c
- Data Evaluation Process
- Data Validation Summary Table
- Data Validation Modifications
D3
20.0 Data Usability/Reconciliation with
Project_Quality_Objectives
30
- Data Usability Assessment
* Include Data Validation Criteria Document as an attachment to the QAPP if Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional
Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses will not be used for validating project data.
Note: Required project-specific information should be provided in tabular format, as much as practicable. However, sufficient
written discussion in text format should accompany these tables. Certain sections, by their nature, will require more
written discussion than others. In particular, Section 8.0 should provide an in-depth explanation of the sampling design
rationale and Sections 18-20 should describe the procedures and criteria that will be used to verify, validate and assess data
usability.

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 6 of 129
In accordance with EPA QAJR- , there are four basic element groups that must he addressed iii a
QAPP: Project Management and Objectives; MeasurementlData Acquisition; Assessmentl
Oversight; and Data Validation and Usability. The four QAPP element groups represent pieces of
the liIi. cycle of a project and they are integrated through the use of planning meetings
Table 1 provides a crass walk between the required EPA QA/R-5 element groups and the
required H A-N [ QAPP sections. Note that each section of an EPA -NE QAPt is designed to
cover one or more of the EPA QAJR-5 elements. The required EPA-NE QAPP sections are
discussed individually in this Manual.
The QAPP serves several purposes incliiding
• As a technical planning document , it provides an overview of the project by identitying the
purpose of the project, defining the project quality objectives and outlining the field, analytical
and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) activities that will be used to support
environmental decisions.
• As an organizational document , it identities key project personnel thereby l tcilitating
communication.
• As an oversight document , it must be reviewed and approved by EPA-NE or the delegated
approval authority prior to sample collection.
The QAPP serves as a demonstration of an organization’s ability to plan, implement, assess and
document project activities and should provide sufficient, detailed information to verify that these
activities will result in usable data. To facilitate QAPP review and help to ensure approval, all
QAPPs written for EPA-NE must, at a minimum, include all specified information and
enclosures as detailed in this Manual, that is;
Region [ QAPP Guidance
Draft 9/98

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 7of 129
Each of the following sections (Sections 1.0 through 20.0) and all subsections thereof
must be addressed in the QAPP. As much as practicable, information should be provided in
tabular format. However, sufficient written discussion in text fohnat should accompany those -
tables. Certain sections, by their nature, will require more written discussion than others.
EPA-NE supports a “graded approach” when preparing QAPPs. In other words, the degree
of documentation and detail will vary based upon the complexity and cost of the project.
Appropriate consideration should be given to the significance of the environmental problem to
be investigated, the environmental decision to be made, and impact on human health and the
environment.
NRequired QAPP enclosures/attachments, e.g., tables, diagrams and documents for each
section are italicized in bold. To assist in compiling critical QAPP information, EPA-NE
QAPP Worksheets are included in Appendix 1 and the EPA-NE DQO Summary Form is
included in Appendix 2. These QAPP Worksheets and the DQO Summary Form should be
taken to project scoping meetings and completed during the project planning stage.
Subsequently, the worksheet information can be presented in tabular format in the QAPP
Important Notes:
1) The example tables in this Manual i intended to reflect
the work ofjust one project. In other words, project
information, data, dates, objectives, etc., Ei necessarily
be consistent from one example table to another.
2) The completed tables are only examples, and QAPPs must
provide information and data tailored to fit the objectives of
individual projects.
3) All examples are fictitious. All names, organizational
names, and phone numbers are fictitious and are included for
illustrative purposes only.
The overall project planning process is presented in Diagram 1. Although the overall project
planning process is presented as a linear sequence of activities, project planners are advised to
revisit certain planning activities whenever necessary due to the iterative nature of a planning
process.
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: Draft
Date: 9/10/98
Diagram 1. EPA-NE Systematic Planning Process Page: 8 of 129
Identify Lead Organization, Approval
Authority, and Project Case Team
Identify Project Organization and Responsibilities
- Include Project Management, Data Users, Data Generators,
QA Personnel, QAPP Preparation Teani, and Stakeholders
Schedule and Convene Scoplng Meetings
- Complete EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets
Develop Project Schedule
- Identify resource and/or time limitations
- Identify regulatory requirements and/or restrictions
- Identify seasonal sampling restrictions
Determine the “Type” of data needed:
- Identify Contaminants of Concern and Concentration
Levels
- Select Analytical Parameters
- Determine appropriateness of Field Screening, Field
Analytical and/or Fixed Laboratory Techniques
- Evaluate appropriateness of Sampling Techniques
0
Determine the “Quality” of data n
- Establish project sampling/analytical measurement
performance criteria (MPC) for precision, accuracy/bias.
sensitivity (quantitation limits), comparability,
representativeness and completeness
Determine The “Quantity” ‘of data needed:
- Determine the number of samples needed for each analytical
parameter/macrlx/concentration level
Define Environmental Problem
- Research site history and background
- Identify secondary data sources (acquired data) and limitations
• Identify environmental decisions that need to be made
- Identify questions that need to be answered to make environmental decisions
- Determine if Formal DQO process (EPA QA/G4) is needed for critical decision-making
- Identify data user needs
- Develop “Iflthen” statements that link data results and possible actions
to ensure that data
are scientifically
sound and that only
data meeting project
cr iteria will be used
to support
environmental
Region I QAPP Guidance
Draft 9/98

-------
!ra ue
1 PP -- al
Determine Sampling Requirements
T
l)evelop Sampling Design Rationale
Requirements
Select Field Screening and Field Analytical Methods/SOPs
that have documented QC Limits supporting the MPC.
• Determine frequency and type of Field Analytical QC checks
and samples
- Determine required data reporting format
- Determine data verification procedures
I
Decide how project data will be evaluated after
validation to determine If the users needs have been met.
Prepare QAPP and Submit for Approval
gic
Rev.: Draft
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 9of 129
Select Fixed Laboratory Methods/SOP ,
that have documented QC Limits supporting the MPC
- Detennlne frequency and type of Fixed Laboratory QC
checks and samples
• Determine required data reporting format
- Determine data verification procedures
Select Sampling SOPS
that have documented QC l.imits supporting the MPC
- Determine frequency and type of sampling QC checks
and samples
- Determine required field documentation
Determine verification procedures
Obtitn srr ice
of Ficid
Sampling Omup
V
Determine Quality Assurance Assessments that will be performed
- Field Sampling TSAs
- Field Analytical and Fixed Laboratory TSAs
- Data Assessments
Split Sampling and Analysis Audits
- PE Samples
•MSRs
Identify organizations performing assessment
Region I QAPP Guidance
Draft 9/98

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: lOof 129
PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND OBJECTIVES ELEMENTS
These elements ensure that the project has a defined purpose and document the environmental
problem, the environmental questions being asked, and the environmental decisions that need to
be made. They identify the project quality objectives necessary to answer those questions and
support those environmental decisions. These elements also address management considerations,
such as roles and responsibilities, for the project.
1.0 Title and Approval Page (EPA QA/R-5 Element: Al)
The Title and Approval Page comprises the first page of the QAPP. It documents that the QAPP
has received proper approval from EPA prior to implementation. EPA-NE is responsible for
reviewing and approving all intramural and extramural QAPPs, except in the case where the
authority to review and approve QAPPs has been delegated by EPA-NE to another organization,
such as a State or Tribe.
Tide andApproval Page - Provide a Title and Approval Page that contains the required
information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #1. An example of a completed
Title and Approval Page is provided in Fgure 1.
Figure 1. Example Title and Approval Page
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Figure 1. E ampIe Title and Approval Page ‘Rev. 10/99
Site Name/Project Name: North Street Property Title: North Street Property QAPP
Site Location: Wordsworth, NH Revision Number: /
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 1 of X ’(
Approval Signature:
Other Approval Signatures:
Wei. y 7 eda 1/25/9!
Signature/Date
Heniy Thoreaw’EPA NE RCRA Facility
Printed Name/Title
EPA Region I
Approval Authority
1 125/ 9 !
SignaturelDate
John Donne/EPA NE, QA Chemist
Printed Name/Title
Document Title: North Street Property Quality Assurance Project Plan
Lead Organization (Agency, State, Tribe, Federal Facility, PRP, or Grantee): Poe Recycling
Preparer’s Name and Organizational Affiliation: Eleanor Maguire/Chaucer Engineering
Preparer’s Address and Telephone Number: 1579 Smith Street, Boston, MA 02194, (617) 957-0011
Preparation Date (Day/Month/Year): 1/9/98
Investigative Organization’s Project Manager: Do oz g vt4m 1115/9!
Signature/Date
Dorothy Parker/Chaucer Engineering
Printed Name/Organization
111519!
Signature/Date
Claire Carpenter/Chaucer Engineering
Printed Name/Organization
Wow d7a € 11/5/9!
Signature/Date
Howard Fast/Poe Recycling
Printed Name/Organization
Investigative Organization’s Project QA Officer:
Lead Organization’s Project Manager:
Document Control Number:
FAZI 15509

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: lIof 129
2.0 Table of Contents and Document Format (EPA QAIR-5 Element: A2)
The organization of the QAPP should be easy to understand and must follow the format and
section headings as described in this QAPP Manual. All italicized tables, diagrams, charts,
worksheets, and other deliverables, which are itemized in this guidance, must be included as
components of the QAPP and listed in the Table of Contents. If any of the required QAPP
elements, EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets, and/or required information are not applicable to the
project, then those QAPP elements/worksheets/required information must be indicated on EPA-
NE QAPP Worksheet #2, along with a justification for their exclusion. EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #2, which will be discussed in Section 2.4, provides a snapshot of critical project
information.
2.1 Table of Contents
A Table of Contents clearly outlines the organization of the QAPP and makes project
information easy to reference.
Table of Contents - Provide a Table of Contents that is comprehensive and contains the title and
locations (i.e., page number, appendix or attachment number, etc.) of the following items:
• Major Sections
• Subsections
• References
Applicable reference documents include but are not limited to:
National requirement and guidance documents
Guidance for the Planning for Data Collection in Support of Environmental
Decision Making Using the Data Quality Objective Process , September 1994,
EPA/6001R-96/055 (EPA QAJG-4)
Guidance for the Preparation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs for
Oualitv-Related Documents , November 1995, EPA/600/R-96/027 (EPA QAIG-6)
EPA Requirements for Quality Assurance Project Plans for Environmental Data
Operations , November 1997 (EPA QAIR-5)
Regional requirement and guidance documents
This QAPP Manual
Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating
Envimnmental Analyses , December 1996
Low percent solids data validation policy statement - (9/21/90 Memorandum to
Data Validators)
Regional Sampling Standard Operating Procedures
Regional Analytical Technical Specifications and Standard Operating Procedures
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: l2of 129
S Appendices and/or Attachments
Applicable appendices and/or attachments include but are not limited to:
• List of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sampling, drilling, sample preparation
and analysis, etc., that are included as attachments
• List of completed QAPP Worksheets, if not included as Tables in the QAPP, that are
included as attachments
• List of Laboratory Quality Assurance Plans (LQAPs) or Quality Assurance Manuals
(LQAMs) for participating laboratories, that are included as attachments
• List of Tables
• List of Figures
• List of Diagrams
2.2 Document Control Format
Document control procedures are used to identif ’ the most current version of the QAPP and to
help ensure that only the most current version of the QAPP is used by all project participants.
Document Control Format - Use the following document control format (with the exceptions
noted below) starting with the Title and Approval Page and including the table of contents, and
all figures, tables and diagrams. Include, in the upper right-hand corner of each page:
• The title of the document (abbreviations may be used)
• The original version number or revision number, whichever is applicable, and document
status (i.e., draft, interim draft, interim final, final)
• The date of the original version (i.e., draft, interim draft, interim final, final) or current
revision, whichever is applicable
• The page number in relation to the total number of pages or, alternatively, pages may be
numbered as part of the total pages for a discrete section. (In the case of the second option,
the Table of Contents should list inclusive page numbers for each subsection, i.e., 1-1
through 1-9; etc.)
Differentiate each revision of the QAPP with a new revision number and date.
2.3 Document Control Numbering System (optional for smaller projects)
A document control numbering system accounts for all copies of the QAPP provided to project
personnel and helps to ensure that the most current version is in use. A sequential numbering
system is used to identify controlled copies of the QAPP. Controlled copies should be assigned
to individuals within an organization or team. Individuals receiving a controlled copy of the
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 13 of 129
QAPP are provided with all revisions, addenda and amendments to the QAPP. Those individuals
in receipt of a controlled copy are responsible for removing all outdated material from
circulation.
The document control system does not preclude making and using copies of the QAPP; however,
the holders of the controlled copies are responsible for distributing revised/additional material to
update any copies within their organizations. The distribution list for controlled copies should be
maintained by the organization that prepares the QAPP, and a copy of that distribution list should
be provided to the Lead Organization.
2.4 EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2
EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2 prefaces the information in the QAPP and places the document in
context for the reviewer. It identifies the key project players, whether previous site work has
been performed, and the EPA program for which the current project is being performed.
EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2- Include a completed EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2 in the
QAPP. An example of a completed EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2 is provided in Figure 2.
Figure 2. Example EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Figure ‘Z. Exampte ’EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2 - Rev. 10/99
Site Name/Project Name: North Street Property
Site Location: Wordsworth, NH
Site NumberlCode: 0195X
Operable Unit: 01
Contractor Name: Chaucer Engineering
Contractor Number: 690
Contract Title: BESTS
Work Assignment Number: 97-1-12-34
Anticipated date of QAPP Implementation: 2/15/98
I. Identify Guidance used to prepare QAPP:
Title: North Street Property QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 4 of X (
Region! EPA-NE Compendium QAPP gt ’Requiremenis and Guidance. Final October 1999. and Attachment A
EPA NE OAPP Manual Draft Sentember . 1998.
2. Identify EPA Program: EPA NE RCRA -Corrective Action
3. Identify approval entity: EPA-NE or State: EPA-NE
or other entity:
4. Indicate whether the QAPP is a generic program QAPP or a project specific OAPP. (underline one)
5. List dates of scoping meetings that were held: /0/25/97, 11/7/97, 11/26/9.7
6. List title of QAPP documents and approval dates written for previous site work, if applicable:
Title
North Street Property - Emergency Response
Approval Date
01/06/96
7. List organizational partners (stakeholders) and connection with EPA and/or State:
Wordsworth, New Hampshire Board of Health.
Police, Fire, and Sanitation Departments, and
NH Department of Environmental Services
8. List data users: EPA-NE RCPU4 Facility Manager, Poe Recycling (Lead Organization), EPA-NE Risk Assessors
9. If any requir&l QAPP .E1e nents (1-20), Wonksbeets and/or Required Information are not appiicable the project, then circile
the omitted QAPP Elements, Worksheets and Required Information on the attached Table. Provide an explanation for their
exclusion below:
Section 4.4 not applicable - specialty training not necessary to collect monhtorin2 well same/es

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2 (continued)
Rev. 10199
Bold QAPP Elements, Worksheets and/or Required Information that are not applicable to the project and provide an
explanation on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2, Item 9.
EPA QA/R-5
QAPP
ELEMENTS
REQUIRED EPA-NE QAPP ELEMENTS
and CORRESPONDING EPA-NE QAPP
SECTIONS
EPA-NE
QAPP
Worksheet
REQUIRED INFORMATION
Project Management and Objectives
Al
1.0 Title and Approval Page
1
- Title and Approval Page
A2
2.0 Table of Contents and Document Format
2.1 Table of Contents
2.2 Document Control Format
2.3 Document Control Numbering System
2.4 EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2
2
- Table of Contents
- EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet
A3
3.0 Distribution List and Project Personnel
Sign-off Sheet
3
4
- Distribution List
- Project Personnel Sign-off Sheet
A4, A8
4.0 Project Organization
4.1 Project Organizational Chart
4.2 Communication Pathways
4.2.1 Modifications to Approved QAPP
4.3 Personnel Responsibilities and
Qualifications
4.4 Special Training Requirements!
Certiflcation
5a
Sb
6
7
- Organizational Chart
- Conununication Pathways
- Personnel Responsibilities and
Qualifications Table
- Special Personnel Training Requirements
Table
AS
5.0 Project Planning/Project Definition
5.1 Project Planning Meetings
5.2 Problem Definition/Site History and
Background
8a
8b
- Project Scoping Meeting Attendance Sheet
with Agenda and other Project Planning
Meeting Documentation
- Problem Definition/Site History and
Background
- EPA-NE DQO Summary Form
- Site Maps (historical and present)
A6
6.0 Project Description and Schedule
6.1 Project Overview
6.2 Project Schedule
9a
9b
9c
9d
10
- Project Description
- Contaminants of Concern and Other Target
Analytes Table
- Field and Quality Control Sample Summary
Table
- Analytical Services Table
- System Designs
- Project Schedule Tüneline Table
A7
7.0 Project Quality Objectives and
Measurement Performance Criteria
7.1 Project Quality Objectives
7.2 Measurement Performance Criteria
1 la
1 lb
- Project Quality Objectives/Decision
Statements
- Measurement Performance Criteria Table
Measurement/Data Acquisition
Bi
8:0 Sampling Process Design
8.1 Sampling Design Rationale
12a
12b
- Sampling Design and Rationale
- Sampling Locations, Sampling and Analysis
Method/SOP Requirements Table
- Sample Location Map

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2 (continued)
Rev. 10/99
EPA QAJR-5
QAPP
ELEMENTS
REQUIRED EPA-NE QAPP ELEMENTS
and CORRESPONDING EPA-NE QAPP
SECTIONS
EPA-NE
QAPP
Worksheet
REQUIRED INFORMATION
B2, B6,
B7, B8

9.0 Sampling Procedures and Requirements
9.1 Sampling Procedures
9.2 Sampling SOP Modifications
9.3 Cleaning and Decontamination of
Equipment/Sample Containers
9.4 Field Equipment Calibration
9.5 Field Equipment Maintenance,
Testing and Inspection Requirements
9.6 Inspection and Acceptance
Requirements for Supplies/Sample
Containers
13
l2b
14
15
- Sampling SOPs
- Project Sampling SOP Reference Table
- Sampling Container, Volumes and
Preservation Table
- Field Sampling Equipment Calibration
Table
- Cleaning and Decontamination SOPs
- Field Equipment Maintenance, Testing and
Inspection Table
B3
10.0 Sample Handling. Tracking and
Custody Requirements
10.1 Sample Collection Documentation
10.1.1 Field Notes
10.1.2 Field Documentation
Management System
10.2 Sample Handling and Tracking
System
10.3 Sample_Custody
16
- Sample Handling, Tracking and Custody
SOPs
- Sample Handling Flow Diagram
- Sample Container Label (Sample Tag)
- Chain-of-Custody Form and Seal
34, B6,
B7, B8
11.0 Field Analytical Method Requirements
11.1 Field Analytical Methods and SOPs
11.2 Field Analytical Method/SOP
Modifications
11.3 Field Analytical Instrument
Calibration
11.4. Field Analytical Instrument/
Equipment Maintenance, Testing and
Inspection Requirements
11.5 Field Analytical Inspection and
Acceptance Requirements for
Supplies
17
18
19
- Field Analytical Methods/SOPs
- Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference
Table
- Field Analytical Instrument Calibration
Table
- Field Analytical Instrument/Equipment
Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table
B4, B6,
B7, 38
12.0 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method
Requirements
12.1 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Methods
and SOPs
12.2 Fixed Laboratory Analytical
Method/SOP Modifications
12.3 Fixed Laboratory Instrument
Calibration
12.4 Fixed Laboratory Instrumentl
Equipment Maintenance, Testing and
Inspection Requirements
12.5 Fixed Laboratory Inspection and
Acceptance Requirements for
Supplies
20
21
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical
Methods/SOPs
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method/SOP
Reference Table
- Fixed Laboratory Instrument Maintenance
and Calibration Table

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2 (continued)
Rev. 10/99
EPA QA/R-5
QAPP
ELEMENTS
REQUIRED EPA-NE QAPP ELEMENTS
and CORRESPONDING EPA-NE QAPP
SECTIONS
EPA-NE
QAPP
Worksheet
REQUIRED INFORMATION
B5
13.0 Quality Control Requirements
13.1 Sampling Quality Control
13.2 Analytical Quality Control
13.2.1 Field Analytical QC
13.2.2 Fixed Laboratory QC
22a
22b
23a
23b
24a
24b
Sampling
- Field Sampling QC Table
- Field Sampling QC Table corn.
Analytical
- Field Analytical QC Sample Table
- Field Analytical QC Sample Table cont.
- Field Screening/Confirmatory Analysis
Decision Tree
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample
Table
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample
Table cont.
89
14.0 Data Acquisition Requirements
25
- Non-Direct Measurements Criteria and
Limitations Table
A9, B 10
15.0 Documentation, Records and Data
Management
15.1 Project Documentation and Records
15.2 Field Analysis Data Package
Deliverables
15.3 Fixed Laboratory Data Package
Deliverables
15.4 Data Reporting Formats
15.5 Data Handling and Management
15.6 Data Tracking and Control
26
- Project Documentation and Records Table
- Data Management SOPs
Assessment/Oversight
Cl
16.0 Assessments and Response Actions
16.1 Planned Assessments
16.2 Assessment Findings and Corrective
Action Responses
16.3 Additional QAPP Non-Conformances
27a
27b
27c
- Assessment and Response Actions
- Project Assessment Table
- Project Assessment Plan
- Audit Checklists
C2
17.0 QA Management Reports
28
- QA Management Reports Table
Data Validation and Usability
Dl
18.0 Verification and Validation
Requirements
- Validation Criteria Documents *
D2
19.0 Verification and Validation Procedures
29a
29b
29c
- Data Evaluation Process
- Data Validation Summary Table
- Data Validation Modifications
D3
.
20.0 Data Usability/Reconciliation with
Project Quality Objectives
30
- Data Usability Assessment
* Include Data ValidatLon Criteria Document as an attachment ‘to the ‘QAPP if Region 1. Data VMidarion Functional
Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses will not be used for validating project data.
Note: Required project-specific information should be provided in tabular format, as much as practicable. However,
sufficient written discussion in text format should accompany these tables. Certain sections, by their nature, will
require more written discussion than others. In particular. Section 8.0 should provide an in-depth explanation of the
sampling design rationale and Sections 18-20 should describe the procedures and criteria that will be used to verify,
validate and assess data usability.

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: l4of 129
3.0 Distribution List and Project Personnel Sign-Off Sheet (EPA QA/R-5 Element: A3)
Distribution List -
The Distribution List documents to whom copies of the approved QAPP and any subsequent
revisions will be sent. A complete copy of the QAPP should be sent to the Project Manager and
key project personnel for the Lead Organization and EPA-NE (or delegated approval authority).
In addition, a complete copy of the original version and all revisions of the QAPP, including
addenda and amendments, should be maintained on file by the Lead Organization and available
to EPA-NE upon request. Key project personnel include Case Team members as described in
Section 5.1 of this Manual.
Distribution List - Provide a Distribution List for the original version and each revision of the
QAPP that contains information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #3. An
example of a completed Distribution List is provided in Figure 3.
Figure 3. Example Distribution List
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #3 - Rev. 10/99
List people who will receive approved QAPP,
QAPP revisions, addenda and/or amendments.
(Refer to QAPP Manual Section 3.0 for guidance.)
Title: North Szre t Property QAPP
Revision Number: /
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 12 of X7(
Figure 3. Example Distribution List
QAPP Recipients
Title
Organization
J Telephone Number
Document
Control Number
Howard Fast
Poe Recycling Projeci Manager
Poe Recycling
603-667-1100
Fe4Z 1 1509
Danny Steele -
Poe Recycling QA Officer
Poe Recycling
-
603-667-1112
FAZJ 1510
Dorothy Parker
Project Manager/Geotechnical
Engineer
Chaucer Engineering
781-957-0171
FAZI 1511
Clafre Carpenter
Project QA Officer
Chaucer Engineering
781-957-0173
FAZI 1512
Frank Pemberion
Project Health & Safety Officer
Chaucer Engineering
781-957-0172
PAZ! /513
James Keller
Field Sampling Coordinator
Chaucer Engineering
781-957-0170
PAZ! 1514
Charles Dickens
Well Installer
Copperfield Drilling
781-888-0900
FAZI 1515
Robert Ga/van,
Laboratory Manager
Austin Laboratories
401-273-5542
FAZJ 15/6
John Grissom
Laboratory QA/QC Manager
Austin Laboratories
401-273-5542
FAZI 1517
Brendan Rivers
Data Validator
BOO Quality Services
508-667-1100
PAZ! 1518
Henry Thoreau
EPA Project Manager
US EPA-NE
781-555-9900
FAZI 1519
John Donne
EPA QA Chemist
US EPA-NE
781-555-9900
FAZI 1520
Hercule Poirol
EPA Risk Assessor
US EPA-NE
781-555-9900
FAZI 152!
Scott Fitzgerald
Risk Assessor
Eco-Risk
321-568-4488
FAZJ 1522

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: l5of 129
Project Personnel Sign-Off Sheet
The Project Personnel Sign-Off Sheet documents that ALL project personnel performing work
have read the QAPP and will perform the tasks as described. Project personnel include those
persons working for the Lead Organization including contractors and subcontractors. For
example, the laboratory manager who receives the QAPP should have all chemists/technicians
working on the project sign-off before beginning sample analysis.
Project Personnel Sign-Off Sheet - Provide an example of a Project Personnel Sign-Off Sheet
for the original version and each revision of the approved QAPP that contains information in the
format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #4. Note: Signed “Sheets” should be forwarded to
the central project file of the Lead Organization and made available to EPA-NE upon request.
An example of a completed Project Personnel Sign-Off Sheet is provided in Figure 4.
Figure 4. Example Project Personnel Sign-Off Sheet
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9198

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #4 - Rev. 10199
Copies of this form must be signed by project personnel from each organization to indicate
that they have read the QAPP and will implement the QAPP as prescribed. Each
organization must keep the original signed “Sheets” in their organization’s project file and
forward copies of the signed “Sheets” to the Lead Organization. (Refer to QAPP Manual
Section 3 0 for guidance.)
Figure 4. Example Project Personnel Sign-Off Sheet
Title: North Street Property QA PP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 13 of .LV
Organization: Austin Laboratories
Project Personnel
Title
Telephone
Number
Signature
Date QAPP Read
QAPP Acceptable
as Written
Robert Galvani —
Laboratory Manager
401-273-5542
b t 9 u i
2/1191
yes
John Grissoin
Laboratory QA/QC Manager
401-273-5542
t*aom
2/1,95’
yes
Lucy Alcott
CC/MS Operator
401-273-5542
4ae 4
2/1/91
yes
Walter Emerson
Sample Custodian/Data Manager
401-273-5542
çs
2/1/95’ -
yes

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: l6of 129
4.0 Project Organization (EPA QA/R-5 Element: A4 and A8)
The Project Organization section identifies the organizations, Case Team members and other key
personnel participating in the project and describes their specific roles, responsibilities and
qualifications. This section of the QAPP also provides an explanation of the lines of authority,
reporting relationships and communication paths.
4.1 Project Organizational Chart
Organization Chart - Provide an Organizational Chart that identifies all organizations involved
in the project, including Lead Organization and all contractor and subcontractor organizations
and their telephone numbers. Include the names of all Project Managers, Case Team members
and/or Project Contacts for each organization and their telephone numbers. Refer to Section 5.1
of this Manual for a discussion of the Case Team. An example of a completed Organizational
Chart is provided in Figure 5.
Figure 5. Example Organizational Chart
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

-------
1 4 r on el
— ‘P
I Organization
Role ______
Laboratoiy Manager Robert Galvan :
2 Organization Coaperfield Drilisne
Role lJelI Installation
Project Contact Charles Dickens
Identify reporting relationships between Lead Organization and
other organizations, including contractors and subcontractors.
Include the name and phone number of each organization and the
Project Manager, Case Teatn member, and/or Project Contacts for
each organization. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 4.1 for
guidance.) Figure 5. Example Organizational Chart
- ) 1re
Revision Number: I
Revision Pate: 1/9/98
Page /8 of XX
Approval Authority:
EPA Region I (78l-i55-9900 j
Lead Organization:
Poe Recycling (603-667-1100,)
Lead Organization Project Manager:
Hoti’ard Fast (603-667-1100)
Lead Organization
QA Officer:
Danny Steele
(603-667-1112)
Contractor Organization
Chaucer Engineering (781.957.01 70 ?
Role Prime Field In; estigorion
Project Manager
Doroth;’ I’arker (781-957-01 7U
Field Sampling Coordinator
James Keller (781.957.01 70)
Project QA Officer
Claire Carpenter (781-95 7.01 73 ,?
Project Health & Sarety orncer
Frank Pemberlon (781-957-0172)
Contractor Oiganizat,on
Eco RIsk (321.568-4488)
Role Risk Assessment
Risk Aswssor
Scott FItzgerald (321.568.4488)
Contractor Organization
8D0 Quality Services (S08.667-1 00)
Role Data Validation and Data Assessment
Data Validator
Brenda,, Rivers (508-667-1100)
Austin Laboratories (401.273.5540)
A...i.....
tAfli ((All
,iIIQD,flOfli ,
(781-888-0900)

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: l7of 129
4.2 Communication Pathways
One of the keys to a successful project is communication. To that end, communication pathways
and modes of communication (telefaxes, newsletters, electronic mail, reports, etc.) should be
delineated in the project planning stage (use EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #5b) and documented in
the QAPP. These pathways include the points of contact for resolving field and laboratory
problems, and the points of contact for the flow of preliminary, screening and fmal data to
managers, users and the public. Describe the proper procedures for soliciting concurrence and/or
obtaining approval between project personnel, between different contractors, and/or between
samplers and laboratory stafl
For example, complete the following statements:
• If field sampling will be delayed, then the Project Manager from the field sampling
contractor organization will notif r___________________________________________
• No data may be released to the public until __________________________________
• If the laboratory fails to accurately analyze a Performance Evaluation Sample (PES), then
the Project Manager from the Lead Organization will____________________________
4.2.1 Modifications to Approved QAPP
This section documents the procedures that will be followed when any project activity originally
documented in an approved QAPP requires real-time modification to achieve project goals.
These project activities include, but are not limited to:
• Sampling design
• Sample collection procedures
• Sample analysis procedures
• Data assessment and reporting
EPA-NE requires that all QAPP modifications be documented and submitted for approval in the
same manner as the original QAPP.
Use EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #5b to describe the procedures for initiating modifications to
project activities. State who has the authority to initiate procedural modifications. Describe how
amendments to the QAPP will be documented and submitted to EPA, or delegated authority, for
approvaL All amendrnerns o’the QAP? mustbe incorporated into the final version of the QAPP
that is maintained by the Lead Organization as a part of the official site records.
Note that only after the modification has been approved can the change be implemented.
Initial verbal approval may be used to expedite project work, however, the QAPP
modification must be documented immediately and submitted for formal approval.
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: l8of 129
To avoid the need for QAPP modifications, it is recommended that contingency actions be built
into the original QAPP and/or Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) whenever applicable. For
example, if there is a possibility that sediment samples may contain  30% solids, then the
QAPP should include appropriate procedures for identifying and collecting high moisture content
sediment/soil/solid samples that will be usable in achieving project quality objectives.
4.3 Personnel Responsibilities and Qualifications
Personnel Responsibilities and Qualjflcations Table with Attached Resumes - Identify the
project persomiel participating in responsible roles by name, title and affiliation in tabular format
as shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #6. Include personnel resumes as attachments to the
worksheet. If a resume is on file elsewhere, then document the location of the resume and
summarize the individual’s education and experience on Worksheet #6. If a resume does not
exist or is unavailable, then just summarize the individual’s education and experience on the
worksheet.
This table must include:
• Lead Organization Project Manager - Person with the responsibility and authority to
allocate resources and personnel to accomplish the project tasks as documented in the
QAPP
• Lead Organization Quality Assurance Officer - Individual who provides QA oversight of
project activities and who works independently of those performing project tasks.
• Project Manager(s) and/or Project Contact(s) for other organizations involved in the project
- Include both prime contractors and subcontractors
• QA Manager/Officer and/or QA Contact for other organizations involved in the project -
(Quality assurance manager or project quality assurance officer must be independent
of the group performing the task. In other words, the person responsible for checking
that correct procedures are used should not be performing the tasks.) Include both
prime contractors and subcontractors.
• Project Health and Safety Officer - Include both prime contractors and subcontractors
• Geotechnical engineers and hydrogeologists - Include both prime contractors and
subcontractors
• Field operation personnel, including field sampling coordinator, drillers, direct push
technology operators (Geoprobes, Cone Penetrometers), and field sampling personnel -
Include both prime contractors and subcontractors
• Analytical services, including on-site field analytical support and off-site fixed laboratory
services - Include both prime contractors and subcontractors
• Data validators - Include both prime contractors and subcontractors
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• Data usability assessors - Include both prime contractors and subcontractors
• Risk assessors - include both prime contractors and subcontractors
An example of a completed Personnel Responsibilities and Qualifications Table is provided in
Figure 6.
Figure 6. Example Personnel Responsibilities and Qualifications Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #6 - Rev. 10/99
Identify project personnel associated with each organization, contractor, and subcontractor participating in
responsible project functions. Include the name of the organization for whom they work, and their project
responsibilities. Indicate project Case Team members with an “s”. Attach resumes to this worksheet.
(Refer to QAPP Manual Section 4.3 for guidance.)
Figure 6. Example Personnel Responsibilities and Qualifications Table
Name
Organizational Affiliation
Responsibilities
J
Location of Personnel
Resumes, if not included’
Education and Experience
Qualifications 2
Howard Fast’
Poe Recycling
Coordinates and oversees project management for Lead
Organization Oversees contractor ,‘ork
—
See attached
Danny Steele’
Poe Recycling
Oversees project QA/QC activities performed for Lead
Organization
--
See attached
Dorothy Parker’
Chaucer Eng
Directs contracted project ii’ork and provides geolechnical
expertise
--
See attached
Claire Carpenter’
Chaucer Eng
Oversees project QA/QC activilies performed by Chaucer
Eng and its subcontractors
—
See attached
Frank Peniberzon ’
Chaucer Eng
Directs health & safety program iniplemented for project
--
See attached
James Keller’
Chaucer Eng
Directs field sampling activities
—
See attached
Charles Dickens
Copperfield Drilling
Subcontractor for Chaucer Eng Installs monitoring wells
Copperfield Drilling Co.
60 Main St.. Boston. MA
H S Diploma. 10 yrs exp
Robert Galvan,’
Austin Laboratories
Subcontractor for Chaucer Eng Manages analytical data
quality
—
See attached
John Grissoiii
Austin Laboratories
Oversees analytical QAIQC activities and identifies
necessaiy Corrective Actions
-•
See attached
Lucy Alcott
Austin Laboratories
Operates GC/MS Instrument
Not Available
ill S Chemistry. Trinity College
S yrs GC/MS exp at Austin Labs
Walter Emerson
Austin Laboratories
Logs sanzples into laboratory, archives field samples and
extracts Generates data packages
—
See attached
Brendan Rivers’
BDO Quality Seri’ices
Verifies and validates organic data
Not Available
B S Biology. URJ
4 yrs exp BDO Quality Services
Scott Fitzgerald’
Eco.Risk
Performs risk assessment for Lead Organization
—
See Attached
Ifa resume is on file elsewhere, document location in this column and summarize the individual’s education and experience in the next column. If a resume does not exist for an
individual, then indicate nOt available in this column and summarize the individual’s education and experience in the next column.
2 1f a resume is attached to this worksheet, then write “See attached” in this column
Title: North Street Property QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: /9 of XX

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4.4 Special Training Requirements/Certification
All project personnel must be qualified and experienced in the project tasks for which they are
responsible. Certain projects require uniquely trained personnel to perform specialized field
reconnaissance, sampling, field or off-site analysis, data validation and other project functions.
If specialized training is not applicable to a particular project, then this section is not applicable
to the project and this fact should be noted on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2.
Provide an explanation of the special training that is needed to achieve project objectives.
Special Personnel Training Requirements Table - Provide a Special Personnel Training
Requirements Table, for those projects requiring specialized training, that contains the
information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #7. Include training records
and/or certificates as attachments to the worksheet. If training records and/or certificates are on
file elsewhere, then document their location on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #7. If training
records and/or certificates do not exist or are unavailable, then note this information on the
worksheet. An example of a completed Special Personnel Training Requirements Table is
provided in Figure 7.
Figure 7. Example Special Personnel Training Requirements Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #7- Rev. 10/99
Provide the following information for those projects requiring specialized
training. Attach training records and/or certificates to this worksheet.
(Refer to QAPP Manual Section 4.4 for guidance.)
Title: North Street Properly QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 24 of X (
Figure 7. Example Special Personnel Training Requirements Table
Project Function
Specialized Training
Title of Course or
-- Description
Training Provided
By
Training
Date
Personnel/Groups
Receiving Training
Personnel Titles!
Organizational
Affiliation
Location of Training
Records/Certificates*
Trace Metal
Sampling of
Ambient Water
Clean Hands/Dirty Hands
Sampling Technique for
Trace Metals - OW Method
1669
Tom Cabin of EPA
Region 11
09/2 2/9 7
Harriet Stowe
Sampling Crew
Leader
Training Record included as
attachment to the QAP?
Low Flow
Sampling
Low Flow Sampling
Region / SOP
Heat hcliff Jones of
EPA Region / Office
of Environmental
Measurement and
Evaluation
06/3 0/9 7
Jane Bronte
Sampler (Member of
the Sampling Crew)
Training records filed in Prime
Contractors training records a;
Corporate Headquarters-
Available upon request (203-
682-5282)
lftraining records and/or certificates are on file elsewhere, then document their location in this column. If training records and/or certificates do not exist or are not available, then
this should be noted.

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5.0 Project PlanninglProblem Definition (EPA QA/.R-5 Element: A5)
This section documents project planning, identifies the environmental problem, defines the
environmental questions that need to be answered and provides background information. To
ensure QAPP approval, this section must provide an historical, regulatory and programmatic
context for the project and must convey to the reviewer a clear understanding of the project
background, and environmental problem that exists.
5.1 Project Planning Meetings (Scoping Meetings)
Project scoping meetings are key to the success of any project and should be held by the Case
Team prior to QAPP preparation. This section of the QAPP documents the project planning
meetings held during the initial planning phase. Scoping meetings are held to define the purpose
and expected results of the project; the environmental decisions that need to be made; the project
quality objectives necessary to achieve expected results arid support environmental decisions; the
sampling, analytical, and data assessment activities that will be performed, and the final products
and deliverables for the project.
Identify the Case Team members who are responsible for planning the project. Individuals
responsible for project management, health and safety, field mobilization, sampling, geotechnical
operations, sample analyses, and QA activities, including field and laboratory assessments, data
validation, and data usability and risk assessments are critical to the success of the project and
should be selected as Case Team members by the Lead Organization. The Case Team should
include, at a minimum, the Project Manager, QA Officer, Health and Safety Officer, Field
Sampling Coordinator, Laboratory Manager, Data Validator, and Risk Assessor. The size of the
Case Team should reflect the complexity of the project. For example, small volunteer
monitoring projects may have Case Teams comprised of only two or three people. Participants
should include project management, data generators (including field and laboratory personnel),
data validators, quality assurance personnel, data users, and any other stakeholders.
At the initial scoping meeting the Case Team should begin by completing the required EPA-NE
QAPP Worksheets with as much information as is available. The worksheets should be finalized
at subsequent meetings and included as Tables, Diagrams and Figures in the QAPP. The QAPP
should include explanatory text for tables, figures and diagrams whenever necessary.
Project quality objectives (PQOs) define the type, quantity and quality of data needed to answer
specific environmental questions and support proper environmental decisions. Project quality
objectives (PQOs) are used synonymously with data quality objectives (DQOs) throughout this
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document. PQOsIDQOs should be determined and agreed upon at the initial scoping sessions
using the EPA-NE Systematic Planning Process as described in Diagram 1 and Section 7.1. Data
users must decide and agree upon when to collect samples, where to collect samples, how many
samples to collect and how accurate and precise data must be before it can be used to make
decisions.
When critical environmental decisions must be made, the Case Team should follow the Formal
DQO Process as described in the guidance document, Guidance for the Planning for Data
Collection in Support of Environmental Decision Making Using the Data Ouality Objective
Process , September 1994, EPA/6001R-96/055 (EPA QA/G-4). The Formal DQO Process as
described in EPA QA/G-4 requires statistical expertise to define the amount of error acceptable
when making an environmental decision and includes the following seven steps:
Step 1: State the Problem
Step 2: Identify the Decision
Step 3: Identify the Inputs to the Decision
Step 4: Define the Study Boundaries
Step 5: Develop a Decision Rule
Step 6: Specify Tolerable Limits on Decision Error
Step 7; Optimize the Design
Statistical analysis is beyond the scope of many projects and, therefore, the development of
Formal DQOs using the process described in EPA QA/G-4 will depend upon the critical nature
of the environmental decisions to be made as determined by the Case Team.
For data collection activities that are either exploratory or small in nature, or where specific
decisions cannot be identified, the Formal DQO Process is not necessary. For these projects, the
Case Team should utilize an abbreviated DQO approach (Steps 1-4, as described above, to help
identify the PQOs and Action Limits) in conjunction with the EPA-NE Systematic Planning
Process (as described in Diagram 1) to select appropriate sampling, analytical and assessment
activities.
Site-specific PQOs identified at the scoping meetings should be documented in Section 7.1 of the
QAPP and on the EPA-NE DQO Summary Form (Appendix 2).
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Project Scoping Meeting Documentation - Document each scoping meeting. Provide a Project
Scoping Meeting Attendance Sheet that contains the information, as presented in EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #8a for each scoping meeting held. An example of a completed Project Scoping
Meeting Attendance Sheet is provided in Figure 8.
Include the agenda for project scoping meetings and meeting notes as attachments to EPA-NE
QAPP Worksheet #8a. Also include an EPA-NE DQO Summary Form that has been filled out
with as much preliminaiy information as possible.
If project scoping meetings were not held, then document this fact on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet
#2 and provide an explanation.
Figure 8. Example Project Scoping Meeting Attendance Sheet
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #8a - Rev. 10/99
Complete this worksheet for ach project scoping meeting held and include in final
QAPP document. Attach meeting agenda and notes. (Refer to QAPP Manual.Section
5.1 for guidance.)
Title: North Street Property QAPP
Revision Number: /
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 27 of XX
Figure 8. Example Project Scoping Meeting Attendance Sheet
EPA Regulation Program: RCRA FIFRA TSCA CERCLA DW CWA CAA (underline one)
Site Name. North Street Property
Program (Drown fields, NPDES, etc.). Voluntary Cleanup
Site Location Wordsworth. N J!
Project Date(s) orSampling. 2/20/98
CERCLA Site/Spill Identifier No.
Project Manager Howard Fast
Operable Unit 0!
Other Site Number/Code 0195K
Phase: ERA Pre-RI RI (phase I, etc.) FS RD RA post-RA (underline one)
Other phase —
Date of Meeting: 12/20/97
Meeting Location: Poe Recycling
Nahie
Project Role
Affiliation
Phone #
e-Mail Address
,4e vtnd
Project Manager of Lead Org
Poe Recycling
603-667-1100
-
—-
hofast@poe.com
Va .Se k
Oversees Project QA for Lead Org
Poe Recycling
603-667-1112
dsteele@poe corn
Do it4
Contractor Project Manager
Chaucer Eng.
781-957-0171
dparker@chaucer.com
.
Oversees Project QA
Chaucer Eng.
781-957-0173
ccarpenter@chaucer.com
7t vc Pe e tag
Oversees Project H&S
Chaucer Eng.
781-957-0172
fpemberton@charicer .com
2zncea Re&z
Coordinates Field Sampling
Chaucer Eng
781-957-0/70
jntheller@chaucer corn
Project Lab Manager
Austin Labs
401-273-5542
rga!vani@auslabs corn
7 caa
EPA-NE Project Oversight
US EPA-NE
781-555-9900
hthoreau usepa.gov corn
9 D
EPA-NE QA/QC
US EPA-NE
781-555-9900
jdonne usepa gov corn
4,seute oazot
EPA-NE Oversight Project Risk
Assessment
US EPA-NE
781-555-9900
hepo,rot@usepa gov corn
Data Validation
BDO
508-667-1100
brivers bdoqs corn
Scea a1d
Risk Assessment
Eco-Risk
321-568-4488
scottfitz@ecorisk corn —
Meeting Purpose: Site Conceptual Design
Comments and Action Items: Di.scussed sampling locations, contaminants of concern and Project Action Limits

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5.2 Problem Definition/Site History and Background
This section frames, for the reader/reviewer, the reasons for conducting the project. It presents
historic information, current site condition descriptions and other existing data applicable to the
project. This information is used to clearly define the problem and the environmental questions
that must be answered for the current investigation. This information will be used to develop the
project decision “If..., then...” statements in Section 7.1 of the QAPP that link data results and
possible actions.
Summarize the following information in the text for this section of the QAPP (use EPA-NE
QAPP Worksheet #8b):
• The problem to be addressed by the project. For example, “Residential drinking water wells
in Toadville have shown increasing levels of benzene over the past two years.”
• The environmental questions being asked. For example, “What is the source of the benzene
contamination in the residential drinking water wells of Toadville, NH?”
• Observations from any site reconnaissance reports. Include pertinent existing site
conditions. Information, such as evident soil staining, and the presence of free product
materials, odors and other known hazards, should be identified and their location on site
specified. Physical objects, such as metallic debris, drums, dilapidated buildings,
processing equipment, and known safety hazards, also should be identified and their
location on site specified.
• A synopsis of non-direct measurement data/information from all site reports. References to
existing reports, e.g., monitoring reports and/or remedial investigation/remedial action
reports that describe site conditions and indicator chemicals for long-term remediation
and/or monitoring projects should be cited. Refer to Section 14.0 of this Manual for a
complete discussion of the identification and use of acquired data from secondary sources.
• The possible classes of contaminants and the affected media, as determined by historical
site usage, site neighbors, industrial processes, process by-products, waste disposal
practices, and possible contaminant breakdown products. The past and current chemical use
information discussed in this section will be the basis for deciding on the contaminants of
concern to be investigated during the project.
• The rationale for inclusion of chemical and non-chemical analyses.
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I Information concerning various environmental indicators. These indicators describe the
present condition of the environment (water, soil, sludge, sediment, air, biota, etc.) and
provide a benchmark to monitor changes in the condition of the environment. (Refer to
New England Environmental Goals and Indicators Project , Final Report, September 10,
1996 for additional information on environmental indicators.)
Additionally, provide the following items in this section of the QAPP:
Site Maps - Include the following maps and/or figures:
• A detailed site map that shows the site in its present state and locates its boundaries
• A map which places the site in geographical context
• Historical maps or plans of the site prior to the investigation
• Maps identifying past and future sampling locations (Refer to Section 8.1)
• Historical and current aerial photographs
An 8 x 11” copy of all site maps and drawings should be included in the QAPP in addition
to larger, fold out maps and drawings.
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6.0 Project Description and Schedule (EPA QA/R-5Element: A6)
This section of the QAPP provides a general overview of the activities that will be performed and
how and when they will be performed based upon background information/data, pre-planning
site visits, and scoping meetings. Identify these activities on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #9a.
Specific details for individual project activities will be discussed in later sections of the QAPP.
6.1 Project Overview (Outcome of Project Scoping Activities)
Project planning results in the Case Team reaching agreement on the purpose of the project; the
environmental questions that are being asked; and the environmental decisions that must be
made. The Case Team decides on the project quality objectives, i.e., the type, quantity, and
quality of data needed to ensure that project data can be used for its intended purpose to answer
specific environmental questions and support environmental decisions. The Case Team
determines criteria for how “good” the measurement data must be and documents those
measurement performance criteria in Section 7.2 of the QAPP.
The Case Team agrees on what environmental indicators and/or contaminants of concern (COCs)
must be measured. They also determine the other target analytes that will be measured.
Generally these other target analytes can be measured using the same analytical methods that are
used to determine the COCs. The other target analytes have the potential of becoming COCs
after site characterization activities.
Contaminants of Concern and Other Target Analytes Table (Reference Limit and Evaluation
Table) - Complete the Contaminants of Concern and Other Target Analytes Tables. Provide
separate tables for each medium/matrix, concentration level and analytical parameter. Include
information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #9b. An example of a completed
Contaminants of Concern and Other Target Analytes Table is provided in Figure 9a.
Figure 9a. Example Contaminants of Concern and Other Target Analytes Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #9b - Rev. 10/99
Complete separate tables tor each medium/matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level List the analyte name and CAS
numbers of all Contaminants of Concern (COCs) and other target analytes that will be measured for the project. Identify the COCs
with an “s”. Identify the Project Quantitation Limits required to meet project objectives, i e, known regulatory or technical
Project Action Limits for each analyte List the MDLs and QLs of the published method and the MDLs and QLs achievable by the
laboratory. Ensure that the achievable laboratory quantitation limits are less than or equal to the Project Quantitation Limits and
that Project Quantitation Limits are at least three to ten times less than the Project Action Limits (Refer to Q4PP Manual Section
6 I for guidance.)
Medium/Matrix: Ground Water
Region I Matrix Code (from EPA-NE DQO Summary Form): GW
Analytical Parameter: ‘OA
Concentration Level: Low
Field Analytical or Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP’: L-l
Title: Nbrlh Street Property QA.PP
Revision Number: /
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 29 of XY
Figure 9a. Example Contaminants of Concern and Other Target Analytes Table (Reference Limit and Evaluation Table)
Analyte
CAS
Number
Project Action
Limit
(wet o dry% ,eight)
Prolect
Quantitation Limit
(wet o dry ieight)
Analytical Method
Achievable Laboratory Limits
MDLs 2
Method QLs 2
MDLs 3
QLs 3
*Benzene
71-43-2
5 ugiL
I ug/L
0 03
Not provided in
method
0.10
050
*Trichoroethene

79-01-6
5 ugiL
I ug/L
0 02
Not provided in
method
0.11
0 50
* Vinyl Chloride
75-01-4
2 ugiL
/ ug/L
0 04
Not provided in
method
0.11
0 50
l.2-D,cho!oroethane
107-06-2
.5 ugiL
/ ugiL
0 02
Not provided in
method
0 II
050
Carbon Teirachloride
56-23-5
5 ugiL
/ ugiL
008
Not provided in
method
0 l2
0.50
1, 2-Dichloropropane
78-87-5
5 ug/L
I ugiL
0.02
Not provided in
method
0.!!
050
1, 1.2-Trichloroethane
79-00-5
5 ug/L
/ ugiL
0 03
Not provided in
method
0 13
0 50
Bromoform
75-25-2
5 ug/L
I ug/L
020
Not provided in
method
0./I
0 50
‘Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Field and Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method/SOP Reference Tables (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets #17 and #2 ).
2 Analytical method MDLS and QLs documented in validated methods. QLs are usually 3-10 times higher than the MDLs.
3 Achievable MDLs and QLs are limits that an individual laboratory can achieve when performing a specific analytical method.

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Note: Analytical method detection limits (MDLs) are the MDLs that are published in a
validated method. Method quantitation limits (QLs) are QLs that are published in a
validated method.
Achievable MDLs and QLs, also referred to as Practical Quantitation Limits (PQLs),
represent the MDLs and QLs that an individual laboratory can achieve when performing a
specific analytical method. An individual laboratory may not always be able to achieve
the MDLs and QLs that are published in a validated method. In other words, even though
a published analytical method may meet project requirements, this does not ensure that a
laboratory can perform the analytical method satisfactorily. Therefore, laboratory MDLs
and QLs/PQLs must be documented in the laboratory’s SOP for each analytical method
that the laboratory will perform for this project.
Project-required quantitation limits and Action Limits must b& established prior to the
selection of sampling and analytical methods. To compensate for potential analytical
inaccuracy at the quantitation limit, project-required QLs should be at least Iwo to five
times less than the Action Limits. QAPPs will not be approved without documented
project-required quantitation limits and Action Limits for each contaminant of concern.
The QLs from individual methods and laboratories are evaluated relative to project-required
Action Limits to determine their suitability to meet project quality objectives. If the published
method quantitation limit exceeds the Action Limit for a contaminant of concern or other target
analyte, then that analytical method is unacceptable for the analysis of that analyte. (However, if
a laboratory has modified the published method to achieve QLs that are less than the Action
Limits, and documented this modification in its laboratory SOP, then that laboratory SOP might
constitute an acceptable method. Refer to Section 7.2 for additional guidance on Quantitation
Limits.)
If the achievable laboratory QL exceeds the Action Limit for a contaminant of concern or other
target compound, then that laboratory is unacceptable for the analysis of that analyte using that
method.
I Sampling Tasks
Briefly explain the rationale for sampling specific media/matrices, concentration levels and
analytical parameters of concern and the rationale for the sampling design selected (including the
logic used to determine sample locations and the type, number and frequency of field samples).
Refer sample locations to historical and current site maps previously included in Section 5.2.
Include any additional maps, if necessary, to delineate site boundaries geographically,
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horizontally and vertically. Provide complete details of the sampling rationale, process design
and sampling tasks in Section 8.0 of the QAPP.
Briefly describe the sampling methods that will be used. Describe any new or innovative
sampling techniques that will be employed. Also, describe any specialized equipment and/or
associated operators that will be required. Provide complete descriptions of the sampling
methods and associated sampling quality control, and identify all sampling, sample handling, and
custody SOPs in Sections 9.0, 10.0, and 13.0 of the QAPP.
Field and Quality Control Sample Summary Table - Complete the Field and QC Sample
Summary Table. Summarize by matrix, the number of field and QC samples that will be
collected for each analytical parameter and concentration level. This information should agree
with the information provided on the DQO Summary Form. Include information in the format
shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #9c. An example of a completed Field and Quality Control
Sample Summary Table is provided in Figure 9b.
Figure 9b. Example Field and Quality Control Sample Summary Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #9c - Rev. 10/99
Summarize by matrix the number of field and QC samples that
will be collected for each analytical parameter and concentration
level. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 6.1 for guidance.)
Title: Bronco Camp
Revision Number: 5
Revision Date: 1/29/98
Page: 7 of X X ’
Figure 9b. Example Field and Quality Control Sample Summary Table
Medium/
Matrix
Analytical
Parameter
Conc. Level
Analytical Mcthod/
SOP Reference’
No. of
Sampling
Locations 1
No. of Field
Duplicate
Pairs
Organic
No. of No. of
MS MSI)
Inorganic
No. of Trip
Blanks
No. of Bottle
Blanks
Na. of
Et iiip.
Blinks
No. of PE
Samples
Total No. ol
Samples to
Lab
No. of
Duplicates
No. of
MS
GW
VOA
Low
524.2/L-!
14
1
1
I
0
0
I
0
1
I
20
GW
SVOC
LoiviMedium
8270/L-2
6
I
I
I
0
0
0
1
1
I
12
GW
Melals
Lo ,i’IMed,wn
CLL/L-3
15
1
0
0
I
I
0
0
I
I
20
‘Complete the Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17), and the Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP ReIer nce Table (EPA-NE
QAPP Worksheet #20) and specify the appropriate letter/number reference in the above table.
2 fl samples will be collected at different depths at the same location, count each discrete sampling depth as a separate sanipling location/station.

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• I. -
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• System Designs
Provide a brief description of activities for projects that involve remediation and/or monitoring
engineering designs, e.g., groundwater extraction systems or soil/water/air treatment systems.
Provide complete descriptions of the treatment/monitoring systems and include all treatment
train schematics and process diagrams in Section 8.0 of the QAPP.
• Analytical Tasks
Describe briefly the analytical tasks to be performed including the sample media/matrices,
analytical parameters, concentration levels, and general description of analytical methods.
Clearly differentiate analytical tasks that will be performed in the field from those performed in a
fixed laboratory. Also, differentiate the data produced for each analytical task into “definitive”
or “confirmatory” versus “screening” use categories. Describe any new or innovative analytical
techniques that will be employed and explain how the new technique will provide improved data
over traditional/standard methods. Also, describe any specialized equipment and/or analysts that
will be required. Provide complete detailed descriptions of the analytical tasks and associated
analytical quality control, and identify all analytical SOPs and methods in Sections 11.0, 12.0,
and 13.0 of the QAPP.
Identify the analytical services that will be provided for the project.
Analytical Services - Complete the Analytical Services Table. Identify the organization(s)!
laboratories that will provide the analytical services (for all field screening, field analytical and
fixed laboratory analytical work, including all prime laboratories, subcontractor laboratories and
backup laboratories) by mediumlmatrix. analytical parameter and concentration level. Include
information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #9d. An example of a completed
Analytical Services Table is provided in Figure 9c.
Figure 9c. Example Analytical Services Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #9d - Rev. 10/99
Complete this worksheet for each medium/matrix, analytical parameter, and concentration level.
Identify all laboratories/organizations that will provide analytical services for the project,
including field screening, field analytical, and fixed laboratory analytical work. If applicable,
identify the backup laboratory/organization that will be used if the primary laboratory/organization
cannot be used. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 6.1, 11.0 and 12.0 for guidance.)
Figure 9c. Example Analytical Services Table
Title: Tremont Street Garage QAPP
Revision Number: 2
Revisiog Date: 5/15198
Page: 43 of XX
Medium/
Matrix
Analytical
Parameter
Concentration
Level
.
Analytical Method/SOP’
Data
Package
Turnaround
Time
Laboratory/Organization
(Name and Address: Contact
Person and Telephone Number)
Backup Laboratory/Org tnlzation
(Name and Address: Lontact
Person and Telephone Number)
Soil
VOA
Medium
F-I
14 days
Northeast Mobile Laboratory
237 Canal St
Lebanon, VT
Art Clunnie, 802 631-8600
Enviro4pec Laborato,y
105 Lake Si
Burlington. VT
Beth Reach, 802 842-6832
Soil
SVOA
Medium
F-2
35 days
Northeast Mobile Laboratory
237 Canal Si.
Lebanon, VT
Art Clunnie, 80263 1-8600
EnviroSpec Laboratory
105 Lake Si.
Burlington. VT
Beth Reach, 802 842-6832
Soil
PEST/PCBs
Medium
F-3
35 days
Northeast Mobile Laboratory
237 Canal Si
Lebanon, VT
Art Clunnie, 802 631-8600
EnviroSjiec Laboratory
10 . ’ Lake Si
Burlington, VT
Beth Reach, 802 842-6832
Soil
Metals
Medium
L- 1
35 days
DoR,te Laboratory
83 Final Si
Ace. NH
Nancy Baker, 603 421-8215
CanDo Laboratory
812 First St
Jack, NH
Rich Worth, 603 629-8438
‘Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17) and from the Fixed Laboratory
Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20).

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• Data Verification and Validation Tasks
Briefly discuss how data will be verified internally and validated externally and how analytical
error will be assessed. EPA-NE requires that all data be validated in accordance with Region I.
EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses , prior to
use in environmental decision making. If alternate data validation criteria and guidance will be
used to validate project data, then cite the alternate criteria and guidance in this section. If data
will not be validated, then document this fact and provide justification in this section. Provide a
complete description of the data verification and validation tasks and procedures in Sections 18.0
and 19.0 of the QAPP.
• Quality Assurance Assessments
Include a short description of the quality assurance assessments that will be performed during the
course of the project and the frequency at which each will be performed. If assessments are not
planned, then document this fact and provide justification in this section. Provide a complete
description of the planned assessments in Section 16.0 of the QAPP.
• Data Usability Assessments
Include a short description of how validated project data will be reconciled with the project
quality objectives. Provide a complete description of data usability assessments in Section 20.0
of the QAPP.
• Records and Reports
Summarize the project documents, records and reports that will be compiled and/or generated as
part of the project and those that will be maintained in the site files. Itemize and describe all
project documents, records and reports that will be compiled and/or generated during the course
of this project in Sections 14.0, 15.0 and 17.0 of the QAPP.
6.2 Project Schedule
Project Schedule Timeline - Provide a schedule of the work to be performed in a graphical or
tabular format. The timeline must include the start and completion dates for all project activities
in a format similar to EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #10. Include the quality assurance assessments
that will be performed diuiing the course of the project. Schedule sufficient time for document
review and implementation of effective corrective actions. An example of a completed Project
Schedule Timeline Table is provided in Figure 10.
Figure 10. Example Project Schedule Timeline Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #10 - Rev. 10/99
List project activities, anticipated start and completion dates. Identify
all products and/or deliverables as outcomes of project activities
and the anticipated dates of delivery. (Refer to QAPP Manual
Section 6.2 for guidance.)
Title: North Street Property QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 30 of XX
Figure 10. Example Project Schedule Timeline Table
Activities Dates (MM/OD/YY)
I
I Anticipated Date(s) Anticipated Date
J of Initiation of Completion
Deliverable
Deliverable Due
Date
QAPP Preparation
1 2/5/9 7 1/5/98
QAPP Document.
1/9/98
Well Installation
2/15/98 - 2/25/98 2/25/98
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Sample Collection
3/2/98 - 4/2/98 4/2/98
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Fixed Laboratory Technical Systems Audit
2/1198 2/1/98
7 A Report
2/! 5/98
Field Sampling Technical Systems Audit
3/2198 - 3/10/98 3/10/98
7 S’A Report
3/15/98
Laboratory Analysis
3/23/98 - 4/23/98 4/23/98
Data Packages
4/23/98
Data Validation
4/6/98 - 5/7/98 5/7/98
Data Validation Reports
5/7/98
Risk Assessment
5/8/98 6/7/98
Risk Assessment Report
6/7/98
Data Assessment Report
5/8/98 6/7/98
Data Assessment Report
6/7/98
Final Project Report Preparation
6/8/98 7/6/98
Final Project Report
7/6/98

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Describe the procedure for notification of project participants concerning project schedule
delays. Identify, by job function and organization name, the personnel responsible for providing
as well as receiving such notification, and the personnel responsible for approving schedule
delays.
Discuss all resource and time constraints, and identify all regulatory requirements and/or
restrictions, that will impact the project schedule. Discuss all seasonal sampling restrictions and
considerations.
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7.0 Project Quality Objectives and Measurement Performance Criteria
This section of the QAPP documents the environmental decisions that need to be made and the
level of data quality needed to ensure that those decisions are based on sound scientific data.
Project quality objectives must be determined by the Case Team utilizing the EPA-NE
Systematic Planning Process as outlined in Diagram 1 and Section 7.1 below.
7.1 Project Quality Objectives
A systematic planning process results in project quality objectives (PQOs) which ensure that the
right type, quality and quantity of data are collected for the project. (As previously stated,
Region I uses the terms PQOs and Data Quality Objectives (DQOs) interchangeably.) PQOs
ensure that the proper data are collected and generated to answer environmental questions
regarding a specific environmental problem. The systematic planning process also ensures that
appropriate project decisions are made. The systematic planning process may incorporate the
Formal DQO Process, as described in EPA QA/G-4, when critical environmental decisions are
required. However, for most monitoring and investigative data collection projects, an
abbreviated DQO process should suffice.
Determine the environmental decisions that need to be made based on the stated environmental
problem(s) and questions identified in Section 5.0. Determine project “Action Limits” for each
contaminant concentration which, if exceeded, will trigger specific project actions to be taken.
These “Action Limits” result in “If..., then...” statements that define the link between data results
and possible project actions. For example, “If the mean concentration of cadmium in each waste
pile leachate sample is greater than or equal to 1.0 mg/L (using the TCLP method as defmed in
40 CFR 261), then the waste will be considered hazardous and will be disposed of at a RCRA
landfill. If the mean concentration of cadmium is less than 1.0 mgfL (using the TCLP method as
defined in 40 CFR 261), then the waste will be considered non-hazardous and will be disposed of
in a sanitary landfill.”
A systematic planning process results in qualitative and quantitative statements that answer the
following questions:
• Who will use the data?
(List Data Users on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet 2)
• What will the data be used for?
Specify the anticipated uses of the data. Simple, clear statements should be used
to describe the data uses. Examples of these statements include: “These data will
be used to determine the nature and extent of contamination”; “These data will be
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used to determine the health risks to children ages 1-6, residing on the site who
might be exposed to surface soils in the area”; “These data will be used to
determine regulatory compliance with CERCLA statutes”; “These data will be
used to assess the q’iality of the data generated by Potentially Responsible Parties
(PRPs)”; “These data will be used to identif ’ the source of high nutrient loadings
in the Meandering River.” The anticipated uses of the data should agree with
those identified in Section 5.0 of the EPA-NE DQO Summary Form.
• What type of data are needed?
Identify contaminants of concern and other target analytes and select analytical
parameters; determine appropriateness of field screening, field analytical and/or
fixed laboratory techniques; evaluate appropriateness of different types of
sampling techniques, e.g., low flow sampling. (Complete EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #9b)
• How “good” do the data need to be in order to support the environmental decision?
Establish criteria for performance measures including precision, accuracy/bias,
sensitivity (quantitation limits), data comparability, representativeness and
completeness. (Complete EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets #11, #14, #15, #18, #19,
#21 #22a and b, #23a and b, #24a and b, #25, #27a and b, and #29a and b.)
• How much data are needed?
Determine the number of samples needed for each analytical
parameter/matrix/and concentration level. (Complete EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet
#12)
• Where, when and how should the data be collected/generated?
(Complete EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets #10, #13, #17, and #20)
• Who will collect and generate the data?
(Complete EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets #1, #3, #4, #5a and b, #6, #7, #8a and b,
#9a and d and #16)
• How will the data be reported?
(Complete EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets #26 and #28)
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DO NOT DESCRIBE DQOs BY ANALYTICAL LEVEL! In the past, project DQOs have
been mistakenly described as one ‘of five data quality levels. These levels are not to be used.
These levels described analytical methods, not DQOs. For example, “Level II ” field analyses
have the potential to produce fully defensible data that can be used to achieve a variety of
project-specific data quality objectives.
7.2 Measurement Performance Criteria
Once the environmental decisions have been identified, data users and QA personnel can
determine the project quality objectives, including the measurement performance criteria, that
must be satisfied in order to support defensible decisions.
Document the performance criteria selected for the project-specific sampling measurement
systems that will ensure that project objectives are met. For example, appropriate performance
criteria should be identified to ensure that monitoring wells will be installed correctly and will
yield representative samples.
Document the performance criteria selected for the analytical measurement systems that will
ensure that project objectives are met. The following paragraphs provide examples of
developing performance criteria for the project-specific analytical measurement systems.
Measurement performance criteria for precision, accuracy/bias, representativeness, completeness,
sensitivity, quantitation limits, and comparability should be determined for each matrix,
analytical parameter, concentration level and analyte, if applicable. These parameters indicate the
qualitative and quantitative degree of quality associated with measurement data and, hence, are
also referred to as data quality indicators (DQIs). DQIs are also referred to as the PARCC
parameters. In the Performance Based Measurement System (PBMS) (refer to page 63 for
further discussion of PBMS), DQIs as defined by the measurement performance criteria serve as
Measurement Quality Objectives, which are used to select or design protocols and procedures to
meet project-specific quality objectives. (DQIs should not be confused with the overall project
quality objectives that are developed using the Region I Systematic Planning Process and/or
Formal DQO Process.)
A discussion of data quality indicators for which performance criteria should be developed
follows:
Precision: Determine ‘quantitative measurement performance criteria for acceptable field and
laboratory precision for each matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level. Also
determine analyte-specific measurement performance criteria, if applicable. Determine what
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QA/QC activities and/or QC checks or samples will be performed or analyzed to measure
precision for each matrix, analytical parameter and concentration ‘level.
Precision is the degree of agreement among repeated measurements of the same characteristic
(analyte, parameter, etc.) under the same or similar conditions. Precision data indicate how
consistent and reproducible the field sampling or analytical procedures have been. “Overall
project precision” is measured by collecting data from replicate field samples. Precision specific
to the laboratory is measured by analyzing laboratory replicate samples. Comparing overall
project precision and laboratory precision will help to identify sources of imprecision if a
problem exists.
If only two replicate samples are collected and analyzed, then these samples are referred to as
field duplicates. Refer to Table 2, Footnote 4 for additional discussion of field duplicates. If two
aliquots of the same sample are prepared and analyzed by a laboratory, then these samples are
referred to as laboratory duplicates. If two aliquots of the same prepared sample are analyzed in
duplicate, then these samples are referred to as analytical duplicates. Duplicate precision is
evaluated by calculating a Relative Percent Difference (RPD) using the following equation (the
smaller the RPD; the greater the precision):
lx - X21
RPD = x 100%
xI + x 2
2
x 1 original sample concentration
x 2 replicate sample concentration
(Note: To assist the planning team in developing matrix, concentration level, parameter and
analyte-specific field duplicate precision measurement performance criteria, the EPA-NE QA
Unit is currently developing a Field Duplicate Relative Percent Difference Database for
reference.)
If more than two replicate samples are collected and analyzed, then these samples are referred to
as field replicates. If two or more aliquots of the same sample are prepared and analyzed by a
laboratory, then these samples are referred to as laboratory replicates. If more than two aliquots
of the same prepared sample are analyzed in replicate, then these samples are referred to as
analytical replicates. Replicate precision is evaluated by calculating the Relative Standard
Deviation i(RSD),also referred to as the coefficient of variation (V), of the samples using the
following equation (the smaller the RSD; the greater the precision):
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%RSD = x 100%
mean
Where,
(X_X)2
= I I
N n-I
x, = each individual value used for calculating the mean
x = the mean of n values
n = the total number of values
Accuracy/Bias: Determine quantitative measurement performance criteria for acceptable
accuracy/bias for each matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level. Also determine
analyte-specific measurement performance criteria, if applicable Determine what QAIQC
activities and/or QC checks or samples will be performed or analyzed to measure accuracy/bias
for each matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level.
Accuracy is the extent of agreement between an observed value (sample result) and the accepted,
or true, value of the parameter being measured. Accuracy is frequently used synonymously with
bias. Specifically, the term “bias” describes the systematic or persistent error associated with a
measurement process. Both terms are used interchangeably in this document.
Analyte accuracy/bias can be evaluated using different types of QC samples. For example, a
Standard Reference Material (SRM) or a Laboratory Control Sample (LCS), containing a known
concentration of analyte(s) spiked into blank water or other blank matrices, provide information
about how accurately the laboratory (analysts, equipment, reagents, etc.) can analyze for a
specific analyte(s) using a selected method. Also single blind and double blind PE samples
provide information on how accurately the laboratory can analyze a specific analyte using a
selected method. The cumulative laboratory and method accuracy/bias is calculated as a
percentage using the following equation:
Measured Value
Accuracy/Bias = x 100%
True Value
Because environmental samples contain interferences (i.e., other compounds that may interfere
with the analysis of a specific analyte), the accuracy/bias for a specific analyte should be
evaluated in relation to the sample matrix. This is done by analyzing matrix spike samples. A
known concentration of the analyte is added to an aliquot of the sample. The difference between
the concentration of the analyte in the unspiked sample and the concentration of the analyte in
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the spiked sample should be equal to the concentration of the analyte that was spiked into the
sample. The spike recovery is calculated as a percentage using the following equation:
Spiked Sample Conc. - Unspiked Sample Conc .
%Recovery Accuracy/Bias = x 100%
Spiked Conc. Added
Frequently, matrix spike samples are prepared and analyzed in duplicate, especially for organic
analyses, to provide sufficient precision and accuracy data to evaluate achievement of project
quality objectives.
Note: In general, published methods provide precision and accuracy/bias statements that are
supported by data generated during method validation studies. Additionally, laboratories should
track and maintain records of precision and accuracy/bias trends for their QC samples (such as
laboratory duplicates/replicates. SRMs, LCS and matrix spike analyses) and include acceptable
precision and accuracy/bias ranges in their analytical SOPs. Published QC data, and familiarity
with routine method performance, will allow project planners to choose project-required
measurement performance criteria that are technically feasible.
Representativeness: Determine qualitative measurement performance criteria for acceptable
representativeness for each matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level. Also determine
analyte-specific measurement performance criteria, if applicable. Determine what QA/QC
activities and/or QC checks or samples will be performed or analyzed to measure
representativeness for each matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level.
Representativeness is a qualitative term that describes the extent to which a sampling design
adequately reflects the environmental conditions of a site. It takes into consideration the
magnitude of the site area represented by one sample and assesses the feasibility/reasonableness
of that design rationale. Representativeness also reflects the ability of the sample team to collect
samples and laboratory personnel to analyze those samples in such a manner that the data
generated accurately and precisely reflect the conditions at the site. In other words, a discrete
sample (that is collected and then subsampled by the laboratory) is representative when its
measured contaminant concentration equates to the contaminant concentration of some pre-
defined vertical and horizontal spatial area at the site. Consider the issues of sample
homogeneity, and sampling and subsampling variability, when developing criteria for
representativeness. The use of statistical sampling design and standardized SOPs for sample
colleotion and analysis helps to ensure that samples are represe ntativc of site conditions.
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Comparability: Determine quantitative measurement performance criteria for acceptable data
comparability for each matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level. Also determine
analyte-specific measurement performance criteria, if applicable. Determine what QA/QC
activities and/or QC checks or samples will be performed or analyzed to measure data
comparability for each matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level.
Address such issues as consistency in sampling and analytical procedures within and between
data sets. For example, monitoring well sampling SOPs should require that well casings be
notched or permanently marked so that the water level measurement is taken from the sante spot
for each sampling event. This will help to ensure data comparability for repeated water level
measurements.
Oversight Split Sampling Data Comparability :
Whenever oversight split sampling and analysis is performed (e.g., EPA oversight of Lead
Organization and its Contractors/Subcontractors), criteria to compare EPA-generated data with
the data generated by the Lead Organization must be established and documented in the
oversight QAPP prior to data collection.
Comparability criteria should be determined for each matrix, analytical parameter (and analyte, if
applicable) and concentration level. Oversight split sampling comparability criteria must
specify:
1. Acceptable % Differences for individual analyte comparisons (for combinations of non-
detects, detects close to the QLs, and detects sufficiently greater than the QLs).
2. Acceptable percentage for number of analytes (per matrix, analytical parameter, and
concentration level) with acceptable % Differences versus total number of % Differences
(per matrix, analytical parameter, and concentration level).
3. The acceptable magnitude and direction of bias for comparisons performed in #1 and #2
above.
4. That PESs are required to be used by all data generators in accordance with the EPA
Region I Performance Evaluation Program Guidance . This will ensure that the
magnitude and direction of bias for each data generator can be determined and compared
to #3 above and the project-specific measurement performance criteria so that data
usability decisions can be made.
5. Acceptable overall comparability criteria for all data generated for use in the project.
Percent difference calculations between split oversight sample data must be performed in
accordance with Equation 3 of the Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for
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Evaluating Environmental Analyses , Part I. [ Note: To assist the planning team in developing
matrix, concentration level, analytical parameter and analyte-specific split sampling
comparability criteria, the EPA-NE QA Unit is currently developing an Oversight Split Sampling
Comparability Database for reference.]
Whenever split sampling is performed, a comparability flow diagram must be included in
this section of the QAPP. An example flow diagram is provided below in Diagram 2.
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Both Results
2 x RL Organic
4 x RL Inorganic
(
—‘ Detected Result
>2 x the Associated
RL for Organic
One or Both
Results Rejected.
Not Analyzed, or
Not Reported
RL Reporting Limit is the Quantitation Limit adjusted for any necessary sample dilutions, sample volume deviations, and/or extract/digestate volume deviations
Diagram 2- EXAMPLE DATA COMPARISON FLOW DIAGRAM AND CRITERIA FOR INDIVIDUAL AQUEOUS SPLIT SAMPLE RESULTS
(generated using equivalent analytical methods and achieving equivalent QLs)
Nondetects
Reported by
Both Laboratories
Detected Results
Reported by Both
Laboratories
One Detected
Result
One Nondetected
Result
*
Both Results
>2 x RL Organic
>4 x RL Inorganic
1st
Result
2nd
Result
>2 x RI Organic
>4 x RL Inorganic
2 x RI Organic
4 x RL Inorganic
Detected Result
2 x the Associated
RI for Organic
4 x the Associated
RL for Inorganic
. 1
-
3D% D’ for Aqueous
Samples
>4 x the Asso;ialed
RL for Inorganic
>30,’, 0’ for Aqueous
Samples
F
NOTES:
J Data
Comparable
‘I ,
= Percent Difference — L- 2— x 100%
( L±-c
‘2
Data Not
Comparable
No Comparison
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Field Screening/Confirmatory Split Sampling Data Comparability :
Whenever full protocol analysis is performed to confirm field screening results, comparability
criteria must be established and documented in the QAPP prior to data collection. Comparability
criteria should be determined for each matrix, analytical parameter (and analyte, if applicable)
and concentration level.
The comparability of field screening data generated on site and split sample confirmation data
generated in a fixed or field laboratory using conventional full protocol analytical methods is the
most important factor for determining whether field screening data will meet the project
objectives and be usable for project decision making. The conventional full protocol analytical
methods that are used to confirm field screening results must be scientifically valid and well
documented methods that have been routinely accepted by regulators, since data comparability
decisions are based upon a limited number of samples analyzed by those conventional full
protocol methods.
“Diagram 3. Comparability Determination” illustrates two approaches that can be used for
determining the comparability of field screening and confirmatory data. One approach involves
the generation and application of pre-design correlation factors to adjust field screening sample
results prior to performing data comparability calculations. Correlation factor adjustment of field
screening sample results can be critical when a one-to-one correlation does not exist for data
generated with the field screening and confirmatory methods (depending upon differences in
methods selectivity, sensitivity, precision and accuracy as well as the relationship of the
achievable quantitation limits to the project Action Limit).
The other approach does not utilize correlation factor adjustment of field screening sample
results prior to performing data comparability calculations. Note that comparability calculations,
performed with field screening and confirmatory data for which correlation factors have not been
generated and/or applied, may result in project-specific comparability criteria being exceeded
(especially if these criteria are tight).
Both approaches require that data comparability acceptance requirements be developed and
documented in an approved project QAPP prior to initiation of field sampling activities. Both
approaches also require that split samples be collected and analyzed at a 10% frequency
throughout the duration of the field sampling program to asses data comparability.
When developing comparability acceptance criteria for field screening and confirmatory data, the
following issues must be considered:
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[ Screening 1
[
Diagram 3. Comparability Determination
VS
Split Sampling
(1:1)
Develop a Statistical
Project-Specific
Correlation Factor for
Each Contaminant of
Concern (Mean -4- SD)
Full Scale Sampling
[ 1o% Screening
‘
Perform
Correlation Factor
Adjustment of
Screening Sample
Results
[ Confirmatory
[ Method
I
Full Scale Sampling
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4.
]
Perform Overall Evaluation
of Comparability:
Determine % Splits that
Meet Project-Specific
Comparability Acceptance
Criteria (from
Pre-Approved QAPP)
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• Are the screening and confirmato iy methods based on the same analytical principles? If the
screening and confirmatory methods measure target analytes using different principles, then a
one-to-one correlation should not be assumed.
• Do the screening and confirmatory methods analyze for the same list of target analytes? If
not, then a one-to-one correlation should not be assumed.
• Do the screening and confirmatory methods report to the same QL? If not, then how will data
reported below the QL of either one of the methods be handled? Also, are the QLs for the
screening and confirmatory methods significantly less than the project Action Limit.
• Do the screening and confirmatory methods have the same extraction efficiencies, use the
same sample volumes, perform similar sample pretreatment and sample cleanup? These
differences may also account for correlations that are not.one-to-one.
• How will percent moisture be accommodated for both screening and confirmatory samples?
• Are the calibration procedures the same for the screening and confirmatory methods, i.e., will
standard calibration curves be generated or single point calibrations?
Field screening/confirmatory comparability criteria must specify:
1. Acceptable % Differences for individual analyte comparisons (for combinations of non-
detects, detects close to the QLs, and detects sufficiently greater than the QLs).
2. Acceptable percentage for number of analytes (per matrix, analytical parameter, and
concentration level) with acceptable % Differences versus total number of % Differences
(per matrix, analytical parameter, and concentration level).
3. The acceptable magnitude and direction of bias for comparisons performed in #1 and #2
above.
4. That PESs are required to be used by all data generators in accordance with the EPA
Region I Performance Evaluation Program Guidance . This will ensure that the
magnitude and direction of bias for each data generator can be determined and compared
to #3 above and the project-specific measurement performance criteria so that data
usability decisions can be made.
5. Acceptable overall comparability criteria for all data generated for use in the project.
Field screening/confirmatory percent difference calculations between the confirmatory and
screening data must be performed in accordance with Equation 4 of the Region I. EPA-NE Data
Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses , Part I. [ Note: To
assist the planning team in developing matrix, concentration level, analytical parameter and
analyte-specific field screening/confirmatory comparability criteria, the EPA-NE QA Unit is
currently developing a Screening Confirrnatory Comparability Database for reference.]
Whenever field screening/confirmatory split sampling is performed, a comparability flow
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diagram must be included in this section of the QAPP. Multiple flow diagrams may be
needed to address QL differences between screening and full protocol methods.
Sensitivity: Determine quantitative measurement performance criteria for acceptable sensitivity
to ensure that QLs can be routinely achieved for each matrix, analytical parameter and
concentration level. Also determine analyte-specific measurement performance criteria, if
applicable. Identify which QA/QC activities and/or QC checks or samples will be performed or
analyzed to measure sensitivity.
Sensitivity is the ability of the method or instrument to detect the contaminant of concern and
other target compounds at the level of interest. Method and instrument sensitivity may be
evaluated by preparing and analyzing a Laboratory Fortified Blank (LFB). An LFB is a blank
matrix that is spiked at the Quantitation Limit with the contaminants of concern. Sensitivity may
be measured by calculating the percent recovery of the analytes at the quantitation limit.
Quantitation Limits: Document the project-required limits of quantitation for each matrix,
analytical parameter, concentration level, and analyte. Differentiate between project “Action
Limits,” and project-required Quantitation Limits. The Action Limit for a contaminant of
concern or other target compound is the numerical value that causes the decision maker to choose
one of the alternate actions. It may be a regulatory threshold, e.g., MCL; a risk-based
concentration level; a reference-based standard; a technological limitation, etc. Due to
uncertainty at the quantitation limit, project-specific QLs should minimally be one-third of
the Action Limit, and ideally one-tenth of the Action Limit. Refer to Diagram 4 for a
representation of these relationships. Also differentiate between Method Detection Limits
(MDLs) and Quantitation Limits (QLs) documented in a published analytical method versus
MDLs and QLs that an individual laboratory can routinely achieve.
The following issues should be considered when selecting project-specific QLs:
• A laboratory MDL is a statistically derived detection limit and should be lower than the
concentration at which the laboratory can quantitatively report. Laboratories determine
their “best case” sensitivity for analytical methods by performing MDL studies.
• The QL is the minimum concentration of an analyte that can be routinely identified and
quantified above the MDL by a laboratory. QLs should minimally be three times the
achievable laboratory MDL, and ideally ten times the achievable laboratory MDL.
CaLibration curves should always include a standard concentration at the Q!L to ensure
sensitivity. QLs are also known as: Practical Quantitation Limits (PQLs) and Minimum
Levels (MLs).
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• Frequently, QLs for specific samples must be adjusted for dilutions, changes to sample
volume/size and extractldigestate volumes, percent solids, and cleanup procedures; these
QLs are then referred to as Sample Quantitation Limits (SQLs) or Reporting Limits (RLs).
SQLs/RLs must be j than the project Action Limits for project quality objectives to be
definitively met. Sample results that are reported to SQLsIRLs that are higher than the
project Action Limits cannot be used to determine whether or not the Action Limit has been
exceeded. Thus environmental decision making may be adversely impacted by the failure
to meet project QLs.
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S QLIRL
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Achievable Laboratoty Method Detection Limit-
Laboratories determine their “best case”
sensitivity for analytical methods by performing
MDL studies.
I
Project QL
Project Quantitation Limit should bc
• 3 - 10 times lower than Action Limit
• 3- 10 times higher than MDL
• Verified by the analysis of a standard at
that concentration in the calibration curve
I
Project Action Limit
Action Limit may be based on regulatory
standard, a reference-based standard,
technological limitation, etc
Diagram 4. Determining Project Quantitation Limits
QL that is adjusted for dilutions,
changes to sample volume/sizes
and e rtracUdigestate volumes,
percent solids and cleanup
procedures are referred to as
Sample Quantitation Limit (SQL)
or Reporting Limit (RL)
I I
0 MDL
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Completeness: Determine quantitative measurement performance criteria for acceptable
completeness for each matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level. Also determine
analyte-specific measurement performance criteria, if applicable. Identif ’ which QA/QC
activities will be performed to measure completeness.
Completeness is a measure of the amount of valid data collected using a measurement system. It
is expressed as a percentage of the number of valid measurements that should have been
collected. Separate values should be provided for the whole data set vs. critical data (a subset of
the whole data set). Since lack of data completeness may require resampling and additional
costs, discuss how sufficient data will be guaranteed for critical sample locations.
Measurement Performance Criteria Table - Provide a Measurement Performance Criteria Table
that contains the information in the format in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #11. An example of a
completed Measurement Performance Criteria Table is provided in Figure 11.
Figure 11. Example Measurement Performance Criteria Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #1 lb - Rev. Draft Training
Complete this worksheet for each medium/matrix, analytical parameter and
concentration level and for each sampling procedure and analytical method. Identify
the DQI, measurement performance criteria (MPC), and QC sample and/or activity
used to assess the measurement performance for the sampling and/or analytical
procedure. Use additional worksheets if necessary. If MPC for a specific DQI
vary within an analytical parameter, i.e., MPC are analyte-specific, then provide
analyte-specific MPC on an additional worksheet. (Refer to QAPP Manual
Sections 7.1 and 7.2 for guidance.)
Figure 11. Example Measurement Performance Criteria Table
Title: North Street Property QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 31 of XX
Medium/Matrix
Ground Waler
nalytical Parameter
VOA
oncentration Level
Low
ampling Procedur&
S-I
nalytical Method/SOP 2
L-I
Data Quality Indicators
(DQIs) 3
Measurement Performance Criteria
I QC Sample and/or Activity Used to Assess Measurement
I Performance
Precision-Overall
RPDs3O% when VOC detects for both field duplicate samples
are 2 QL. RPD  40% when gaseous VOC detects for
both field duplicate samples are 2 QL
Field Duplicates
Precision-Lab
RPD20% when VOC detects for both laboratory duplicate samples
are 2 QL RPD . 30% when gaseous VOC detects for
both laboratory duplicate samples are  QL
Matrix SpikelAlatrix Spike Duplicates
Accuracy/bias
±20% VOCs except volatile gases ±40%
Matrix Spike/Matrix Spike Duplicates
Accuracy/bias
No false negatives, no false positives, quanwalion within
warning limits (±2 ci)
Single Blind PES
Accuracy/bias-Contamination
No target compounds  QL
Equipment Blanks. Trip Blanks. Method Blanks
& Instrument Blanks
Sensitivity
±40% @ QL
Laboratory Fortified Blank @ QL
Data Completeness
85% Overall, 100% Critical Data
Data Completeness Check

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #1 lb - Rev. Draft Training
Complete this worksheet for each medium/matrix, analytical parameter and
concentration level and for each sampling procedure and analytical method. Identify
the DQI, measurement performance criteria (MPC), and QC sample and/or activity
used to assess the measurement performance for the sampling and/or analytical
procedure. Use additional worksheets if necessary. If MPC for a specific DQI
vary within an analytical parameter. i.e., MPC are analyte-specific, then provide
analyte-specific MPC on an additional worksheet. (Refer to QAPP Manual
Sections 7.1 and 7.2 for guidance.)
Figure 11. Example Measurement Performance Criteria Table
Title: North Street property QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 3! of XX
‘1ediumIMatrix
Ground Water
nalytical Parameter
VOA
oncentration Level
Low
ampling Procedure’
S-I
nalytical Method/SOP’
L- I
Data Quality Indicators
(DQIs) ’
Measurement Performance Criteria
QC Sample and/or Activity Used to Assess Measurement
Performance
Comparability
This is the firs: offive rounds of sampling Subsequent data will be
compared to this data set. A criterion of 35% D ference for
individual VOCs @  QL and a criterion of 45% Djference for
individual gaseous VOCs @  QL will be used to compare
individual analytes from those data sets
Comparability Check
‘Reference SOP Number from EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13.
‘Reference analytical method/SOP Number from EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets #17 and #20.
‘Data Quality Indicators (a.k.a. PARCC parameters, i.e., precision, accuracy/bias, sensitivity, data completeness, comparability)

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After measurement performance criteria have been established, data generators and QA
personnel can select sampling and analytical procedures/methods. They will select methods
and procedures that have QC acceptance limits which support the achievement of
established performance criteria. Concurrent with the development of measurement
performance criteria and the selection of sampling and analytical procedures/methods
should be the determination of the analytical data validation criteria. Data users and QA
personnel should select data validation criteria that support both the established project-
specific measurement performance criteria and the analytical method/procedure QC
acceptance limits. This will ensure that only data meeting project-required measurement
performance criteria are used in decision making.
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MEASUREMENTIDATA ACQUISITION ELEMENTS
This element group describes how project data will be collected, measured and documented.
Proper implementation of those activities/tasks will help to ensure that the resultant data are
scientifically sound, of known and documented quality, and are suitable for their intended use.
Quality control activities that will be performed during each phase of data collection/generation,
from sampling to data reporting, are identified. QC acceptance limits are documented and the
required corrective actions for non-conformances are described. It is important to remember that
each phase of data collection/generation is interdependent and, therefore, quality must be
factored into all project activities/tasks. The other two QAPP element groups, Assessmentl
Oversight and Data Validation and Usability, evaluate the activities/tasks described in this
Measurement/Data Acquisition element group.
Sampling Tasks
The sampling sections of the QAPP include all components of the project-specific sampling
system, including sampling process design and rationale, sampling procedures and requirements,
as well as sample handling and custody requirements. To simplify QAPP preparation, written
SOPs should be included as attachments to the QAPP, whenever possible.
The following QAPP sections should provide sufficient documentation to assure the reviewer
that representative samples of the appropriate medium/matrix will be properly and consistently
collected at the appropriate locations and that preventive and corrective action plans are in place
prior to initiation of the sampling event. The terms “medium” and “matrix” are frequently used
interchangeably. More accurately, however, the term “medium” refers to a substance (e.g., air,
water, soil) whereas the term “matrix” refers to a specific type of medium (e.g., surface water,
drinking water, etc.).
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8.0 Sampling Process Design (EPA QA/R-5 Element: Bi)
This section of the QAPP describes the sampling system in terms of what media/matrices will be
sampled, where the samples will be taken, the number of samples to be taken and the sampling
frequency. Whether the QAPP describes an initial site investigation, a large scale remedial
investigationIfeasibility study, a long-term treatment monitoring program, or a volunteer
monitoring program, the rationale for sampling specific points or locations must be
explained in the QAPP.
8.1 Sampling Design Rationale
For each medium/matrix, provide detailed justification for the sampling design selected for the
project. Use EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #12a to describe the logic used to determine sample
locations, analytical parameters and concentration levels and the type, number, and frequency of
field samples and field QC samples to be collected. Describe the following information
pertaining to the sampling plan selection:
• If a grid system will be used to select random sampling locations, then describe the basis for
selecting the size of the grid. Note, that if the grid system is to be used for long-term
monitoring or a high degree of accuracy is required, then the grid system should be surveyed
by a certified land surveyor. Also, note that simple random sampling is used primarily when
the variability of the medium is known to be relatively small, i.e., the medium is
homogeneous.
• If biota will be sampled, then describe the rationale for species and seasonal selection.
• If a watershed is being investigated, then describe the rationale for sampling each medium and
sample location.
• If surface water samples will be collected, then describe the rationale for location selection.
• If field analytical measurements and/or screening techniques will be used to identify sample
locations, then provide decision trees that document the critical decision points of the selection
process.
• If samples will be composited, then provide the rationale and procedure for compositing.
• If sediment and/or peat matrices will be sampled, then describe the procedures to ensure that
percent solids are greater than 30% in accordance with Region I policy. A detailed discussion
and rationale explaining this policy may be found in the Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation
Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses .
• If a biased sampling approach will be used to select sampling locations, then describe the
rationale for choosing a non-statistical appmach.
• If biased/judgmental sampling will be performed, then describe the criteria for selecting “hot
spots”.
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Sampling Location Maps - Lnclude additional site maps, charts and plans to identify and
document specific sample locations. Site maps must include the site borders, all well boring and
test pit installations from previous investigations; buildings; hills; waterbodies; depressions; etc.,
and must identify all areas with known or suspected oil/chemical spills and/or toxic substance
releases. The purpose of these maps is to allow unequivocal sample location determination.
Sampling Locations, Sampling and Analysis Method/SOP Requirements Table - Provide a
Sampling Locations, Sampling and Analysis Method/SOP Requirements Table that contains the
information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #12b. Selected information from
Sections 9.0, 11.0 and 12.0 of the QAPP must be utilized to complete this worksheet. An
example of a completed Sampling Locations, Sampling and Analysis Method/SOP Requirements
Table is provided in Figure 12.
Figure 12. Example Sampling Locations, Sampling and Analysis
Method/SOP Requirements Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #12b - Rev. 10/99
List all site locations that will be sampled and include sample
location ID number, if applicable. Speci1 ’ medium/matrix and,
if applicable depth at which samples will be taken. Complete all
required information, using additional worksheets if necessary.
(Refer to QAPP Manual Section 8.1 for guidance.)
Title. Blimpte Fields
Revision Number 8
Revision Date: 5/6/98
Page: 10 of X ’(
Figure 12. Example Sampling Locations, Sampling and Analysis Method/SOP Requirements Table
Sampling
Location”
Location ID
Number
Medium!
Matrix
Depth
(Units)
Analytical
Parameter
Conc. Level
No. ofSamples
(Identify field
duplicates and
replicates)
Sampling
SOP’
Analytical
Method/SOP’
Sample
Volunic
Containers
(Number, size
and type)
Preservation
Requirements
(chemical,
temperature, light
protected)
Maximum
Holding Time
(preparation/
analysis)
MW-I’ 2
001
GW
20-25
6’l)
VOA
Low
1
S-I
L-I
2x 125 naLs
2x l25mL
o,,iber glass
HC?piI<2. 4’ .
Light Protected
l4daysfor
analysis
SVOC
Low/Medium
I
S-2
L-2
2 Liters
2 x I Liter amber
glass
— Ice
7 days for exir
40 days for anal
Metals
Low/Mediwn
1
S-2
L-3
I Liter
I X I Liter
plastic
FINO, p11<2
28 days for Fig
/80 days for others
MJY-2’
002
GW
30-35
(in)
l’OA
Low
1 + I Field Diip
S-I
L-l
Ix 125 naLs
4x I25mL
amber glass
HClph’<2, 4C.
Light Protected
l4daysfor
analysis
SVOC
Low/A ledium
I + / Field Dup
S-2
L-2
4 Liters
4 x I Liter wnb r
glass
Ice
7 days/or e Ir
40 days/or anal
Metals
Low/Med,u,,,
I + I Field Dup
S-2
L-3
2 Liter
2 Xl Liter
piasi ic
FINO , pH<2
28 days/or Hg
180 days for others
MW-3’
003
GW
30-35
(in)
VOA
Low
I
S-I
L-l
2 x /25 mLs
2 x 125 ,i,L
amber glass
HCIpH<2. 4 ”C.
Light Protected
14 days for
analysis
SVOC
Low/Mediwn
1
5-2
L-2
2 Liters
2 x I Liter amber
glass
ice
7 days/or exir
40 days/or anal
Metals
Low/Mediwn
1
S-2
L-3
I Liter
1 Xl Liter
plastic
IINO , pH<2
28 days/or Fig
180 days/or others
AIW-4’
004
GW
25-30
(in)
J’OA
Low
1
S-I
L-!
2 x 125 mu
2x 125 mL
amber glass
liCipHc2. 4 C.
Light Protected
14 days/or
analysis
SVOC
Low/Medium
I
S-2
L-2
2 Liters
2x / Liter amber
glass
ice
7 days/or extr
40 days/or anal
Metals
Low/Medsiw,
I
5-2
L-3
I Liter
I Xl Liter
p!asnc
HNO,pH<2
28 days for Hg
‘80 days for others
‘Indicate critical field sampling locations with “.
lndicate background sampling locations with “ ‘.
3 Complete the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13), Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet
#17), and Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20) and specify the appropriate letter/number reference in the above lable.

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9.0 Sampling Procedures and Requirements (EPA QAIR-5 Elements: B2, B6, B7, B8)
This section of the QAPP describes how samples will be collected. The selected sampling
procedures must be appropriate to ensure that representative samples are collected in a consistent
manner by project personnel; contamination is not introduced during collection; and all required
sample media/matrices, locations and properly preserved volumes are collected to meet project
objectives.
9.1 Sampling Procedures
Sampling SOPs - All sampling procedures that will be used in the project must be documented
in the QAPP to allow for review and approval. Standardized sampling procedures provide
consistency between samplers; facilitate collection of accurate, precise and representative
samples; and help to ensure data comparability and usability. While it may be possible to
comprehensively describe the sampling procedures for small projects within the text of the
QAPP, the most efficient and cost effective way to document project-specific sampling
techniques is to include sampling SOPs as attachments to the QAPP.
SOPs should be written and formatted in accordance with Guidance for the Preparation of
Standard Oierating Procedures (SOPs) for Oualitv-Related Documents , November 1995,
EPAI600/R-96/027 (EPA QA/G-6). In addition to a detailed step-by-step description of the
sampling procedure, all SOPs must specify acceptable limits of performance and required
corrective actions.
Include SOPs for sampling each medium or matrix, for each analytical parameter, by each type
of equipment and technique. Those SOPs must detail the appropriate number, size and type of
sample containers to be used for collection of each field sample and field QC sample and the
proper temperature, light and chemical preservation procedure for those samples.
Include SOPs for any planned contingency actions that require additional and/or alternate
procedures. For example, include procedures for sampling high moisture content soils/sediments
when those matrices potentially contain peat.
Provide a detailed description, explanation, and SOP for the use of all new and/or innovative
sampling techniques that will be employed during the project. Provide documentation of the
procedures as well as performance data and criteria to support the use of new/innovative
techniqises.
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Examples of sampling SOPs include, but are not limited to:
• The Region I ‘Low Stress (low flow) Purging and Sampling Procedure for the Collection of
Ground Water Samples from Monitoring Wells” most recent revision.
• SOPs for Soil Sampling during Monitoring Well Installation
• Sampling SOPs for Surface and Subsurface Soils
• SOPs for the Collection of Sediments
• SOPs for the Collection of Surface Water Samples from Lakes, Ponds and Streams
• SOPs for the Collection of Drinking Water from Residential Homes
• Sampling SOPs for Ambient Air, Stack Gases and Soil Gas
• SOPs for Collection of Samples from Waste Storage Tanks and Waste Drums
• Sample Compositing SOPs
• Split Sampling SOPs
• Equipment Cleaning SOPs
• Equipment Decontamination SOPs
• Field Equipment Calibration SOPs
• Field Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection SOPs
• SOPs for Inspection and Acceptance Requirements for Supplies
Project Sampling SOP Reference Table - Provide a Project Sampling SOP Reference Table that
contains the information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13. An example of
a completed Project Sampling SOP Reference Table is provided in Figure 13.
Figure 13. Example Project Sampling SOP Reference Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13 - Rev. 10/99
List all SOPs associated with sample collection. Include copies of all written SOPs as attachments
to the QAPP. Sequentially number sampling SOP references in the Reference Number column.
Use additional pages if necessary. The Reference Number can be used throughout the QAPP to
refer to a specific SOP (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 9.1-9.3 for guidance.)
Title: North Street Property QAPP
Revision Number: /
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 33 of XX
Figure 13. Example Project Sampling SOP Reference Table
Reference
Number
Title, Revision Date and/or Number
Originating Organization
Equipment Identification
Modified for
Project Work
YorN
Comments
S-I
EPA-NE Low Stress SOP, Rev. 2, July 30. 1996
Region!, EPA New England
Adjustable rare.
Submersible pump with
Teflon tubing (1/4 inch ID)
N
S-2
CE-Deconzaminat,on Procedures for Monitoring
Well Equipment, Rev. 1, 1996
Chaucer Engineering (CE)
Submersible Pumps
N
S-3
CE-Sample Packaging and Shipping Procedures,
Rev 4, 1995
Chaucer Engineering (CE)
Not Applicable
N
S-4
CE-Chain-of-Custody Procedures and Field
Documentation, Rev 2, 1996
Chaucer Engineering (CE)
Not Applicable
N
S- i
CE-Hazardous Waste Disposal Procedures,
Rev 1, 1996
Chaucer Engineering (CE)
Not Applicable
N

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Note that all project sampling SOPs must be listed, including, but not limited to: sample
collection, sample preservation, equipn ent cleaning and decontamination, equipment testing,
inspection and maintenance, supply inspection and acceptance, and sample handling and custody
SOPs.
9.2 Sampling SOP Modifications
If EPA Sampling SOPs are modified or the Investigative Organization’s routine Sampling SOPs
are modified to meet project quality objectives, then describe the modification(s) in this section
of the QAPP and indicate, on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13, that a modification occurred.
9.3 Cleaning and Decontamination of Equipment/Sample Containers
This section of the QAPP details both the procedures for the initial cleaning of sampling
equipment subsequent decontamination procedures that will be followed during the sampling
event. These procedures help to ensure that collected samples are representative of the sampling
location by verifying that sampling equipment are clean and free of contaminants of concern,
other target compounds, and/or interferences. Cleaning/decontamination procedures must cover
all equipment that contacts a sample.
Equipment Cleaning SOPs - Include Equipment Cleaning SOPs as attachments to the QAPP.
Also, list these SOPs on the Sampling SOP Table. Initial Equipment Cleaning should address:
• How equipment will be cleaned initially prior to field activities
• Frequency at which equipment will undergo full cleaning protocols
• Criteria for measuring cleanliness
If pre-cleaned bottles are used, then the QAPP should identify the vendor and describe where the
certificates of cleanliness will be maintained.
Equipment Decontamination SOPs - Include Equipment Decontamination SOPs as attachments
to the QAPP. Also, list these SOPs on the Sampling SOP Table. Decontamination procedures
for each type of equipment should address:
• How equipment will be decontaminated in the field
• Frequency at which equipment will be decontaminated
• Criteria for measuring the effectiveness of the decontamination procedures
• Disposal of decontamination by-products, if applicable
Discuss or include a table identifying ll the equipment that will come in contact with each
sample for each medium/matrix. For example,
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Equipment
Matrices
Soil
Sediment
Groundwater
Surface Water
Split Spoon Sampler
X
Eckman Dredge
X
Submersible Pump
X
Kemperer Tube
X
If applicable, discuss or include a table identifying equipment that will come into contact with
each sample for each medium/matrix and for a specific analytical parameter. For example,
Matrix: Soil
Parameter
Equipment
VOA Semivolatile
Metals
Encore Sampler
X
Split Spoon Sampler
X
X
Stainless Steel Bowl
X
X
Plastic Scoop
x
9.4 Field Equipment Calibration
This section of the QAPP ensures that all field equipment, including tools, gauges, pumps, etc.,
are calibrated to ensure performance within specified limits and to ensure that corrective action
measures are taken to fix problems prior to and during field operations. This section of the
QAPP demonstrates the ability of the equipment to collect representative samples and data
during field operations.
Include field equipment calibration procedures as an attachment to the QAPP. Calibration of
field equipment should follow EPA procedures where appropriate.
Field Sampling Equipment Calibration Table - Provide a Field Sampling Equipment
Calibration Table that contains the information in the format described in EPA-NE QAP.P
Worksheet #14 All field equipment other than analytical instrumentation must be listed,
including but not limited to: tools, gauges, and pumps. An example of a completed Field
Sampling Equipment Calibration Table is provided in Figure 14.
Figure 14. Example Field Sampling Equipment Calibration Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #14 - Rev. 10/99
Identify all field equipment and procedures that require calibration and provide the SOP
reference and person responsible for corrective action for each type of equipment. If
frequency of calibration, acceptance criteria and corrective action information is not
included in an SOP, then document this information on the worksheet. (Refer to QAPP
Manual Section 9.4 for guidance.)
Title: Swamp Street QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 3/6/98
Page: 35 of XX
Figure 14. Example Field Sampling Equipment Calibration Table
Equipment
Procedure
Frequency of Acceptance Criteria
Calibration I
Corrective Action (CA)
Person Responsible
for CA
SOP Reference*
Type S P,tot
40 CFR Part
60, Appendix A,
Method 2
Every 6 months
As per 40 CFR Part
60, Appendix A,
Method 2
Replace if criteria exceeded
Jane Airway
S-JO
* Specify appropriate reference letter/number from the Project Sampling SOP Rererence Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13).

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9.5 Field Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Requirements
This section of the QAPP describes the procedures and documentation activities that will be
performed to ensure that field and sampling equipment are available and in working order when
needed.
Equipment maintenance logs must be kept and equipment must be checked prior to use.
Describe the records that will be kept to document field equipment maintenance, testing and
inspection activities.
Discuss the availability of spare parts and/or equipment to ensure that project schedules are met.
Field Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table - Provide a Field Equipment
Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table that contains the information in the format described
in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet l5. An example of a completed Field Equipment Maintenance,
Testing and Inspection Table is provided in Figure 15.
Figure 15. Example Field Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #15 - Rev. 10/99
Identify all field equipment and instruments (include analytical instruments on
Worksheet #19) that require maintenance and provide the SOP reference and
person responsible for corrective action for each type of equipment. If frequency
of calibration, acceptance criteria and corrective action information is not
included in an SOP, then document this information on the worksheet. (Refer to
QAPP Manual Section 9.5 for guidance.)
Title: Norih Sireer Propeily QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 38 of XX
Figure 15. Example Field Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table
Sampling Equipmcntl [ Maintenance
[ Instrument Activity
Tcallng Activity
Inspection
Activity
Responsible
Person
Frequency
Acceptance Criteria
Corrective Action
SOP
Referen ce*
Submersible Pump
I’s,ial inspection for
defective parts
Ja,nes Keller
Each pwnp prior to
use
No visually defective
parts
Use backup pump
S-i
Submersible Pump
Operation
James Keller
Each pump prior to
use
Pump is operable
Repair if not
operable
S-I
Submersible Pump
Cleaning
James Keller
Each pump prior to
use
No visually dirty parts
Reclean
S-i
Submersible Pump
.
Equipment Blank (EB)
James Keller
Collect an ER prior
to sampling of 2nd
sampling location
No contaminants of
concern and/or other
target compounds
detected at or above
Qiiantitation Lunit and
no interferences
detected
IJER conla,,unat,on
lewis impact data
.tsabi!ity i/zen
reclean. retest and
re ampie and/or
qiialqfr data during
data validatio,i
S-I
* Specify appropriate reference letter/number from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13).

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9.6 Inspection and Acceptance Requirements for Supplies/Sample Containers
This section documents the procedures and activities that will be performed to ensure that all
sampling supplies and sample containers are free of contaminants of concern, other target
compounds, and interferences.
Itemize the supplies and sample containers that will be used when performing field activities
including sampling activities. Identify all vendors for supplies and sample containers.
Describe the procedures that will be used to ensure adequate supplies and sample containers are
on hand, and sample containers are traceable and clean. Discuss procedures for tracking, storing
and recording supplies and lot numbers for sample containers, as well as procedures for verifying
container cleanliness, such as bottle blank analysis. Document the frequency for inspection
activities, acceptable criteria, and the corrective action procedures employed to prevent the use of
unacceptable supplies and/or sample containers. Identify the personnel responsible, by job
function and organizational affiliation, for checking supplies, sample containers, and sample
container certificates of cleanliness, and the personnel responsible for implementing corrective
actions. The required information may be presented in a table similar to EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #15. If this information is contained in an SOP, then cite the SOP reference and
include the SOP as an attachment to the QAPP.
For guidance on container cleanliness criteria, refer to Attachment D, “EPA Specifications and
Guidance for Contaminant Free Containers,” December 1992 of the Region I. EPA-NE Data
Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses .
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10.0 Sample Handling, Tracking and Custody Requirements (EPA QA/R-5 Element: B3)
10.1 Sample Collection Documentation
This section of the QAPP describes field documentation procedures that will be followed for the
project. Field analytical and fixed laboratory documentation procedures are discussed elsewhere,
in Section 15.0, in conjunction with data management and project records. Proper field sampling
documentation, and field analytical and laboratory documentation, help to ensure sample
authenticity (i.e., the sample identity is correct) and data integrity.
10.1.1 Field Notes
To provide a permanent record of field activities and possible introduction of sampling error,
observations made and measurements taken in the field must be recorded. Typically, field data
are recorded in field logbooks or on field data collection forms.
The following information should be included in the field Iogbooks/field data collection forms:
• Site name and location
• Sample project identification number
• Names, job functions, and organizational affiliations of personnel on-site
• Dates (month/day/year) and times (military) of all entries made in logbooks/forms and user
signatures
• Descriptions of all site activities, including site entry and exit times
• Site location by longitude and latitude centroid, if known
• Weather conditions, including temperature and relative humidity
• Site observations
• Identification and description of sample morphology and collection locations
• Sample collection information, including dates (month/day/year) and times (military) of
sample collections, sample collection methods and devices, station location numbers,
sample collection depths/heights, sample preservation information, sample pH (if
applicable), analysis requested (analytical parameters), etc., as well as Chain-of-Custody
(COC) information such as sample location identification numbers cross-referenced to field
sample numbers
• Contractor and subcontractor information (address, names of personnel, job functions,
organizational affiliations, and contract number, contract name and work assignment
number)
• Records of photographs taken
• Site sketches and diagrams made on-site
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Describe the field information that will be recorded for each mediumlmatrix and each type of
sampling procedure, since field information is medium/matrix and procedure dependent. For
example, documentation of monitoring well sample collection should provide documented
information that includes screen interval, pump intake, purge rate, purge volume, temperature,
relative humidity, specific conductance, pH, redox potential, dissolved oxygen and turbidity.
(An example Well Purging - Field Water Quality Measurements Form is provided in Appendix
3). For a soil boring, the documented field information should include drilling method, borehole
diameter, ground elevation, water level, and soil descriptors like color, odor and grain size.
(Example Soil Boring Log Forms are included in Appendix 3).
If field data collection forms will be used, then include example forms in this section of the
QAPP as figures. Alternatively, include the example forms as attachments to the QAPP and
reference the appropriate attachment.
If field notebooks will be used, then include the requirements for the notebooks in this section.
Bound notebooks with water resistant, sequentially numbered pages, and indelible ink entries
should be required.
Regardless of the means for recording sampling information, copies of field data records should
be included with the associated Data Validation Reports, in accordance with Region I. EPA-NE
Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Environmental Analyses , to facilitate the
identification of sampling error.
10.1.2 Field Documentation Management System
Describe the field documentation tracking and management system as a part of the overall
project data tracking and management system, which is further described in Section 15.0. The
title of each notebook should indicate its function and each notebook used for a specific site or
project should be referenced to all the other project notebooks, including the project manager’s
daily log. Also, each notebook should be tracked and archived with other project records in
accordance with the project data management system.
10.2 Sample Handling and Tracking System
This section documents the procedures that will be followed to identify and track samples
collected in the field, samples analyzed in the field, and samples delivered or shipped to a fixed
laboratory for analysis and sample transfer throughout the laboratory. If samples are shipped to a
fixed laboratory(s), then the laboratory’s sample handling and tracking system should be
described in this section. Proper sample tracking systems support the COC procedures which, in
turn, help to ensure sample authenticity and data defensibility.
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Define the term “sample” or reference the regulatory definition. Since the definition of “sample”
is program-dependent, ensure the correct usage of the term “sample”. If a soil sample is
operationally defined in the field by mesh size, then this should be noted. Also, if a laboratory
subsamples a field sample based on certain criteria (e.g., mesh size), then those activities and
definitions should be documented in this section of the QAPP.
Describe the sample numbering system for field sample collection and provide an example. If
applicable, the numbering system should follow specific programmatic requirements that apply
to the project (e.g., CLP and EPA-NE Delivery of Analytical Services (DAS) sampling tracking
procedures). Use a systematic approach for numbering samples so that each sampling location,
medium/matrix type, sample depth or height, and the date/time of collection can be uniquely
identified and cross-referenced to the programmatic sample number, if applicable.
Describe the laboratory sample tracking procedures. If laboratory identification numbers will be
used to track samples internally, then the laboratory procedure must describe how these
laboratory identification numbers will be cross-referenced with the sample number assigned in
the field.
Describe temperature and preservation (including light protection) procedures that maintain
sample integrity in the field prior to and during shipment to the laboratory.
Describe temperature and preservation (including light protection) procedures that maintain
sample integrity immediately upon receipt by the fixed laboratory or mobile field laboratory.
Describe sample storage procedures used by the fixed laboratory or mobile field laboratory.
Sample Container, Volume and Preservation Table - Document required sample volumes,
container types, numbers of containers and preservation procedures (temperature, light,
chemical) for each analytical parameter, matrix and concentration level in a table. This table can
be separate or, if appropriatc, combined with the Sampling Locations, Sampling and Analysis
Method/SOP Requirements Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #12b).
Define how samples will be batched or grouped to be sent to the laboratory. It is recommended
that samples be grouped in Sample Delivery Groups (SDGs). An SDG is defined as a group of
twenty or fewer field samples within a project, received by a laboratory over a period of up to
fourteen calendar days. PESs and other field QC samples (e.g., equipment blanks, VOA trip
blanks) are counted as field samples in the twenty sample SDG total.
Describe how samples will be delivered or shipped to the laboratory. Include the name of the
carrier service, if applicable. Samples should be transported directly to the laboratory within
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twenty-four hours of sample collection, or shipped by an overnight delivery service (with coolers
under custody seal) within twenty-four hours of’sample collection. A major exception to this
requirement is when published analytical holding times are less than twenty-four hours from
sample collection. If alternate shipment schedules will be used, then describe those alternate
timeframes and provide rationale for their use. Shipment papers, including bills of lading and
airbills, must be retained by the laboratory with COC records.
Include provisions for packaging, marking/labeling and shipping samples in compliance with the
most recent Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations for shipping hazardous and
nonhazardous materials. Air carriers which transport hazardous materials require compliance
with the current edition of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods
Regulations, which applies to shipment and transportation of hazardous materials by air carriers.
Following IATA regulations will also ensure compliance with U.S. DOT regulations.
Include examples of all sample shipment forms to be used (these may be the same as the COC
forms, which are discussed in Section 10.3 of this Manual).
Sample Handling Flow Diagram - Provide a flow chart that diagrams the flow of samples from
the time of collection to laboratory delivery to final sample disposal. Indicate the personnel, and
their organizational affiliations, who are primarily responsible for ensuring proper sample
handling, custody, storage and disposal. Specify length of time samples, digestates and/or
extracts, and biological collections will be retained by the laboratory prior to disposal. An
example of a Sample Handling Flow Diagram is provided in Figure 16.
Figure 16. Example Sample Handling Flow Diagram
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #16 - Rev. 10/99 Title. North Street Propera y QAPP
Use this worksheet to identify components of the project-specific sample handling Revision Number. I
system. Record personnel and their organizational affiliations, who are primarily Revision Date: 1/9/98
responsible for ensuring proper handling, custody, and storage of field samples Page: /6 of XX
from the time of collection to laboratory delivery, to final sample disposal. Indicate
the number of days original field samples and their extracts/digestates will be
archived prior to disposal. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 10.2 for guidance.)
Figure 16. Example Sample Handling System
SAMPLE COLLECTION, PACKAGING AND SHIPMENT
Sample Collection: James Keller, Chaucer Engineering
Sample Packing: Huey Long. Chaucer Engineering
Coordination of Shipment: James Keller
Type of Shipment (Courier): Overnight (Federal Express)
SAMPLE RECEIPT AND ANALYSIS
Responsible Organization: Austin Laboratories
Sample Receipt: Wailer Emerson
Sample Custody and Storage: Walter Emerson
Sample Preparation: N/A
Sample Determinative Analysis: Lucy Alcott
SAMPLE ARCHIVAL
Field Sample Storage (No. of days from sample collection): 60
Sample Extract/Digestate Storage (No. of days from extraction/digestion): N/A
SAMPLE DISPOSAL
Responsible Organization: Austin Laboratories
Responsible Personnel: Walter Emerson

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Sample Container Label (Sample Tag) - Specify the required sample label information in this
section and include an example of a sample container label. Sample containers should be
labeled, using indelible ink, with the following minimum information:
• Site name and location
• Sample project identification number
• Sample collection location and depth/height
• Collection date (month/day/year) and time (military)
• Sample collection method (composite or grab) and device
• Sample preservation method (chemical or physical (ice), and indicate if sample must be
light protected)
• Sample pH, if applicable
• Analysis requested (analytical parameter)
• Sampler’s signature
Describe how the information on the label will be preserved, such as covering the label with clear
tape to minimize water damage during transit.
10.3 Sample Custody
A sample is in “custody” if it is in the actual physical possession of authorized personnel or in a
secured area that is restricted to authorized personnel. For some projects, an evidentiary paper
trail documenting sample custody is required to meet project quality objectives. Since it is often
difficult to predict what samples and/or projects will require proof of custody after the fact, all
data collection events should employ standard COC procedures and documentation to ensure
data authenticity and defensibility.
This section of the QAPP describes the procedures that will be used to maintain sample custody
and integrity, and to document implementation of proper COC procedures. The evidentiary trail
from sample collection through data generation and archival is maintained through sample
custody procedures and documented by complete COC records, including COC forms, Traffic
Reports, Sample Tags/Labels, Cooler Custody Seals, Sample Custody Seals, Laboratory Sample
Receipt Forms, Laboratory Sample Transfer Forms, etc. Note that only through complete
documentation can the end user prove that the individual sample results are reflective of a
particular sample (collected at a specific site location on a unique date and time) and that the
sample was handled as prescribed. COC procedures ensure accountability for the location and
integrity of the sample at all times. Refer to the EPA policy document, National Enforcement
Investigations Center ( NE!C) Policies and Procedures , EPA-330/9-78-001-R, May 1978, Rev.
December 1981, for information regarding COC procedures.
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Included, in this section of the QAPP, are the field sampling team’s procedures for maintaining
and documenting sample custody from the time samples are collected in the field through
packaging, shipment and delivery to the laboratory. Field sampling documents that describe
COC procedures, including SOPs, should be included as an attachment to the QAPP.
Included, in this section of the QAPP, are the laboratory’s procedures for maintaining and
documenting sample custody from the time the samples are received at the laboratory through
archival and disposal. Laboratory documents that describe the COC procedures, either Sample
Custody SOPs or the LQAP, should be included as an attachment to the QAPP.
Chain-of-Custody Documentation - Include examples of all COC documentation including
COC Forms, Traffic Reports, Sample Tags/Labels, Custody Seals, Laboratory Sample Receipt
Forms, Laboratory Sample Transfer Forms, etc. that will be used during the project.
An example of a Chain-of-Custody Form is provided in Appendix 3.
Sample Handling, Tracking and Custody SOPs - Include all sample handling, tracking and
custody procedures that ensure sample integrity/custody is maintained during sample collection,
packaging, handling, shipping and laboratory sample receipt through archival and disposal as
attachments to the QAPP. List Sampling COC SOPs on the Project Sampling SOP Reference
Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13). List COC SOPs associated with field or fixed
laboratory analysis on the Field Analytical or Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Reference Table
(EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets #17 and #20, respectively).
Examples of Sample Handling, Tracking and Custody SOPs include, but are not limited to:
• Field Documentation SOPs and Records Management SOPs
• Sample Custody/Sample Security SOPs (field)
• Sample Handling and Tracking SOPs (field)
• Sample Packaging and Shipping SOPs (field)
• Sample Receipt and Storage SOPs (laboratory)
• Sample Custody/Sample Security SOPs (laboratory)
• Sample Tracking SOPs (laboratory)
• Sample Disposal or Archival SOPs (laboratory)
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Analysis Tasks
The following sections of the QAPP include all components of the project-specific analytical
measurement system, including field and fixed laboratory analytical methods and SOPs; method
and laboratory-specific QC measurements, acceptance criteria and corrective actions; calibration
procedures; and instrument/equipment/supply maintenance, testing and inspection requirements.
Region I defines field analytical tasks as those analytical activities that are not performed in a
fixed laboratory. Field analysis includes both semi-quantitative/semi-qualitative field screening
techniques and definitive full protocol analytical methods. Definitive data may be generated for
field parameters including, Specific Conductance, Temperature, DO, pH, Turbidity, OPRIEh
using field instrumentation. Definitive inorganic and organic data may be generated in a mobile
field laboratory equipped with a GC, GC/MS, ICP, etc.
These sections of the QAPP should provide sufficient documentation to assure the reviewer that
accurate, precise and usable data will be generated and that preventive and corrective action
plans are in place prior to the initiation of the sampling event.
The EPA is currently implementing a Performance Based Measurement System (PBMS) for
environmental data generation/collection for all of its media programs. Under the new PBMS,
the data quality needs of a project, which are determined using a systematic planning process,
dictate the selection and/or design of sampling and analytical procedures. When PBMS is fully
implemented, the regulated community would be able to use any sampling or analytical
procedure that meets the project-specific quantitative and qualititative measurement performance
criteria (which are called Measurement Quality Objectives under PBMS). PBMS requires
documentation that selected analytical procedures meet specified measurement performance
criteria. PBMS applies to field analytical and fixed laboratory measurements that will be used
for both screening and definitive purposes. PBMS does not apply to method-defined parameters
such as TCLP, BOD, airborne and stationary source particulate matter, etc.
All contracted and/or subcontracted field analytical and fixed laboratory services must be in
place in order for the final QAPP to be approved.
Specific guidance for procuring laboratory services is provided in Attachment Q of the Region L
EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses . Where
regulatory and/or programmatic requirements specify that a.laboratory be ‘certified (e.g., EPA
water supply program), documentation of the laboratory certification should be included as an
attachment to the QAPP.
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11.0 Field Analytical Method Requirements (EPA QAIR-5 Elements: B4, B6, B7, B8)
This section of the QAPP describes the analytical techniques that will be used in the field or by
an on-site mobile laboratory to generate screening as well as definitive data for the project. It
documents the field analytical methods and SOPs that will be used to meet measurement
performance criteria and achieve project-required quantitation limits for the contaminants of
concern and other target compounds at the concentration levels and in the specific medial
matrices as identified on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets #9a and #9b. Note the difference
between methods and analytical SOPs: methods describe preparatory and
analytical/determinative techniques used in target analyte identification and quantitation,
while analytical SOPs document how a particular laboratory will perform a specific
analytical method.
11.1 Field Analytical Methods and SOPs
Field Analytical Methods and SOPs - All field analytical methods and procedures that will be
used in the project must be documented in the QAPP to allow for review and approval.
Differentiate between field screening procedures and field analytical procedures used to generate
definitive data. While it may be possible to describe simple field analytical procedures within
the text of the QAPP, the most efficient and cost effective way to document project-specific
measurement procedures is to include analytical methods and SOPs as attachments to the QAPP.
Include methods/SOPs for each analytical parameter, medium/matrix and concentration level that
will be investigated. All methods/SOPs must contain the maximum allowable holding time from
sample collection to sample preparation and/or analysis (as appropriate).
If definitive data will be generated by using a mobile on-site laboratory, then the organization
operating that mobile laboratory should provide the equivalent of a Laboratory QA Plan/Manual
to be included as an attachment to the QAPP. This document is not necessary if only field
screening data are being generated.
Analytical methods should be written and formatted in accordance with the Environmental
Monitoring Management Council (EMMC) Method Format (which is provided in Appendix 4).
Analytical methods must specify appropriate QC checks and samples with explicit concentration
and frequency requirements for preparation and analysis, QC acceptance limits and required
corrective actions for each step of the method.
Analytical SOPs should be written and formatted in accordance with Guidance for the
Preparation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Quality-Related Documents ,
November 1995, EPA/6001R-96/027 (EPA QAIG-6). In addition to a detailed step-by-step
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description of the procedure, all SOPs must speciI y appropriate QC checks and samples
with explicit concentration and frequency requirements for preparation and analysis, QC
acceptance limits and required corrective actions for each step of the procedure.
Include analytical methods and SOPs for any planned contingency analytical work that may be
required.
Provide a detailed description, explanation and SOP for the use of all new and/or innovative
analytical techniques that will be employed during the project. Provide documentation of the
procedures as well as method performance data and criteria to support the use of new/innovative
techniques.
Examples of field analytical methods and SOPs include, but are not limited to:
• EPA Standard Methods
• Field Analytical SOPs
• Sample Receipt and Storage SOPs
• Sampling Tracking SOPs
• Sample Preparation SOPs
• Glassware Cleaning SOPs
• Calibration SOPs
• Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Activities SOPs
• Analytical Standards Preparation and Traceability SOPs
• Data Reduction Procedures
• Documentation Policies/Procedures
• Data Verification Procedures
• Data Management Procedures
• Sample and Sample Extract/Digestate Disposal SOPs
Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table - Provide a Field Analytical Method/SOP
Reference Table that contains the information in the format described in EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #17. An example of a completed Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table is
provided in Figure 17.
Figure 17. Example Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17 - Rev. 10/99
List all methods/SOPs that will be used to perform field analysis either directly in the field or in a
mobile field laboratory. Indicate whether method/procedure produces screening or definitive data.
Sequentially number field analytical method/SOP references in the Reference Number column. Use
additional pages if necessary. Include copies of all methods/SOPs as attachments to the QAPP.
The Reference Number can be used throughout the QAPP to refer to a specific method/SOP.
(Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 11.1 and 11.2 for guidance.)
Title: North Street Properly QA PP
Revision Number: I
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Page: 40 of XX
Figure 17. Example Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table
Reference
Title, Revision Date and/or
Definitive
Region I
Originating
Analytical
Instrument
Org
anization Performing
Modified
Number
Number
or
Screening
Data
NESTS*
Method Code
Organization
Parameter
.
Field Analysis
.
for Project
Work
y or N
N/A
Chaucer
Engineering (CE)
pH
pH Probe
Chaucer Engineering (CE)
N
DO
DO Probe
Chaucer Engineering (CE)
N
Specific
Conductance
Specific
Conductance
Electrode
Chaucer Engineering (CE)
N
Temperature
Temperature
Sensor
Chaucer Engineering (CE)
N
Turbidity
Turbidimeter
Chaucer Engineering (CE)
N
ORP/Eh
ORP/Eh Chaucer Engineering (CE)
Electrode
N
F-I
CE-Procedure for Calibrating
Field Inst rumenlalion. Oct.
1997
Definitive
* For environmental data collection performed by EPA or its contractors, indicate the appropriate NESTS Method Code as described on the EPA-NE DQO Summary
Form.

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11.2 Field Analytical Method/SOP Modifications
If full protocol methods and/or other published methods and/or standard SOPs are modified to
meet project quality objectives, then describe the modification(s) in this section. For example, a
field screening analytical SOP for analyzing PCBs in soil requires that 1 gram of soil be
extracted. If previously collected site data showed high levels of PCB contamination (i.e., above
the calibrated measurement range), then the data generators may choose to extract a smaller
volume of sample. This would constitute a modification to the SOP.
11.3 Field Analytical Instrument Calibration
To ensure that the analytical methods and the selected instrumentation meet the project
requirements for selective, sensitive, accurate and precise detection and quantitation of the
analytes of interest, it is necessary to completely describe the calibration procedures for each
field analytical instrument. This section of the QAPP demonstrates the ability of the field
analytical technique to accurately and precisely identi& and quantitate the contaminants of
concern and other target compounds at the required quantitation limits and within the required
measurement ranges.
FieldAnalytical Instrument Calibration Table - Provide a Field Analytical Instrument
Calibration Table that lists all field analytical instrumentation (including, but not limited to,
screening instruments, XRF, total organic vapor analyzers (PID or FID), portable GCs, and
immunoassay kits) and that contains the information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #18. An example of a completed Field Analytical Instrument Maintenance and
Calibration Table is provided in Figure 18.
Figure 18. Example Field Analytical Instrument Calibration Table
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J PA-NE QAPP Worksheet #18 - Rev. 10199
Identify all field analytical instrumentation that require calibration and provide the required
information for each. Use additional pages if necessary. If required information is included in an
SOP, then summarize relevant information on the worksheet and reference the appropriate SOP
aumber. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 11.3 for guidance.)
Title: North Street Properly QA PP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 43 of
Figure 18. Example Field Analytical Instrument Calibration Table
Instrument
,
Activity
I Frequency of
J Calibration
Acceptance Criteria
Corrective Action (CA)
Person Responsible
for CA
Method/SOP
Reference*
p1 1 Probe
Calibrate probe with 3 temp.
eqitilibra ted stds. to bracket
ex cc:edpH values
-Daily - be/ore use
-Calibration check every 4 hours
of use and at end of day
3 stds provide stable
readings ±0 1 pH unit
within 3 ,,un
Ifprobe reading/ails to stabilize, do not use
Check/replace membrane and recalibrate or
service as necessary Repeat analysis of
affected samples or qualify data i/analysis
cannot be repealed
James Keller
-
F-i
DO Probe
Calibrate with 2 slds -
% Saturated DO sid. and 00
nigiL DO std
-Daily - before use
-Calibration check every 4 hours
of use and at end of day
+02 nig/L for 00 mgIL
DO std
If DO reading exceeds criterion, then prepare
new 00 nig/L DO std. clean probe and/or
change membrane Recalibrate or service as
necessary Repeat analysis of affected saniples
or qualify data if analysis cannot be repeated
James Keller
F-i
Conductivity Meter
Calibrate electrode with 1 sId.
-Daily - before use
-Calibration check at end of day
*1 ,iniholcn, of std
If sp conductance reading exceeds criterion.
then clean probe or service as necessary and
recalibrate Repeat analysis 0/affected
samples or qualify data i/analysis cannot be
repeated
James Keller
F-i
The rinisi or-Temperature
Sensor
Calibrate against NlSTcertifiei
the rniometer
-Daily - before use
-Calibration check at end of day
±0 15 ‘C of N1ST certified
thermometer
1/temperature sensor reading exceeds
criterion, service or replace as necessary and
recalibrate Repeal analysis of affected
samples or qualify data i/analysis cannot be
repealed
James Keller
F-I
Turbidimeter
Calibrate with 0 02 NTU and 2
oilier sids to bracket expected
sample concentration range
-Daily - before use
-Calibration check at end of day
±5% per scale
1/turbidity reading exceeds criterion, then
recalibrate or service as necessary Repeal
analysis of affected samples or qualify data if
analysis cannot be repeated
James Keller
F-I
ORP/Eli Electrode
Calibrate against / Zobell
solution
-Daily - before use
-Calibration check at end 0/day
±1 mmiv of std
1/ORP/Eh reading exceeds criterion, then have
manufacturer recalibrate Repeat analysis of
affected samples or qualify data if analysis
cannot be repeated
Jamnes Keller
F-I
* Specify appropriate reference letter/number from Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17).

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Calibration procedures may be documented separately in this section of the QAPP or included in
the appropriate field analytical SOPs as attachments to the QAPP. In either case, the following
items, where appropriate, must be addressed for each analytical procedure:
• Frequency of initial and continuing calibrations
• Number of calibration points, calibration levels for multipoint curves, and calibration
standards at the required quantitation limit concentration for each contaminant of concern
and other target compounds
• Linearity calculation techniques
• Acceptance criteria for calibrations
• Calibration level for calibration verification standards. In order to assess instrument drift, a
calibration verification standard should be run periodically during the analytical sequence
and at the end of the analytical sequence.
• Corrective actions for non-conforrnances
• Calibration/Standards Documentation: Describe what documentation will be generated for
calibrations and standards for each instrument. Note that a plot for each regression curve
must be provided for all non-linear curves that will be used to quantitate field samples.
• Standards Traceability: Describe the procedures to be used to assure standard traceability.
Standards must be traceable to a verifiable source such as a NIST standard. Standards may
be purchased as ampulated mixtures with certificates of analysis, however, it is the
laboratory’s responsibility to ensure the accuracy of the standard solutions.
• Second Source Verification: Describe the use of second source verification standards.
Even certified standards may change over time or not meet vendor’s specifications. A
relatively inexpensive way to verify the analytes and concentration of a standard is to
analyze a standard containing the same analytes from another vendor. By applying routine
comparability criteria, greater assurance is gained in the identification and quantitation of
target analytes in an analytical sample. The data from the two standards can be compared
using previously established comparability criteria to assess accuracy.
11.4 Field Analytical Instrument/Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Requirements
This section of the QAPP describes the procedures and documentation activities that will be
performed to ensure that all field analytical instrumentation and equipment are available and in
working order when needed.
Instrument/equipment maintenance logs must be kept and instrumentation and equipment must
be checked prior to use. Describe the records that will be kept to document field analytical
equipment/instrumentation maintenance, testing and inspection activities.
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Discuss the availability of spare parts or spare instruments to ensure that project schedules are
met. Discuss how instruments are controlled in the field and during storage, instrument security
and log-in/log-out procedures to ensure instrument availability.
Field Analytical Instrument/Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table - Provide
a Field Analytical Instrument/Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table that
contains the information in the format described in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #19. An example
of a completed Field Analytical Instrument/Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection
Table is provided in Figure 19.
Figure 19. Example Field Analytical Instrument/Equipment
Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #19 - Rev. 10/99
Identify all field analytical instrumentation/equipment and provide the required
information for each. If required infonnation is included in an SOP, then
summarize relevant information on the worksheet and reference the appropriate
SOP number. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 11.4 for guidance.)
Figure 19. Example Field Analytical Instrument/Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table
Title: North Street Property QA PP
Revision Number: /
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 45 of XX
Insirument
Mainl !ance Activity
Testing Activity
Inspeclion Activity
Responsible Person
Frequency
Acceptance
Criteria
Correctly! Action
Method/SOr
Rererence
pH Probe
ClEan probe
.
When unstable readings
occur

Eveiy 4 hours
Stable after 3 nun

±0 1 pH unit
Clean probe.
and/or replace
membrane, and/or
replace or service
other defective
parts
James Keller
F-I
QC Check
.
Visual Inspection
Daily before use
No deft dive paris
noted
DO Probe
See SOP F-I
See SOP F-!
See SOP F-!
See SOP F.!
See SOP F.!
See SOP F.!
Si.e SQl’ F.!
F.!
Conductivity
Meter
See SOP F.!
See SOP F-I
See SOP F-I
See SOP F.!
See SOP F.I
See SOP F-I
. See SOP F-I
F.!
Temperature
Sensor
See SOP F.!
See SOP F-I
See SOP F-I
See SOP F.!
See SOP F.l
-
See SOP F.!
See SOP F.!
F.!
Turbidimeter
See SOP F.!
See SOP F.!
See SOP F-I
See SOP F.!
See SOP F!
See SOP F.!
See SOP F.!
F-I
ORP/Eh Electrode
See SOP F-I
See SOP F.!
See SOP F.!
See SOP F.!
See SOP F.!
See SOP F.!
See SOP F.!
F.!
* Specify appropriate reference letter/number from Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17).

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11.5 Field Analytical Inspection and Acceptance Requirements for Supplies
This section of the QAPP documents procedures and activities that will be performed to ensure
that all supplies used in field analytical work will be available when needed and will be free of
contaminants of concern, other target compounds, and interferences.
Itemize the supplies that will be used when performing field analytical work. Identify all
vendors for supplies and reagents.
Describe the procedures that will be used to ensure supply cleanliness and reagent purity.
Discuss procedures for recording reagent lot numbers and procedures for measuring supply
cleanliness. Document corrective action procedures employed to prevent the use of unacceptable
supplies. Identify the person(s) responsible for checking supplies and implementing corrective
actions. If this information is contained in an SOP, then cite the SOP reference. Alternatively,
the required information may be presented in a table similar to EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #19.
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12.0 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method Requirements
(EPA QA/R-5 Elements: B4, B6, B7, B8)
This section of the QAPP describes the analytical techniques that will be used by the fixed
laboratory to generate screening as well as definitive data for a project. It documents the fixed
laboratory analytical methods and SOPs that will be used to meet measurement performance
criteria and achieve project-required quantitation limits for the contaminants of concern and other
target compounds at the concentration levels and in the specific media/matrices as identified on
EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets #9a and #9b. Note the difference between methods and
analytical SOPs: methods describe preparatory and analytical/determinative techniques
used in target analyte identification and quantitation, while analytical SOPs document how
a particular laboratory will perform a specific analytical method.
12.1 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Methods and SOPs
Fixed Laboratory Analytical Met/sods and SOPs - All fixed laboratory analytical methods and
procedures that will be used in the project must be included in the QAPP to allow for review and
approval. While it may be possible to describe simple fixed laboratory analytical procedures
within the text of the QAPP, the most efficient and cost effective way to document project-
specific measurement procedures is to include analytical methods and SOPs as attachments to the
QAPP. Include methods/SOPs for each analytical parameter, medium/matrix and concentration
level that will be investigated. All methods/SOPs must contain the maximum allowable holding
time from sample collection to sample preparation and/or analysis (as appropriate).
If the analytical procedures are documented in the fixed laboratory’s QA Plan or Manual, then it
may be easiest to include the relevant sections in the project QAPP or reference the appropriate
sections of those documents in the project QAPP. This would preclude including separate
analytical SOPs (assuming that those relevant sections of the fixed laboratory’s QA Plan/Manual
contain all of the required information). Laboratory QA Plans or Manuals must be included for
each laboratory retained to provide analytical services.
Analytical methods should be written and formatted in accordance with the EMMC guidance
provided in Appendix 4. Analytical methods must specify appropriate QC checks and samples
with explicit concentration and frequency requirements for preparation and analysis, QC
acceptance limits and required corrective actions for each step of the method.
Analytical SOPs should be written and formatted in accordance with Guidance for the
Preparation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs for Quality-Related Documents ,
November 1995, EPA/6001R-96/027 (EPA QA/G-6). In addition to a detailed step-by-step
description of the analytical procedure, all SOPs must specify appropriate QC checks and
samples with explicit concentration and frequency requirements for preparation and
analysis, QC acceptance limits and required corrective actions for each step of the method.
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Include analytical methods and SOPs for any planned contingency analytical work that may be
required.
Provide a detailed description, explanation and SOP for the use of all new and/or innovative
analytical techniques that will be employed during the project. Provide documentation of the
procedures as well as method performance data and criteria to support the use of new/innovative
techniques.
Examples of fixed laboratory methods and SOPs include, but are not limited to:
• EPA Standard Methods
• Fixed Laboratory Analytical SOPs
• Sample Receipt and Storage SOPs
• Sampling Tracking SOPs
• Sample Preparation SOPs
• Glassware Cleaning SOPs
• Calibration SOPs
• Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Activities SOPs
• Analytical Standards Preparation and Traceability SOPs
• Data Reduction Procedures
• Documentation Policies/Procedures
• Data Verification Procedures
• Data Management Procedures
• Sample and Sample Extract/Digestate Disposal SOPs
Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table - Provide a Fixed Laboratory
Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table that contains the information in the format shown in
EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20. An example of a completed Fixed Laboratory Analytical
Method/SOP Reference Table is provided in Figure 20.
Figure 20. Example Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20 - Rev. 10/99
List all methods/SOPs that will be used to perform analyses in fixed laboratories. Indicate whether
method procedure produces definitive or screening data. Sequentially number fixed laboratory SOP
references in the Reference Number column. Use additional pages if necessary. Include copies of
all methods/SOPs as attachments to the QAPP or attach Laboratory QA Plans/Manuals for each
laboratory that will provide analytical services and reference the appropriate sections in the project
QAPP. The Reference Number can be used throughout the QAPP to refer to a specific
method/SOP (Refer to QAPP?tlanua! Sections 12.1 and 12.2 for guidance.)
Tit!e: North Street Property QAPP
Revision Number: /
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 47 of XX
Figure 20. Example Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table
Reference
Number
Fixed Laboratory
Performing Analysis
Title, Revision Date and/or Number
Definitive
or
Screening
Data
Region I
NESTS
Method
Code*
Analytical
Parameter
Instrument
Modified for Project Work
Y or N
L-l
Austin Laboratories

Method 524 2 Measurement of Purgeable
Organic Compounds in Water by Capillary
Column Gas Chromatography/Mass
Spectrometry, Rev. 4 1, 1995
Definitive
524.2
VOA
GC/MS
Y
-MS/MSD QC sample added
-See QAPP ten for complete
description of laboratory
procedure for performing
Method 524 2.
L-2
Austin Laboratories
Glassware Cleaning for Volatile Organic
Analyses. Rev. 3, 1996
NA
NA
VOA
GC/&fS
N
L-3
Austin Laboratories
Standards Preparation and Traceability for
Volatile Organic Analyses, Rev. 1, 1995
NA
NA
VOA
GC/MS
N
L-4
Austin Laboratories
Sample Receipt. Custody, and Storage, Rev
3, 1995
NA
NA
VOA
GC/MS
N
L-5
Austin Laboratories
Preventative Maintenance and Corrective
Action Procedures for Gas Chromatographs
and Gas ChromatograpWMass
Spectrometers, Rev 2, 1995
NA
NA
VOA
GC/MS
-
N
L-6
Austin Laboratories
Hazardous Waste Determination and
Disposal Procedures, Rev. 1, 1996
NA
NA
VOA
GC/MS
N
L-7
Austin Laboratories
Final Reporl Preparation for Organic
Analyses, Rev. 5, 1996
Definitive
NA
VOA
GC/MS
N
.
* For environmental data collection
Form.
performed by EPA or its contractors, indicate the appropriate NESTS Method Code as described on the EPA-NE DQO Summary

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12.2 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method/SOP Modifications
If standard EPA methods or other published methods and/or SOPs are modified to meet project
quality objectives, then describe the modification(s) in this section. For example, the USEPA
CLP Low/Medium Concentration VOA Method in the Statement of Work for Organic Analysis
OLMO3.2 specifies a target compound list of 33 volatile organic compounds. The project
planning team may choose to add an additional compound (e.g., dioxane) to the target compound
list because it is a contaminant of concern at the site. This would constitute a modification to the
standard EPA method.
12.3 Fixed Laboratory Instrument Calibration
To ensure that the analytical methods and the selected instrumentation meet the project
requirements for selective, sensitive, accurate, and precise detection and quantitation of the
analytes of interest, it is necessary to completely describe the calibration procedures for each
fixed laboratory analytical instrument. This section of the QAPP demonstrates the ability of the
fixed laboratory analytical technique to accurately and precisely identify and quantitate the
contaminants of concern and other target compounds at the required quantitation limits and
within the required measurement ranges.
Fixed Laboratory Instrument Maintenance and Calibration Table - Provide a Fixed
Laboratory Instrument Maintenance and Calibration Table that lists all fixed laboratory
analytical instrumentation and that contains the information in the format shown in EPA-NE
QAPP Worksheet #21. An example of a completed Fixed Laboratory Instrument Maintenance
and Calibration Table is provided in Figure 21.
Figure 21. Example Fixed Laboratory Instrument Maintenance and Calibration Table
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #21 - Rev. 10/99
Identify all fixed laboratory analytical instrumentation that require calibration and provide the
required information for each. Use additional pages if necessary. If required information is
included in an SOP, then Summarize relevant information on the worksheet and reference the
appropriate SOP number. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 12.3 for guidance.)
Title: North Street Property QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 53 of XX
Figure 21. Example Fixed Laboratory Instrument Maintenance and Calibration Table
Instrument
Activity
List
and
Maintenance, Testing
Inspection Activities
Frequency of
Calibration
Acceptance Criteria
Corrective Action
(CA)
Persoil
Responsible for
CA
Method/SOP
Reference*
GC/MS
VOA Analysis
Check connections, replace
disposables, bake out
instrument, recondition trap
and column, and perform leak
tests.
IC-instrument receipt.
major instrument
change, when CC
does not meet criteria
CC-at beginning of
each 12 hr sh /i, daily
before use
Mm. RRF 005
for most VOCs except
Ketones, THF, etc.
See Method L- Ifor
complete list of
minimum RRFs
Mar. RSD: 25% for
all target compounds
Mm RRF: 005
for most VOCs except
Ketones, THF, etc
See Method L-Ifor
complete list of
minimum RRFs
Max. %D: 30% for
all target compounds
See method
See method
Lucy Alcott
L- /
* Specify appropriate reference letter/number from Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20).

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Calibration procedures may be documented separately in this section of the QAPP or included in
the appropriate fixed laboratory analytical SOPs as attachrnentsto the QAPP. In either case, the
items listed in Section 11.3 must be addressed for each analytical procedure.
12.4 Fixed Laboratory Instrument/Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection
Requirements
This section of the QAPP describes the procedures and documentation activities that will be
performed to ensure that all fixed laboratory instrumentation and equipment are available and in
working order when needed.
Equipment maintenance logs must be kept and equipment must be checked prior to use.
Describe the records that will be kept to document fixed laboratory instrumentation maintenance,
testing and inspection activities.
Discuss the availability of spare parts or spare instruments to ensure that project schedules are
met. Discuss how instruments are controlled, instrument security and log-in/log-out procedures
to ensure instrument availability.
List all instrument maintenance, testing and inspection activities on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet
#21.
12.5 Fixed Laboratory Inspection and Acceptance Requirements for Supplies
l’his section of the QAPP documents procedures and activities that will be performed to ensure
that all supplies used in fixed laboratory work will be available when needed and will be free of
contaminants of Concern, other target compounds, and interferences.
Itemize the supplies that will be used when performing fixed laboratory work. Identify all
vendors for supplies and reagents.
Describe the procedures that will be used to ensure supply cleanliness and reagent purity.
Discuss procedures for recording reagent lot numbers and procedures for measuring supply
cleanliness. Document corrective action procedures employed to prevent the use of unacceptable
supplies. Identify the person(s) responsible for checking supplies and implementing corrective
actions. If this information is contained in an SOP, then cite the SOP reference. Alternatively,
the required information may be presented in a table.
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Quality Control Tasks
13.0 Quality Control Requirements (EPA QA/R-5 Elements: B5)
Quality Control (QC) is the system of technical activities which measures the performance of a
process. Different QC checks and samples are used to both prevent and identify specific sources
of error in a particular project activity or part of a process. For additional information on QC
checks and samples and guidance on the interpretation of QC data and its impact on data
usability, the reader should refer to the most recent revision of the Region I. EPA-NE Data
Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses .
There are two general types of QC checks and samples:
1. Batch-specific QC: These include QC samples that are handled, prepared, and analyzed
concurrently with environmental samples to ensure that the procedures used to collect.
transport, and analyze a group/batch of samples are performed under known, well-defmed
conditions (i.e., they are in control).
Certain QC samples provide batch-specific information that reflects the cumulative
measurement error for a specific project activity, or group of activities. For example, an
equipment blank identifies the level of contamination introduced into a batch of samples
when sequential field samples are taken using the same sampling equipment. To further
isolate potential sources of equipment blank contamination, additional QC samples must be
collected and analyzed, including bottle blanks, trip blanks (volatile organics only),
decontamination solvent blanks and laboratory blanks. Refer to Tables 2, 3 and 4 for a
summary of specific information derived from QC samples.
Field and laboratory instrument performance, calibration checks and PESs, Laboratory
Fortified Blanks, etc., are also examples of QC associated with defined groups or batches of
samples.
2. Sample-specific QC: In contrast to batch-specific QC, sample-specific QC checks and
samples are used to evaluate potential sources of error in the collection, transport and
analysis of individual samples. For example, the addition of acid preservative to aqueous
metal samples must be evaluated for each individual sample. Also, sample-specific
matrix effects and laboratory performance on individual organic samples are assessed by
spiking samples with surrogate compounds prior to preparation and/or analysis and
determining their recoveries. Matrix spikes and matrix spike duplicates are also used to
assess matrix effects and laboratory performance on individual organic and inorganic
samples. Instrument performance precision for the analysis of each organic sample may
be monitored by the addition of internal standard compounds.
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In some situations, sample-specific QC data may be used to evaluate an entire sample
groupf batch. For example, matrix spike/matrix spike duplicate (MS/MSD) data are used to
determine laboratory precision and method bias for specific organic sample matrices at the
time of sample preparation and analysis. MS/MSD data can be used in conjunction with
other QC data to determine if field sample results for a particular sample. or an entire
group/batch of samples, should be qualified due to an existing sample preparation and/or
analytical error.
Acceptable limits of performance must be defined quantitatively and/or qualitatively and
documented in methods/SOPs and summarized in worksheets/tables for each QC check and
sample used in the project. These method- and laboratory-specific QC acceptance limits
must support the measurement performance criteria that were determined during the
systematic planning process. In turn, project data validation criteria should support both
method- and laboratory-specific QC acceptance limits and the project-required
measurement performance criteria. It may be necessary to modify the validation criteria
specified in Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating
Environmental Analyses to achieve project objectives. For example, the USEPA CLP Low
Concentration VOA Method in the Statement of Work for Organic Analysis OLCO2.1 states
that the Percent Difference (%D) between the most recent initial calibration and the
continuing calibration must not exceed ±30%. However, the Region I Functional
Guidelines validation criteria for continuing calibration %D is ±25%. If project quality
objectives allow for greater variability of data than allowed by the Region I Functional
Guidelines, then an expanded %D validation criteria should be documented in the QAPP.
See Appendix 3-3 of the Region I Functional Guidelines for additional discussion.
13.1 Sampling Quality Control
This section of the QAPP identifies the QC procedures, checks, samples, and their respective
acceptance limits, that will be used during the project to monitor the quality of various aspects of
the sampling event(s). Their required analysis frequency, acceptance limits and corrective
actions are also documented in this section of the QAPP.
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Types of Field QC Samples are listed in Table 2 and include, but are not limited to:
Table 2 - Types of Field QC Samples and Required Frequency
Field QC
Data Quality
Indicator&
EPA-NE Required Frequency 2
Chemical
Equipment Blank
(Rinsate Blank)
Contamination
(Accuracy/Bias)
Minimum 5% per parameter/per matrix/per sampling
procedure/per sampling team
Bottle Blank
Contamination
AccuracyIBias)
Minimum I per Lot # of bottles
VOA Trip Blank
Contamination
(Accuracy/Bias)
Minimum 1 per shipment cooler
Cooler Temperature Blank
(VOA only)
Preservation
(Accuracy/Bias)
Minimum 1 per shipment cooler
Performance Evaluation Sample
(PES) 3
Accuracy/Bias

Minimum I per SDG/per parameter/per matrix/per
concentration level
Field Duplicates 4
-Collocated Samples
-Duplicate Subsamples
Precision
Minimum 5% per parameter/per matrix/per sampling
procedure/per sampling team
Field Spli&
Interlaboratory
Comparability
As per method and based on DQOs
Biological’
Biological QC Checks (Biological
Specimen Samples)
Reproducibility, etc.
As per method and based on DQOs
‘See Table 4 for additional DQI information.
2 The QAPP should indicate any deviations from EPA-NE required frequencies and provide justification.
3 Performance Evaluation Samples have been arbitrarily included under Field QC Samples. They primarily measure
analytical error, since their composition is unknown to the laboratory and they originate outside of the laboratory.
4 Field duplicates are two samples taken from and representative of the same population. Field duplicates are carried
through all steps of the sampling and analytical procedures in an identical manner and provide overall precision
information for the data collection event. Field duplicates can be subdivided into two categories: collocated samples and
duplicate subsamples.
-Collocated samples are two samples collected next to each other in the same vertical position. They are the result of
two separate sample collections at the same sample location. Collocated samples include, ambient air monitoring
samples, composite water samples, surface water grab samples, side by side sample corers, etc.
-Duplicate subsamples are subsamples of one sample oollection at one sa2npli g location. For example, duplicate
subsamples are sometimes taken from soil borings or sediment cores.
5 Split samples are two or more subsamples taken from a field sample and analyzed by different laboratories to assess
interlaboratory comparability. Field samples are homogenized to correct for sample inhomogeneity that would
adversely impact split sample data comparability prior to splitting. Split samples should be as identical as possible.
oFor additional examples of Biological QC Samples refer to Attachment B and C of the EPA-NE QAPP
Compendium
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Field Sampling QC Table - Provide Field Sample QC Tables that contain the information in the
format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #22a. An example of a completed Field Sample QC
Table is provided in below in Figure 22a.
If method/SOP QC acceptance limits exceed the project-specific measurement performance
criteria, then the data obtained may be unusable in making project decisions.
Figure 22a. Example Field Sampling QC Table
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #22a - Rev. 10/99
Complete a separate worksheet for each sampling technique, medium/matrix, analytical parameter and
concentration level. If an analytical parameter’ has multiple analytes, then complete EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #22b. Worksheet #22b lists the overall field and analytical precision and accuracy/bias
expected for each analyte when using the specified sampling and analytical technique. If method/SOP QC
acceptance limits 2 exceed the measurement performance criteria 3 , then data may not meet user needs.
(Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 13.0 and 13.1, and Table 4 for guidance.)
Figure 22a. Example Field Sampling QC Table
Title: North Street Property QA PP
Revision Number: 1
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 56 of X.’(
Sampling SOP’
S-I
Medium/Matrix
OW
Analytical Parameter’
VOA -524 2
Concentration Lcvel
Low
Analytical Method/SOP
Reference’
L-1
Sampler’s Name
James Keller
Field Sampling Organization
Chaucer Engineering
No of Sample Locations
5
Field QC:
Frequency/Number
Method/SOP QC Acceptance
Limits’
Corrective Action (CA)
Person(s) Responsible for
CA
Data Quality Indicator
(DQI)
Measurement Performanc
Criteria’
Equipment Blanks!
Rinsate Blanks
1
No target compounds .i QL
QL = I ug/L
Reclean, retest, resample, and/or
qua! u5’ data
Field Sampler and Data
Yalidator
Accuracy/bias-
Contamination -
No target compounds s QL
Boitic Blanks
previously analyzed
Lot if V6285
No target compounds QL
Reclean, retest, resample, and/or
qualify data
Field Sampler and Data
J’alidator
Accuracy/bias-
Contamination
No target compounds e QL
Trip Blanks
I per cooler
No target compounds .2 QL
Reclean, retest. resample. and/or
qualify data
Field Sampler and Data
Vabdator
Accuracy/bias-
Contamination
No target compounds .2 QL
Cooler Temperature Blanks
I per cooler
4 C, ±2 t
Resample and/or qualify data
Field Sampler and Data
‘alidaior
Accuracy/bias-
preservation
4 t ±2 ‘C
Field Duplicate Pairs
(Duplicate Subsamples)
I
See Worksheet H22b
Assess laboratory precision and
resample and/or qualify data
Field Sampler and Data
Validalor
Precision
RPD  30% ,,‘hen VOC
detects for both field
duplicates are .2 QL
40% ,ihen gaseous
VOC detects/or both field
duplicates are  QL
Collocated Samples
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
No: applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Field Splits
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable
PES sent to Laboratory
I
No false negatives, no false
positives, all target compounds
within quantitative warning
limits
Qualify data and direct laboratory
to investigate problem
Data Validalor and
Laboratory QA/QC Manager
Accuracy/bias
No false negatives. no/a/se
positives, all target
compounds within
quantitative warning Iimiij
Other
*Specify appropriate reference numberlletter from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13), Field Analytical Method/SOP
Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17), and Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20).

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Date: 9/10/98
Page: 79 of 129
If analytical parameters have multiple analytes, then provide a Field Sampling SOP Precision
and Accuracy Table that contains the information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #22b. List the field precision and accuracy/bias (in terms of contamination) expected
for each analyte when using the specified sampling (and analytical) technique. An example of a
completed Field Sampling SOP Precision and Accuracy Table is provided in Figure 22b.
Figure 22b. Example Field Sampling SOP Precision and Accuracy Table
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #22b - Rev. 10/99
Complete this worksheet when an analytical parameter
has multiple analytes. Describe the overall precision and
accuracy/bias acceptance criteria for the sampling and
analytical technique for all COCs and other target analytes.
Identify the COCs with an ““. Use additional worksheet
pages if necessary. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 13.0
and 13.1 for guidance.)
Sampling SOP**. S I
Analytical Method/SOP**: L-1
Title: North Street Property QAPP
Revision Number: /
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 58 of X (
Figure 22b. Example Field Sampling QC Table cont.
Analyte
Field Precision as Measured by:
Duplicate Subsamples or Collocated
Samples (underline one)
Field Accuracy/Bias -
(Contamination)
* Vinyl Chloride
RPD  40%
No target compounds 2 1 ugiL
*Benzene
RPD  30%
No target compounds  / ugiL
Tr:chloroethene
RJ’D  30%
No target compounds  I ugiL
1 ,2-Dichloroeghane
RPD  30%
No target compounds 2 1 ugiL
Carbon Tetrachioride
RPD s 30%
No target compounds 2 1 ugiL
1 ,2-Dichioropropane
RJ’D  30%
No target compounds 1 ug/L
1, 1,2-Trichloroethane
RPD s 30%
No target compounds e I ug/L
cis-I.3-Dichloropropene
RFD . 30%
No target compounds ? 1 ugiL
Bromoform
R .PD  30%
No target compounds  i ugiL
Tetrachioroethene
RPD s 30%
No target compounds  / ug/L
1,2-Dibromoethane
RPD  30%
No target compounds e / ug/L
1, 4-Dichlorobenzene
RPD . 30%
No target compounds  I ug/L
Bromobenzene
RPD  30%
No target compounds 2 1 ugIL
Bromochioromethane
RFD  30%
No target compounds  i ug/L
Bromodichioromethane
RPD  30%
No target compounds I ug/L
Bromomethane
RPD  40%
No target compounds  I ug/L
**Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #13), Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17), and Fixed Laboratory
Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20).

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 8Oof 129
13.2 Analytical Quality Control
This section of the QAPP identifies the QC procedures, checks, and samples, and their respective
acceptance limits, that will be used during the project to monitor the quality of various
preparatory and analytical steps. EPA methods generally provide QC acceptance limits for most
of the QC checks and samples required by those methods. Certain EPA methods (and other non-
EPA methods) require that laboratories generate their own specific QC acceptance limits for
some of the QC checks and samples required by those methods. These method- and/or
laboratory-specific limits, however, may not be “tight” enough to support the project quality
objectives. In other words, QC sample or check results may meet method/SOP QC acceptance
limits but fail to meet the project measurement performance criteria as defined and documented
in Section 7.2. Therefore, it is important to select methods having QC acceptance limits that
support the collection of usable project data. Subsequently, it is critical to choose a laboratory
that is capable of meeting the project-required QC acceptance limits. Under the new PBMS
(refer to page 63, Analysis Tasks discussion) analytical procedures would be designed or selected
based on their ability to meet project measurement performance criteria (otherwise known as
measurement quality objectives under PBMS). Again, method- and laboratory-specific QC
acceptance limits, project measurement performance criteria and project validation criteria must
be complementary for project objectives to be achieved.
For some projects, the selected EPA method or non-EPA method may not have sufficient QC
checks and samples built into the method. In these cases, the Case Teams will need to specify
what additional QC checks and samples must be analyzed by the laboratory. The laboratory
should document additional project-required QC in its analytical SOPs along with the required
frequency acceptance criteria, and corrective actions for those QC checks and samples.
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Riegion I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10198
Page: 81 of 129
Types of Field Analytical and Fixed Laboratory QC checks, samples and procedures are listed in
Table 3 and include, but are not limited to:
Table 3 - Types of Field Analytical and Fixed Laboratory QC Checks/Samples
and Required Frequency
Analytical QC I Data Quality Indicato& EPA-NE Required Frequency 2
Chemical
Method Blank
Accuracy/Bias (Contamination)
Minimum 1 per SDG/per parameter/per matrix/per
concentration level
Reagent Blank
Accuracy/Bias (Contamination)
As per method and based on DQOs
Storage Blank
Accuracy/Bias (Contamination)
Minimum 1 per Aqueous VOA SDG
Instrument (System) Blank
Accuracy/Bias (Contamination)
As per method and based on DQOs
Laboratory Duplicates
Precision
Minimum I per Inorganic SDG/per parameter/per
matrix/per concentration level
Internal Standards
Precision and Accuracy/Bias
As per method and based on DQOs
Analytical Replicates
Precision
As per method and based on DQOs
Matrix Spike Duplicates
Precision and Bias
Minimum I set per Organic SDG/per parameter/per
matrix/per concentration level
Matrix Spike
Bias
Minimum I per Inorganic SDG/per parameter/per
matrix/per concentration level
PES - Single Blind and Double
Blind
Bias
Minimum 1 per SDG/per parameter/per matrixIper
concentration level
Surrogate Spikes
Bias
As per method and based on DQOs
Laboratory Control Sample
(LCS)-Zero Blind PES
Bias
As per method and based on DQOs
Laboratory Fortified Blank
(LFB) 3 -Zero Blind PES
Bias and Sensitivity
Minimum I per Aqueous Low Concentration
Organic SDG/analytical parameter
As per method and based on DQOs for other
parameters, matrices, and concentration levels
Method Detection Limit Studies
(MDL)
Sensitivity
Annually per laboratory/per parameter/per
matrix/per concentration level
Instrument Performance Check
Samples
Sensitivity
As per method and based on DQOs
Initial Calibration
Accuracy
After initial instrument set up, as per method and
when calibration verification fails
Continuing Calibration and/or
Calibration Verification Checks
Accuracy
Minimum I per analytical shift and more
frequently as per method and based on DQOs
Biological 4
Biological QC checks
(Biological Specimen Samples)
Reproducibility, etc.
As per method and based on DQOs
‘See Table 4 for additional DQI information
2 The QAPP should indicate any deviations from EPA-NE required frequencies and provide justification.
3 An LFB is defined in EPA-NE as an aliquot of reagent matrix spiked with several or all of the target
compounds/analytes at or below their quantitation limits.
4 For additional examples of Biological QC Samples refer to Attachments B and C of the QAPP Compendium.
Region I QAPP Guidance
Draft 9/98

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 82 of 129
As previously discussed, different types of QC checks and samples provide data that can be used
to isolate different sources of error throughout the measurement system, including
contamination, poor precision, poor accuracy/bias, and poor sensitivity. Table 4 summarizes the
information derived from different sampling, transportation, and laboratory QC checks and
samples. Note that this list does not include all possible QC checks and samples that are
available to the user. Also note that analytical methods may define the purpose of specific QC
samples differently (e.g., Dioxin methodologies), and therefore it is necessary to adhere to the
QC definitions of the specific methods employed.
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Table 4. Information Derived from Quality Control Checks and Samples
Region I QAPP (iutdaiicc
Rev.: Draft
Date 9/10/98
Page: 83 of 129
Data Quality
Indicator
(Type ol
Inrormahon
Provided)
QC Checks
and Samples
-. ‘Souras otMeasnrement Etror -

miC l
Sampte
- - L borar* ry
Sampling
Equipment
Sample
Container
Preservation
Technique
Sample
Matrix
Shipment
Process
Sample
Storage @
Laboratory
Sample
Preparation
Reagents
Sample
Preparation
Equipment
Analytical
Method
Reagents
Analytical
Equipment
- . .
Purpose
Accuracy/Bias
(Contamination)
Equipment
Blank
(Rins tc
Blank)
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
-
To evaluate carryover contamination
resulting from SuCCCSSIVC USC of
sampling equipment
Bottle Blank
per Lot #
X
X
X
X
X
To evaluate contamination introduced
from the sample container
‘O/t Trip
Blank
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
-
To evaluate contamination introduced
during shipment
Storage Blank
X
X
X
X
X
To evaluate cross contamination
introduced during sample storage
Method Blank
X
X
X
X
To evaluate contamination introduced
during sample preparation and/or
analysis by laboratory, including
reagents, equipment, sample handling
and ambient laboratory conditions
Reagent
Blank
per Lot II
X
X
X
X
To evaluate contamination introduced
by specific method reagents
Instrument
(System)
Blank
X
X
To evaluate contamination originating
from the analytical reagents
instrumentation
Accuracy/Bias
(Preservation)
Cooler Temp.
Blank -
‘OA only —
x
—
To evaluate whether or not samples
were adequately cooled during
shipment
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Region I QAPP Guidance
Rev. Draft
Date. 9/10/98
Page. 84 of 129
Table 4. Information Derived from Quality Control Checks and Samples (continued) /
Data Quality
Indicator
(Type of
Information
Provided)
QC Cheeks
and Samples
Sourt sofMensurete*nt Error
. ...
-‘
,
Ssmple
Transport
LabOr*tery -
. - -
Sampling
Equipment
Sample
Container
Preservation
Technique
Sample
Matrix
Shipmenl
Process
Sample
Storage @
Laboratory
Sample
Preparation
Reagents
Sample
Preparation
Equipment
Analytical
Method
Reagents
Analytical
Equipment
Purpose
AccuracyfBias
Matrix Spike
x
X
X
X
X
To determine laboratory
preparatory and analytical bias for
specific compounds in specific
sample matrices
Surrogate
Spike
X
X
X
X
X
To evaluate laboratory preparatory
and analytical bias for specific
sample matrices
Laboratory
Control
Sample (LCS)
-Zero Blind
X
X
X
X
To evaluate the laboratory’s
ability to accurately identit ’ and
quantitate target compounds in a
reference matrix at a known
concentration, usually mid range
of the calibration curve
Performance
Evaluation
Sample-
Ampulated
Single Blind
X
X
X
X
To evaluate sample handling
procedures from field to
laboratory To evaluate the
laboratory’s ability to accurately
identify and quantitate target
compounds in a reference matrix
Frequently used for data quality
assessments and for laboratory
self-assessments and external
assessments, i c . pre.awards and
laboratory TSAs
Performance
Evaluation
Sample-Full
Volume Single
Blind
.
x
x
x
—
x
-
x
.
x
x
-
x
Performance
Evaluation
Sample-
Double Blind
x
x
x
x
X
X
X
X
To evaluate sample handling
procedures from field to
laboratory To evaluate the
laboratory’s ability to accurately
identify and quantitate target
compounds in a reference matrix
Region 1 QAPP Guidance D i all 9/98

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Table 4. Information Derived from Quality Control Checks and Samples (continued)
Region I QAPP Guidance
Rev.: Draft
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 85 of 129
Data Quality
Indicator
(Type of
Information
Provided)
QC Checks
and Samples
SôUr t o9ft surentent EttOr -
-
- Labarato,y
Sampling
Equipment
Sample
Container
Preservation
Technique
Sample
Matrix
Shipment
Process
Sample
Storage @
Sample
Preparation
Sample
Preparation
.
Analytical
Method
Analytical
Equipment
Purpose
Acvurac /Bias
(continued)
Laboratory
Fortified
Blank (LFB)
Laboratory
Reagents
X
Equipment
X
Reagents
X
X
A type of LCS used to evaluate
laboratory (preparatory and
analytical) sensitivity and bias for
specific compounds in a reference
matrix at the quantitation limit
Initial
Calibration
X
X
concentrations
To ensure that the instrument is
capable of producing acceptable
Continuing
Calibration!
Continuing
Calibration
Verification
X
X
qualitative and quantitative data
To ensure the accuracy and
stability of the instrument
response
Instrument
Performance
Cheek Sample
X
X
To verify that an instrument can
accurately identi& and quantitate
target analytes at specific
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Table 4. Information Derived from Quality Control Checks and Samples (continued)
Region I QAPP Guidance
Rev: Draft
Date: 9/10/98
Page. 86 of 129
Data Quality
Indicator
(Type of
Information
Provided)
QC Checks
and Samples
Sct4 tMt ror


..

Thu ofl
-


Sampling
Equipment
Sample
Container
Preservation
Technique
Sample
Matria
Shipment
Process
Sample
Storage®
Laboratory
Sample
Preparation
Reagents
Sample
Preparation
Equipment
Analytical
Method
Reagents
Analytical
Equipment
.
Purpose
Sensitivity
LFB
X
X
X
X
AtypcofLCSusedtoevaluatc
laboratory (preparatory and
analytical) sensitivity and bias for
specific compounds in a reference
matrix at the Quanlitation Limit
concentrations
MDL Studies
X
(if
performed
using same
reference
matrix)
.
X
X
X
X
A statistical determination that
defines the minimum
concentration of a substance that
an be measured and reported with
99% confidence that the analyte
concentration is greater than zero
Quantitation Limits
(QLs)iPractical QLs (PQLs) are
generally 3-10 times the MDL
Low Point of
Initial
Calibration
Curve
X
X
To ensure that the instrument is
capable of producing acceptable
qualitathe and quantitative data at
the lowest concentration that
sample results will be reported, the
Quantitation Limit
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Table 4. Information Derived from Quality Control Checks and Samples (continued)
Region I QAPP Guidance
Rev.: Draft
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 87 of 129
Data Quality
Indicator
(Type or
Information
l ’ro id ed)
QC Checks
and QC
Samples
8oa eti otaw surement Ereat -
sa pie oUeci oi -
Samp1
T itnspott
-
-
Sampling
Equipment
Sample
Container
Preservation
Technique
Sample
Matrix
Shipment
Process
Sample
Storage®
Laboratory
Sample
Preparation
Reagents
Sample
Preparation
Equipment
Analytical
Method
Reagents
Analytical
Equipment
Purpose
Precision
Field
DuplicateS
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
To measure overall precision by
evaluating cumulative effects of
both field and laboratory precisiOn
Laboratory
Duplicates
X
X
X
X
X
To evaluate laboratory preparatory
and analytical precision
Matrix Spike
Duplicates
X
X
X
X
X
To determine laboratory
preparatory and analytical bias ahd
precision for specific compounds
in specific sample matrices
Analytical
Replicates
(e.g., duplicate
injections)
X
To evaluate analytical precision
for determinative instrumentation
. -
Internal
Standards
X
To evaluate biological instrument
precision and stability
Interlaboratory
Comparahilit
Field Splits
X
X
x
X
X
X
To evaluate sample handling
procedures from field to iaboratiiy
and to evaluate inlerlaboratory
comparability and precision -
Reproducibility
Biological QC
Check
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
X
X
To evaluate biological sorting
reproducibility between
laboratories and/or analysts
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 88 of 129
13.2.1 Field Analytical QC
FieldAnalytical QCSample Table - Provide Field Analytical QC Sample Tables that contain
the information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #23a. An example of a
completed Field Analytical QC Sample Table is provided in Figure 23a.
If method/SOP QC acceptance limits exceed the project-specific measurement performance
criteria, then the data obtained may be unusable in making project decisions.
Figure 23a. Example Field Analytical QC Sample Table
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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Figure 23a. Example Field Analytical QC Sample Table
Medium/Matrix
Soil
Sampling SOP’
S-I
Analytical Parameter’
PCBs-Screemng
Concentration Level
Medium
Analytical Method/SOP
Reference’
F-Il
Field Analytical
Organization
.S7ARP
Laboratory QC:
Frequency/Number
Method/SOP
QC Acceptance Limits 5
Corrective Action (CA)
Person(s) Responsible for CA
Data Quality
Indicator (DQI)
Measurement
Performance Criteria 3
Method Blank
1 per extr batch and
— daily after calibration
No Aroclors.? I ppm QL
Reclean, reexiract and reanalyze
Analyst and Data Verifier
Accuracy/bias
Contamination
No .4roclors s I ppm QL
Reagent Blank
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Storage Blank
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA -
Instrument Blank
I every 10 samples and
as needed to assess
carryover from high
concentration samples
No Aroclors . I ppm QL
continue analyzing instrument
blanks until acceptable
Analyst and Data Verifier
Accuracy/bias
Contamination
No Aroclors  / ppm QL
Laboratory Duplicate
I per 20 samples
See JJ’orksheet 1 123b
Reanalyze and qual ,5i data
Analyst and Data Verifier
Analylical precision
RPD  i0 ’/.
Laboratory Matrix Spike
- NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Matrix Spike Duplicates
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
LCS
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA —
LFB
1 per extr batch and
daily after method bllc
60-140%
Reextract and reanalyze. Do not
proceed with sample analysis
until acceptable PES is obtained
Analyst and Data Verqfler
Accuracy/bias
*40% ® QL
Surrogates
2 per sample
60-i 40%. Rfl s,’iihin 30 sec
of CCAL
Reanalyze and quantify data
Analyst and Data Verifier
Accuracy/bias
*40% @ QL
Internal Standards (ISs)
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Other Performance
Evaluation Sample
Daily
No false negatives, no false
positives, all Aroclors within
guanhitaiive warning limits
Reextract, reanalyze
Qualify all field data associated
with unacceptable PES
Analyst and Data Verifier
Accuracy/bias
No false negatives, no false
positives, all Aroclors within
quantitative warning limiti
EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #23a - Rev. 10/99
Complete a separate worksheet for each medium/matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level.
If an analytical paramet& has multiple analytes, then complete EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #23b.
Worksheet #23b lists the precision and accuracy/bias expected for each analyte when using the
specified analytical method or SOP If method/SOP QC acceptance limits 2 exceed the measurement
performance criteria 3 , then data may not meet user needs. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 13.0 and
13.2, and Tables 3 and 4 for guidance.)
Title’ W.C BrownjIelds QAPP
Revision Number: Draft
Revision Date: 6/23/98
Page: 25 of XX
No of Sample Locations 20
*Speciry appropriate refarence number/letter from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13) and the Field Analytical Method/SOP
Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17).

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 89 of 129
If analytical parameters have multiple analytes, then provide a Field Analytical Method/SOP
Precision and Accuracy Table that contains the information in the format shown in EPA-NE
QAPP Worksheet #23b. An example of a completed Field Analytical Method/SOP Precision
and Accuracy Table is provided in Figure 23b.
Figure 23b. Example Field Analytical Method/SOP Precision and Accuracy Table
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

-------
EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #23b - Rev. 10/99
Complete this worksheet when an analytical parameter has
multiple analytes. Describe the overall precision and
accuracy/bias acceptance criteria for the analytical method!
SOP for all COCs and other target analytes. Identify the
COCs with an “*“• Use additional worksheet pages if
necessary. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 13.0 and 13.2
for guidance.)
Sampling SOP**: S 1
Analytical Method/SOP**. F-Il
Title: W.C. Brownfields QAPP
Revision Number: Draft
Revision Date: 6/23/98
Page: 26 of XX’
Figure 23b. Example Field Analytical QC Sample Table cont.
Analyte
Achievable Sensitivity!
Quantitation Limits
Field Analytical
Precision
Field Analytical Accuracy/Bias
Aroclor 1242
1 uglg (thy weight)
RPD  50%
60-140%
Aroclor 1254
1 uglg (dry weigh:)
RPD  50%
60-140%
Aroclor 1260
1 uglg (dry weight)
RPD  50%
60-140%
**Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #13) and the Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17).

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9110/98
Page: 90 of 129
Field Screening/Confirmatory Analysis Decision Tree - If field screening techniques are
utilized, provide a decision tree or logic dia ram to describe how samples will be selected for
subsequent confirmatory analysis.
13.2.2 Fixed Laboratory QC
Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample Table - Provide Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC
Sample Tables that contain the information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet
#24a. An example of a completed Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample Table is provided in
Figure 24a.
If method/SOP QC acceptance limits exceed the project-specific measurement performance
criteria, then the data obtained may be unusable in making project decisions.
Figure 24a. Example Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample Table
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

-------
EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #24a - Rev. 10/99
Complete a separate worksheet for each medium/matrix, analytical parameter
and concentration level. If an analytical parameter’ has multiple analytes, then
complete EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #24b. Worksheet #24b lists the precision
and accuracy/bias expected for each analyte when using the specified analytical
method or SOP. If method/SOP QC acceptance limits 2 exceed the measurement
performance criteria 3 , then data may not meet user needs. (Refer to QAPP
Manual Sections 13.0 and 13.2, and Tables 3 and 4 for guidance.)
Title: North Street Properly QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 58 of AX
Figure 24a. Example Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample Table
Medium/Matrix
GW
Sampling SOP
S-I
Analytical Parameter’
VOA-5242
Concentration Level
Low
Analytical Method/ SOP
References
L-1
Laboratory Name
Austin Laboratories
No of Sample Locations
5
Laboratory QC:
Frequency!
Number
Method/SOP
QC Acceptance Limits 3
Corrective Action (CA)
Person(s) Responsible
br CA
Data Quality Indicator
(DQI)
Measurement
Performance Criteria’
Method Blank
I per 12 hr sluft
No target compounds  QL
Reclean. retest. & reanalyze
Analyst & Data
Validator
Accuracy/bias.
Contamination
No target compounds  QL
Reagent Blank
- NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Storage Blank
I per SDG
No target compounds . QL
Reclean. retest, & reanalyze
Analyst & Data
Validator
Accuracy/bias-
Contamination
No target compounds QL
Instrument Blank
As needed-to assess
carryover from high
conc samples
No target compounds .? QL
Reclean, retest. & reanalyze
Analyst & Data
Validator
Accuracy/bias-
Contamination
No target compounds  QL
Laboratory Duplicate
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Laboratory Matrix Spike
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Matrix Spike Diipl icates
I per SDG
See JVoi-ksheet H24b
Reanalyze and qualify data
Analyst & Data
Validator
Accuracy/bias & Precision
Accuracy/bias- ±20% excep:fot
VOC gases ±40% Precision.
RPDs -20%
LCS
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
LFB
I per day prior to sample
analysis
±40% ® QL
Do not proceed with
analysis until acceptable
LFB obtained
Analyst & Data
Validator
Sensitivity
±40% ® QL
-
Surrogates
2 per sample
80-120%. RRTs within 30 sec
of CC
Reanalyze and qualify data
Analyst & Data
Validator
Accuracy/bias
--

Internal Standards (ISs)
2 per sample
Area counts within range of-
50 0% and+l O O% of IC is
Area: RTs ivithin 30 sec of CC
Reanalyze and qualify data
Anal yst & Data
jalidator
Accuracy/bias & Precision
--
Other
*Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13) and the Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP
Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Vorksheet #20).

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Region I QAPP Manual
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 91 of 129
If analytical parameters have multiple analytes, then provide a Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP
Precision and Accuracy Table that contains the information in the format shown in EPA-NE
QAPP Worksheet #24b. An example of a completed Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Precision
and Accuracy Table is provided in Figure 24b.
Figure 24b. Example Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Precision and Accuracy Table
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

-------
EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #24b - Rev. 10/99
Complete this worksheet when an analytical parameter has
multiple analytes. Describe the overall precision and
accuracy/bias acceptance criteria for the analytical method/SOP
for all COCs and other target analytes. Identify the COCs with an
“ “ Use additional worksheet pages if necessary. (Refer to
QAPP Manual Sections 13.0 and 13.2 for guidance.)
Sampiing SOP**: S-I
Analytical Method/SOP**: L-I. VOA - 524.2
Title: North Street Property QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 59 of X X
Figure 24b. Example Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample Table cont.
Analyte
Achievable Laboratory
Sensitivity/
Quantitation_Limits
Analytical
Precision
Analytical Accuracy/Bias
* Vinyl Chloride
/ ug/L
RPD  30%
60-140%
*Benzene
/ ug/L
RPD . 20%
80-120%
*Trzchioroet /. ne
/ ug/L
RPD s 20%
80-120%
1,2-Dichioroethane
/ ug/L
RPD s 20%
80-120%
Carbon Tetrachioride
I ug/L
RPD 20%
80-120%
1 ,2-Dichioropropane
I ug/L
RPD  20%
80-120%
1, 1.2-Trichloroethane
/ ug/L
RPD  20%
80-120%
cis-l,3-Dich loropropene
I ug/L
RPD  20%
80-120%
Bromoform
/ ug/L
RPD  20%
80-120%
Tetrac/iloroethene
/ ug/L
RPD  20%
80-120%
1.2-Dibromoethane
/ ug/L
RPD  20%
80-120%
1.4-Dichlorobenzene
I ug/L
RPD ‘ 20%
80-120%
Bromobenzene
I ug/L
RPD  20%
80-120%
Broinochloromethane
1 ug/L
R.PD s 20%
80-120%
Bromodichloromethane
/ ugiL
RPD  20%
80-120%
Bromomethane
F ug/L
RPD 30%
60-140%
**Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #13) and the Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20).

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Data Acquisition Tasks
14.0 Data Acquisition Requirements (Non-direct Measurements) (EPA QA/R-5 B9)
This section of the QAPP identifies the sources of previously collected data and other
information that will be used to make project decisions. It is essential to identify the limitations
on the use of acquired data, since using data and information that are not generated under the
same quality objectives as the current investigation, may result in erroneous decisions. Diagram
5 outlines the process used to evaluate acquired data.
Acquired data are defmed as information from any source outside of the current activity that may
impact the environmental decision making process. Secondary sources of acquired data and
information include, but are not limited to:
• Historical data (e.g., from organization’s/facility’s corporate records and/or federal/state
local records pertaining to previous monitoring events, site assessments, investigations, etc.)
Historical data may have been used in Section 5.2 to describe the site history and defme the
environmental problem.
• Background information/data from organization’s/facility’s corporate records and/or
federallstate/local records pertaining to site-specific industrial processes, process by-
products, past and current chemical uses, raw material and finished product testing, waste
testing and disposal practices, and potential chemical breakdown products
• Data generated to verify innovative technologies and methods
• Data generated from computer databases (such as manufacturers’ process/product
information, waste management or effluent information)
• Environmental indicator data obtained from federal/state/local records
• Computer models or algorithms
• Literature files/searches
• Publications
• Photographs
• Topographical Maps
Note that the quality of acquired data will become an increasingly important issue for many EPA
programs, e.g., Brownfjelds initiative. To ensure that correct environmental decisions are made,
the same care should be taken using secondary data as is taken in generating new data.
Non-Direct Measurement Criteria and Limitations Table - Present a table that includes all
non-direct measurement data/information that will be used for this project and their originating
sources in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #25. Specify how those acquired
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Diagram 5. Acquired Data Evaluation Process Date: 9/10/98
Page: 93 of 129
PROCESS INFORMATION NEEDED
Data Generator Information .
• Originating Organization
Generation/Collection of
• QAPP Approval Date
Onginal Data
• Data Generation(Collecuon Date(s)
• Data Types
• Data Generation Format
ngofOriginalD _
Data Source Infomiat ion :
• Originating Organization
• Data Reporting Date(s)
• Data Reporting Format (i.e. Report.
Laboratory Data Result Sheets, eta)
Sources Identified .
• Historical Data
• Background Infonnation
• Data Generated to Verify Innovative
encrationiColleccion of
• Data Generated from Computer Databases
Technologies and Methods
• Environmental Indicator Data
• Computer Models or Algorithms
• Literature FilesfScarchcs
• Publications
• Photographs
•Topographical Maps
Information Evaluated :
• Original Data Generation RequircmcntsfCritcna/Results
- Purpose and Scope of Original Study
- Effectiveness of Sampling Design and Procedures
- Effectiveness of Analytical Procedures
• QC Procedures, Checks, and Samples
- Method and r Laboratory-Specific QC Acceptance Criteria.
Evaluation of Acquired Data
Documentation and Results
- Data Venfication and/or Validation Procedures, Criteria,
Documentation, and Results
- Other Assessment Procedures, Criteria, Documentation
- Software Validation Procedures, Criteria, Documentation,
and Results
• Documentation Completeness (Original Approved QAPP,
Final Repoil, Data Generation and Reporting Formats, eta)
• Quality Considerations/Problemsitinccrtainties
• Organizational Lead
Information Documented .
• Project Acceptance Criteria
Identification and Documentation of • A uired Data Uses
Limissimnaicar Use of
• Acquired Data Limitations
Acquired Data for this Project
• Organizational Lead
Completion of Environmental
Problem Definition Pmiect Case Team
(Section 5 2 & Diagram I)
P 11- I (‘ ‘\flD flr iFt QfQR

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data/information will be used and the limitations on their use. Note: Since this table does not
capture all required information regarding acquired data, it is necessary to provide additional
information in the text. An example of a completed Non-Direct Measurements Criteria and
Limitations Table is provided in Figure 25.
Figure 25. Example Non-Direct Measurements Criteria and Limitations Table
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Evaluate and discuss: The quality of all non-direct measurement data as well as the
completeness of the data documentation. Identify the generator(s) of the data, dates the data
were generated/collected and reported, source(s) from which the data were obtained and
procedures originally used to generate and collect the data (including sampling, analytical, and
assessment procedures). If known, describe all QC procedures, checks and samples that were
analyzed with the data set. Describe the method and/or laboratozy-specific QC acceptance
criteria used for data generation and ascertain whether or not data were verified and/or validated.
If data were verified and/or validated, then describe the criteria and procedures used, the
documentation provided, as well as, the results obtained from previous verification and/or
validation activities. Refer to Sections 18.0 and 19.0 for a complete discussion of data
verification and validation.
Discuss in the text, the quality of the previously generated data, addressing the following issues:
• If the data were generated under an approved QAPP or other sampling document, reference
the document by title, date, originating organization, and approving organization.
• Evaluate the purpose and scope of previous studies and compare with current study
objectives. Evaluate similarities and differences of the measurement performance criteria
and data quality indicators.
• Evaluate the design and implementation of previous studies by examining the following
issues:
• Whether study was conducted properly
• Whether control responses were within acceptable limits
• Whether standard sampling and analytical methods and/or standard QAJQC
protocols were available and followed by the study
• Include a brief description of the sampling procedures per matrix type (e.g., grab/grid for
surficial soils, etc.) and analytical procedures per matrix type (e.g., SW-846 Method
3550/8270 for surficial soils, etc.).
• If performance and/or system audits and/or split sampling activities were performed, then
synopsize the results of those audits/activities.
• If data were verified and/or validated, reference the verification and/or validation procedure
by title, date, and originating organization.
• If data are obtained from a computer model/algorithm, then provide a brief description of
the validation of that computer software.
• If data are obtained from a database, then provide a brief discussion on the integrity/
accuracy of the database information.
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #25 - Rev. 10/99
Identify information and 1 or data generated/collected outside of the current
data collection activity that will be used to make environmental decisions
for the project. Specify how those acquired data/information will be used
and the limitations on their use. These limitations include data quality
considerations/problems as well as documentation completeness.
(Refer to QAPP Manual Section 14.0 for guidance.)
Title: Titanic Shipygrd QAPP
Revision Number: 2
Revision Date 11/30/97
Page: 20 of X-%’
Figure 25. Example Non-Direct Measurements Criteria and Limitations Table
Non-Direct Measurement
(Secondary Data)
I-__________________________
Data Source
(Originating Organization,
Report Title and Date)
Data Generator(s)
(Originating Org., Data Types, Data
Generation/Collection Dates)
How Data Will Be Used
Limitations on Data Use
Soil Gas Data
Bio Watch Consulting. LTD:
“Titanic Shipyard Investigation
Report.” 11/20/95
Bio Watch Consulting, LTD:
VOC Soil Gas Data, Sample Collection
Dates. 1 0/19-2 3/95
To assess the potential sources of
contaminated soil and resultant
groundwater migration
1. Unvalidated data used
s generate report
2. Insufficient data points
to fully characterize on-site
contamination and off-site
migration
Municipably Drinking
Water Data
XYZ Municipality:
Quarterly Drinking Water
Check Report, 6/95 - 6/96
.
Smith Laboratories, Inc.:
VOC Drinking Water Data, Sample
Collection Dates: 6/12/95, 9/15/95,
12/10/95, 3/6/96. 6/12/96
To assess existing groundwater
contamination
I. Unvalidated data used
to generate report
2. Limited number of wells
exist to sample

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• Discuss the adequacy of the original QA documentation under which secondary data were
generated. For example, if insufficient raw analytical data are available to verify that an
instrument was calibrated accurately, then the secondary data may be not be usable for their
intended purpose.
Discuss all possible limitations on the use of previously generated/collected non-direct
measurement data for this project based upon the uncertainty surrounding their quality. Discuss
the nature and magnitude of that uncertainty. For example, discuss the impact of using
unvalidated historical monitoring data to answer project questions and support project decisions.
Unvalidated data may be scientifically inaccurate or may not meet the objectives of the user.
Also, discuss the impact of using acquired data with known analytical or sampling inaccuracy!
bias and/or imprecision. For example, document the sampling and analytical methods used to
collect and analyze soil VOA samples and discuss possible low bias in sample results.
Document the acceptance criteria used to determine whether those previously generated/collected
non-direct measurement data/information are usable for this project. For example, if acquired
drinking water data will be used to answer project questions, then the QAPP should state that
only data generated by EPA/State certified or NELAP-accredited Safe Drinking Water Act
(SDWA) laboratories will be used for this project. Provide comparability criteria for previously
generated/collected non-direct measurement data (e.g., historical routine monitoring data) and the
data generated for this project.
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Data Management Tasks
15.0 Documentation, Records and Data Management
(EPA QA/R-5 Element: AlO and BlO)
All project data and information must be documented in a format that is usable by project
personnel. This section of the QAPP describes how project data and information will be
documented, tracked and managed from their generation in the field to final use and storage in a
manner that ensures data integrity and defensibility.
15.1 Project Documentation and Records
Project Documents and Records Table - Provide a Project Documents and Records Table that
contains the information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #26. Identify the
documents and records that will be generated for all aspects of the project, including but not
limited to:
1. Sample Collection Records
• Field logbooks/notes
• Field data collection sheets
• COC records
• Custody Seals
• Sample Tags
• Telephone logs
• Airbills
• Corrective action reports
2. Field Analysis Records
• COC records
• Sample receipt forms/sample tracking forms
• Preparation and analysis forms and/or logbooks
• Tabulated data summary forms and raw data for field samples, standards, QC checks and
QC samples
• Other project-specific documents, i.e., telephone logs, MDL studies, Initial Precision and
Accuracy (IPA) Tests and corrective action reports
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3. Fixed Laboratory Records
• COC records
• Sample receipt forms/sample tracking forms
• Preparation and analysis forms and/or logbooks
• Tabulated data summary forms and raw data for field samples, standards, QC checks and
QC samples
• Other project-specific documents in the laboratory’s possession, i.e., telephone logs,
MDL studies, IPA Tests, Laboratory Pre-award Documentation (including Pre-award PE
sample data and relevant copies of proposal package), and corrective action reports
4. Project Data Assessment Records
• Field Sampling Audit Checklists
• Field Analytical Audit Checklists
• Fixed Laboratory Audit Checklists
• FE Sample Results
• Data Validation Reports
• Telephone logs
• Corrective Action Reports
An example of a completed Project Documents and Records Table is provided in Figure 26.
Figure 26. Example Project Documents and Records Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #26 - Rev. 10/99
Identify the documents and records that will be generated for all
aspects of the project. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 15.1 for
guidance.)
Title Titanic Shipyard QAPP
Revision Number: 2
Revision Date 11/30/97
Page: 22 of XX
Figure 26. Example Project Documentation and Records Table
Sample Collection Records
Field Analysis Records
Fixed Laboratory Records
Data Assessment Records
Other
Field Notes
Sample Receipt, Custody and
Tracking Records
Sample Receipt, Custody and
Tracking Records
Field Sampling Audit Checklists
COC Records
Standards Traceability Logs -
Standard Traceability Logs
Field Analysis Audit Checklists
Afr Bills
Equipment Calibration Logs
Equipment Calibration Logs
Fixed Laboratory Audit Checklists
Boring Logs
Sample Prep Logs
Sample Prep Logs
Data Validation Reports
Sample Tags
Run Logs
Run Logs
PE Sample Results
Custody Seals
__________________________
Equipment Maintenance,
Testing and Inspection Logs
Equipment Maintenance,
Testing and Inspection Logs
Corrective Action Forms
Telephone Logs
Corrective Action Forms
Corrective Action Forms
Telephone Logs
Corrective Action Forms
Reported Field Sample Results
Reported Field Sample Results
Reported Results for Standards,
QC Checks and QC Samples
Reported Results for Standards,
QC Checks and QC Samples
Instrument Printouts (raw data)
for Field Samples, Standards,
QC Checks and QC Samples
instrument Printouts (raw dala)
for Field Samples, Standards,
QC Checks and QC Samples
Data Ver /ication Checklists
Data Package Completeness
Checklists
Sample Disposal Records
Sample Disposal Records
Telephone Logs
Telephone Logs

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15.2 Field Analysis Data Package Deliverables
Specify required data package turnaround times for each field analytical parameter. Itemize the
required data package deliverables for all field analytical data generated in the field.
Field Analytical-Screening Data: The requirements for field analysis (screening) data packages
are project-specific. However, EPA-NE recommends that complete data packages (see Tables 5
and 6) be generated to ensure that data can be properly validated in accordance with Region I.
EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses . In
addition, the usability of field screening data depends upon the project quality objectives and the
comparability of those data to the full protocol (on-site mobile laboratory and/or fixed
laboratory) confirmatory data. If comparability issues arise during the comparison of field
screening and full protocol data and they cannot be resolved due to the nonexistence and/or
unavailability of sufficient documentation for the field screening data, then the achievement of
the project objectives may be jeopardized since those field screening data cannot be used to make
the planned project decisions.
Field Analytical-Definitive Data-Field Measurement: If field measurements (for example,
Specific Conductance, Temperature, DO, pH, Turbidity, ORP/Eh, and residual chlorine) are
taken, then all field and QC sample results, calibrations and calibration verifications should be
recorded in a field log notebook to ensure proper verification of sample results.
Field Analytical-Definitive Data: If field analytical data are generated for definitive purposes,
i.e., by full protocol methods, then a complete data package (See Tables 5 and 6) should be
generated to ensure that data can be properly validated in accordance Region I. EPA-NE Data
Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses .
If complete field analysis data packages (i.e., original raw data) are not required deliverables,
then the QAPP must justify this decision and specify which project data will be kept by the field
analytical unit, where the data will be stored (provide the organization’s name and address, and
identify exact location in building), and for how long (the length of required record storage is
program-dependent).
Even if complete data packages are not required deliverables in the QAPP, all hardcopy and
electronic data/information relevant to the project must be archived by the fieid analytical unit
together in one location to ensure their availability for potential future retrieval/use.
For all data collection events performed by or for EPA-NE, it is required that magnetic tapes of
all field samples, QC checks and samples, standards and blanks be archived, if applicable to the
analytical technique, and be available upon request for one year from date of generation.
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15.3 Fixed Laboratory Data Package Deliverables
Specify required data package turnaround times for each analytical parameter for each fixed
laboratory retained to provide analytical services. Itemize the required data package deliverables
for all data generated in a fixed laboratory.
For all data collection events performed by or for EPA-NE, a complete laboratory data package
(as itemized in Tables 5 and 6) should be provided for each set of samples designated as a group,
i.e., SDG. A complete data package ensures that data can be properly validated in accordance
with Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental
Analyses .
For all data collection events performed by or for EPA-NE, it is required that magnetic tapes of
all field samples, QC checks and samples, standards and blanks be archived, if applicable to the
analytical technique, and be available upon request for one year from date of generation.
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As detailed in the “Training Manual for Receiving Laboratory Data Package Completeness,”
Appendix G of the Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating
Environmental Analyses , complete laboratory data package deliverables include the following
documents:
Table 5 - Complete Laboratory Data Package Documentation
COMPLETE LABORATORY DATA PACKAGE DOCUMENTATION
I. Original sample data oackage including tabulated summary forms and raw data for field samples, standards, QC
samples, and blanks (see below - sample data package)
2. A completed and signed Document Inventory Sheet used to record the inventory of the complete laboratory data
package
3. All original shipping documents including, but not limited to, the following documents:
a. Client Chain-of-Custody Records/Traffic Reports
b. Airbills
c. Custody Seals
d. Sample tags (if present)
4. All original receiving documents including, but not limited to, the following documents:
a. Sample Log-In Sheet used to document the receipt and inspection of samples and containers
b. Other receiving forms or copies of receiving logbooks
c. Sample Delivery Group cover sheet identi ing the samples received for the group of samples in the data
package
5. All original laboratory records of sample transfer, preparation, and analysis including, but not limited to, the
following documents:
a. Original preparation and analysis forms and/or copies of preparation and analysis logbook pages
b. Internal sample and sample extract (organics) or sample digestate/distillate (inorganics) transfer Chain-of-
Custody records
6. All other original project-specific documents in the possession of the laboratory including, but not limited to. the
following documents:
a. Telephone contact logs
b. Copies of personal logbook pages
c. All handwritten project-specific notes
d. All other project-specific documents not covered by the above
SAMPLE DATA PACKAGE DOCUMENTATION
I. Narrative
2. Tabulated summary forms for
• Field sample data (in increasing Client sample identification number)
• Laboratory standards (in chronological order by instrument)
• QC samples (in chronological order by type of QC sample)
• Blanks (in chronological order by instrument)
3. Raw data for field samples, laboratory standards, QC samples, and blanks (in chronological order by instrument)
4. Laboratory logbook pages for preparation and analysis of field samples, standards, QC samples, and blanks
5. Chain-of-Custody Recm fs
6 Other project-specific documents in the laboratory’s possession
For organic data each type of tabulated summary form must be grouped by fraction (volatile, semivolatile.
pescicidefPCB) Depending on whether the data package contains organic or inorganic analytical data, the required
tabulated forms and format for field samples, standards, QC samples, and blanks will vary .
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Table 6 - Laboratory Data Package Elements
1 5 , n I
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Page: 102 of 129
VOA = volatile organic compounds
SVOA = semivolatile organic compounds
PEST = pesticide organic compounds
PCB polychiorinated biphenyls
CN cyanide
Other = other parameters
= Form Number; refer to CLP SOW forms
ELEMENTS VOA
SVOA
PEST/PCB_J_METALS
CN
OTHER
X
X
X
X
X
X
x
x
x
X
X
X
INTERNAL LABORATORY COC RECORDS
X
X
X
X
X
x
Results (Org. and Inorg. Form I) X
(Org. Form I TIC) X
sample x
•o•qi•po sample
for each sample x
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
x
x
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
x
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X


X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
P1?! . .r
Form X)
U I5I. b ectru It arget compound
X
XIII) and logbook pages X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
x
Region I QAPP Guidance
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Table 6 - Laboratory Data Package Elements (continued)
Rel L)AI
Rev.: DRAFT
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Page: 103 of 129
VOA volatile organic compounds
SVOA = semivolatile or8afllc compounds
PEST = pesticide organic compounds
PCB = polychlorinated biphenyl
DATA PACKAGE ELEMENTS
VOA
SVOA
PEST/PCB
METALS
CR
OTHER.
• SAMPLE DATA (continued)-
Sample analysis run log (Inorg Form XIV) and logbook pages
X
X
X
X
X
X
- ICP Raw Data
X
- Furnace AA Raw Data
X
- Mercury Raw Data
X
- Cyanide Raw Data -
X
- Other Analytical Raw Data
X -
• STANDARDS DATA
Method Detection Limit Study Tabulated Summary Form
X
X
X
X
X
X
- Initial Calibration Tabulated Summary Form (Org Form VI. Inorg. Form hA)
X
X
X
X
X
X
- Continuing Calibration Tabulated Summary Form (Org. Form VII, Inorg. Form HA)
X
X
X
X
X
X
- RICs arid Quan Reports for all GC/MS standards
x
X
- Pesticide Analyte Resolution Tabulated Summary Form (Org. Form VI. Pest-.4)
X
- Pesticides Calibration Verification Tabulated Summary Form (Org Form VII. Pest-I and PesI-2)
X
- Pesticide Analytical Sequence Tabulated Summary Form (Org. Form VIII-Pest)
X
x
X
X
- OC Chromatograms and data system printouts for all GC standards
- For Pesticides/Aroclors confirmed by GC/MS, copies of spectra for standards used
- GPC Calibration Tabulated Summary Form (Org Form IX. Pest-2)
X
- Florisil Cartridge Check Tabulated Summary Form (Org Form IX, Pest-I)
X
- Instrument Detection Limits Tabulated Summary Form (Inorg Form X)
X
X
- ICP Interelenient Correction Factors Tabulated Summary Form (Inorg Form XIA and XIB)
X
- ICP Linear Ranges Tabulated Summary Form (Inorg Form XII)
X
-CRDL Standards for AA and ICP Tabulated Summary Form (Inorg. Form IIB)
X
- Standards preparation logbook pages
x
X
x
x
x
x
CN = cyanide
Oiher = other parameters
= Form Number, refer to CLP SOW forms
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Table 6 - Laboratory Data Package Elements (continued)
sw n.n % I Qna £
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Page: 104 of 129
VOA = volatile organic compounds
SVOA = semivolatile organic compounds
PEST = pesticide organic compounds
PCB = polychlormated hiphenyls
CN = cyanide
Other = other parameters
= Form Number, refer to CLP SOW forms
ELEMENTS -
VOA
SVOA PEST/PCB
METALS
CN
OThER
9 v: !911!!Y
59 ! ?: !9 ! ! .’.P)
Form III)
X
X
X
IV and Inorg. Form Ill)
X
X
X
X
X
Form (Org. Form VIII)
X
X
Integration Reports. Mass Spectra. etc.
X
X
X
X
!?T!!I.c!i?rL! r!!1. IV
Form (Inorg. Form V13)
X
X
X
X
P’.!%!!tP 9!&!°T.’P. Y!9
cki?Fk.!o.r.t!i. N!’.’.)
Form IX)
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
I logbook pges
P L Y!9!
.
x
x
x
x
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
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15.4 Data Reporting Formats
Discuss procedures and/or SOPs for recording data, including guidelines for recording
(manually, legibly in ink, initialed and dated by the responsible person) and correcting data (e.g.,
single line drawn through errors, initialed and dated by the responsible person).
Include, as an attachment to the QAPP or provide in the LQAP or Laboratory QA Manual,
example copies of hardcopy data reporting forms and all verification checklists/forms. If
applicable, discuss electronic data deliverables format and content specifications, and necessary
computer configuration requirements. Include, as an attachment to the QAPP or provide in the
LQAP or QA Manual, example copies of all electronic data deliverable forms.
15.5 Data Handling and Management
Describe all computerized and manual procedures that trace the path of all data from generation
to final use and storage. Alternatively, include applicable SOPs as attachments to the QAPP.
Also describe the associated quality checks for error detection that are performed to ensure data
integrity. The following data management steps should be addressed:
• Data Recording
- Provide examples of data entry forms.
- Describe internal checks to detect errors, i.e., transcription and calculation errors, etc., the
resultant documentation generated, and responsible personnel. Provide examples of all
verification checklists/forms.
• Data TransformationsfData Reduction
- Provide formulae used in data conversions, e.g., calculation of dry weight field sample
concentrations, etc.
- Describe when and how data conversion procedures are performed, how they are
checked, the resultant documentation generated, and responsible personnel.
- Describe all data manipulations involved in reducing raw data to reportable data and
responsible personnel.
- Provide an example of how raw data are reduced for all manual and automated
calculations, e.g., calculation of sample concentrations from peak areas, etc.
- Provide references to specific software documentation for automated data processing.
- Describe internal checks to detect errors, the resultant documentation generated, and
responsible personnel. Provide examples of all verification checklists/forms.
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S Data Transfer/Transmittal
- Identify electronic data transfer software.
- Provide examples of electronic data transfer forms.
- Describe manual data transcription and electronic transmittal procedures, the resultant
documentation generated, and responsible personnel.
- Describe internal checks to detect errors, the resultant documentation generated, and
responsible personnel. Provide examples of all verification checklists/forms.
• Data Analysis
- Identify and describe the data equipment and computer hardware and software that will
be used to process, compile and analyze project data, e.g., the Laboratory Information
Management Systems (LIMS), and acquired/secondary data (as discussed in Section
14.0).
- Describe in detail, and/or include as attachments to the QAPP, the computer models
and/or algorithms that will be used for data analysis and justify their use for this project.
- Identify hardware requirements (specifically computer disk space, memory, and speed)
that will be required to run and compile modeling data.
- Describe any specific performance requirements for the hardware/software configuration,
model or algorithm.
- Describe computer test procedures and manual verification check procedures used to
demonstrate acceptability of hardware/software configurations and computer programs
and models, the resultant documentation generated, and personnel responsible. Provide
example check data and examples of all verification checklists/forms.
• Data Assessment
- Describe in detail, and/or include as attachments to the QAPP, the computer validation
programs that will be used to validate data.
- Describe in detail, and/or include as attachments to the QAPP, statistical computer
programs that will be used to assess data.
- Identify hardware requirements (specifically computer disk space, memory, and speed)
that will be required to run validation and/or assessment software.
- Describe computer test procedures and manual verification check procedures used to
demonstrate acceptability of hardware/software configurations and computer programs,
the resultant documentation generated, and personnel responsible. Provide examples of
all verification checklists/forms.
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15.6 Data Tracking and Control
• Data Tracking
- Describe, and/or include as attachments to the QAPP, procedures for tracking data as they
are collected, transformedlreduced, transmitted and analyzed; the resultant documentation
generated, and the responsible personnel. -
• Data Storage, Archival and Retrieval
- Discuss, and/or include as attachments to the QAPP, data storage, archival and retrieval
procedures for all project data, documents, records and reports. Differentiate between
hardcopy and electronic data and information.
- Identify specific project data, documents, records, reports, etc. that will be stored and/or
archived. Differentiate between hardcopy and electronic data and information.
Differentiate between documentation stored at a subcontracted laboratory and
documentation archived by the Lead Organization. If data package deliverables do not
include all data documentation, then describe what data (for field screening, field analysis
and fixed laboratory) will be kept by which laboratory or other organization, and provide
the exact physical locations, i.e., complete laboratory/organization name, address and
specific location in the building.
- Identify the organizations and personnel that are responsible for storing/archiving!
retrieving specific project documents. Identify the responsible document control
personnel, including organizational affiliation, telephone and telefax number.
- Describe where the documents will be stored during the project and where the documents
will be archived. Provide exact locations (organization name, complete address and
specific location in building) and timeframes in which documents will be moved from
one location to another.
- Indicate when documents will be archived to a final location.
• Data Security
- Describe, and/or include as attachments to the QAPP, procedures for data security.
- Describe, and/or include as attachments to the QAPP, procedures for computer security.
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ASSESSMENT/OVERSiGHT ELEMENTS
This element group ensures that planned project activities are implemented as described in the
QAPP, and that reports are provided to apprise management of the project status and any quality
issues which arise during implementation. Assessment activities ensure that the resultant data
quality is adequate for its intended use and that appropriate responses are in place to address non-
conformances and deviations from the QAPP.
Frequently, deviations from the QAPP are identified by project personnel without the benefit of
formal scheduled assessments. This section also addresses these situations and describes the
process by which the need for corrective action is documented, reported, implemented and its
effectiveness assessed.
16.0 Assessments and Response Actions
This section of the QAPP identifies the number, frequency and type of planned assessment
activities that will be performed for the project. Assessments should be conducted periodically
throughout the project by entities internal and/or external to the project to ensure that usable data
are generated. In addition, oversight assessments should be performed by the Approval
Authority to identify and correct non-conformances so that project quality objectives can be
achieved.
Appropriately scheduled assessments allow management to implement corrective action
measures in a timely manner, thereby minimizing the impact of a non-conformance on achieving
project quality objectives. The project quality objectives dictate the type, frequency, and extent
of the assessments which should be performed.
Choose assessments that identify activities with the most influence on data quality and that
provide information about potential problems and mistakes. Sampling error is generally thought
to contribute the majority of the measurement error associated with project data, where:
Measurement Error = Sampling Error + Analytical Error
Therefore, it is r cominended that all data generation/collection operations include at least one
field sampling technical systems audit (TSA) at the start of field sampling activities so that
effective corrective action measures can be implemented to mitigate the extent and impact of
identified non-conformances. Investigative projects and routine monitoring projects should also
include field analytical, field laboratory and/or fixed laboratory TSAs as appropriate. A
Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study with known human health and/or ecological risks
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should include comprehensive assessments of field sampling and field analytical/field
laboratory/fixed laboratory measurement procedures, proposed remediation technologies, and an
evaluation of the risk assessment procedures that will be employed.
Use EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #27a to describe activities for identifying and correcting any
problems encountered during the project.
16.1 Planned Assessments
If no assessments are planned, then document this information and provide a justification in this
section of the QAPP.
Project Assessment Table - Provide a Project Assessment Table that includes the information in
the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #27b. An example of a completed Project
Assessment Table is provided in Figure 27.
Figure 27. Example Project Assessment Table
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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #27b - Rev. 10/99
ldentif p the frequency, number and type of planned assessment
activities that will be performed for the project. (Refer to QAPP
Manual Sections 16.0-16.3 for guidance.)
Figure 27. Example Project Assessment Table
Title: North Street Propqriy QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 54 of XX
Assessment Type
t___________________
Frequency
Internal or
External
Organization
Performing Assessment
Person(s) responsible for
performing assessment, title
and organizational affiliation
Person(s) responsible for
responding to assessment
findings, title and organizational
affiliation
Person (s) responsible for —
identifying and implementing
corrective actions (CA), title
and organizational affiliation
Person (s) responsible for
monitoring effectiveness of
CA, title and organizational
affiliation
Field Sampling
Technical Systems
Audit
I/At startup of
sampling
Internal
Chaucer Engineering
Claire Carpenter, Project QA
Officer. Chaucer Engineering
James Keller. Field Sampling
Coordinator. Chaucer
Esigineering
James Keller. Field Sampling
Coordinator. Chaucer
Engineering
Claire Carpenter. Project Q.4
Officer. Chaucer Engineering
Fixed Laboratory
Technical Systems
Audit
1/Prior to
sample receipt
External
Chaucer Engineering
Claire Carpenter, Project QA
Officer. Chaucer Engineering
John Gr,sso,n. Laboratory QAIQC
Manager. Austin Laboratories
John Grissom. Laboratory
Q .4/QC Manager. Austin
Laboratories
John Grissom. Laboratory
QA/QC Manager. Austin
Laboratories

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #27c - Rev. 10/99 Title: Isadors Junkyard QAPP
Complete a separate worksheet for each planned assessment. Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/1/00
Page: 49 of XJ(
Project Assessment Plan
[ ArP Title:
Isadore sJunkyard
Assessed Organization:
Jewel Engineering
Internal, External or EPA
Oversight:
Internal Assessment
Location of Assessment:
Isadore s JunLyard. Tanimer. MA
Dates of Assessment:
4-1-00
Assessment Team Members:
A K DeBeers. Project QAO
Type of Assessment:
Field Sampling iSA
Assessment Scope:
Ground Waler Sampling
Documents to be Reviewed:
SOP for G I V Sampling (Appendix to QAPP)
Notification Date(s):
--
Proposed Schedule:
8 00 - Arrive 8 30 - Check for SOPs 12 00 - Exit Briefing
8 15 - Open Briefing 9 00 - Observe Sampling 12 30 - Leave
Assessment No.:
99-068
Contract No.:
68-G-9999

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Many different types of assessments are available to evaluate the effectiveness of project
activities. The following may be performed as internal or external assessments by project
participants or as oversight audits by EPA-NE or the delegated Approval Authority.
Field Sampling Technical Systems Audit (TSA) - A thorough on-site audit during which
sampling design, equipment, instrumentation, supplies, personnel, training, sampling procedures,
COC, sample handling and tracking, data reporting, data handling and management, data
tracking and control, and data verification procedures are examined for conformance with the
QAPP. It is recommended that at least one Field Sampling ISA be performed at the start of field
sampling activities so that effective corrective action measures can be implemented to mitigate
the extent and impact of identified non-conlormances.
EPA-NE routinely performs Oversight Field Sampling TSAs at the beginning of field sample
collection activities to assess the proper implementation of the documented field sampling
procedures, to identif needed corrective actions and to provide technical assistance to field
samplers.
Field Analytical TSA - A thorough audit of on-site field analytical techniques (not performed in
a mobile field laboratory) during which the equipment, instrumentation, supplies, personnel,
training, analytical methods/procedures, sample handling and tracking, data reporting, data
handling and management, data tracking and control, and data verification procedures are
checked for conformance with the QAPP. A Field Analytical TSA can be performed prior to the
start of, at the start of, or at any time during field sampling activities. However, it is
recommended that at least one Field Analytical TSA be performed prior to the start of the field
sampling activities so that effective corrective action measures can be implemented to mitigate
the extent and impact of identified non-conformances.
Field Laboratory TSA - A thorough audit of an on-site field laboratory during which the facility
(e.g., mobile lab, trailer, etc.), equipment, instrumentation, supplies, personnel, training,
analytical methods/procedures, laboratory procedures, sample handling and tracking, data
reporting, data handling and management, data tracking and control, and data verification
procedures are checked for conformance with the QAPP. A Field Laboratory TSA can be
performed prior to the start of, at the start of, or at any time during field sampling activities.
However, it is recommended that at least one Field Laboratory TSA be performed prior to the
start of the field sampling activities so that effective corrective action measures can be
implemented to mitigate the extent and impact of identified non-conformances.
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Fixed Laboratory TSA - A thorough audit of a fixed laboratory during which the facility,
equipment, instrumentation, supplies, personnel, training, analytical methods/procedures,
laboratory procedures, sample handling and tracking, data reporting, data handling and
management, data tracking and control, and data verification procedures are checked for
conformance with the QAPP. A Fixed Laboratory TSA can be performed prior to the start of, at
the start of, or at any time during field sampling activities. However, it is recommended that at
least one Fixed Laboratory ISA be performed prior to the start of the field sampling activities so
that effective corrective action measures can be implemented to mitigate the extent and impact of
identified non-confonnances.
Split Sampling and Analysis Audit - A comparison study to assess interlaboratory precision
and accuracy. Split samples are collected by the investigative organization. The sampler collects
one field sample and then physically splits it into two representative sample aliquots. One split
sample is analyzed by the audit laboratory and the other by the investigative organization. Split
samples quantitatively assess the measurement error introduced by the organization’s sample
shipment and analysis system. Split sample comparability criteria must be generated prior to
sample collection and documented in an approved QAPP. Refer to Diagram 2, Example Data
Comparison Flow Diagram and Criteria for Individual Aqueous Split Sample Results.
EPA-NE frequently performs Oversight Split Sampling and Analysis Audits to identify data
quality issues pertaining to sample shipment and analysis, and to identify needed corrective
actions.
Performance Evaluation Sample Tracking and Analysis - Results from Performance
Evaluation Samples (PESs) are statistically analyzed to provide information on routine
laboratory performance and the overall accuracy and bias of the analytical method. In
accordance with EPA Region I Performance Evaluation Program Guidance , a PES is sent with
each sample delivery group (for each matrix, analytical parameter, and concentration level) that
is sent to a laboratory unless an EPA or non-EPA PES does not currently exist for that particular
matrix, parameter or concentration level.
Data Validation TSA - A thorough review of the complete Data Validation Report including a
review of the associated analytical data package deliverables (tabulated and raw data) to ensure
that all required analytical data package deliverables and Data Validation Report components
were provided and contain the specified information. The Data Validation TSA also ensures that
the data validation pmcedures and actions specified in the most recent revision of the Region I.
EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluation Environmental Analyses are
utilized, the data validation criteria specified in the QAPP are met, and the method- and
laboratory-specific QC acceptance criteria specified in the QAPP are met and were appropriate
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for achieving the project measurement performance criteria. The Data Validation TSA also
evaluates whether the project-specific measurement performance criteria and data validation
criteria were appropriate for meeting the specified PQOsIDQOs and whether there were
analytical measurement performance usability issues affecting PQO/DQO achievement.
Data Package TSA - This is a type of Data Validation TSA that is limited to a review of the
complete analytical data package deliverable generated by the field and/or fixed
laboratory/organization to ensure that all required deliverables (tabulated and raw data) are
provided and contain all the information required to reproduce all reported results. The Data
Package ISA also ensures that the data verification procedures specified in the QAPP are used
by the laboratory/organization producing the analytical data package deliverable. It ensures that
the method- and laboratory-specific QC acceptance criteria specified in the QAPP are met and
were appropriate for achieving the project measurement performance criteria.
Management Systems Review (MSR) - A review of an organization or organizational subset to
determine if the management structure, policies, and procedures are sufficient to ensure that an
effective quality system is in place to support the generation of usable project data.
Audit Checklists - Use project-specific questionnaires and checklists when performing
assessments. Completed checklists should be attached to the QA Management Reports as
described in Section 17.0. Include project-specific Audit Checklists as attachments to the QAPP.
An example Laboratory Evaluation Summary questionnaire form is included in Appendix 5.
Note: Written Oversight Reports and Split Sampling Results received from EPA-NE or the
delegated Approval Authority, and subsequent corrective action responses generated by the
Investigative Organization, should be included in QA Management Reports and Final Project
Reports.
16.2 Assessment Findings and Corrective Action Responses
Describe how QAPP deviations and project deficiencies, which are identified through the
planned project assessments, will be handled. An example Technical Systems Audit Report is
included in Appendix 5. Assessment findings that require corrective action initiate a sequence of
events that include documentation of deficiencies, notification of findings, request for corrective
action, implementation of corrective action, and follow-up assessment of the corrective action
effectiveness.
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For each type of assessment:
• Describe how deficiencies will be documented and communicated (e.g., verbal debriefing after
audit and/or written audit report, etc.).
• Describe what type of corrective action responses will be required and how corrective action
responses will be documented.
• Identify who will be notified of audit findings. Provide name, title, organization affiliation,
position, and telephone/telefax number of all individuals that must be notified of
deficiencies/non-conformances.
• Identify to whom the corrective action responses will be directed and in what timeframe.
• Include timeframes allowed for the notification of audit findings, the request for corrective
action and the transmittal of corrective action responses.
The required information may be presented in tabular format and attached to EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #27.
The content and format of corrective action responses should be tailored to suit the project
quality objectives. In certain situations, a letter documenting specific procedural changes may be
a sufficient corrective action response. Appropriate procedural changes can include, but are not
limited to: additional staff training, revision of SOPs, and rescheduling of field and analytical
activities (to ensure holding times are met, etc.). Corrective actions, which require immediate
implementation to ensure that project quality objectives are met, may require work to cease until
those corrective actions are implemented and their effectiveness verified.
16.3 Additional QAPP Non-Conformances
Corrective action (CA) procedures also must be implemented when deviations from the QAPP
are noted by project personnel outside of the formal assessment process. In other words,
corrective action needs to be initiated whenever project personnel identify field sampling and/or
analytical problems that could potentially impact data quality and/or usability. Such incidents
should be documented and resolved using the procedures and personnel that were detailed for
planned assessments in Sections 16.1 and 16.2 of the QAPP.
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17.0 QA Management Reports
Planned QA Management Reports ensure that management and stakeholders are periodically
updated on the project status and the results of all QA assessments. Efficient communication of
project status and problems allows management to implement timely, effective corrective actions
so that project quality objectives can be met.
QA Management Reports Table - Provide a QA Management Reports Table that contains the
information in the format shown in EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #28. Identify the frequency and
types of planned QA Management Reports, the projected delivery dates, the personnel
responsible for report preparation and the report recipients. An example of a completed QA
Management Reports Table is provided in Figure 28.
Figure 28. Example QA Management Reports Table
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EPA-NE QAPP WorkshEet #28 - Rev. 10/99
Identify the frequency and type of planned QA Management Reports, the
projected delivery date, the personnel responsible for report preparation
and the report recipients. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 17 0 for
guidance.)
Title: North Street Property QAPP
Revision Number: /
Revision Date: 1/9/98
Page: 56 of XX
Figure 28. Example QA Management Reports Table
Type of Report
Frequency (daily, weekly
monthly, quarterly,
annually, etc.)
Projected
Delivery Date(s)
Person(s) Responsible for Report Preparation,
Title and OrganIzational Affiliation
Report Recipients, Title
and Organizational Affiliation
-
Verbal Status Report
Daily
At the end of
every day 0/field
activities
James Keller, Field Sampling Coordinator,
Chaucer Engineering
Dorothy Parker, Project Manager/Geotechnical
Engineer, Chaucer Engineering
Verbal or Written Status
Report -
As necessary
As necessary
Dorothy Parker, Project Manager/Geotechnical
Engineer, Chaucer Engineering
Howard Fast, Poe Recycling Project Manager.
Poe Recycling
Field Sampling Technical
Systems Audit Report
1/At startup 0/sampling
3/1 5/98
Claire Carpenter, Project QA Officer, Chaucer
Engineering
-
Dorothy Parker, Project Manager/Geotechnical
Engineer & James Keller. Field Sampling
Coordinator, Chaucer Engineering: Howard
Fast, Poe Recycling Project Manager. Poe
Recycling
Fixed Laboratory
Technical Systems Audit
Report
i/Prior to sample receipt
2/15/98
Claire Carpenter, Project QA Officer, Chaucer
Engineering
John Grissom. Laboratory QA/QC Manager &
Robert Galvani, Laboratory Manager, Austin
Labs; Howard Fast. Poe Recycling Project
Manager, Poe Recycling; Dorothy Parker,
Project Manager/Geotechnical Engineer,
Chaucer Engineering
Data Assessment Report
1/After all data generated
and validated
6/7/98
Brendan Rivers, Data Validator, BDO Quality
Services; Claire Carpenter, Project QA Officer,
Chaucer Engineering
Dorothy Parker, Project Manager/Geotechnical
Engineer, Chaucer Engineering; Howard Fast,
Poe Recycling Project Manager, Poe Recycling,
Flenmy Thoreau. EPA Project Manager, EPA-NE
Final Project Report
i/After QA Management
Reports and Risk
Assessment completed
7/6/98
Dorothy Parker, Project Manager/Geotechnicai
Engineer, Chaucer Engineering
Howard Fast, Poe Recycling Project Manager.
Poe Recycling; Henry Thoreau, EPA Project
Manager. EPA-NE

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Describe the content of QA Management Reports that will be generated for the project.
Assessment checklists and reports, and requests for corrective actions letters (refer to Section
16.0), should be included as attachments to the QA Management Reports. Also, copies of all
corrective action response letters and CAFs should be included as attachments to the QA
Management Reports.
QA Management Reports should include an evaluation of measurement error as determined from
the assessments. Refer to Part I, Region I. EPA New England Data Validation Functional
Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses and EPA QA/G-4 for guidance on evaluating
measurement error. Copies of Overall Evaluation of Data-Data Validation Memorandum -
Table II from all Data Validation Reports should be included as attachments to QA Management
Reports whenever available. An example of a completed Table II is included in Appendix 6.
All QA Management Reports must be included in the Final Project Report. If no QA
Management Reports are generated for the project, then a QAJQC section which discusses the
following issues must be included in the Final Project Report:
• Summary of project QA/QC programs and trainings conducted during the project
• Conformance of project activities to QAPP requirements/procedures
• Status of project and schedule delays
• Deviations from the approved QAPP and approved amendments to the QAPP
• Results and trends of PESs by laboratory (per parameter, matrix and concentration level)
• Description and findings of TSAs and other assessments
• Results of data validation activities in terms of amount of usable data generated
• Required corrective actions and effectiveness of corrective action implementation
• Data quality assessments in terms of precision, accuracy, representativeness, completeness.
comparability, and sensitivity (Refer to Section 20.0)
• Limitations on the use of measurement data generated
The Final Project Report must meet project quality objectives and, at a minimum, include:
• Development of Project Quality Objectives, Narrative and Timeline of Project Activities
• Summary of Major/Critical Problems encountered and their resolution
• Data Summary including, tables, charts and graphs with appropriate sample
identification/station location numbers, concentration units, percent solids (if applicable),
and data quality flags
• Reconciliation of project data with project quality objectives
• Conclusions and recommendations
• All QA Management Reports (as attachments to the Final Project Report document) and/or
QA/QC section that addresses the issues listed above.
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DATA VALIDATION AND USABILITY ELEMENTS
This element group encompasses the activities used to ensure that only scientifically sound data,
which are of known and documented quality and which meet project quality objectives, are used
in making environmental decisions.
EPA-NE defines three distinct evaluative steps that are required to ensure project data quality
needs are met:
1) Data Verification - Data verification is a process of evaluating the completeness,
correctness, and conformance or contractual compliance of a data set against the method
standard, SOP, or contract requirements documented in the project QAPP. Data
verification should be performed internally by the analytical group or fixed laboratory
generating the data. Additionally, data can be checked by an entity external to the
analytical group or fixed laboratory. Data verification may result in accepted, qualified or
rejected data. In general, the EPA-NE data validation process serves to both verify and
validate data at the same time.
2) Data Validation - Data validation is an analyte- and sample-specific process that extends
the qualification of data beyond method, procedural, or contractual compliance (i.e., data
verification) to determine the analytical quality of a specific data set. Data validation
criteria are based on the measurement performance criteria developed in Section 7.0 of
the project QAPP. EPA-NE requires that data validation be performed by an organization
independent of the group that generates the data. Data validation results in accepted,
qualified or rejected data.
3) Data Usability Assessment - Data usability assessment is the process of evaluating
validated data to determine if they can be used for the purpose of the project, i.e., to
answer the environmental question or to make the environmental decisions that must be
made. Data usability includes the following sequence of evaluations:
- First, individual data sets are evaluated to identify the measurement
performance/usability issues/problems affecting the ultimate achievement of PQOs.
- Second, an overall evaluation of fl data generated for the project is performed.
- Finally, the project-specific measurement performance criteria and data validation criteria
documented in the QAPP are evaluated to determine if they were appropriate for meeting
PQOs.
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In order to perform any of the data evaluation steps above, it is necessary that reported data be
supported by complete data packages (as itemized in Tables 5 and 6 of Section 15.0) which
include sample receipt and tracking information, COC records, tabulated data summary forms
and raw analytical data for all field samples, standards, QC checks and QC samples, and all other
project-specific documents that are generated.
If relevant raw data and/or sample information documenting data quality are not available, then
data validation cannot be performed and only a limited data review can be performed. The
Region I QA Unit defines reviews of data/information that do not have sufficient,
documented QC as “Limited Data Reviews” (LDRs). LDRs result in unquantifiable
measuiement error and an unknown degree of uncertainty associated with the data. Those data
are considered to be unknown and of undocumented quality. Ultimately, decisions that are made
based upon unvalidated data may be wrong.
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18.0 Verification and Validation Requirements
Verification and validation procedures and criteria must be established prior to data evaluation.
Specific project verification and validation criteria are developed to identify and qualify data that
do not meet the measurement performance criteria as established in Section 7.0. Data
verification and validation criteria and procedures are documented in this section of the QAPP to
ensure that data are evaluated properly, completely, and consistently for use in meeting project
quality objectives.
The Region I. EPA-New England Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating
Environmental Analyses provide Regional guidance and policies for performing data package
verification and data validation. The Region I Functional Guidelines specify a tiered system of
data validation so that a graded validation approach is available to suit varying project PQOs.
Note that each successive tier includes all evaluation steps from the previous tier(s).
In summary, the three data validation tiers are as follows:
Tier I: The data package is verified for completeness. The Tier I validation equates to an
external verification of the analytical data package for format, content, and
completeness. A data package Inventory Sheet is completed and signed. l’his
ensures that the data set is complete. FE sample results are evaluated to assess
potential data quality/usability issues. For Tier I validations, a Tier I Validation
Cover Letter is produced by the validator.
If a Tier I validation is performed without evaluating FE sample results, then this
results in data with documented but unknown quality.
A Tier I validation that includes an evaluation of PE sample results provides data
(limited to those matrices, parameters, and concentration levels for which the PE
sample applies) of known and documented quality.
Tier II: The results of the QC checks and samples, analytical procedures and PE sample
results are assessed and applied to the data set. This will result in the proper
qualifiers being applied to the data. For Tier II validations, a Data Validation
Report is produced by the validator. Tier II provides data of known and
documented quality.
Tier III: The raw data are examined in detail to check for calculation, compound
identification. and/or transcription errors. For Tier III validations, a Data
Validation Report is produced by the validator. Tier III provides data of known
and documented quality.
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Specify the Data Validation Tier that will be used to validate sample collection, handling, field
analysis, and analytical laboratory project data. Identify the specific Data Validation Tier that
will be used for each analytical parameter, matrix, and concentration level. If modified Data
Validation Tiers will be used to validate project data, then describe the modifications.
Validation Criteria Documents - All data collection activities performed by or for EPA-NE must
be evaluated in accordance with the most recent version of the Region I. EPA-New England Data
Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Enviromnental Analyses . If alternate validation
guidance and/or modifications to the Region I Functional Guideline data validation criteria will
be used to evaluate project data, then the use of alternate guidance and/or modified criteria must
be documented and justified in this section of the QAPP and in all subsequent Data Validation
Reports. Include all alternate validation guidance and/or modified validation criteria documents
as attachments to the QAPP.
Document the procedures and criteria used to verify and validate data information operations.
These operations include, but are not limited to: the electronic and/or manual transfer, entry, use
and reporting of data for computer models, algorithms, and databases; correlations studies
between variables; data plotting; etc.
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Region I QAPP Guidance
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 120 of 129
19.0 Verification and Validation Procedures
This section of the QAPP describes the process that will be followed to verify and validate
project data. Complete EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #29a.
Verification
Describe how sample collection, handling, and field analysis procedures will be verified
internally against the measurement performance criteria specified in Section 7.0. Identify the
field personnel responsible for verification (by name, title, and organizational affiliation). Include
telephone and telefax numbers. Describe how verification of field sampling, handling, and
analysis activities will be documented, e.g., QC signatures in field logs, QC checklist, etc.
Internal Verification :
Describe which sampling, handling, field analytical and fixed laboratory data will be verified
internally at the data generator level. Identify the field analytical and/or fixed laboratory
personnel responsible for data verification (by name, title, and organizational affiliation).
Include telephone and telefax numbers. Describe the end product of laboratory verification (e.g.,
laboratory-qualified data).
External Verification :
Describe which handling, field analytical and fixed laboratory data will be verified by entities
external to the data generator. Identify external verification personnel (by name, title, and
organizational affiliation) that will be involved in the project on EPA-NE QAP? Worksheet #5
and list their responsibilities and qualifications on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #6. Include
telephone and telefax numbers of data verification personnel.
Describe the matrices, concentration levels, and analytical parameters for which each data
verification group will be responsible. It is recommended that this information be provided in a
table.
Validation
Describe which sampling, handling, field analytical and fixed laboratory data will be validated
by entities external to the data generator.
Data Validation Sw unwy Table - Provide a Data Validation Summary Table that contains the
information in the format shown on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #29b. Identify the matrices,
analytical parameters, and concentration levels for which each data validation group will be
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Region I QAPP Guidance
Rev.: DRAFT
Date: 9/10/98
Page: 121 of 129
responsible as well as the validation criteria and Tier Level which will be used to validate those
data. Identify the data validation personnel (by name, title, and organizational affiliation) that
will be involved in the project on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #29b and on EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #5 and list their responsibilities and qualifications on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #6.
Include telephone and telefax numbers of data validation personnel. Identify (by name, title
[ Lead Chemist, Project Chemist, etc.] and organizational affiliation) the person and who is
ultimately responsible for data validation. This is the person who will sign the project Data
Validation Reports.
In accordance with the Region I. EPA-New England Data Validation Functional Guidelines for
Evaluating Environmental Analyses , a separate Data Validation Report must be generated for
each SDG that is validated at a Tier II and Tier III data validation level. A separate Tier I
Validation Cover Letter must be generated for each SDG that is validated at the Tier I data
validation level.
Describe any data that will be utilized in data information operations. Identify the personnel (by
name, title, and organizational affiliation) responsible for computer modeling, database entry,
statistical evaluations, etc. Include telephone and telefax numbers.
Figure 29. Example Data Validation Summary Table
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #29a - Rev. Draft Training Title: Isador ‘s Junkyard QAPP
Describe the process for the collection, organization, and verification of all information and data Revision Number: I
collected and generated throughout an environmental project. Include in the description how the Revision Date: 1/1/00
results will be conveyed to the data user. Indicate, in the appropriate column, if the verification Page 51 of XX
process is performed internally (1) or externally (E) to the data generator, and indicate who will be
responsible for performing the verification task. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 18.0 and 19.0 for
guidance.)
Data Verification Process
Verification
Task
Description
l/E
Responsible for Verification
(Name, Organization)
Total VOC
Screening
Daily field calibration and screening results from the hand-held iota! VOC analyzers will be
collected at the end of the day and reviewed internally for completeness. Any required corrective
actions will be addressed with the field samplers prior loflirther screening. A table will be
prepared, and submitted with the final report, showing the screening results of those samples
submitted for fixed laboratory analysis. Copies of all results will be maintained in the site file.
I
Cole Lecior
Jewel Engineering
Field Notes
Field notes will be collected at the end of each day and reviewed internally for completeness,
accuracy, and comparability between sample locations andfield samplers. Any required
corrective actions will be addressed with the field samplers prior to further site work Copies of
the field notes will be maintained in the site file, and also included in the Data validation Reports.
I
A.K DeBeers
Jewel Engineering
Boring Logs
All Boring Logs and notes will be collected and reviewed internally by the drilling contractor.
Any required corrective actions will be addressed by the drilling team leader prior to further site
work. Upon completion and review of the boring logs and associatedfield notes, copies are
provided to Jewel Engineering.
Upon receipt. Jewel Engineering will perform an external review the boring logs. Any required
corrective actions will be addressed with the drilling team leader prior to further site work
Copies of the boring logs and associated field notes will be maintained in the site file, and also
included as an appendix to the final report.
I
E
Hanna Pearl
Drilling Services, Inc.
Cora Undwn
Jewel Engineering

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #29a - Rev. Draft Training Title: Isador ‘s Junkyard QAPP
Describe the process for the collection, organization, and verification of all information and data Revision Number: I
collected and generated throughout an environmental project. Include in the description how the Revision Date: 1/1/00
results will be conveyed to the data user. Indicate, in the appropriate column, if the verification Page 52 of XX
process is performed internally (I) or externally (E) to the data generator, and indicate who will be
responsible for performing the verification task. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 18.0 and 19.0 for
guidance.)
Data Verification Process
Verification
Task
Description
l/E
Responsible for Verification
(Name, Organization)
COC &
shipping
forms
Chain-of-cusarody forms and shipping documentation will be reviewed internally upon their
completion and ver fled against the packed sample coolers for which they represent. When
everything checks out, the shippers signature on the COC will be is initialed by the reviewer, a
copy of the COG will be retained in the site file, and the original and remaining copies will be
taped inside the cooler for shipment. See COG SOP for further details.
I
Cole Lector
Jewel Engineering
4udit Reports
Upon report completion, a copy of all audit reports will be placed in the site file. If corrective
actions are required, a copy of the documented corrective action taken will be attached to the
appropriate audit report in the site file. Al the beginning of each week, and at the completion of
the site work, site file audit reports will be reviewed internally to insure that all appropriate
corrective actions have been taken and that corrective action reports are attached. If corrective
actions have not been taken, the site manager will be not jfled to insure action is taken.
I
AK DeB ers
Jewel engineering
Laboratory
Data
All laboratory data packages will be verj/Ied internally by the laboratory performing the work for
completeness prior to submittal. The laboratory shall complete DC-2 forms documenting the
organization and complete contents of each data package.
All received data packages will be ver fled externally according to the data validation procedures
spec fled in Figure 29b.
I
E
Jasper Sanquin
Emerald Environmental Lab

G.R. Flawless
Validation Services
DV reports
All data validation reports receivedfrom the data validators will be ver fled externally for
completeness. One out of every 10 samples will be ver ied against the original laboratory results
to check for transcription errors.
E
.
Manny Facets
Jewel Engineering

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #29b - Rev. 10/99
List the validation criteria, data validation tier, data validator and person ultimately
responsible for validation (by name, title and organizational affiliation) for each matrix,
analytical parameter and concentration level. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 18.0
and 19.0 for guidance.)
Figure 29. Example Data Validation Summary Table
Title: Mile High Site
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 4/1/98
Page: 9of XX
Medium!
Matrix
Analytical
Parameter
Concentration
Level
Validation Criteria’
Validation
Criteria
Modified’
Data
Validation
Tier Level
Modified
Tier Level
Used’
Data Validator (Name, title and
organizational affiliation)
Responsibility for Data Validations (Name,
title and organizational affiliation)
Soil
I’OA
Low
Region I, EPA-NE Data
Validation Functional
Guidehnesfor Evaluating
Environmental Analyses
N
ii
N
To,,: Terrific. Junior C’hem,st, Best Review
Company. Sornersville.
MA 03215. Tel 6/7 832-562!
Joan F,nsk. Lead Chemist. Whole World
Consulting. inc Bode , mll,
NH 0632!. Tel 593 825-8213
Soil
SVOC
Low/Medium
Region!. EPA-NE Data
f’alidation Functional
Guidelines for Evaluating
Environmental Analyses
N
I
N
Ton, Terrific, Junior Chemist. Best Review
Company. Somersville.
MA 032/S. Tel 6/7832-5621
Joan F,nsk. Lead Chemist, Whole World
Consulting. Inc. Bodewell.
NH 0632!. Tel .593 825-8213
GW
Metals
Low/Medium

Region 1, EPA-NE Data
Validation Functional
Guidelinesfor Evaluating
Environmental Analyses
N
III
N
Paula Poundsione. Senior C’hemisi.
Whatayuk Consulting. Axeville.
ME 1523!, Tel 563 831-2568
Joan Finsk. Lead Chemist. Whole World
Consulting. Inc. Bode ,iell.
NI -I 06321. Tel 593 825-8213
‘lithe most recent revision of the Reeion I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses will not be used to validate project
data, then document this fact and, on EPA-NE Worksheet #29a, provide a detailed description of the alternate validation criteria and/or procedures that will be used.
211 the Region I validation Criteria will be modified to meet project objectives, then document this fact and, on EPA-NE Worksheet #29a, provide a detailed description Of
the modified validation criteria that will be used.
a modified validation Tier will be used to validate project data, then document this fact and, on EPA-NE Worksheet #29a, provide a detailed description of the Tier
modifications that will be used.

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #29c - Rev. Draft Training Title: Isa4or ‘s Junkyard QAP?
Revision Number: I
Provide detailed descriptions of all modifications to the Data Validation process when the Region I . Revision Pate: 1/1/00
EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses will not be Page 54 of XX
used, or will be modified. Modification may include method QC criteria, project measurement
performance criteria, evaluation/action procedures, mixing and matching of Tier levels, and/or
changes to a Tier’s requirements. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 18.0 and 19.0 for guidance.)
Data Validation Modifications
Data Validation Criteria Mod jflcations
1 ) One EnC’ore trip blank, containing 5 grains of an inert soil matrix, will be s/zipped in each cooler containing Encore field samples fi r VOC analysis.
Note, no bottle blank will be analyzed.
2) Measurement performance criteria spec /Ied in Worksheet Jib will replace the default validation criteria spec4/Ied in the EPA-NE DV Guidelines
where appropriate
3) Analytical Methods chosen for this project are from SW-846 “Test Methods for Evaluating Solid Waste “. QC criteria used in these methods is often
dqfferent than that specified in the DV Guidelines. Table 29a-J (not included in this example worksheet) provides a detailed list of QC criteria that are
djfferent for each analysis, including the frequency of use, the acceptance limits, and any associated corrective actions
Data Validation Tier Approach
1) Due to the fact that historical VOC soil data was not performed using the Encore sampling technique, the first Iwo (2) SDGs receivedfrom the
laboratory for VOC analysis of soils using method 5035/8260 will be validated according go Tier III data validation guidelines. If no major proble ns
are encountered in the Tier III validation results, then the remaining VOC in soil SDGs will be validated according to Tier Ii validation guidelines. If
problems are encountered, then all VOC in soil SDGs will be validated according to Tier III validation guidelines.

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Page: 122 of 129
20.0 Data Usability/Reconciliation with Project Quality Objectives
This section of the QAPP describes how validated project data will be reconciled with the project
quality objectives, how data quality issues will be addressed, and how limitations on the use of
the data will be reported and handled. This section describes the scientific and statistical
procedures/methods that will be used to determine whether data are of the right type, quality and
quantity to support environmental decision making for the project.
Note: Data quality assessment is the final step in data evaluation and can only be performed on
data of known and documented quality, i.e., validated data.
Summarize the data assessment process and all data assessment procedures, including statistics,
equations, and computer algorithms that will be used to assess data. Describe the data generation
reporting formats and the documentation that will be generated during data assessment. Identify
the personnel (by name, title, and organizational affiliation) responsible for performing the data
assessment. Complete EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #30.
A Formal Data Quality Assessment (DQA) Process is described in Guidance for the Data Quality
Assessment Process: Practical Methods for Data Analysis , EPA QA/G-9, July 1996. EPA
QA/G-9 provides guidance on many statistical and graphical assessment tools. The Formal DQA
Process consists of five steps:
1. Review DQOs and Sampling Design
2. Conduct Preliminary Data Review
3. Select Statistical Test
4. Verify Assumptions
5. Draw Conclusions from the Data
Even if the Formal DQA Process is not followed in its entirety, a systematic assessment of the
data quality must be performed. This process should include a preliminary data review.
Diagram 6 provides an example of the steps and actions that should be taken during preliminary
data review. It is recommended that the QAPP include a similar flow diagram to describe the
data quality assessment process for the project.
Describe how data will be presented in order to identify trends, relationships (correlations), and
anomalies. All validated data must be presented in spreadsheets with the format and content as
required in Region I. EPA-New England Data Validation Functional iide1ines for Evaluating
Environmental Analyses . Additionally, graphical representations should be used to present the
overall project data (e.g., Histograms! Frequency Plots. Quantile Plots, Concentration Maps).
Describe the evaluative procedures used to assess overall measurement error associated with the
project and include the following DQIs:
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Diagram 6. Preliminary Data Review Decision Tree
No
Region I QAPP Manual
Rev .. Draft
Date: 9/10198
Page: 123 of 129
Determine if different methods
were used for sampling and/or
anal sia for companson data
Were Data Validation Cnterta.
Measurement Perfounance Critena, and
Method/SOP QC Cruena met,
including QL requirements’
Do the daia correlate with field
measurements according to QAPP
requIrements (RPD and/or %D values.
false positive/false negative rates, etc.)?
Yes
Are the data represcnta livc of
expcnted contaminanon based upon
past usc or Site
data mcci overall project
objectives
Use data to prepare tables. chails.
graphs. etc , and to enter Into
modclsfalgonthsns, as required for
environmental decision making
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Page: 124 of 129
Precision
In order to meet the needs of the data users, project data must meet the measurement
performance criteria for precision specified in Section 7.2 of the QAPP. -
Proj ect Precision (Field Duplicates/Replicates): Include formulae for calculating precision for
individual duplicate/replicate data points, e.g., RPD, RSD, Standard Deviation (SD), etc.
Analytical Precision (Laboratory Duplicates/Replicates, etc.): Include the formulae for
calculating analytical precision for individual duplicate/replicate data points, e.g., RID, RSD,
SD, etc.
Overall Precision: Describe the procedures used to perform overall assessment of precision in
terms of the entire set of project data and include mathematical and/or statistical formulae for
evaluating overall precision.
Poor overall precision may be the result of one or more of the following: field instrument
variation, analytical measurement variation, poor sampling technique, sample transport
problems, and/or spatial variation (heterogeneous sample matrices). In order to identify the
cause of imprecision, the field sampling design rationale and sampling techniques should be
evaluated by the reviewer and both field and analytical duplicate/replicate sample results should
be reviewed. If poor precision is indicated in both the field and analytical duplicates/replicates,
then the laboratory may be the source of error. If poor precision is limited to the field
duplicate/replicate results, then the sampling technique, field instrument variation, sample
transport, and/or spatial variability may be the source of error.
If Data Validation Reports indicate that analytical imprecision exists for a particular data set
(SDG), then the impact of that imprecision on data usability must be discussed in the Data
Assessment Report.
The Data Assessment Report should discuss and compare overall field duplicate precision data
from multiple data sets collected for the project for each matrix, analytical parameter and
concentration level. Data Assessment Reports should describe the limitations on the use of
project data when overall precision is poor or when poor precision is limited to a specific
sampling or laboratory/analytical group, data set (SDG), matrix, analytical parameter or
concentration level.
When project-required precision is not achieved and project data are not usable to adequately
address environmental questions (i.e., determining if regulatory/technical Action Limits have
been exceeded) and to support project decision making, then the Data Assessment Report should
address how this problem will be resolved and discuss the potential need for resampling.
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AccuracyfBias
In order to meet the needs of the data users, project data must meet the measurement
performance criteria for accuracy/bias specified in Section 7.2 of the QAPP.
Sample Contamination : Discuss how the QC activities and QC check and sample data will be
reviewed to evaluate the accuracy and potential bias of sample results. If field contamination
exists, then the impact of field contamination on data usability must be discussed in the Data
Assessment Report and the Field Sampling Team Leader arid Project Manager should be
notified. Differentiate field sample collection and transport contamination (equipment/rinsate
blanks, trip blanks) from contamination introduced at the time of sample preparation and/or
analysis, (i.e., method blank, storage blank, analytical instrument blanks). Note that sample
contamination may result in either a negative or positive bias. For example, improperly cleaned
sample containers for metal analysis may result in the retention of metals on the interior
container walls. This would result in lower metals concentrations being reported than are
actually present in the collected sample (i.e., a negative bias). A positive bias would occur when
sample container contamination results in an additive effect, i.e., reported analyte concentrations
are higher than the true sample concentrations for that analyte.
Analytical Accuracy/Bias : Discuss how the QC activities and QC check and sample data will be
used to evaluate the accuracy and potential bias of sample results. Include methods/formulae for
calculating analytical accuracy and bias for spike samples/compounds (matrix spikes, surrogate
spikes, SRMs, LCSs, etc.), PESs, calibration linearity, results of calibration verification checks,
etc. If Data Validation Reports indicate that contamination and/or analytical inaccuracies/bias
exist for a particular data set (SDG), then the impact of that contamination and/or analytical
inaccuracies/bias on data usability must be discussed in the Data Assessment Report.
Overall Accuracy/Bias : Describe the procedures used to perform overall assessment of
accuracy/bias in terms of the entire set of project data and include mathematical and/or statistical
formulae for evaluating overall accuracy/bias. Describe the procedures for evaluating the overall
qualitative and quantitative bias trends in PES data.
The Data Assessment Report should discuss and compare overall contamination and
accuracy/bias data from multiple data sets collected for the project for each matrix, analytical
parameter and concentration level. The Data Assessment Report should describe the limitations
on the use of project data if extensive contamination and/or inaccuracy/bias exists or when it is
limited to a specific sampling or laboratoiy/analytical group, data set (SDG), matrix, analy icai
parameter or concentration level. The Data Assessment Report should identify qualitative and/or
quantitative bias trends in multiple PES results for each matrix, analytcal parameter and
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Page: 126 of 129
concentration level. The impact of any qualitative and/or quantitative trends in bias on the
sample data should be discussed. Any PESs that have false positive and/or false negative
results should be reported and the impact on data usability should be discussed in the Data
Assessment Report.
When project-required accuracy/bias is not achieved and project data are not usable to adequately
address environmental questions (i.e., determining if regulatory/technical Action Limits have
been exceeded) and to support project decision making, then the Data Assessment Report should
address how this problem will be resolved and discuss the potential need for resampling.
Sample Representativeness
In order to meet the needs of the data users, project data must meet the measurement
performance criteria for sample representativeness specified in Section 7.2 of the QAPP.
Discuss how the QA/QC activities (review of sampling SOPs, Field Sampling TSAs, Split
Sampling and Analysis Audits, etc.) and QC check and sample data will be reviewed to assess
sample representativeness. If field duplicate precision checks indicate potential spatial
variability, then this may trigger additional scoping meetings and subsequent resampling in order
to collect data that are more representative of a non-homogeneous site.
The Data Assessment Report should discuss and compare overall sample representativeness for
each matrix, parameter and concentration level. Data Assessment Reports should describe the
limitations on the use of project data when overall non-representative sampling has occurred or
when non-representative sampling is limited to a specific sampling group, data set (SDG),
matrix, analytical parameter or concentration level. If data are not usable to adequately address
environmental questions and/or support project decision making, then the Data Assessment
Report should address how this problem will be resolved and discuss the potential need for
resampling.
Sensitivity and Quantitation Limits
In order to meet the needs of the data users, project data must meet the measurement
performance criteria for sensitivity and QLs specified in Section 7.2 of the QAPP.
Include methods/formulae for calculating analytical sensitivity that ensure QLs are achieved,
e.g., percent recovery of LF B spiked iconipounds, and PESs. Also,rnclude procedures for
evaluating low point calibration standards run at the QL. Low point calibration standards should
produce a signal at least ten times the background noise level and should be part of a linear
calibration curve.
Document the procedures for calculating MDLs, QLs, and SQLs.
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Overall Sensitivity and Quantitation Limits : Describe the procedures used to perform overall
assessment of sensitivity and QLs in terms of the entire set of project data, and include
mathematical and/or statistical formulae for evaluating sensitivity and QLs.
If Data Validation Reports indicate that sensitivity and/or QLs were not achieved, then the
impact of that lack of sensitivity and/or higher QLs on data usability must be discussed in the
Data Assessment Report.
The Data Assessment Report should discuss and compare overall sensitivity and QLs from
multiple data sets collected for the project for each matrix, analytical parameter and
concentration level. Data Assessment Reports should describe the limitations on the use of
project data if project-required sensitivity and QLs were not achieved for all project data or when
it is limited to a specific sampling or laboratory/analytical group, data set (SDG), matrix,
analytical parameter or concentration level.
When project-required QLs are not achieved and project data are not usable to adequately
address environmental questions (i.e., determining if regulatory/technical Action Limits have
been exceeded) and to support project decision making, then the Data Assessment Report should
address how this problem will be resolved and discuss the potential need for resampling. In this
case, the Data Assessment Report should clearly differentiate between usable and unusable data
for the data users.
Completeness
In order to meet the needs of the data users, project data must meet the measurement
performance criteria for data completeness specified in Section 7.2 of the QAPP.
Include the methods/formulae for calculating data completeness. Describe how the amount of
valid data will be determined as a percentage of the number of valid measurements that should
have been collected for each matrix, analytical parameter, and concentration level. When certain
sample locations and/or analytes and matrices are more critical than others in making project
decisions, describe how critical data will be assessed for completeness.
Overall Completeness : Describe the procedures used to perform overall assessment of
completeness in terms of the entire set of project data, and include mathematical and/or statistical
formulae for evaluating overall completeness.
The Data Assessment Report should discuss and compare overall completeness of multiple data
sets collected for the project for each matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level. Data
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Assessment Reports should describe the limitations on the use of project data if project-required
completeness was not achieved for the overall project or when it is limited to a specific sampling
or laboratory/analytical group, data set (SDG), matrix, analytical parameter or concentration
level.
When project-required completeness is not achieved and sufficient data are not available to
adequately address environmental questions and support project decision making, then the Data
Assessment Report should address how this problem will be resolved and discuss the potential
need for additional resampling.
Comparability
In order to meet the needs of the data users, project data must meet the measurement
performance criteria for comparability specified in Section 7.2 of the QAPP.
Include methods/formulae for assessing data comparability for each matrix, analytical parameter
and concentration level.
If two or more sampling procedures and/or sampling teams will be used to collect samples, then
describe how comparability will be assessed for each matrix, analytical parameter and
concentration level.
If two or more analytical methods/SOPs will be used to analyze samples of the same matrix and
concentration level for the same analytical parameter, then describe how comparability will be
assessed between the two data sets.
If field screening data will be confirmed by full protocol methods, then document the specific
method references and percent difference formula that will be used to assess comparability for
individual data points (Refer to Section 7.2). Overall Comparability: Describe the procedures
used to perform overall assessment of comparability and include mathematical and/or statistical
formulae for evaluating screening and confirmatory data comparability.
If split samples are analyzed for EPA oversight, then document the specific method references
and percent difference formula that will be used to assess split sample comparability for
individual data points (Refer to Section 7.2). Overall Comparability: Describe the procedures
used to perform overall assessment of oversight split sampling comparability and include
mathematical and/or statistical fbrmutae fbr evaluating ovezsigliit split sampling data
comparability.
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.egion I QAPP Guidance
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For long term monitoring projects, data comparability is extremely important. Project data
shouLd be compared to previously generated data to ascertain the possibility of false positives
and/or false negatives and negative and/or positive trends in bias. Anomalies detected in the data
may reflect a changing environment or indicate sampling and/or analytical error. Comparability
criteria should be established to evaluate these data sets in order identify outliers and to trigger
resanipling as warranted.
The Data Assessment Report should discuss and compare overall comparability between
multiple data sets collected for the project for each matrix, analytical parameter and
concentration level. The Data Assessment Report should describe the limitations on the use of
project data when project-required data comparability is not achieved for the overall project or
when it is limited to a specific sampling or laboratory/analytical group, data set (SDG), matrix,
analytical parameter or concentration level.
If screen/confirmatory comparability criteria are not met, then this should be documented in the
Data Assessment Report and the impact on data usability should be discussed therein. Likewise,
if oversight split sampling comparability criteria are not met, then this should be documented in
the Data Assessment Report and the impact on data usability should be discussed therein. If data
are not usable to adequately address environmental questions and/or support project decision
making, then the Data Assessment Report should address how this problem will be resolved and
discuss the potential need for resampling.
Finally, if long-term monitoring data are not comparable, then the Data Assessment Report
should address whether the data indicate a changing environment or the anomalies are a result of
sampling and/or analytical error. If data are not usable to adequately address environmental
questions and/or support project decision making, then the Data Assessment Report should
address how this problem will be resolved and discuss the potential need for resampling.
Data Limitations and Actions
Describe what actions will be taken when data do not meet the project quality objectives. It is
necessary to document, in this section of the QAPP, the exact process for handling data that do
not meet project quality objectives, i.e., when DQIs do not meet measurement performance
criteria. Depending on how those data will be used, the process should specify the restrictions on
use of those data for environmental decision making.
error should be identified and corrected as early as possible to
the onset of sample collection activities. Incorporating an ongoing data assessment process
throughout the project, rather than just as a final step, will facilitate the early detection and
correction of problems, thereby ensuring that project quality objectives are met.
Region I QAPP Guidance Draft 9/98

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #30 - Rev. 9/98
Describe the scientific and statistical procedures/methods (not just definitions of DQIs) that will be
used to determine whether data are of the right type, quality and quantity to support environmental
decision making for the project. Specifically describe how precision, accuracy/bias,
representativeness, sensitivity, completeness and comparability data will be used to determine if
project quality objectives were achieved. Describe the graphical presentations of the data that will be
generated to help visualize the results. Describe how data quality issues will be addressed, and how
limitations on the use of the data will be handled. Indicate that conclusions will be drawn concerning
the results of each of the Data Usability assessments. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 70 and 20.0
for guidance.)
Data Usability Assessment
Title: Isador ‘s Junkyard QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/1/00
Page 55 of XX
The Data Usability Assessments will be performed by a team ofpersonnel at Jewel Engineering. A. K DeBeers, the Quality Assurance Manager a! Jewel
Engineering, will be responsible for the information presented in the Usability Assessment and will be responsible/or assigning task work to individual staff
members. The results of the Data Usability Assessment will be presented in the final proj ed report. The following items will be assessed and conclusions
drawn based on their results:
Precision Results of all the field and laboratory duplicates will be presented separately in tabular format for each analysis. For each duplicate
pair, the relative percent djfference (RPD) will be calculated for each analyte whose original and duplicate values are both greater
than or equal go the quanhltation limit. RPDs will be compared against the measurement performance criteria presented in Figure
Jib. Those RPDs exceeding the criteria will be highlighted (shaded) in the tables. In addition, the RPD of each analyte will be
averaged across all duplicate pairs, and the combined overall average RPD for each analysis will be calculated (field and laboratory
duplicates treated separately). A discussion will follow summarizing the results of the project and laboratory precision. Any
conclusions about the precision of the analyses will be drawn and any limitations on the use of the data will be described. (The
remaining FARCCS parameters have not been included as part of this example.)
Graphics Surface Soil Analysis : Several graphic plots will be constructed depicting the contaminant concentrations found throughout the site
Each plot will lake the total concentration range of a single contaminant, or combined group 0/contaminants (i.e., total PAHs), found
on site and break it down into a series of concentration ranges (based on the judgement of the statistician). Each concentration range
will have a corresponding color (i.e., blue for the lowest concentration range trending upward to red at the highest concentration
range) Each graphic will depict a single contaminant, or group, on a site map where each sampling location contains a dot of the
appropriate color (based on the concentration found). The following graphical plots are anticipated:

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #30 - Rev. 9/98
Describe the scientific and statistical procedures/methods (not just definitions of DQIs) that will be
used to determine whether data are of the right type, quality and quantity to support environmental
decision making for the project. Specifically describe how precision, accuracy/bias,
representativeness, sensitivity, completeness and comparability data will be used to determine if
project quality objectives were achieved. Describe the graphical presentations of the data that will be
generated to help visualize the results. Describe how data quality issues will be addressed, and how
limitations on the use of the data will be handled. Indicate that conclusions will be drawn concerning
the results of each of the Data Usability assessments. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 7.0 and 20.0
for guidance.)
Data Usability Assessment
Title: isador ‘s Junkyard QAPP
Revision Number: I
Revision Date: 1/1/00
Page S6ofXi(
1) Total Chlorinated VOCs
2) Total Aromatic VOCs
3) Total PAHs
4) Total Lead
Note: Based on the results of the data, the statistician will use his or her professional judgemeni to include other pertinent
parameters. Each graphic will contain a detailed legend. in addition, each graphic will include a summary report indicating
trends, anomalies or other factors pertinent to the understanding of the data.
Reconciliation Each of the Project Quality Objectives listed in Figure ha will be examined to determine ?f the objective was met. The examination
will include a combined overall assessment of the results of each analysis pertinent to an objective. Each analysis wi//firs! be
evaluated separately in terms of the major impacts observed from the Data Validation, Data Quality indicator (I’ARCCS), and
meas urement performance criteria assessments. Based on the results of these assessments, the quality of the data oblainedfroin each
analysis will be determined. Based on the quality determined, the usability of the data for each analysis will be determined Based on
the combined usability of the data from all analyses for an objective, it will be determined f the Project Quality Objective was met.
The final report will include a summary of all the points that went into the reconciliation of each objective. As part 0/the
reconciliation 0/each objective, conclusions will be drawn and any limitations on the usability of any of the data will be described.

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GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS
AA - Atomic Absorption
AL - Action Limit
BOD - Biochemical Oxygen Demand
CA - Corrective Action
CAA - Clean Air Act
CAPs - Corrective Action Forms
CERCLA - Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act
of 1980
CLP - Contract Laboratory Program
COC - Chain-of-Custody
CRDL - Contract Required Detection Limit
CWA - Clean Water Act
DAS - Delivery of Analytical Services
DOT - Department of Transportation
DQA - Data Quality Assessment
DQIs - Data Quality Indicators
DQOs - Data Quality Objectives
EMMC - Environmental Monitoring Management Council
EPA - Environmental Protection Agency
EPA-NE - EPA Region I, New England
ERA - Environmental Risk Assessment
FID - Flame Ionization Detector
FIFRA - Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act
FS - Feasibility Study
OC - Gas Chromatograph
GC/MS - Gas ChromatographyfMass Spectrometry
GPC - Gel Permeation Chromatography
IATA - International Air Transport Association
ICP - Inductively Coupled Plasma
EPA - Initial Precision and Accuracy
IS - Internal Standard
LCS - Laboratory Control Sample
LFB - Laboratory Fortified Blank
LIMS - Laboratory Information Management Systems
LQAP - Laboratory Quality Assurance Plan
MCLs - Maximum Contaminant Levels
MDLs - Method Detection Limits
MPC - Measurement Performance Criteria
MQOs - Measurement Quality Objectives
MS/MSD - Matrix Spike/Matrix Spike Duplicate
MSR - Management Systems Review
NEIC - National Enforcement Investigations Center
NIST - National Institute of Standards and Technology
NPDES - National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
OEME - Office of Environmental Measurement and Evaluation
1

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GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS
PARCC - Precision, Accuracy, Representativeness, Completeness, and
Comparability
PBMS - Performance Based Measurement System
PCBs - Polychiorinated Biphenyls
PESs - Performance Evaluation Samples
PID - Photo Ionization Detector
PQLs - Practical Quantitation Limits
PQOs - Project Quality Objectives
pre-RI - pre-Remedial Investigation
PRP - Potentially Responsible Party
QA - Quality Assurance
QA/QC - Quality Assurance/Quality Control
QC - Quality Control
QAPP - Quality Assurance Project Plan, synonymous with QAPjP
QLs - Quantitation Limits
RA - Remedial Action
RCRA - Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
RD - Remedial Design
REAP - Regional Environmental Analytical Procurement
RI - Remedial Investigation
RIC - Reconstructed Ion Chromatogram
RLs - Reporting Limits
RPD - Relative Percent Difference
RSCC - Regional Sample Control Coordinator
RSD - Relative Standard Deviation
RT - Retention Time
SAP - Sampling and Analysis Plan
SA/SI - Site Assessment/Site Investigation
SD - Standard Deviation
SDG - Sample Delivery Group
SDWA - Safe Drinking Water Act
SOP - Standard Operating Procedure
SQLs - Sample Quantitation Limits
SRM - Standard Reference Material
TCLP - Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure
TIC - Tentatively Identified Compound
TSA - Technical Systems Audit
TSCA - Toxic Substances Control Act
VOA - Volatile Organic Analysis
XR F - X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
2

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EPA-NE QAPP Workbook
EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets
Note: It is recommended that these worksheets be taken to initial project scoping meetings and
completed. They will help to identify critical project information that will help to ensurc that data
are the right type, quality and quantity needed to meet project quality objectives.
Provide completed worksheets to the QAPP preparer or preparation team for incorporation into
the QAPP document.
ai nt I
Appendix I

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‘EPA-NE Title and Approval Page - Rev. 10/99
Site Name/Project Name: Title:
Site Location: Revision Number:
Revision Date:
Page: of
Document Title:
Lead Organization (Agency, State, Tribe, Federal Facility, PRP, or Grantee):
Preparer’s Name and Organizational Affiliation :
Preparer’s Address and Telephone Number:
Preparation Date (Day/Month/Year) :
Investigative Organization’s Project Manager:
Signature/Date
Printed Name/Organization
Investigative Organization’s Project QA Officer:
Signature/Date
Printed Name/Organization
Lead Organization’s Project Manager:
Signature/Date
Printed Name/Organization
Approval Signature.
Signature/Date
Printed Name/Title
Approval Authori y
Other Approval Signatures:
Signature/Date
Printed Name/Title
Document Control Number:

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2 - Rev. 10/99
Site Name/Project Name: Title:
Site Location: Revision Number:
Site Number/Code: Revision Date:
Operable Unit: Page: of
Contractor Name:
Contractor Number:
Contract Title:
Work Assignment Number:
Anticipated date of QAPP Implementation:
I. Identify Guidance used to prepare QAPP:
2. Identify EPA Program:
3. Identify approval entity: EPA-NE or State :
or other entity:
4. Indicate whether the QAPP is a generic program QAPP or a project specific QAPP. (underline one)
5. List dates of scoping meetings that were held:
6. List title of QAPP documents and approval dates written for previous site work, if applicable:
Title
Approval Date
7. List organizational partners (stakeholders) and connection with EPA and/or State:
8. List data users:
9. If any required QAPP Elements (1-20), Worksheets and/or Required Information are not applicable the project, then circle
the omitted QAPP Elemerns, Worksheets and Required Information on the attached Table. Provide an explanation for their
exclusion below:

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EPA-NE QAPP WoritsheLg 1(contin ,ed)
Rev. 10/99
Bold QAPP Elements, Worksheets and/or Required Information that are not applicable to the project and provide an
explanation on EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2, Item 9.
EPA QA/R-5
QAPP
ELEMENTS
REQUIRED EPA-NE QAPP ELEMENTS
and CORRESPONDING EPA-NE QAPP
SECTIONS
EPA-NE
QAPP
Worksheet
REQUIRED INFORMATION
Project Management and Objectives
Al
1.0 Title and Approval Page
1
- Title and Approval Page
A2
2.0 Table of Contents and Document Format
2.1 Table of Contents
2.2 Document Control Format
2.3 Document Control Numbering System
2.4 EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #2
‘
2
- Table of Contents
- EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet
A3
3.0 Distribution List and Project Personnel
Sign-off Sheet
3
4
- Distribution List
- Project Personnel Sign-off Sheet
A4, A8
4.0 Project Organization
4.1 Project Organizational Chart
4.2 Communication Pathways
4.2.1 Modifications to Approved QAPP
4.3 Personnel Responsibilities and
Qualifications
4.4 Special Training Requirements/
Certification
5a
5b
6
7
- Organizational Chart
- Communication Pathways
- Personnel Responsibilities and
Qualifications Table
- Special Personnel Training Requirements
Table
AS
5.0 Project Planning/Project Definition
5.1 Project Planning Meetings
5.2 Problem Defmition/Site History and
Background
8a
8b
- Project Scoping Meeting Attendance
Sheet with Agenda and other Project
Planning Meeting Documentation
- Problem Definition/Site History and
Background
- EPA-NE DQO Summary Form
- Site Maps (historical and present)
A6
6.0 Project Description and Schedule
6.1 Project Overview
6.2 Project Schedule
9a
9b
9c
9d
10
- Project Description
- Contaminants of Concern and Other
Target Analytes Table
- Field and Quality Control Sample
Summary Table
- Analytical Services Table
- System Designs
- Project Schedule Timeline Table
Al
7.0 Project Quality Objectives and
Measurement Performance Criteria
7.1 Project Quality Objectives
7.2 Measurement Performance Criteria
1 Ia
i lb
- Project Quality Objectives/Decision
Statements
- Measurement Performance Criteria Table
Measurement/Data Acquisition
B 1
8.0 Sampling Process Design
8.1 Sampling Design Rationale
12a
12b
- Sampling Design and Rationale
- Sampling Locations, Sampling and
Analysis Method/SOP Requirements
Table
- Sample Location

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4 E QItPP Works4 4fl r:hmed)
Rev. 10/99
EPA QAIR-5
QAPP
ELEMENTS
REQUIRED EPA-NE QAPP ELEMENTS
and CORRESPONDING EPA-NE QAPP
SECTIONS
EPA-NE
QAPP
Worksheet
REQUIRED INFORMATION
B2, B6,
B7, B8
9.0 Sampling Procedures and Requirements
9.1 Sampling Procedures
9.2 Sampling SOP Modifications
9.3 Cleaning and Decontamination of
Equipment/Sample Containers
9.4 Field Equipment Calibration
9.5 Field Equipment Maintenance,
Testing and Inspection Requirements
9.6 Inspection and Acceptance
Requirements for Supplies/Sample
Containers
13
12b
14
15
- Sampling SOPs
- Project Sampling SOP Reference Table
- Sampling Container, Volumes and
Preservation Table
- Field Sampling Equipment Calibration
Table
- Cleaning and Decontamination SOPs
- Field Equipment Maintenance, Testing
and Inspection Table
B3
10.0 Sample Handling, Tracking and
Custody Requirements
10.1 Sample Collection Documentation
10.1.1 Field Notes
10.1.2 Field Documentation
Management System
10.2 Sample Handling and Tracking
System
10.3 Sample Custody
16
- Sample Handling, Tracking and Custody
SOPs
- Sample Handling Flow Diagram
- Sample Container Label (Sample Tag)
- Chain-of-Custody Form and Seal
B4, B6,
117, 118
11.0 Field Analytical Method Requirements
11.1 Field Analytical Methods and SOPs
11.2 Field Analytical Method/SOP
Modifications
11.3 Field Analytical Instrument
Calibration
11.4 Field Analytical Instrument/
Equipment Maintenance, Testing and
Inspection Requirements
11.5 Field Analytical Inspection and
Acceptance Requirements for
Supplies
17
18
19
- Field Analytical Methods/SOPs
- Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference
Table
- Field Analytical Instrument Calibration
Table
- Field Analytical Instrument/Equipment
Maintenance, Testing and Inspection
Table
B4, B6,
B7, B8
12.0 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method
Requirements
12.1 Fixed Laboratory Analytical Methods
and SOPs
12.2 Fixed Laboratory Analytical
Method/SOP Modifications
12.3 Fixed Laboratory Instrument
Calibration
12.4 Fixed Laboratory Instrumentl
Equipment Maintenance, Testing and
Inspection Requirements
12.5 Fixed Laboratory Inspection and
Acceptance Requirements for
Supplies
20
21
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical
Methods/SOPs
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical
Method/SOP Reference Table
- Fixed Laboratory Instrument
Maintenance and Calibration Table

•

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A-NlQA 1 Workshi et’ kc flumucd)
Rev. 10f99
EPA QAIR-5
QAPP
ELEMENTS
REQUIRED EPA-NE QAPP ELEMENTS
and CORRESPONDING EPA-NE QAPP
SECTIONS
EPA-NE
QAPP
Worksheet
REQUIRED INFORMATION
B5
13.0 Quality Control Requirements
13.1 Sampling Quality Control
13.2 Analytical Quality Control
13.2.1 Field Analytical QC
13.2.2 Fixed Laboratory QC
22a
22b
23a
23b
24a
24b
Sampling
- Field Sampling QC Table
- Field Sampling QC Table coat.
Analytical
- Field Analytical QC Sample Table
- Field Analytical QC Sample Table cont.
- Field Screening/Confirmatory Analysis
Decision Tree
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample
Table
- Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample
Table cont.
B9
14.0 Data Acquisition Requirements
25
- Non-Direct Measurements Criteria and
Limitations Table
A9, BlO
15.0 Documentation, Records and Data
Management
15.1 Project Documentation and Records
15.2 Field Analysis Data Package
Deliverables
15.3 Fixed Laboratory Data Package
Deliverables
15.4 Data Reporting Formats
15.5 Data Handling and Management
15.6 Data Tracking and Control
26
- Project Documentation and Records
Table
- Data Management SOPs
Assessment/Oversight
Cl
16.0 Assessments and Response Actions
16.1 Planned Assessments
16.2 Assessment Findings and Corrective
Action Responses
16.3 Additional QAPP Non-Conformances
27a
27b
27c
- Assessment and Response Actions
- Project Assessment Table
- Project Assessment Plan
- Audit Checklists
C2
17.0 QA Management Reports
28
- QA Management Reports Table
Data Validation
and Usability
Dl
18.0 Verification and Validation
Requirements
- Validation Criteria Documents
D2
19.0 Verification and Validation Procedures
29a
29b
29c
- Data Evaluation Process
- Data Validation Summary Table
- Data Validation Modifications
D3
20.0 Data Usability/Reconciliation with
Project_Quality_Objectives
30
- Data Usability Assessment
* Include Data Validation Criteria Document as an attachment to the QAPP if Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional
Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses will not be used for validating project data.
Note: Required project-specific information should be provided in tabular format, as much as practicable. However,
sufficient written discussion in text format should accompany these tables. Certain sections, by their nature, will
require more written discussion than others. In particular, Section 8.0 should provide an in-depth explanation of the
sampling design rationale and Sections 18-20 should describe the procedures and criteria that will be used to verify,
validate and assess data usability.

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #3 - Rev. 10/99 Title:
List people who will receive approved QAPP, Revision Number:
QAPP revisions, addenda and/or amendments. Revision Date:
(Refer to QAPP Manual Section 3.0 for guidance.) Page: of
Distribution List
QAPP Recipients
Title
Organization
Telephone Number
Document
Control Number

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #4 - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Copies of this form must be signed by project personnel from each organization to indicate Revision Number:
that they have read the QAPP and will implement the QAPP as prescribed. Each Revision Date:
organization must keep the original signed “Sheets” in their organization’s project file and Page: of
forward copies of the signed “Sheets” to the Lead Organization. (Refer to QAPP Manual
Section 3 0 for guidance.)
Project Personnel Sign-Off Sheet
Organization:
Project Personnel
Title
Telephone
Signature
Date QAPP Read
QAPP Acceptable
Number
as Written

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #5a - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Use this worksheet to identify reporting relationships between Lead Revision Number:
Organization and other organizations, including contractors and Revision Date:
subcontractors. Provide a detailed organizational chart and include the Page: of
name and phone number of each organization and the Project Manager,
Case Team members, and/or Project Contacts for each organization in
Section 4.1 of the QAPP document. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 4.1
for guidance.)
Organizational Chart

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #Sb - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Use this worksheet to outline communication pathways and modes of communication Revision Number:
that will be used during the project. Provide a detailed discussion of communication Revision Date:
pathways in Section 4.2 of the QAPP document. Describe procedures that will be Page: of
followed when previously approved project activities require real-time modification
to achieve project goals. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 4.2 and 4.2.1 for guidance.)
Communication Pathways

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #6- Rev. 10/99
Identil r project personnel associated with each organization, contractor, and subcontractor
participating in responsible project functions. Include the name of the organization for whom
they work, and their project responsibilities. Indicate project Case Team members with an “s”.
Attach resumes to this worksheet. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 4.3 for guidance.)
Revision Number:
Revision Date:
Page: of
Personnel Responsibilities and Qualifications Table
Name
Organizational Affiliation
Responsibilities
Location of Personnel
- Resumes, if not Included’
Education and Experience
Qualifications 3
‘if a resume is on file elsewhere, document location in this column and snmmiiiize the individual’s education and experience in the next column. If a resume does not exist for an
individual, then indicate not available in this column and summarize the individual’s education and experience in the next column.
Title:
2 1f a resume is attached to this worksheet, then write “See attached” in this column.

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #7- Rev. 10/99 Title:
Provide the following information for those projects requiring specialized Revision Number:
training. Attach training records and/or certificates to this worksheet. Revision Date:
(Refer to QAPP Manual Section 4.4 for guidance.) Page: of
Special Personnel Training Requirements Table
Project Function
Specialized Training
Training Provided
Training
Personnel/Groups
Personnel Titles/
Location of Training
ii
Title of Course or
Description
By
Date
Receiving Training
Organizational
Affiliation
Records/Certificates*
-
J
lf training records and/or certificates are on file elsewhere, then document their location in this column. If training records and/or certificates do not exist or are not available,
then this should be noted.

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #8a - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Complete this worksheet for each project scoping meeting held and include in final Revision Number:
QAPP document. Attach meeting agenda and notes. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section Revision Date:
5.1 for guidance) Page: of
Project Scoping Meeting Attendance Sheet
EPA Regulation Program: RCRA FIFRA TSCA CERCLA DW CWA CAA (underline one)
Site Name.
Program (Brownhlelds. NPDES. etc.)
Site Location
Project Date(s) of Sampling.
CERCLA Site/Spill Identirier No:
Project Manager
Operable Unit
Other Site Number/Code
Phase: ERA SA/SI Pre-RI RI (phase I, etc.) FS RD RA post-PA (underline one)
Other phase:
Date of Meeting:
Meeting Location:
Name
Project Role
Affiliation
Phone ft
e-Mail Address
Meeting Purpose:
Comments and Action Items:

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #Sb - Rev. 1 0/99 Title:
Use this worksheet to outline the reasons for conducting the project and the Revision Number:
environmental problem(g) that must be investigated and resolved. Subsequently, Revision Date:
provide a detailed description of the environmental problem(s) in Section 5.2. Page: of
of the QAPP document. biscuss the environmental questions that need
to be answered. Present historic information and current site condition
descriptions to define th environmental problem. Identif ’ chemical use
and disposal practices. Present historical data in tabular format to demonstrate
the type, magnitude and location of contamination. (Refer to QAPP Manual
Section 5.2 for guidance.)
Problem Definition/Site History and Background

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #9a - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Use this worksheet to plan project tasks. Provide a brief overview of the listed project Revision Number:
activities in Section 6.1 of the QAPP document. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 6.1 Revision Date:
for guidance.) Page: of
Project Description
Sampling Tasks:
Analysis Tasks:
Oualitv Control Tasks:
Secondary Data:
Data Management Tasks:
Documentation and Records:
Data Packages:
AssessmenfJAudjt Tasks:
Data Verification and Validation Tasks:
Data Usability Assessment Tasks :

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #9b - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Complete separate tables fo each medium/matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level List the analyte name and CAS Revision Number:
numbem of all Contaminaj of Concern (COCs) and other target analytes that will be measured for the project. ldenti& the COCs Revision Date:
with an “i”. Identify the Project Quantitation Limits required to meet project objectives, i.e., known regulatoiy or technical Page: of
Project Action Limits for each analyte. List the MDLs and QLs of the published method and the MDLs and QLs achievable by the
laboratory Ensure that the achievable laboratory quantitation limits arc less than or equal to the Project Quantitation Limits and
that Project Quantitation Limits are at least three to ten times less than the Project Action Limits. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section
6.1 for guidance)
Medium/Matrix:
Region I Matrix Code (from EPA-NE DQO Summary Form):
Analytical Parameter:
Concentration Level:
Field Analytical or Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP’:
Contaminants of Concern and Other Target Analytes Table (Reference Limit and Evaluation Table)
Analyte

CAS
Number
Project Action
Limit
(Units)
(wet or dry weight)
Project
Quantitation Limit
(Units)
(wet or dry weight)
Analytical Method
Achievable Laboratory Limits
MDLs 2
Method QLs 2
-
MDLs 3
QLs 3
‘Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Field and Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method/SOP Reference Tables (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets #17 and #20).
2 Analytical method MDLs and QLs documented in validated methods. QLs are usually 3-10 times higher than the MDLs.
3 Achievable MDLs and QU are limits that an individual laboratory can achieve when performing a specilic analytical method.

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #9c - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Summarize by matrix the number of field and QC samples that Revision Number:
will be collected for each analytical parameter and concentration Revision Date:
level. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 6.1 for guidance.) Page: of
Field and Quality Control Sample Summary Table
Medium!
Matrix
Analytical
Parameter
Cone. Level
—
Analytical Method!
SOP Reference’
No. of
Sampling
Locations’
No. of Field
Duplicate
PaIrs
Organic
Inorganic
No. of Trip
Blanks
No. of Bottle
Blanks
No. d l
Equip.
Blanks
No. orPE
Samples
Total No. 0
Samples to
Lab
l
No.011 No.of
:i MSD
No.ol
Duplicates
No.or
. MS
‘Complete the Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17), and the Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE
QAPP Worksheet #20) and specify the appropriate letter/number reference in the above table.
2 1r samples will be collected at different depths at the same location, count each discrete sampling depth as a separate sampling location/station.

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #9d - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Complete this worksheet for each medium/matrix, analytical parameter, and concentration level. Revision Number:
Identify all laboratories/organizations that will provide analytical services for the project, Revision Date:
including field screening, field analytical, and fixed laboratory analytical work. If applicable, Page: of
identify the backup laboratory/organization that will be used if the primary laboratory/organization
cannot be used. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 6.1, 11.0 and 12.0 for guidance.)
Analytical Services Table
Medium/
Matrix
Analytical
Parameter
Concentration
Level
Analytical Method/SOP’
Data
Package
Turnaround
Laboratory/Organization
(Name and Address: Contact
Person and Telephone Number)
Backup Laboratory/Organization
(Name and Address: Contact
Person and Telephone Number)
Time
‘Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17) and from the Fixed Laboratory
Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20).

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #10 - Rev. 10/99
List project activities, anticipated start and completion dates. Identify
all products and/or deliverables as outcomes of project activities
and the anticipated dates or delivery. (Refer to QAPP Manual
Section 6.2 for guidance.)
Project Schedule Timeline Table
Title:
Revision Number:
Revision Date:
Page: of
Activities
I
I Anticipated Date(s)
of Initiation
Dates (MMIDD/YY)
Deliverable
Deliverable Due
Date
Anticipated Date
of Completion

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #1 la - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Use this worksheet to develop project quality objectives (PQOs) in terms of type, quantity, and Revision Number:
quality of data. Provide a detailed discussion of PQOs in Section 7.0 of the QAPP document. Revision Date:
Also, specify what decisions need to be made for the project. Formulate “If7then” Page: of
decision statements to define the link between data results and project actions.
Decision statements need to be developed for each COC, and concentration level,
in all affected media. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 7.0 for guidance.)
Projection Quality ObjectivesfDecision Statements

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #1 lb - Rev. Draft Training Title:
Complete this worksheet for each medium/matrix, analytical parameter and Revision Number:
concentration level and for each sampling procedure and analytical method. ldenti& Revision Date:
the DQI, measurement performance criteria (MPC), and QC sample and/or activity Page:
used to assess the measurement performance for the sampling andJor analytical
procedure. Use additional worksheets if necessary. If MPC for a specific DQI
vary within an analytical parameter, i.e., MPC are analyte-specific, then provide
analyte-specific MPC on an additional worksheet. (Refer to QAPP Manual
Sections 7.1 and 7.2 for guidance.)
Figure 11. Example Measurement Performance Criteria Table
Medium/Matrix
%nalytical Parameter
oncentration Level
ampling Procedure’
tnalytical Method/SOP 2
Data Quality lndi ators
(DQIs) 3
Measurement Performance Criteria
QC Sample and/or Activity Used to Assess Measurement
Performance
‘Reference SOP Number from EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13.
2 Reference analytical method/SOP Number from EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets #17 and #20.
3 Data Quality Indicators (a.k.a. PARCC parameters, i.e., precision, accuracy/bias, sensitivity, data completeness, comparability)

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #12a - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Use this worksheet to develop the project sampling design. Provide Revision Number:
a detailed discussion of the rationale for selecting sample locations Revision Date:
and sampling each mediuth/matrix for each analytical parameter and Page: of
concentration level in Section 8.1 of the QAPP document. (Refer to
QAPP Manual Section 8.1 for guidance.)
Sampling Design and Rationale

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #12b - Rev. 10/99 Title:
List all Site locations that will be sampled and include sample Revision Number:
location ID number, if applicable. Specify medium/matrix and, Revision Date:
if applicable depth at which samples will be taken. Complete all Page: of
required information, using additional worksheets if necessary.
(Refer to QAPP Manual Section 8.1 for guidance.)
Sampling Locations, Sampling and Analysis Method/SOP Requirements Table
Sampling
Location ID
Medium/
Depth
Analytical
Conc. Level
No. of Samples
Sampling
Analytical
Sample
Containers
Preservation
Maximum
Location’
Number
Matrix
(Units)
Parameter
(Identify field
duplicates and
replicates)
SOP 3
MethodISOP3
Volume
(Number, size
and type)
Requirements
(chemical,
temperature, light
protected)
Holding Time
(preparation/
analysis)
‘Indicate critical field sampling locations with ‘“.
2 lndicate background sampling locations with 2
3 Complete the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13), Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet
#17), and Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20) and specify the appropriate letter/number reference in the above table.

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13 - Rev. 10/99 Title:
List all SOPs associated with sample collection. Include copies of all written SOPs as attachments Revision Number:
to the QAPP. Sequentially number sampling SOP references in the Reference Number column. Revision Date:
Use additional pages if necessary. The Reference Number can be used throughout the QAPP to Page: of
refer to a specific SOP. (Refer to Q.4PP Manual Sections 9.1-9.3 for guidance.)
Project Sampling SOP Reference Table
Reference
Title, Revision Date and/or Number
Originating Organization
Equipment Identification
Modified for
Comments
Number
—
Project Work
YorN

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #14 - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Identify all field equipment and procedures that require calibration and provide the SOP Revision Number:
reference and person responsible for corrective action for each type of equipment. If Revision Date:
frequency of calibration, acceptance criteria and corrective action information is not Page: of
included in an SOP, then document this information on the worksheet. (Refer to QAPP
Manual Section 9.4 for guidance.)
Field Sampling Equipment Calibration Table
Equipment
Procedure
Frequency of
Calibration
Acceptance Criteria
Corrective Action (CA)
Person Responsible
for CA
SOP Reference*
* Specify appropriate reference letter/number from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13).

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #15 - Rev. 10/99
ldentif all field equipment and instruments (include analytical instruments on
Worksheet #19) that require maintenance and provide the SOP reference and
person responsible for corrective action for each type of equipment. If frequency
of calibration, acceptance criteria and corrective action information is not
included in an SOP, then document this information on the worksheet. (Refer to
QAPP Manual Section 9.5 for guidance.)
Title:
Revision Number:
Revision Date:
Page: of
Field Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table
* Specify appropriate reference letter/number from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13).

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #16 - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Use this worksheet to identif ’ components of the project-specific sample handling Revision Number:
system. Record personnel and their organizational affiliations, who are primarily Revision Date:
responsible for ensuring proper handling, custody, and storage of field samples Page: of
from the time of collection to laboratory delivery, to final sample disposal. Indicate
the number of days original field samples and their extracts/digestates will be
archived prior to disposal. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 10.2 for guidance.)
Sample Handling System
[ MPLE COLLECTION, PACKAGING AND SHIPMENT
Sample Collection:
Sample Packing: -
Coordination of Shipment:
Type of Shipment (Courier):
SAMPLE RECEIPT AND ANALYSIS
Responsible Organization:
Sample Receipt:
Sample Custody and Storage:
Sample Preparation:
Sample Determinative Analysis:
SAMPLE ARCHIVAL
Field Sample Storage (No. of days from sample collection):
Sample Extract/Digestate Storage (No. of days from extraction/digestion):
SAMPLE DISPOSAL
Responsible Organization:
Responsible Personnel:

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17 - Rev. 10/99 Title:
List all methods/SOPs that will be used to perform field analysis either directly in the field or in a Revision Numbei:
mobile field laboratory. Indicate whether method/procedure produces screening or definitive data. Revision Date:
Sequentially number field analytical method/SOP references in the Reference Number column. Use Page: of
additional pages if necessary. Include copies of all methods/SOPs as attachments to the QAPP.
The Reference Number can be used throughout the QAPP to refer to a specific method/SOP.
(Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 11.1 and 11.2 for guidance.)
Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table
Reference
Title, ReviSion Date and/or
Definitive
Region I
Originating
Analytical
Instrument
Organization Performing
Modified
Number
Number
or
Screening
Data
NESTS*
Method Code
Organization
Parameter
Field Analysis
for Project
Work
Y or N
* For environmental data Collection performed by EPA or its contractors, indicate the appropriate NESTS Method Code as described on the EPA-NE DQO Summary
Form.

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #18 - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Identify all field analytical instrumentation that require calibration and provide the required Revision Number:
information for each. Use additional pages if necessary. If required information is included in an - Revision Date:
SOP, then summarize relevant information on the worksheet and reference the appropriate SOP Page: of
number. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 11.3 for guidance.)
Field Analytical Instrument Calibration Table
Instrument
Activity
Frequency of Calibration
Acceptance Criteria
Corrective Action (CA)
j
Person Responsible
for CA
Method/SOP
Reference*
* Specify appropriate reference letter/number from Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17).

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #19 - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Identify all field analytical instrumentation/equipment and provide the required Revision Number:
information for each. If required information is included in an SOP, then Revision Date:
summarize relevant information on the worksheet and reference the appropriate Page: of
SOP number. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 11.4 for guidance.)
Field Analytical Instrument /Equipment Maintenance, Testing and Inspection Table
Instrument
Maintenance Activity
j -—
Testing Activity
I Inspection Activity
j
Responsible Person
Frequency
Acceptance
Criteria
I Corrective Action

Method/SOr
Reference
_________________ .
* Specify appropriate reference letter/number from Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17).

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20 - Rev. 10/99 Title:
List all methods/SOPs that will be used to perform analyses in fixed laboratories. Indicate whether Revision Number:
method procedure produces definitive or screening data. Sequentially number fixed laboratory SOP Revision Date:
references in the Reference Number column. Use additional pages if necessary. Include copies of Page: of
all methods/SOps as attachments to the QAPP or attach Laboratory QA Plans/Manuals for each
laboratory that will provide analytical services and reference the appropriate sections in the project
QAPP. The Reference Number can be used throughout the QAPP to refer to a specific
methocfJSOp. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 12.1 and 12.2 for guidance.)
Fixed Laboratory Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table
Reference
Fixed
Laboratory
Title, Revision Date and/or Number
Definitive
I
Number
Performing Analysis
or
Screening
Data
Region
NESTS
Method
Code*
Analytical
Parameter
Instrument
Modified for
Work
Y or
Project
N
-
* For environmental data collection performed by EPA or its contractors, indicate the appropriate NESTS Method Code as described on the EPA-NE DQO Summary
Form.

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #21 - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Identify all fixed laboratory analytical instrumentation that require calibration and provide the Revision Number:
required information for each. Use additional pages if necessary. If required information is Revision Date:
included in an SOP, then summarize relevant information on the worksheet and reference the Page: of
appropriate SOP number. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 12.3 for guidance.)
Fixed Laboratory Instrument Maintenance and Calibration Table
Instrument
Activit ,
List Maintenance, Testing
and Inspection Activities
Frequency of
Calibration
Acceptance Criteria
Corrective Action
(CA)
Person
Responsible for
Method/SOP
Reference*
* Specify appropriate reference letter/number from Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20).

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #22a - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Complete a separate worksheet for each sampling technique, medium/matrix, analytical parameter and Revision Number:
concentration level. If an analytical parameter’ has multiple analytes, then complete EPA-NE QAPP Revision Date:
Worksheet #22b. Worksheet #22b lists the overall field and analytical precision and accuracy/bias Page: of
expected for each analyte when using the specified sampling and analytical technique. If method/SOP QC
acceptance limits 2 exceed the measurement performance criteria 3 , then data may not meet user needs.
(Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 13.0 and 13.1, and Table 4 for guidance.)
Field Sampling QC Table
Sampling SOP
MediumjMatnx
Analytical Parameter’
Concentration Level
Analytical Method/SOP
Refcrcnce
Sampler’s Name
Field Sampling Organization
No. of Sample Locations
Field QC:
Frequency/Number
Method/SOP QC
Acceptance Limi&
Corrective Action (CA)
Person(s) Responsible for CA
Data Quality
Indicator (DQI)
Measurement
Performance Criteria’
Equipment Blanksl
Rinsate Blanks
Bottle Blanks
.
.
Trip Blanks
Cooler Temperature Blanks
Field Duplicate Pairs
(Duplicate Subsamples)
Collocated Samples
Field Splits
PES sent to Laboratory
.
Other
*Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13), Field Analytical Method/SOP
Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17), and Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20).

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #22b - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Complete this worksheet when an analytical parameter Revision Number:
has multiple analytes. Describe the overall precision and Revision Date:
accuracy/bias acceptance criteria for the sampling and Page: of
analytical technique for all COCs and other target analytes.
ldentif ’ the COCs with an “i”. Use additional worksheet
pages if necessary. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 13.0
and 13.1 for guidance.)
Sampling SOP**:
Analytical Method/SOP**:
Field Sampling QC Table cont.
Analyte
Field Precision as Measured by:
Duplicate Subsamples or Collocated
Samples (underline one)
Field Accuracy/Bias -
(Contamination)
**Specjfy appropriate reference number/letter from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #13), Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17), and Fixed Laboratory
Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20).

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Medium/Matrix
Sampling SOP’
Analytical Parameter’
Concentration Level
Analytical Method/ SOP
Reference’
Field Analytical
Organization
Laboratory QC:
Prequency/Number
MethodiSOP
QC Acceptance LimIts 2
Corrective ActIon (CA)
Person(s) Responsible for CA
Data Quality
ndlcator (DQI)
Measurement
Performance Criteria’
Method Blank
Reagent Blank
Storage Blank
Instrument Blank
Laboratory Duplicate
Laboratory Matrix Spike
.
Matrix Spike Duplicates
LCS
LFB
Surrogates
Internal Standards (ISs)
Other
EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #23a - Rev. 10/99
Complete a separate worksheet for each medium/matrix, analytical parameter and concentration level.
If an analytical parameter’ has multiple analytes, then complete EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #23b.
Worksheet #23b lists the precision and accuracy/bias expected for each analyte when using the
specified analytical methOd or SOP. If method/SOP QC acceptance limits 2 exceed the measurement
performance criteria 3 , then data may not meet user needs. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 13.0 and
13.2, and Tables 3 and 4 for guidance.)
Field Analytical QC Sample Table
Title:
Revision Number:
Revision Date:
Page: of
No of Sample Locations
‘Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13) and the Field Analytical Method/SOP
Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17).

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E A -1 E QA’PPWorks1ieet ?b - Rev. 1W99 litle:
Complete this worksheet when an analytical parameter has Revision Number:
multiple analytes. Describe the overall precision and Revision Date:
accuracy/bias acceptance criteria for the analytical methodl Page: of
SOP for all COCs and other target analytes. Identify the
COCs with an ““. Use additional worksheet pages if
necessary. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 13.0 and 13.2
for guidance.)
Sampling SOP**:
Analytical Method/SOP**:
Field Analytical QC Sample Table cont.
Ana lyte
Achievable Sensitivity!
Quantitation Limits
Field Analytical
Precision
Field Analytical Accuracy/Bias
**Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #13) and the Field Analytical Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #17).

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #24a - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Complete a separate worksheet for each medium/matrix, analytical parameter Revision Number:
and concentration level. If an analytical parameter’ has multiple analytes, then Revision Date:
complete EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #24b. Worksheet #24b lists the precision Page: of
and accuracy/bias expected for each analyte when using the specified analytical
method or SOP. If method/SOP QC acceptance limits 2 exceed the measurement
performance criteria 3 , then data may not meet user needs. (Refer to QAPP
Manual Sections 13.0 and 13.2, and Tables 3 and 4 for guidance.)
Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample Table
Medium/Matrix
Sampling SOP
Analytical Parameter’
Concentration Level
Analytical Methodf SOP
Reference
Laboratory Name
No. of Sample Locations
Laboratory QC:
Frequency!
Number
Method/SOP
QC Acceptance Limits
Corrective Action (CA)
Person(s)
Responsible for CA
Data Quality Indicator
(DQI)
Measurement
Performance Criteria 3
Method Blank
Reagent Blank
Storage Blank
-
Instrument Blank
-=
Laboratory Duplicate
-
Laboratory Matrix Spike
Matrix Spike Duplicates
LCS
LFB
Surrogates
Internal Standards (ISs)
-—
Other
*Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #13) and the Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP
Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20).

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksbeet #24b- Rev. 10/99 Title;
Complete this worksheet when an analytical parameter has Revision Number:
multiple analytes. Describe the overall precision and accuracy/ Revision Date
bias acceptance criteria for the analytical method/SOP for all Page: of
COCs and other target analytes. Identify the COCs with an “ “.
Use additional worksheet pages if necessary. (Refer to QAPP
Manual Sections 13.0 and 13.2 for guidance.)
Sampling SOP”:
Analytical Method/SOP**:
Fixed Laboratory Analytical QC Sample Table cont.
Analyte
Achievable Laboratory
Sensitivity!
Quantitation Limits
Analytical
Precision
Analytical Accuracy/Bias
**Specify appropriate reference number/letter from the Project Sampling SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP
Worksheet #13) and the Fixed Laboratory Method/SOP Reference Table (EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #20).

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #25 - Rev. 10/99 Title:
ldentif information and/or data generated/collected outside of the current Revision Number:
data collection activity that will be used to make environmental decisions Revision Date:
for the project. Specif , how those acquired data/information will be used Page: of
and the limitations on their use. These limitations include data quality
considerations/problems as well as documentation completeness.
(Refer to QAPP Manual Section 14.0 for guidance.)
Non-Direct Measurements Criteria and Limitations Table
Non-Direct Measurement
Data Source
Data Generator(s)
How Data Will Be Used
Limitations
Data Use
(Secondary Data)
(Originating Organization,
Report Title and Date)
(Originating Org., Data Types, Data
Generation/Collection Dates)
on
.
.

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #26 - Rev. 10199 Title:
Identify the documents afid records that will be generated for all Revision Number:
aspects of the project. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 15.1 for Revision Date:
guidance.) Page: of
Project Documentation and Records Table
Sample Collection Records Field Analysis Records Fixed Laboratory Records Data Assessment Records Other

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #27a - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Use this worksheet to plan procedures for identi1 ’ing and Revision Number:
correcting any problems encountered during the project. Revision Date:
Provide a detailed discussion of these procedures Page: of
Section 16.0 of the QAPP document. (Refer to QAPP
Manual Sections 16.0-16.3 for guidance.)
Assessment and Response Actions

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #27b - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Identify the frequency, number and type of planned assessment Revision Number:
activities that will be performed for the project. (Refer to Q.4PP Revision Date:
Manual Sections 16.0-16.3 for guidance.) Page: of
Project Assessment Table
As!essment Type
Frequency
Internal or
External
Organization
Performing Assessment
Person(s) responsible for
performing assessment, title
and organizational affiliation
Person(s) responsible for
responding to isseasment
findings, title and organizational
affiliation
Person (a) responsible for
identifying and implementing
corrective actions (CA), title
and organizational affiliation
Person (s) responsible for
monitoring effectiveness of
CA, title and organizational
affiliation

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EPA-NE QAPP WOrksheet #27c- Rev. 10/99
Complete a separate worksheet for each planned assessment.
Title:
Revision Number:
Revision Date:
Page:
QAPP Title:
Assessed Organization:
Project Assessment Plan
Internal, External Or EPA
Oversight:
Location of Assessment:
Dates of Assessment:
Assessment Team Members:
Type of Assessment:
Assessment Scope:
Documents to be Reviewed:
Notification Date(s)
Proposed Schedule:
Assessment No.:
Contract No.:

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #28 - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Identify the frequency and type of planned QA Management Reports, the Revision Number:
projected delivery date, the personnel responsible for report preparation Revision Date:
and the report recipients. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 17.0 for Page: of
guidance.)
QA Management Reports Table
Type of Report
Frequency (daily, weekly
monthly, quarterly,
annually, etc.)
Projected
Delivery Date(s)
Person(s) Responsible for Reporl Preparation,
Title and Organizational Affiliation
Report Recipients, Title
and Organizational Affiliation

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #29a - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Describe the process for the collection, organization, and verification of all information and Revision Number:
data collected and generated throughout an environmental project. Include in the description Revision Date:
how the results will be conveyed to the data user. Indicate, in the appropriate column, if the Page: of
verification process is performed internally (I) or externally (E) to the data generator, and
indicate who will be responsible for performing the verification task. (Refer to QAPP Manual
Sections 18.0 and 19.0 for guidance.)
Data Verification Process
Verification
Task
J Description

l/E
Responsible for Verification
(Name, Organization)

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #29b - Rev. 10199 Title:
List the validation criteria, data validation tier, data validator and person ultimately Revision Number:
responsible for validation (by name, title and organizational affiliation) for each matrix, Revision Date:
analytical parameter and concentration level. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections 18.0 Page: of
and 19.0 for guidance.)
Data Validation Summary Table
Medium!
Analytical
Concentration
Validation Criteria’
Validation
Data
Modified
Data Validator (Name, title and
Responsibility for Data Validations (Name,
Matrix
Parameter
Level
Criteria
Modified’
Validation
Tier Level
Tier Level
Used 3
organizational affiliation)
title and organizational affiliation)
‘If the most recent revision of the Reaion I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluatina Environmental Analyses will not be used to validate project
data, then document this Met and, on EPA-NE Worksheet #29a, provide a detailed description of the alternate validation criteria and/or procedures that will be used.
2 1f the Region I validation criteria will be modified to meet project objectives, then document this fact and, on EPA-NE Worksheet #29a, provide a detailed description of
the modified validation criteria that will be used.
3 1f a modified validation Tier will be used to validate project data, then document this fact and, on EPA-NE Worksheet #29a, provide a detailed description of the Tier
modifications that will be used.

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #29c - Rev. 10/99 Title:
Use this worksheet to identify modifications that will be made to the Region I data validation Revision Number:
process and/or criteria in order to meet project objectives. Provide detailed descriptions of all Revision Date:
modifications to the data validation process and/or criteria when the Region I. EPA-NE Data Page: of
Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses will be modified in
Section 18.0 of the QAPP document. If validation guidance other than the Region I Functional
Guidelines will be used to validate project data, then the use of alternate guidance must be
justified. (Refer to QAPP Manual Section 18.0 and 19.0 for guidance.)
Data Validation Modifications

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EPA-NE QAPP Worksheet #30 - Rev. 1 0/99 Title:
Use this worksheet to plan the scientific and statistical procedures/methods (not just Revision Number:
definitions of DQIs) that will be used to determine whether data are of the right type, Revision Date:
quality and quantity to support environmental decision making for the project. Page: of
Specifically describe how precision, accuracy/bias, representativeness, sensitivity (i.e.,
achievement of project Quantitation Limits), completeness and comparability data will
be used to determine if project quality objectives were achieved in Section 20.0 of the
QAPP document. Describe how data quality issues will be addressed, and how
limitations on the use of the data will be handled. (Refer to QAPP Manual Sections
7.0 and 20.0 for guidance.)
Data Usability Assessment

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Appendix 2
EPA-NE DQO Summary Form

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EPA-NE - DQO SUMMARY FORM Page___ of__—
A separate Form should be completed for each sampling event. Refer to Attachment A for insinicuons on completing this form, Attachment B for a complete list
of the parameter codes and Attachment C for an example of a completed form.
EPA Program: TSCA CERCLA RCRA DW NPDES CAA
Other__________________________________
Projected Date(s) of Sampling____________________
EPA Site Manager____________________________
EPA Case Team Members .
Site Name__________________________________
Site Location_______________________________________
Assigned Site Latitude/Longitude____________________________
CERCLA Site/Spill Identifier No. 01 — Operable Unit)
Phase: ERA SA/SI pm-Ri RI ( phase I. etc.) PS £D RA postiRA
(circle one) Other:
QAPjP Tide and Revision Date
Approved by: Date of Approval:__________________________________
Tide of Approving Official: Organizauon:_____________________________________
91 other than EPA, recoid date approval audionly was delegated:_______________________________________________________
EPA Oversight Project (circle one) Y N Type of EPA Oversight (circle one) PRP or PP Other________________
Confirmatory Analysis for Field Screening Y N If EPA Oversight or Confirmatory: % splits_____________________
Are comparability criteria documented? Y N
a. Matux Code’
b. Parameter Code 2
c Preservation Cod&
d Analytical Services Mechanism
C. No. of Sample Locations
1e1d QC:
1. Field Duplicate Pairs
g. Equipment Blanks
h. VOA Trip Blanks
i. Cooler Temperature Blanks
j. Borne Blanks
k. Other:_______________________
I. PES sent to Laboratory
Laboratory QC:
rn. Reacent Blank
ii. Duplicate
0. Mama Spike
p. Mama Spike Duplicate
q. Other:___________________
Site Information
Site Dimensions
List all potentially contaminated manices
Range of Depth to Groundwater_____________________________________________________________
Soil Types: Surface Subsuthce Other
Sediment Types: Socam Pond Estuary Wedand Ocher:_____________ Expected Soil/Sediment Mcacture Cnainac High Low
multiple mamces will be sampled during a sampling event, complete Sections 5-10 for each mama. Mama Code’________
Data Use (circle all that apply) Site Investigation/Assessment PRP Determination Removal Actions
Nature and Extent of Contamination Human and/or Ecological Risk Assessment Remediation Alternatives
Engineering Design Remedial Action
Post-Remedial Action (quarterly monitoring) Other_________________
Draft DQO Summary Form 11/96

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6 Summarize DQO5:
Complete Table if applicable
COCs
Action Levels
Analytical Method-Quantitanon Limits
7. Sampling Method (circle technique) Bailer Low flow pump (Region I method: Yes No) Perisialtic Pump
Positive Displacement Pump Faucet or Spigot Other:______________________
Split Spoon Drudge Trowel Other:___________________
Sampling Procedures (SOP name. No.. Rev. I. and date)________________________________________________________
List Background Sample Locanons_________________________________________________________________
Circle: Grab or Composite
‘Hot spots’ sampled: Yes No
8. Field Date (circle) ORP pH Specific Conductance Dissolved O Temperature Turbidity
Other ___________________________________________________________________________
9. Analytical Methods and Parameters
Method nile/SOP name Method/SOP Revision Date Target Parameters
Identification number (VOA. SV. PestJPCB. Metals. c cc)
10. Validation Criteria (circle one) 1. Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses. Part [ I. III
or IV
2. Other Approved Validation Criteria:__________________________________________
Validation Tier (circle one) I II Ill Partial Tier Ill:
Company/Organization Performing Data Validation Prime or Subcontractor (circle one)
1!. Company Name Contract Number
Contract Name (e.g. START, RACS. etc.) Work Assignment No._______________________________________
Person Completing Form/Fitie Date of DQO Summary Form Completion________________________
Matrix Code& - Refer to Attachment B, Part I
Parameter Codes 2 - Refer to Attachment B. Part II
Preservation Codes 3
HCI to pH 2 7 K,Cr.O,
2. HNO 1 8. Freeze
3. NaHSO 1 9 Room Temperature (avoid excessive heat)
4 H.S0 4 10. Other (Specify)
5. Cool @ 4C (± 2’) N Not preserved
6. NaOH
* - To supplement Matrix Codes and/or Parameter Codes contact the QA Unit
Draft 1)00 Summary Form 11196

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ATrACHMENT A
Guidance for Completion of DQO Summary Form
DISTRIBUTION:
1) Copies of completed DQO Summary Forms should be included in the QAPJ P/SAP.
2) A. Copies of completed DQO Summary Forms for all CLP RAS work requested by EPA Site
Managers, EPA contractors, including RACS, ROC, and START, and other Federal Agencies
under Interagency Agreements, i.e., ACOE, and States under Cooperative Agreements should be
sent with the quarterly sample projections to the Region I RSCC. Completed DQO Summary
Forms for CLP RAS work be received by the RSCC prior to the sampling event.
B. Copies of completed DQO Summary Forms for non-CL? DAS work performed for EPA Site
Managers and EPA contractors be received by the Region I RSCC prior to the sampling
event.
C. DQO Summary Forms for non-CLP work performed under Interagency Agreements, Cooperative
Agreements, and Grants be completed prior to the sampling event, submitted to the
“Authorizing Organization”, as delegated by EPA, and included in the site documents.
3) Copies of completed DQO Summary Forms also must be included in the Data Validation Report or Tier
I Validation Cover Letter (refer to Part I of the “Data Validation Manual” in the Region!. EPA-NE Data
Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses) , December 1996, or most recent
revision.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Note: A separate Form should be completed for each sampling event. For sampling events involving multiple
environmental matrices, complete Sections 5-10 for each matrix and ensure that the two-letter matrix code
is identified in Section 5. Enter the page number and total number of pages in the top right hand corner
on the Form.
Section 1:
• Circle the appropriate EPA Program(s) involved in multi-media, multi-programmatic sampling
events including, TSCA, CERCLA (i.e. Superfund), RCRA, DW (Drinking Water), NPDES,
CAA (Clean Air), or fill in the blank for “Other: “.
• List projected date(s) of sampling. The sampling dates should be inclusive of all matrices that will
be sampled during this sampling event.
• Record the EPA Site Manager’s name.
• List the names of the other EPA Case Team Members.
• Enter the site name. Use the NPL site name. If an NPL site name does not exist, then use the
site name assigned under CERCLIS.
• Record the name of the city/town and State where the site is located in the “Site Location’ field.
• Record the “Assigned Site Latitude/Longitude”. Those numbers should be identical to those
contained in CERCLIS database. Contact the EPA Site Manager to obtain correct
Latitude/Longitude.
• Record the CERCLA site/spill identifier number, iac luding the opeiabk unit number. Contact
the EPA Site Manager to obtain the correct identifier numbers.
• Circle the appropriate phase of Superfund site work (ERA: Environmental Risk Assessment,
SA/SI: Site Assessment/Site Investigation, RI: Remedial Investigation, FS: Feasibility Study, RD:
Remedial Design, RA: Remedial Assessment, posi-RA: post-Remedial Assessment, i.e.. quarterly
monitoring). For non-Superflind site work, identify sampling event phase in the ‘Other” field.
Au. A - Draft DQO Summary Form 11/96

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Section 2:
• Record the complete title of the final QAPJP and revision date.
• Enter name of the Approving Official.
• Record date that the QAPJP was approved.
• Enz& irk of the Approving Official.
• Enter name of organization that has approval authority. This will be EPA, unless approval
authority has been delegated by EPA to a State or other Federal Agency.
• If another organization has been delegated approval authority, then enter the date that EPA
delegated approval authority (date of Quality Assurance Management Plan approval).
• Identify whether the project sampling event is an EPA oversight project, circle Yes or No.
• Indicate type of oversight by circling either Potentially Responsible Party (PRP) or Federal
Facility (FF), or complete the blank for “Other:___________
• Identify whether confirmatory sampling and analysis is being performed to verify field screening
results, circle Yes or No.
• If EPA oversight or confirmatory analysis will be performed, record the percentage of split
samples to be collected and analyzed.
• If EPA oversight or confirmatory analysis will be performed, identify whether comparability
criteria are documented in the approved QAPjP or SAP, circle Yes or No.
Section 3:
a) List the two letter code for each matrix for samples that will be collected. Refer to Appendix B
for a correct list of matrix codes. If a matrix does not have a corresponding code, then attach a
description of the matrix to the DQO Summary Form.
Note: The matrix codes correspond to the matrix identifiers contained in the New
England Sample Tracking System (NESTS) database. The current list of matrix
codes are not intended to include all types of environmental matrices. However,
they do represent groupings of similar-type matrices that potentially contain similar
analytic interferences. For example, the matrix code GW (ground water) includes
water from monitoring wells, supply wells, and public wells.
b) For each matrix, identify the analytical parameters for samples that will be collected by recording
the appropriate parameter code. Refer to Appendix B for a current list of parameter codes. If
an analytical parameter does not have a corresponding code, then the method title and/or SOP
name, method and/or SOP identification number, and method and/or SOP revision date should be
included and recorded in Section 9 of this Form.
Note: The parameter codes correspond to the analytical method parameters utilized
in NESTS database. Appendix B includes a comprehensive list of analytical methods
that have been used historically for Region I site work.
c) For each matrix and parameter, identify the preservation technique that will be used by recording
the appropriate preservation code. Refer to the reverse side of this Form for a list of preservation
codes.
d) Record the analytical service(s) mechanism that will be used for each matrix and parameter;
CLP-RAS (CLP-Routine Analytical Service) This service may be utilized by EPA site
managers, EPA contractors including, RACS, ROC, and START contracts. It may also
be utilized under Interagency agreements, i.e., by the ACOE, and under Cooperative
Agreements with the States.
- RACS-DAS (Remedial Alternative Contracting Stmmgy-DeliveryorA nalytjcal Services)
ROC-DAS (Regional Oversight Contract-DAS)
- START-DAS (Superfund Technical Assessment and Remediation Concract-DAS)
- EPA-NERL (EPA-New England Regional Laboratory)
2 Mt. A - Draft DQO Summary Form 11/96

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- Regional EPA-NE analytical contract
- State-Non-CLP
- Other Federal Agency Non-CLP
- If another analytical mechanism will be used, describe in detail on a separate page and
attach to the Form.
e) Record the number of discrete locations that will be sampled for each parameter. The “No. of
Sample Locations” count should include the site and background locations sampled.
I Record the number of each type of field QC sample that will be collected and sent to the
laboratory for analysis for each matrix and parameter.
f) Record the number of Field duplicate sample pairs (which will equal “1” for each pair of field
duplicates) that will be collected.
g) Enter the number of equipmentlrinsace blanks.
h) Enter the number of VOA Trip blanks.
i) Enter the number of Cooler Temperature blanks that will be used.
j) Enter the number of Bottle Blanks that will be analyzed.
k) Describe any other field QC samples and the total number that were collected and that will be sent
to the laboratory.
1) Enter the number of PESs that will be sent to the laboratory in accordance with EPA Region I
Performance Evaluation Program Guidance , July 1996.
Note: The total of “e-l” equals the total number of samples sent to a laboratory for each
matrix and parameter.
• Record the number of each type of laboratory QC sample that will be analyzed with the samples
received.
m) Enter the minimum number of reagent blanks that will be analyzed.
n) Enter the number of laboratory Duplicates that will be analyzed.
0) Enter the number of matrix spikes that will be analyzed.
p) Enter the number of matrix spike duplicates that will be analyzed.
q) Describe any other laboratory QC samples and the total number that will be analyzed.
Section 4:
• Enter the approximate site dimensions with units.
• List all potentially contaminated matrices, regardless of whether or not they will be sampled
during this sampling event.
• For well sampling, complete “Range of Depth to Groundwater” to ensure proper pump is utilized.
• For soil sampling, circle Surface or Subsurface or complete Other:____________
• For sediment sampling, circle Stream, Pond, Estuary, Wetland, or complete Other:__________
• For soil/sediment sampling, circle expected moisture content: High or Low. Note: Analytical
methods used for high moisture content samples should ensure that DQO-specified dry
weight quantitatlon limits are achieved.
3 Au. A - Draft DQO Summary Form 1 1;96

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Section 5:
When multiple matrices will be sampled during a sampling event, complete Sections 5-10 for each matrix
and enter the Matrix Code.
• Identify the ‘two-letter matrixcode for which ‘the information is provided in sections 5-10.
• Circle the potential uses for sample data such as, site investigation/assessment, PRP determination,
removal actions, nature and extent of contamination, human and/or ecological risk assessment,
remediation alternatives, engineering design, remedial action, post-remedial action, i.e., quarterly
monitoring. A space is available for other potential uses of data.
Section 6:
• Briefly summarize the project DQOs. This section should describe the specific objectives of the
sampling event, i.e., to identify health risks to children, ages 1-6, residing on the site who might
be exposed to surface soils located in the area, or to characterize the extent of groundwater
contamin2rion. Identify the purpose of sampling, the decisions that will be made using the data,
action level information, and any related information needed to identify that appropriate analytical
and field sampling methods were chosen. Complete the table with the following information:
confan1in nts of concern (COC), COC action levels and analytical method quantitacion limits for
each COC. Note: Since this information will be used by data validators to identify potential
data usability issues for the user, it Is imperative that it is clear and concise.
Section 7:
• Circle applicable sampling technique(s) used and/or complete “Other” to describe an innovative
sampling technique or one that is not listed.
• Identify the SOPs that will be utilized for sample collection. Include SOP name, identification
number and revision number and/or date.
• Record the discrete Background sample station location number(s) that will be sampled.
• Circle if samples will be “grab” or “composite”.
• To indicate potential “Hot spots” on site, circle Yes or No.
Section 8:
• Identify the field data that will be collected including, ORP, pH, specific conductance, dissolved
02, temperature, and turbidity. A space is available to indicate other field testing that will be
performed.
Section 9:
• If an analytical method does not have a Parameter code (required information in Section 3), then
the method title and/or SOP name, method and/or SOP identification number, and method and/or
SOP revision date should be included. Attach a separate page if additional space is needed.
• Record the specific parameters required for analysis.
4 Act. A - Draft DQO Summary Form 11/96

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Section 10: In accordance with Region I QA policy, all data must be validated in accordance with the
most recent revision of Part I the “Data Validation Manual: The Data Quality System” of
the Reaion I, EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines of Evaluating Environmental
Analyses .
• Circle the data validation criteria required by the QAPJP and/or SAP. ‘In most cases, the QAPjP
and/or SAP should cite the most recent revision of the Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation
Functional Guidelines of Evaluating Environmental Analyses and identify the applicable Functional
Guideline criteria procedures that will be used to validate the data: Part lI-Volatile/Semivolatile
Data Validation Functional Guidelines, Part I1I-Pesticide/PCB Data Validation Functional
Guidelines, and Part IV-Inorganic Data Validation Functional Guidelines.
If modified criteria or alternate data validation criteria will be utilized, the modified or alternate
criteria must be documented in an approved QAPjP and/or SAP as stipulated in Part I, the Data
Validation Manual: The Data Quality System’, December 1996 revision of the Region I. EPA-NE
Data Validation Functional Guidelines of Evaluating Environmental Analyses , December 1996
revision.
• Circle the Region I Validation Tier that will be used.
• If a partial Tier III data validation is required, then the subset receiving a partial Tier III should
be specified (e.g., benzene, VOA, etc).
• Identify the company performing the data validation. Circle either Prime or Subcontractor.
Section 11:
• Record the field sampling contractor company/organization name
• Contract number
• Name of contract
• Work assignment number
• Name and title of person completing Form
• Completion date of the DQO Sununaiy Form
5 Att. A - Draft DQO Summary Form 11/96

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ATrACHMENT B - PART I
Matrix Code&
Aqueous:
DW - Drinking Water
OW - Ground Water
LE - Leachate (includes porewater)
SW - Surface Water
WW - Waste Water (includes scrubber blowdown)
Solid:
SE - Sediment (includes tidal sediments)
SO - Soil
Biota:
BD - Bird Tissue
CF - Crawfish Tissue
F! - Fish (includes whole fish)
MU - Mussel (includes clam, quahog, and oyster tissue)
OF - Offal
PL - Plant
FF - Fish Fillet
Wastes:
AS - Ash (includes incinerator ash and boiler aggregate)
DU - Dust (includes concrete dust and fines)
01 - Oil (includes waste oil)
SL - Sludge
WD - Wood (includes chips, cuttings, and drillings)
WT - Waste (includes both solids and liquids)
ST - Still Bottoms
Miscellaneous:
AR - Air Samples
DN - DNAPLs
LN - LNAPLs
WI - Wipe Samples
PC - Paint Chips
CT - Concrete
Au. B. Part I - Draft DQO Sumxnaiy Form 11196

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ATIACHMENT 13- PART II
PARAMETER CODES
r
CODE/METhOD
METIIOI) TITLE
REFERENCE
PARAMETER NAME
NUMBER —
-
IF — USEPA CLI’ Statement of Work for Organics Analysis - OLMO3 I
I
Full organics (VOA, SV. P/P) CLP SOW Organic Analysis
IP —
USEPA CLI’ Statement of Work for Organics Analysis - OLMO3 I
I
Pesticide/Aroclors Analysis CLI’ SOW Organic Analysis
IS
USEPA CLP Statement or Work for Organics Analysis - OLMO3 I
I
Semivolatile Organics Analysis CLP SOW Organic Analysis
IV USEPA CLI’ Statement of Work for Organics Analysis - OLMO3. I
I
Volatile Organics Analysts CLI’ SOW Organic Analysis
1003
Ilalogenated Hydrocarbons
2
NIOSII 1003 Volatile on CharcoRl Tubes
12/90-DI
IJSEPA CLI’ Statement of Work for Analysis of Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-Dioxins
3
12190 SOW Dioxin/Furan Analysis
(PCDD) and Polychlorinated Dibenzofursns (PCDFJ. DFLMI 0. Rev. 12190
I
Hardness, Total (mg/I) as CaCO,. Colorimetric, Automated EDTA
4
Ilardness-Colorimetric, Autoniated EDTA
2 — Hardness, Total (mg/I) as CaCO 3 . Tutrimetric. EDTA
4
Ilardness-Titrlmetric, EDTA
2007
Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure and Determination of Metals and Trace
5 & 7
TCLP Extraction-Metals Analysis
Element; tn Water and Wastes by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission
Specirometry
1 IF
Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure and USEPA CLI’ Statement of Work for
5 & I
TCLP Extraction-Full Organics Volatile, Semivolatile,
- - Organics Analysis - OLMO3. I
PeatieldelPCB Analysis
l3 1 13.IP
Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure and USEPA CLI’ Statement of Work for
5 & I
TCLP Extraction-PesticklelPCB Analysis
Organics_Analysis - OLMO3 I
Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure and USEPA CLI’ Statement of Work tar
5 & I
TCLP Extraction-Seunivolatile Analysis
Organic;_Analysis - OLMO3. I
IV
Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure and USEPA CLI’ Statement of Work for
5 & I
TCLP Extraction-Volatile Analysis
Organics Analysis - OLMO3.I
8000
Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure and Determination of Organic Analytes by Gas
5
TCLP Extraction-Full Organics
.
Chromatography
8080
Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure and Determination of Organochiorine Pesticides
5
TCLP Extraction-Pesticidc/PCB Analysis
and l’C13s by Gas Chromatography
18240
Toxicity Cliaractertitic Leacliiiig Procedure and Determination of Volatile Organics by Gas
5
TCLP Extraction-Volatile Analysis
Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS)
8270
Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure and Determination of Semivolasile Organics by
Ga- Chromatography/Mass Spectrometiy (CC/MS) Capillary Column Technique
5
TCLP Extraction-Semivolatile Analysis
Alt. B, Part JI - Dralt DQO Summaxy Fonn 11/96

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A AC1IMENT B - PART If
PARAMETER CODES
PARAMETER CODEIMEfllOD
IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
METHOD TITLE
REFERENCE
PAMMETER NAME
160.1
Residue, Filterable, Gravinictric, Dried at 180 C
4
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
160 2
Residue. Non-filterable, Gravimetric, Dried at 103-105 ec
4
Total Suspended Solids (TSS)
160.3
Residue. Total, Gravimetric, Dried at 103-105 C
4
Total Solids
1613
Tetra- through Octa- Chlorinated Dioains and Furans by Isotope Dilutions HRGC/IIRMS
6
Dioxin/Furan Resolution
200.7
Detennination of Metals and Trace Elements in Water and Wastes by Inductively Coupled
Plasma - Atomic Emission Spectrometty (Rev.4.4, 1994)
7
Analysis
ICP Metals Analysis-Full List
2007XX
Determination of Metals and Trace Elements in Water and Wastes by Inductively Coupled
Plasma - Atomic Emission Spectrometiy_(Rev.4.4,_1994)
7
ICP Metals Analysis-XX Specilic Metals
200.9/CD
Determination of Trace Elements by Stabilized Temperature Graphite Furnace Atomic
Absorption Speciromeny (Rev. 2 2, 1994)
7
Graphite Furnace-Cadmium
200.9/SB
Determination of Trace Elements by Stabilized Temperature Graphite Furnace Atomic
Absorption Specirumetty
7
Graphite Furnace-Antimony
200 9AS
Determination of Trace Elements by Stabilized Temperature Graphite Furnace Atomic
Absorption Speclromeuy
7
Graphite Furnace-Arsenic
204.2/SB
Antimony AA, Furnace
4
Graphite
206.2
Arsenic AA, Furnace
4
Graphite Furnace-Arsenic
2 II2ICD
Cadmium AA, Furnace
4
Graphite Furnace-Cadmium
2320.8
Alkalinity, Titration Method
8
Titration
23408
Hardness by Calculation
8
hardness-Calculation
2340C
Hardness, EDTA Titrimetric Method
8
Hardness
25408
Total Solids Dried at 103-105 °C
8
Total Solids
2540C
Total Dissolved Solids Dried at i so c
8
Total Dissolved Solids
-
2540D
Total Suspended Solids Dried at 103- 105 C
8
(TDS)
Total
--
-
300 OCI
Ion Chromatography
Suspended (TSS)
Detenuinatmon
300 OF
Ion Chromatography
Inorganic Aniojj in AQ by IC
Ion Chrom -Fluoride
—
300 0N03
Ion Chromatography
Ion Chrom -Nitrate
310.1
Alkalinity Titrimetric (p11 4 5)
Titrimeiric
2 Alt. B, Part II- Drafi DQO Summary Form 11196

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AT ACJIMENT B - PART II
PARAMETER CODES
CODE/METHOD METHOD TITLE
NUMBER
REFERENCE
PARAMETER NAME
310 2
— Alkalinity, Calorimetric, Automated. Methyl Orange
4
Colorimetric-Alkalinity
I3BIA
S
Metals by Elecirotliernial Atomic Absorption Speemruiiietty
8
-
Graphite Furnace-Arsenic
l3BfC
D
Metals by Electrothermal Atomic Absorption Spcctronietiy
8
Graphite Furnace-Cadmium
13B1S
B
—
Metals by Electrothermal Atomic Absorption Spcctrometry
8
2
Chloride, Colonmciric, Automated Ferricyanide AA II
4
Furnace-Antimony
Colorimetric-Chlorjde
325.3
Chloride, Tiurimetrjc, Mercuric Nitrate
4
Titrimetric-Ch loride
2
— Cyanide. Total. Titrimetruc; Spectrophotometric
4
Titrimetric-Total Cyanide
340.2
Fluoride, Poteiiiiometrjc, Ion Selective Electrode
4
Electrode-Fluoride
I
Nitrogen. Ammonia, Colorimetric, Automated Phenate
4
Colorimetric-Ammonia
2
Nitrogen. Amnmn,ija. Colorimet, ic; Titrimetric; Potent jometric-Disuillation Procedure
4
-
Colorimeuric.
Nitrogen. Ammonia, Potentiometric, Ion Selective Electrode
4
l’itrimetric, Electrode-Dist. -Ammonia
Electrode-Ammonia
2
-- Nitrogen, Kjeldahl. Total. Colorimetric, Semi-Automated Block Digester, AA Il
4
Colorimetric Semi-Auto-Total
N
3
Nitrogen. Kjeldahl. Total. Calorimetric; Titrimetric; Potenciome,ric
4
Kjeldahl
(TKN)
Colorimetric. Titrimetric. Electrode-Total
N
I
Nitrogen. Nitrate. Colorimetric. Brucine
4
Kjeldahl
(TKN)
Colorimetric-Nitrate
1
Nitrogen. Nitrate-Nitrite. Colorimetnc, Automated, Hydrazine Reduction
4
Colorimetric. Auto., Hydr-Red.-Nitrate
2
Nitrogen, Nitrate-Nitrite, Colorimetric, Automated. Cadmium Reduction
4
Calorimetric, Auto., Cd-Red.-Nitrate
Nitrogen. Nitrate-Nitrite, Spectrophotometric, Cadmium Reduction
4
Spectm.. Cd-Red-Nitrate
1
Nitrogen. Nitrite, Spectrophotometric
4
-
Specurophotonietric-Nitrite
I
Phosphotus, All Forms, Colorimetric, Automated, Ascorbic Acid
4
Colorimetric Auto, Ascorbic Acid-Phosphorus
Phosphorus. All Forms, Calorimetric, Ascorbic Acid. Single Reagent
4
Colorimetric, Ascorbic Acid. I
3
Phosphorus. All Forms. Colorimetnc. Ascorbic Acid. Two Reagent
4
Reag-Phosphorus
Calorimetric. Ascorbic Acid. 2
4
•
Pliosphomus, Total, Colorimetric. Automated, Block Digescor AA H
4
Roag-Phosphonis
Colorlmetric. Auto.-Phosphorus
I
Silica. Dissolved, Colorimetric
4
Colorimetric-Silica
I
Sulrate. Colorimetruc, Automated. Chloran,late
4
Colorimetric. Automated-Sulrate
3 Alt. B, Part H - Draft DQO Summary Form I 1/96

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ATI’ACHMENT B - PART 11
PARAMETER CODES
PARAMETER CODE/METHOD
IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
I METHOD TITLE
REFERENCE
PARAMETER NAME
375.3
Sulfate, Gravimetric
4
Oravirnetric-Sulfaie
375 4
Sulfate, Turbidimetric
4
Turbidimetric-Suliate
376.1
Sulfide, Titrinictric, Iodine
4
Tjtrin etric-Sulfide
376.1
Sulfide, Colorimeiric, Methylene Blue
4
Colorimetric-Su lride
403
Bicarbonate
Bicarbonate
405.1
Biochemical Oxygen Demand DOD (5 day, 20C)
4
5 Days 20C -BOD
410.1
Chemical Oxygen Demand, Titrimetric, Mid-Level
4
Titriniciric-COD Mid. Level
410.2
Chemical Oxygen Demand, Tilrimetric, Low Level
4
Titrinietric-COD Low Level
410.3
Chemical Oxygen Demand, Titrimetric, High Level for Saline Waters
4
Titrimetric-COD High Level
410.4
Chemical Oxygen Demand, Colorimetric, Automated; Manual
4
Spcctrophotomctric-COD Manual/Auto
4110
DetermInation of Anions by Ion Chromatography
8
Anions
413.1
Oil and Grease, Total Recoverable, Gravimetric, Separatory Funnel Extraction
4
Gravimetric-Oll & Grease
413.2
Oil and Grease, Total Recoverable, Spectrophotometric. Infrared
4
Oil and Grease (0 & G) - 1k Spec.
415 1
Organic Carbon, Total, Combustion or Oxidation
4
Combustion or Oxidaiion-TOç
415.2
Organic Carbon, Total, UV Promoted, Persulfate Oxidation
TOC-Low Level, liv Promote I
418.1
Petroleum Hydrocarbons, Total Recoverable, Spectropholon2etric, Infrared
4
IR Spec-TPII. Petroleum hydrocarbons
418. ITPH
Petroleum Hydrocarbons, Total Recoverable, Spectrophotometric. Infrared
4
Total Petroleum hydrocarbons
4500-PIE
Phosphorus. Ascorbic Acid Method
S
Ascorbic Acid-Phosphorus
4500-P/F
Phosphorus, Automated Ascorbic Acid Reduction Method
8
Auto. Ascorbic Acid-Phosphoru
4500F/C
Fluoride, Ion-Selective Electrode Method
8
Electrode-Fluoride
4500N02B
Nitrogen (Nitrite) Colorimetnc Method
S
Colorinietric-Nitrite
4500N03E
Nitrogen (Nitrate) Cadmium Reduction Method
8
Cadmium Red. Manual-Nitrate
4500N03F
Nitrogen (Nitrate) Automated Reduction Method
8
Cadniiu,n Red. Auto.-Njtrate
4500N03H
Nitrogen (Nitrate) Automated Hydrazine Reduction
8
Automated Ilydrazine.Nitrate
4 Au. B, Part II - Draft DQO urnmaiy Fonn 11/96

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A1TACIIMEN’I’ B - PART II
PARAMETER CODES
PARAMETER CODE/METHOD
IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
METHOD TITLE
REFERENCE
PARAMETER NAME
4500S1D
Sulflde, Methylene Blue Method
8
Methylene Blue Sulfide
4 SO OSIF
Sulfide, lodomeiric Method
8
lodometric-Sulfide
4500S04C
Sulfate, Gravinietric Method with Ignition of Residue
8
Gray. + Ignition-Sulfate
450 0S04D
Sulfate, Gravimeinc Method with Drying of Residue
8
Gr av.+Diying-Sulfate
4500SI/D
Silica, Molybdosilicate Method
8
Molybdosilicate-Sihica
504 I
1,2-Dibromeihane (EDB), l,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP), and 1,2.3-
Trichloropropane (123 TCP) in Water by Micmext,action and Gas Chromatography (Rev.
:ll 1995)
9
— -
EDB. DBCP & I23TCP. Microextraction & GC
5210/B
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), 5 Day DOD Test
8
5 Day-DOD
3220/C
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Closed Reflux, Titrirnetric Method
8
Titrimetric-COD Mid Level
5220/D
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Closed Reflux, Colorimetric Method
8
— —
Spectrophotomeffic-COD Manual/Auto
524 2
Measurement of Purgeable Organic Compounds in Waler by Capillary Column Gas
Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (Rev. 4.0. 1992)
9
. —
Measurement of Purgeable Organic Compounds in Water - Capillary
Column by CC/MS
524 2 +
Measurement of Purgeable Organic Compounds in Water by Capillary Column Gas
Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (Rev. 4.0. 1992)
9
524.2 Plus Additional Compounds
525 2
Determination of Organic Compounds in Drinking Water by Liquid-Solid Extraction and
Capillary Column Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (Rev. 2.0, 1995)
9
Determination of Organic Compounds in DW by Liquid Solid
Extraction Capillary Column by CC/MS
5310/B
Total Organic Carbon (TOC) Combustion-Infrared Method
8
Combtzstion-Infrared-TOC
5310/C
Total Organic Carbon (TOC) Persulfate-Ultraviolet Oxidation Method
8
Persulfate-UV Oxidation-TOC
53 IOFD
Total Organic Carbon (TOC) Wet-Oxidation Method
8
Wet-Oxidation-TOC
5511
Detection of Chlorination Disinfection Byproducts and Chlorinated Solvents, and
Halogenated Pesticidesilterbicides in Drinking Water by Liquid/Liquid Extraction and Gas
Chromatography with Electron-Capture Detection
9
Dci Chloro. Disin. Byprods, Chloro Solv. by LL&GC
5520/B
Oil and Grease Partition-Oravjmetr,c Method
8
(Jravjmetrje-Oil & Grease
5520/C&F
Oil and Grease Partition-Infrared Method and Hydrocarbons
8
—
IR Spec-TN!, Petroleum, Hydrocarbon
601
Purgeable Ilalocarbons (Trap-CC/Hall Detector-Electrolytic Conductivity Detector)
10
Purgeable Halocarbons Trap-GC/ELCD
602
Purgeable Aromatics (Trap-GC/PID)
10
Purgeable Aromatics Trap-GC/PID
5 Alt. B, Part 1!- Draft DQO Summary Form 11/96

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A 1ACJIMENT B - PART II
PARAMETER CODES
PARAMETER CODE/METHOD
IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
METHOD TITLE
REFERENCE
PARAMETER NAME
608
Organochlorlne Pesticides and PCB5 by (GCIECD)
10
Orgauiocliloriiie Pest PCB-GCIECD
624
Purgeables (Trap-GCIMS)
10
Purgeable Trap-GCFMS
625
BaselNeutnds and Acids (GCIMS)
ID
BasefllcutraI &Acids EMr. GC/MS
80I5A
Nonhalogenaled Volatile Organics by Gas Chromatography
5
Norihalogenated Volatile Org GC
8080A
Organochiorine Pesticides and Polychlorinated Biplienyls by Gas Chromatography (Rev. I •
1994)
5
Organochlorine Pest.&PCB by GCIECD
8240B
Volatile Organics by Gas ChromatographylMass Spectrometry (GC/MS) (Rev 2, 1994)
5
Volatile Organic Compounds by GC/MS
82708
Semivolatile Organic Compounds by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometiy (GC/MS):
Capillary Column Technique (Rev. 2, 1994)
5
Semivolatule Organic Compounds by CC/MS
8290
Polychlorinated Dibenzodiozins (PCDD5) and Polychlonnated DibenzoIurans (PCDFs) by
High-Resolution Gas Chromatography/High - Resolution Mass Spectrometiy
(IIRGC/HRMS) (Rev.0, 1994)
5
PCDDS & PCI)FS by IIRGC/MS
ASTM2974
Standard Test Method for Moisture. Ash and Organic Matter of Peat and Other Organic
Matter
II
TCOC - TOT Combustible Org Content
ASTMD422
Standard Test Method for Particle-Size Analysis of Soils
ii
Grain Size Analysis
ILMO4 OCN
USEPA CL? SOW for Inorganics Analysis - ILMO4.0
12
Cyanide Inorganic CLI ’ SOW
ILM O4 OMT
USEPA CL? SOW for Inorganics Analysis - ILMO4.0
12
Metals (no CN) Inorganic CL? SOW
ILM O4 OTL
USEPA CL? SOW for Inorganics Analysis - ILMO4.0
12
Metals & Cyanide Inorganic L,P SOW
TO-I
Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds in Ambient Air using Tenax Adsorption and
GC/MS
13
VOC-AIR. Tenait Tubes
TO-I4
Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds in Ambient Air Using Summa Passivated
Canister Sampling and CC Analysis
13
VOC-AIR. Sumnia Canisters
TO-2
Detenninalion of Volatile Organic compounds in Ambient Air using Carbon Molecular
Sieve Adsorption and GCIMS -
13
VOC-AIR, Carbon Molecular Sieve
NOTE The method number us incorporated into the Parameter Code
REFERENCES:
I USEPA CL? Statement of Work for Organics Analysi%, Multi-Media. Multi-Concentration, OLMO3 I. August 1994
2. NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods (Second, Part I). NIOSII Monitoring Methods. Volume I
6 Alt. B. Part H - Draft DQO Sutnmaiy Form 11/96

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ATFACIIMENT B- PART II
PARAMETER CODES
3. USEPA CLI ’ Statement of Work for Analysis of Polychiorinated Dibenzo-p-Dioxins (PCDD) and Polychlorinated Dibenzolurans (PCDF). DELMOI .0/DFLMOI I - Rev. 12190 and Rev. 9191
4 Methods for Chemical Analysui of Water and Wastes, Environmental Protection Agency, EPA-600/4-79-020
5 Test Methods for Evaluating Solid Waste, Physical/Cliemical Methods, SW-846, Third Edition, July 1992 and Updates
6 Method 16I3 Tetra. Through Octa. Chlorinated Dioxins and Furans by Isotope Dilutions IIRGCIIIRMS , EPA 821-B-94-005, October 1994. Rev. B.
7 Methods for the Determination of Metals in Environmental Samples, EPAI600/4-9 1 10 10, June 1991. and Supplement I, EPA-600/R.94f Ill. May 1994.
8. Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition. 1995
9 Methods for the Determination of Organic Compounds in Drinking Water. December 1988. EPAI600I4-881039 and Updatec -
10 Code of Federal Regutationc. 40 CFR. Part 136. App. A
II American Society for Testing and Materials
12 USEPA CLP Statement of Work for Inorganics Analysis. Multi-media. Multi-concentration, ILMO4.0
13 EPA Compendlufti of Methods for the Determination of Toxic Organic Compounds in Ambient Air, EPA-60014-84-041, May, 1987.
7 Au. B, Pail II - Drafi DQO Summary Form 11/96

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Appendix 3
Example Field Sampling Forms

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EXAMPLE (Minimum Requirements)
Well PURGING-FIELD WATER QUALITY MEASUREMENTS FORM
Page of____
Location (Site/Facility Name) Depth to
Well Number — Date______________________ (below MP) top bottom
Field Personnel__________________________________ Pump Intake at (ft. below MP)
Sampling Organization_________________________________ Purging Device; (pump type)
Identify MP —
of screen
Clock
Time
Water
Depth
below
MP
Pump
Dial’
Purge
Rate
Cum.
Volume
Purged
Temp.
Spec.
.Cond. 2
pH
ORP/
Eh 3
DO
Turb-
idity
Comments
24 HR
ft
mi/mm
liters
°C
pS/cm
my
mg/L
NTU
1. Pump dial setting (for example: hertz, cycles/mm, etc).
2. pSiemens per cm(same as pmhos/cm)at 25°C.
.3. Oxidation reduttion potential (stand in for Eh).

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i
Client: Project No.
• I
I I I
I I I
I I I
I I
I I I
I I
II
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I I I I
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$ I I
I I I
I I I
I I
I I I
‘ I
I t
I I
SOIL BORING LOG
QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN - ADDENDUM
Studi Area:
Boring No..
Protection:
Contractor:
Date Started:
Completed:
Method:
Casing Size:
P1 Meter:
Ground EIev.:
Soil Drilled:
Total Depth:
Logged by:
Checked by:
Below Ground:
Screen: (ft.) I isei: (ft.) I Diam: (ID) Matenat
Page of:
U —
Ui w ) .
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SOIIJROCKIDISCHARGE WATER DESCRIPTION
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PROJECT NO.
rla1 ft,r &f V
CASING D AMErER
P .p g C O ib, —
Dycs
DNO
DATE
WELL DEVELOPMEIIT RECORD
W P! O U ID _____
SI T___of I
PROJECT NAJE — _________________
LOCJ.T!ON: — — 1’
TOTAL. D TU (FTOC)_________ ______________________________________
METhODS OF OLOP ff
cl5ir.bliiq __________________
E i
OUWM T
ECMa ____________ Tu c 0i iyM __ —
SING VOLUME W4PORMA?TON
Ii I Ii 2.0 1.2 3.0 4.0 4.3 0 7.0
0.04 009 0.16 0.2 0.37 065 0.75 U iS 2.0 24
PURGING TNVORMA1yON
M d V Dcp (B) ft.
M W Lav D (C) ft
____- -_____
(B) (C)
C . l W VQ _ ( B) -_____ ______ ______Pi
(A) CD)
T P p VoIu . - ( p 1)
YEAH
---
-
D
Wa L v
— (FroC)
VaUc

(pT
pH
-
EC
F C
Tu bi iy/
S id(pp,n)
—
--
-
—
—
-
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-
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-
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—
——
—
—
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—
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.
—
—
—
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
va

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NATIONAL ENFORCEMENT INVESTIGATIONS CENTER
Building 53, Box 25227. Denver Federal Center
Denver, Colorado 80225
JVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Office of Enforcement
CHAIN OF CUSTODY RECORD
PROJ NO. PROJECT NAME
NO
OF
AMPLERS. (Signaruae)
CON.
TAINERS
REMARKS
—

TA NO
DATE
TIME
STATION LOCATION
eIinquished by: (Signature)
eIinquished by (Signature)
Date
Date
/Time
I
/Time
Received by:
Received by:
(Signatu,e)
(Signature)
Relinquished by: (Signature)
by: (Signature)
Date
Date
/Time
.1
/Time
Received by: (Signature)
Received by: (Signature)
telinquished by. (Signature)
Date /Time
Received for Laboratory by:
(Signature)
Date /Time
Remarks
Di tribuuon. Original Accumpanugi Shupmeni. Copy to Coordinator Field Files

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Appendix 4
Environmental Monitoring Management Council (EMMC) Method Format

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E?vIMC METHODS FORMAT
This document desaibes the standard to be used to document EPA’s
env’ronmental monitoring methods. The EMMC Methods Format was
developed to provide a uniform system for the integrated review of methods
by the Work Groups of the Environmental Monitoring Management Council’s
Ad Hoc Panel on Methods Integration. The outline form of the Methods Format
was approved by the E1 {C Methods Integration Panel and Chairs of the
respective Work Groups on January 24, 1992. While the format originally was
intended for use in documenting methods for use across the various EPA
Program Offices, some of the specifics in this description relate to the special
problems of documenting a performance-based method. The bold text
indicates the numbers and titles of the sections specified in the EMMC format.
1.0 Scope and Application
• Tabular format whenever possible
• Analyte list
• CAS numbers
• Matrices
• Method Sensitivity (expressed as mass and as
concentration with a specific sample size)
Indude a list of analytes (by common name) and their CAS regis y
numbers. the mathces to which the method applies a generic
description of method sensitivity (expressed both as the mass ol
analyte that can be quantified and as the concentration for a specific
sample volume or size), and the data quality objectives which the
method is designed to meet. Much of this material may be
presented in a tabular format.
2.0 Sununaiy of Method
• Sample volume requirements.
• Extraction,
• Digestion.
• Concentration, and other preparation steps employed.
• Analyti 1 instrumentation and detector system(s).
and
• Techniques used for quantitative detemunatiOns.

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F \RIC - tachmerit B Fon’nat tor Documenting Methoti
5umrnanze the method in a few paragraphs The purpose of the
summary is to provide a SUCCinCt overview of the technique to iid
the reviewer or data user in evaluating the method and the data.
List sample volume, extraction, digestion, concentration, and other
preparation steps employed, the analytical instrumentation and
detector system(s), and the techniques used for quantitative
determinations.
3.0 Definitions
Include the definitions of all method-speafic terms here. For
extensive lists of definitions, this section may simply refer to a
glossary attached at the end of the method document.
4.0 Interferences
This section should discuss any known interferences, esp cial]y
those that are specific to the performance-based method. If known
interferences in the reference method are not interferences in the
performance-based method, this should be clearly stated.
5.0 Safety
• Above and beyond good laboratozy practices
• Disclaimer statement (look at ASTM disclaimer)
• Special precautions
• Specific toxicity of target analytes or reagents
• Not appropriate for general safety statements
This section should discuss only those safety issues specific to the
method, and beyond the scope of routine laboratory practices.
Target analytes or reagents that pose specific toxicity or safety
issues should be addressed in this section.
6.0 Equipment and Supplies
Use generic language wherever possible. However, for specific
equipment such as GC (gas chromatograph) columns, do not
assume equivalency of equipment that was not specifically
evaluated, arid clearly state what equipment and supplies were
tested.

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- -- \ttachrnent B Format br Documenting 1ett od
7.0 Reagents and Standards
Provide sufncient details on the concentration arid preparation ot
reagents and standards to allow the work to be duplicated, but
avoid lengthy discussions of common procedures.
8.0 Sample Collection, Preservation and Storage
• Provide information on sa.mple collection, preservation,
shipment and storage conditions
• Holding times, if evaluated
If effects of holding time were specifically evaluated, provide
reference to relevant darn; otherwzse, do not establish specific
holding times.
9.0 Quality Control
Describe specific quality control steps, including such procedures
as method blanks, laboratory control samples, QC check samples.
instrument checks, etc., defining all terms in section 3.0. Include
frequencies for each such QC operation.
10.0 Calibration and Standardization
Discuss irdtial calibration procedures here. Indicate frequency of
such calibrations, refer to performance specifications, and indicate
corrective actions that must be taken when performance
specifications are not met. This section may also include procedures
for calibration verification or continuing calibration, or these steps
may be induded in section 11.0.
11.0 Procedure
Provide a general description of the sample processing and
instrumental analysis steps. Discuss those steps that are essential to
the process. and avoid unnecessarily restrictive iitstrUCborts.
12.0 Data Analysis and Calculations
Describe qualitative and quantitative aspects of the method. List
identification criteria used. Provide equations used to derive final
sample results from typical instrument data. Provide discussion of
estimating detection limits, ii appropriate.

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- - Attachi-r e 8. Format or Documeyu
13.0 Method Performance
A precsion/bias statement should be Incorporated in
section, including
• detection limits, and
source/ limitations of data
rrovide detailed description of method performance, including
data on precision, bias, detection limits (including the method by
which they were determined and matrices to which they ap lv).
,statisfical procedures used to develop performance specificat on5
etc. Where performance is tested relative to the reference me!nod.
provide a side-by-side comparisons of performance versus
reference method spedfications.
14.0 Pollution Prevention
Describe aspects of this method that minimize or prevent poflui:on
that may be attributable to the reference method.
15.0 Waste Management
Cite how waste and samples are minimized and properly disr e
16.0 References
• Source documents
• Publications
17.0 Tables, Diagrams, Flowcharts, and Validation Data
Additional information way be presented at the end of ft method
Lengthy tables may be included here, and referred to elsewhere :n
the text by number. Diagrams should only mdude new or wiL..5u.*L
equipment or aspects of the method.

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Appendix 5
Example TSA Audit Questionnaire and Example TSA Audit Report

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LABORATORY TECHNICAL SYSTEMS AUDIT
ISA Audit Notes:__________________________
Laboratory: Best Quality Laboratory
Contracted to: Pillar Engineering, Inc.
Lead Organization: U.S. Air Force
Address: Swamp Place
Harrisville, MA 02222
Pillar Contact: Peter Piper
Telephone: 508-862-5555
Fax: 508-862-2323
Project: Swamp Land Site
RPM: Robert Lim
Type of Evaluation: Technical Systems Audit - On-site Laboratory
Date of Evaluation: January 18. 1998
Laboratory Personnel:
Name Title
U.S. EPA Region I Evaluation Team:
Name Title

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LABORATORY EVALUATION SUMMARY
I. SAMPLE RECEIPT. STORAGE. AND LOG-IN
Describe the sample receipt, storage and log-in procedures.
How many samples are anticipated per day?
How long is the lab expected to be on-site?
Things to check:
Refrigerator? If present. check temperature logbooks, frequency of temperature checks, CA for
temperature excursions for refrigerators.
What is checked when the samples arrive? (preservation, sample bottle condition and ID cross
references)
Are samples being preserved as stated in the Lab QAPP?
Are chain-of-custody forms being used?
Is there a sample log-in book?
List Applicable Sample Receipt Logbooks. Check logbooks for evidentiary criteria such as
signatures or initials, single-line crossouts, dates, secondary review. etc.
II. ETHYLENE DIBROMIDE ( EDB ) (Method 504.1)
Personnel(name and position): [ Bob Robin]
What turnaround time is being used? [ 24 hour results, 7 day data package]
Where are samples and standards stored? (Standards must be separate from samples)
Are extracts stored and if so, for how ong?
List instrumentation (model, make- should have two GC/ECDs -one for each column)
:1.

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II. ETHYLENE DIBROMIDE ( EDB ) (continued)
Standards Prep: Check stock solution concentrations and the measurement of volumes.
1, Are standards extracted? 2. Are they traceable? 3. How are they documented? 4. Is the LFB
solution from a second source?(as in SOP) - What is the corrective action if LFB criteria are not
met and is it run directly after the initial calibration?
[ Have them show conversion of standards in ng/uL added to ugIL final concentration]
Verjf ’ raw data for MDL (no MDL available as of 1/15)
Is the initial demonstration of capabilities on file?
Demonstrate sample analysis from arrival at the trailer to data generation.
Things to consider: Extraction techniques; calibration procedures; blank frequency; continuing
calibration concentration and frequency; data review and acceptance - surrogates, proper
dilutions, no carryover.
What is the injection volume?
What are the confirmation criteria?
What are the criteria for scaling chromatograms?
Are there potential interfering non-target compounds?
How are retention times established? (SOP states ±3o based on initial and continuing
calibration)
Quality Control Samples: acceptance limits and associated corrective actions. How are the QC
samples evaluated?
What is the concentration of the LFB?
What is the concentration of the low level LFB?
List Logbooks: Check for evidentiary criteria such as signatures or initials, single-line crossouts,
dates, secondary review, etc.
2

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III. VOLATILES (Method 8260A - modified) A or B?
Personnel(name and position): [ Bob Robin]
Where are samples and standards stored? (Standards must be separate from samples)
List instrumentation(model, make - purge & trap, GCIMSD)
How are instruments maintained? Are there sufficient replacement parts?
Standards Prep: Check stock solution concentrations and the measurement of volumes. Write
down the levels. (1 ugh to 100 or 200 ug/L?) 1. Are standards traceable? 2. How are the
standards documented? 3. ICV, is it a second source? Acceptance limits and corrective action.
Where are standard preparations recorded?
When were the most current MDL studies performed and are they available?
Demonstrate sample analysis from sample arrival to data generation.
Things to consider: concentration levels in initial calibration; blank frequency; continuing
calibration concentration and frequency; data review and acceptance - surrogates, proper
dilutions, no carryover
How are retention times evaluated?
Quality Control Samples: acceptance limits and associated corrective action -
Method Blanks
Cleaning blanks
Surrogate (toluene-dS)IIS (fluorobenzene)
Spiked samples (LCS, MS/MSDs) What compounds are in the spike solution? What source,
same as calibration or ICy? What is the frequency for the LCS?
List Logbooks: Check for evidentiary criteria such as signatures or initials, single-line crossouts.
dates, secondary review, etc.
3

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IV. DATA REVIEW and REPORTING
How are compounds qualitatively identified? Are there methods to determine if there are any
interfering non-target compounds? What criteria are used?
How are target compounds quantitated? (From initial calibration curve) Describe for:
EDB- (external) % RSD or linear curve? RF(ave) or midpoint or Continuing calibration RE?
VOAs - (internal) % RSD or linear curve RF(ave) or midpoint or continuing calibration RF?
What are the review procedures? Is there secondary review?
How are the data reported?
Frequency of computer data back-up?
IV. OTHER SYSTEMS AND DOCUMENTATION
Are the following items/information addressed?
- Peggy Brewer - QAIQC Officer - has he been on site?
- Laboratory Quality Assurance Program as documented in a Quality Assurance Plan, for
the fixed base lab in Westfield, in the trailer?
- Standard Operating Procedure for sample analysis (readily available)?
- Any other pertinent SOPs?
- Have any internal audits been conducted?
- Are QA Deviations Forms in use?
- Health and Safety information?
- Waste Disposal?
- Personnel training and qualifications?
4

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U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
REGION I
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL MEASUREMENT & EVALUATION
60 WESTVIEW ST., LEXINGTON, MA 02173-3185
MEMORANDUM
DATE: January 22, 1998
SUBJ: Technical Systems Audit - Onsite Laboratory
Best Quality Laboratory (BQL)
Pillar Engineering, Inc.
Lead Organization: U.S. Air Force
FROM: Nora J. Conlon, Ph.D., Quality Assurance Chemist
Stephen DiMattei, Quality Assurance Chemist
Quality Assurance Unit
TO: Robert Lim
Federal Facilities Superfund Section, RPM
SCOPE
A performance monitoring technical systems audit (TSA) of was conducted on Best Quality
Laboratory’s on-site laboratory by a Quality Assurance TSA team on January 18, 1998. The
Team was comprised of Nora Conlon and Steve DiMattei of the EPA Region I Quality
Assurance Unit. The TSA was requested by Bob Lim, Remedial Project Manager (RPM) for the
Swamp Land site, as oversight to the analytical program instituted by the Air Force contractor,
Pillar Engineering, Inc. The purpose of the TSA was to inspect the laboratory’s facility; to verii ’
that procedures are being followed as documented in the site Quality Assurance Project Plan
(QAPP) and in the laboratory’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOP); and, to review the
laboratory’s general laboratory practices.
The participants in the TSA for the Air Force and its contractors were as follows:
Bob Robin Chemist/Analyst - BQL
Nancy Brook Technical Project Manager - BQL
Paul Starr Back-up Analyst for Project Start-up - BQL
Kurt Song Quality Assurance Manager - Pillar Engineering, Inc.
Carol Poole Senior Project Chemist - Pillar Engineering, Inc.
Bob Lim, RPM for EPA, was also present at the site on January 18, 1998.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The BQL on-site laboratory is located in a truck tractor trailer. The lab was found to have

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sufficient equipment and space to perform the analyses. The laboratory was primarily following
their site-specific SOPs, however, a few modifications had been made to the SOPs during project
start up. These changes need to be documented in revised SOPs. The staff was extremely
knowledgeable about the analysis procedures as well as the project requirements. The
laboratory’s general practices were well documented and their overall operations should support
production of data of known and documented quality suitable for placing well screens for
monitoring wells.
AUDIT PROCEDURES
Prior to visiting the laboratory, the ISA team reviewed the following documents that were
prepared by BQL: Quality Assurance Project Plan On-site Environmental Services, 1/98; Field
Analytical Procedure for EDB by Gas Chromatography by EPA, Method 504.1, Rev. 1/7/98;
and, Field Analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds by EOA SW-8260B, Rev. 1/6/98. The
laboratory was audited for adherence to these documents, ability to produce data of known and
documented quality and general good laboratory practices.
The laboratory systems that were reviewed include:
• Sample Management, Sample Receipt and Log-In Procedures
• Analytical Procedures for Volatile Organics by GCIMS
• Analytical Procedures for Ethylene Dibromide by GC/ECD
• Data Review and Reporting
• Quality Assurance Program
FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
While the laboratory was found to be operating with good general laboratory practices, some
deviations from the submitted Quality Assurance Project Plan and Standard Operating
Procedures were found. These changes primarily reflect adaptations to the project and should not
affect data quality. However, the changes must be documented in revised SOPs and/or QAPP.
The need for SOP revision was discussed while on-site.
Some examples of changes include, but are not limited to:
1. Although it is stated in the QAPP that samples will be preserved, Pillar Engineering
samplers are not preserving samples. As the samples are to be analyzed with 24 hours, this
change should be acceptable.
2. EDB samples are being extracted based on volume, not weight, as stated in the SOP. This
‘changed sl otald not af ct data quality.
3. Retention time windows are based on absolute windows (± 0.50 mins) instead of standard
deviations as stated in the SOPs. This change should not affect data quality.
4. The VOA Initial Calibration Verification solution is not purchased from another vendor,
rather it is a guaranteed second source from the vendor that supplies their custom calibration

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standard. This clarification should not affect data quality.
5. Qualitative identification criteria for VOAs is not included in the SOP. The procedure
described by the analyst is acceptable but must be added to the SOP.
6. As was discussed during the audit, it is recommended that a Sample Receiving SOP be
generated for the Lab. In the SOP, procedures for documenting that samples are received on
ice, as requested by the Pillar Quality Assurance Manager, should be included.
CONCLUSIONS
Once the revised QAPP/SOPs have been received and reviewed, the proper documentation will
be in place. By following these procedures, the laboratory should be capable of producing the
needed data. As a follow up to the audit, it is suggested that a data package be sent to the QA
Unit for review for adherence to the site-specific SOPs. Finally, the laboratory staff was
extremely cooperative during the audit and was obviously experienced in on-site laboratory
projects.
Should you have any questions. please do not hesitate to call Nora Conlon at (781) 860-4335 or
Steve DiMattei at (781) 860-4369.
cc: Nancy Barmakian, EPA

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LABORATORY TECHNICAL SYSTEMS AUDIT
TSA Audit Notes: Nora Confon
Laboratory: Best Quality Laboratory
Contracted to: ill& Engineering, Inc.
Lead Organization: U.S. Air Force
Address: Swamp Place
Harrisville, MA 02222
Pillar Contact: Peter Piper
Telephone: 508-862-5555
Fax: 508-862-2323
Type of Evaluation:
Technical Systems Audit - On-site Laboratory
Date of Evaluation: January 18, 1998
Laboratory Personnel:
Name
Title
Bob Robin
Nancy Brook
Paul Starr
Chemist/Analyst - BQL
Technical Project Manag er - BOL
Chemist on site for startu , , - BOL
Carol Poole
Kurt Sonc’
Senior Project Chemist - Pillar
Quality Assurance Manac’er - Pillar
U.S. EPA Region I Evaluation Team:
Name Title
A
QA Chemist
RPM. Federal Facilities Sunerf,ind S’ rtinn
._fl. uvIias
Project:
RPM:
Swamp Land Site
Robert Lim
iiora Coi I .
Steve DiMattei
Rn!, Tim
‘I aij,.

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LABORATORY EVALUATION SUMMARY
I. SAMPLE RECEIPT. STORAGE. AND LOG-IN
Describe the sample receipt, storage and log-in procedures.
Check chain-of-custody forms against bottle sample IDs.
* Temperature checks are not currently performed-Pillar has requested that !3QL note that
samples are received on ice.
2 bottles per parameter are received.
How many samples are anticipated per day?
Approximately 10 EDB and 15 VOAs when at capacity
How long is the lab expected to be on-site?
Approximately 1 year
Things to check:
Refrigerator? If present, check temperature logbooks, frequency of temperature checks,
CA for temperature excursions for refrigerators.
Refrigerator and free:er log posted on the front with acceptance criteria and corrective actions
on the logbook page.
What is checked when the samples arrive? (preservation, sample bottle condition and ID
cross references) Not preserved, yes, yes
Are samples being preserved as stated in the Lab QAPP? No, samples are not being
preserved.
Are chain-of-custody forms being used? Yes
Is there a sample log-in book? Computer generated log-in system, pages are printed and
placed in a three ring binder.
List Applicable Sample Receipt Logbooks. Check logbooks for evidentiary criteria such as
signatures or initials, single_line crossouts, dates, secondary review, etc.
Not applicable in sample receiving
II. ETHYLENE DIBROMIDE ( EDB (Method 504.1)
Personnel(name and position): [ Bob Robinj
Bob Robin-prima,y analyst (he will be alone once the project is well underway).
What turnaround time is being used? [ 24 hour results, 7 day data packagej
24 hour results and 7 days for forms only data package
Where are samples and standards stored? (Standards must be separate from samples)
In the refrigerator for samples
Standards in the freezer
Are extracts stored and if so, for how long?
No extracts are stored
List instrumentation (model, make- should have two GCIECDs -one for each column)
Two F1P5980 GC/ECDS One instrument belongs to BQL
Primary Column: DB-624 One is a rental
Secondary Column: DB-1
1

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II. ETHYLENE DIBROMIDE ( EDB ) (continued)
Standards Prep: Check stock solution concentrations and the measurement of volumes.
1, Are standards extracted? 2. Are they traceable? 3. How are they documented? 4. Is the
LFB solution from a second source?(as in SOP ) - What is the corrective action if LFB
criteria are not met and is it run directly after the initial calibration?
[ Have them show conversion of standards in ng/uL added to ugIL final concentrationJ
S(arzdard concentrations range from 0.11 ug/L to 0.229 ug/L - new logbook includes the
standard formulation requirements. LFB is same as initial calibration.
ICV is a different source - Supelco
CalibrafjonJM /MSD/LFB are from Ultra.
VerilS raw data for MDL (no MDL available as of 1/15)
MDL now available and meets project requirements on both columns
Is the initial demonstration of capabilities on file?
Not done yet, however, they have done several MDL injections
Demonstrate sample analysis from arrival at the trailer to data generation.
Things to consider: Extraction techniques; calibration procedures; blank frequency;
continuing calibration concentration and frequency; data review and acceptance -
surrogates, proper dilutions, no carryover.-Exzraction log attached. Remove 7.5 mL of
sample. Add 8 g NaC1. Add I mL hexane. Add 20 uL of 0.02 ugiL solution. Hand shake for 2
mm. Pipet into 2 separate autosampler vials. Continuing cal and either LCSJLCSD or
LCS/JpfS/MSD and method blank extracted with each batch.
What is the injection volume? 4 uL
What are the confirmation criteria? All samples run on both columns. Evaluated as 25%
criteria
Sequence: Weekly Spt. ; MDL check (low LFB); ICV, LCSs. continuing every 10 samples.
What are the criteria for scaling chromatograms?
Come off the instrument as a set. Suggested reprinting a differently scaled chromatogram f
there is not a sign ylcant peak on the hardcopy.
Are there potential interfering non-target compounds? Yes, trihalomet hones
How are retention times established? (SOP states ±3o based on initial and continuing
calibration)
iVot using ±3a, using absolute window ±0.iOO mm. establishedfrom initial calibration
Quality Control Samples: acceptance limits and associated corrective actions. How are the
QC samples evaluated?
What is the concentration of the LFB? 0.114 ug/L, software does not carry the 3rd digit
What is the concentration of the low level LFB? 0.0114 ugiL
IC V-if out, run new initial calibration
LFB (LCS) -jf out, reextract and rerun. If out, check the curve.
MS/MSD - ±35% criteria
List Logboo3c : Check for evidentiary criteria such as signatures or initials, single-line
crossouts, dates, secondary review, etc.
Have computer generated sequence logbook; have maintenance logbook; have standards
logbook
*sQ D needs to be revised to include “acceptable” changes to the procedures.
2

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III. VOLATILES (Method 8260A - modified) A or B?
Personnel(naine and position): [ Bob Robinji
Where are samples and standards stored? (Standards must be separate from samples)
Samples-refrigerator; Standards-freezer
List instrumentation (model, make - purge & trap, GC/MSD)
P& T: 01 4560 concentrator/MPM6O-16 station autosamplerlHp589D series !L(Renzal)/5971
How are instruments maintained? Are there sufficient replacement parts?
Service Contracts
Standards Prep: Check stock solution concentrations and the measurement of volumes.
Write down the levels. (1 ugh to 100 or 200 ug/L? ) 1. Are standards traceable? Yes 2. How
are the standards documented? Standards logbook 3. ICY, is it a second source?
Acceptance limits and corrective action. Where are standard preparations recorded?
Levels: 1,5,10, 50, 100, ugiL -evaluated by %RSD
Calibration mix is a custom mix purchased as a working standard
ICV-2nd lot guaranteed by supplier-Absolute
When were the most current MDL studies performed and are they available?
Have new MDLs from Monday.
Demonstrate sample analysis from sample arrival to data generation.
Things to consider: concentration levels in initial calibration; blank frequency; continuing
calibration concentration and frequency; data review and acceptance - surrogates, proper
dilutions, no carryover
-12 hour tune clock
-Blanks run immediately after initial calibration or continuing calibration
How are retention times evaluated?
±0.50 mm. from initial calibration
Quality Control Samples: acceptance limits and associated corrective action -
Method Blanks
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IV. DATA REVIEW and REPORTING
How are compounds qualitatively identified? Are there methods to determine if there are
any interfering non-target compounds? What criteria are used?
EDB-must be present on both columns. Trihalomethanes can interfere [ suggested that they
include provisions for quantitating on the confirmatory columnj Both columns are sufficiently
sensitive to meet project requirements.
VOA s-method quant ion for primary, other ions must be present using “EPA ‘ criteria of within
20% of expected abundance (missing from SOP).
How are target compounds quantitated? (From initial calibration curve) Describe for:
EDB- (external) % RSD or linear curve? RF(ave) or midpoint or continuing calibration
RF?
Quanlitation based on linear (firs: order) regression
Continuing calibration checked by concentration: ±20% limit
VOAs - (internal) % RSD or linear curve RF(ave) or midpoint or continuing calibration
RF?
Evaluate %RSD, quantitation based on Average RFfrom initial calibration.
What are the review procedures? Is there secondary review?
For 24 hour turnaround, only analyst review-Documentation QA Deviations Form. Pillar
performs a review before release of data. almost all the time.
For 7 day package, review is performed at the BQL Wes /Ield office. Aliforms and electronic
copies received for review. Narrative is generated. Reported by SDG.
How are the data reported?
24 hour results; 7 day Forms data package-Results, surrogates, blanks, MSIMSD, tunes,
calibrations. Also delivered electronically.
Frequency of computer data back-up? Weekly using Zip drive
IV. OTHER SYSTEMS AND DOCUMENTATION
Are the following items/information addressed?
- Peggy Brewer - QAIQC Officer - has he been on site?
From Wes fleld office. Scheduled to come out next week Reviews data packages.
- Laboratory Quality Assurance Program as documented in a Quality Assurance
Plan, for the fixed base lab in Westfield, in the trailer?
Have the Wes fleld office plan on site.
- Standard Operating Procedure for sample analysis (readily available)?
Yes-needs to be revised
- Any other pertinent SOPs?
Not at this time
- Have any internal audits been conducted?
Scheduled for next week
- Are QA Deviations Forms in use?
Yes, accompany all results
- Health and Safety information? Pillar has audited for this information
- Waste Disposal? Pillar has audited for this information
- Personnel training and qualifications?
Bob Robin has 5-6 years of experience in the mobile lab; Education-Environmental
Scientist
4
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REAGENT PAGE
Surrogate spike solution contains 1,1,1 ,2-Tetrachloroethane at 0.2 ng/uL 5003 JYS004 T
Matrix spike solution contains EDB at 0.20 ng/uL 5003 WS0021
LCS solution: EDB LFB at (0.20 ng/uL) 5003 IVS O O6 [
MDL solution: EDE3 MDL at (0.02 ug/uL) 5003 WSOO3( 1-8-98
COMMERCIAL LOT NUMBERS AND STANDARD PREPARAI’ION DATES
Surrogate spike: 5003 VS004 1-12-98
Matrix spike: 5O0? VS002 1-8-98
LCS spike: 5003 WSOO6 1-15-98
Methanol: 962541
Hexane: 976962
NaCl: 960598
Na 2 S 2 O 3 :
NOTES:
1 CV- 20 uL of5003WSOO6
*ELCSD O IJ998 - spiked same as EL S011998
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LABORATORY TECHNICAL SYSTEMS AUDIT
ISA Audit Notes: Steve DiMattei
Laboratory: Best Quality Laboratory
Contracted to: Pillar Engineering, Inc.
Lead Organization: U.S. Air Force
Address: Swamp Place
Harrisville, MA 02222
Pillar Contact: Peter Piper
Telephone: 508-862-5555
Fax: 508-862-2323
Project: Swamp Land Site
RPM: Robert Lim
Type of Evaluation: Technical Systems Audit - On-site Laboratory
Date of Evaluation: January 18, 1998
Laboratory Personnel:
Name Title
Nancy Brook Lab Manager - Technical
Bob Robin Analyst
__________ Paul Starr Rn4un 4 nnJl,ct
U.S. EPA Region I E
Nora Conlon
valuation Team:
Name
QA
Title
Chemist
Steve DiMaftej
QA
Chemist
Bob Lim
RPM
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LABORATORY EVALUATION SUMMARY
I. SAMPLE RECEIPT. STORAGE. AND LOG-IN
Describe the sample receipt, storage and log-in procedures.
Samples are received in ice packed coolers, but temperature of cooler is not ver ied The
sample ident flcations are checked against the chain of custody. Sample IDs entered into the
computer and tracked electronically. VOAs are not preserved!!
How many samples are anticipated per day?
Approximately 15 VOAs and EDBs a day
How long is the lab expected to be on-site?
Approximately 1 year
Things to check:
Refrigerator? If present, check temperature logbooks, frequency of temperature checks,
CA for temperature excursions for refrigerators.
Freezer/Refrigerator has temperature log, and it is checked twice a day. Criteria and corrective
action listed on worksheet that is posted on the front ofihefridge.
What is checked when the samples arrive? (preservation, sample bottle condition and ID
cross references) No preservation, ID is cross referenced against COC
Are samples being preserved as stated in the Lab QAPP? No, VOA samples are not
preserved (Section 6.2 8260 SOP).
Are chain-of-custody forms being used? Yes, provided by Pillar
Is there a sample log-in book? No, samples are tracked electronically
List Applicable Sample Receipt Logbooks. Check logbooks for evidentiary criteria such as
signatures or initials, single-line crossouts, dates, secondary review, etc.
Worksheet onfridge is initialed for sample and standards storage. All other custody and sample
receipt done electronically.
II. ETHYLENE DIBROMIDE ( EDB ) (Method 504.1)
Personnel(name and position): [ Bob Robinj
Bob Robin
What turnaround time is being used? [ 24 hour results, 7 day data packagej
7 day data package is forms only
Where are samples and standards stored? (Standards must be separate from samples)
Standards are kept in the freezer, and samples are kept in the fridge
Are extracts stored and if so, for how long?
Extracts are not stored
List instrumentation (model, make- should have two GCIECDs -one for each column)
HP5980 GC -
J&WDB-624 - Primary Column
J&WDB-i - Secondary Column
1
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II. ETHYLENE DIBROMIDE ( EDB ) (continued)
Standards Prep: Check stock solution concentrations and the measurement of volumes.
1, Are standards extracted? 2. Are they traceable? 3. How are they documented? 4. Is the
LFB solution from a second source?(as in SOP) - What is the corrective action if LFB
criteria are not met and is it run directly after the initial calibration?
[ Have them show conversion of standards in ng/uL added to ugfL final concentration I
Standards are extracted, and traceable (standard logbook is kept for traceability and
documentation)
Verify raw data for MDL (no MDL available as of 1/15)
Is the initial demonstration of capabilities on file?
No, Bob indicated that he could put together some ICV or CC Vfor documentation of initial
demonstration of capability
Demonstrate sample analysis from arrival at the trailer to data generation.
Things to consider: Extraction techniques; calibration procedures; blank frequency;
continuing calibration concentration and frequency; data review and acceptance -
surrogates, proper dilutions, no carryover.
What is the injection volume? 4 uL
What are the confirmation criteria? All samples are run on both columns and confirmation is
through retention time.
What are the criteria for scaling chromatograms?
No manual scaling performed, it is all electronically manipulated by the GC.
Are there potential interfering non-target compounds? Trihalomethane compounds can
interfere on the DB-624 column
How are retention times established? (SOP states ±3a based on initial and continuing
calibration)
Retention times based in initial caL or CCV ±0.5 mm. This is different than the SOP!!!
Quality Control Samples: acceptance limits and associated corrective actions. How are the
QC samples evaluated? MS/MSD ±35% of true value, Blanks < reporting limit
What is the concentration of the LFB? 0.114 ug/L
What is the concentration of the low level LFB? 0.011 ugiL
Acceptance criteria for LFB is ±30% of true value. If LFB is out, it is re-extracted and rerun.
LFB out by itself does not require recalibration. CCV out will require recalibration.
Weekly - Low level LFB
Daily - CCV Blank LC ’S, and LCSD Wno MSD is analyzed) and MDL check
List Logbooks: Check for evidentiary criteria such as signatures or initials, single-line
crossouts, dates, secondary review, etc.
An instrument logbook is maintained. A service contract is maintainedjor all instruments.
Notes: Linear regression is used to quantitate EDB.
Procedure: 7.5 mLs are removed from a -/0 mL VOA vial. Eight grams of salt is added to the
VOA vial along with I mL of hexane and 20 uL of a 0.2 uL solution.
2
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III. YOLATILES (Method 8260A - modified) A or B?
Persounel(name and position): [ Bob Robinj
Where are samples and standards stored? (Standards must be separate from samples)
Standards stored in the freezer, Samples in the refrigerator
List instrumentation (model, make - purge & trap, GCIMSD)
5971 HP MS & 5890 Series II HP GC
How are instruments maintained? Are there sufficient replacement parts?
Service Contract/or GC/MS
Standards Prep: Check stock solution concentrations and the measurement of volumes.
Write down the levels. (1 ug/l to 100 or 200 ug/L?) 1. Are standards traceable? 2. How are
the standards documented? 3. ICY, is it a second source? Acceptance limits and corrective
action. Where are standard preparations recorded?
VOC standards are ordered from the manufacturer at working levels. The CCV is a different lot
#from the same manufacturer.
When were the most current MDL studies performed and are they available?
MDLs were sent 1/19/98.
Demonstrate sample analysis from sample arrival to data generation.
Things to consider: concentration levels in initial calibration; blank frequency; continuing
calibration concentration and frequency; data review and acceptance - surrogates, proper
dilutions, no carryover
Initial calibration is 1, 5, 10, 50, and 100 ug/L. Instrument is recalibrated weekly or when CCV
fails. %RSD is used to accept initial calibration. Quantitation is performed using the average
RF of the initial calibration.
How are retention times evaluated?
±0.5 minutes of the mean for the initial calibration (?)
Quality Control Samples: acceptance limits and associated corrective action -
Method Blanks
Are always run after last standard. I/the blank fails, it is rerun. If the blank fails a second time,
then the instrument is cleaned
Cleaning blanks
Are run after samples
Surrogate (toluene-d8)/IS (fluorobeuzene)
One surrogate and one internal standard based on the fact that the compounds of concern are a
subset of the 8260 compounds
Spiked samples (LCS, MS/MSDs) What compounds are in the spike solution? What source,
same as calibration or ICY? What is the frequency for the LCS?
LCS, MS/MSD are all the compounds 0/concern or the target list. LCS run every day, LCDS
only run on days when MSD is not run. ICV run after initial cal. (10 ugiL)
List Logbodks: check for evidentiary criteria su h as signatures or initials, single-line
crossouts, dates, secondary review, etc.
Standards logbook is maintained
VOAs instrument has a sequence log that is maintained by the analyst. This lab is using a 12
hour tune clock
3
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IV. DATA REVIEW and REPORTING
How are compounds qualitatively identified? Are there methods to determine if there are
any interfering non-target compounds? What criteria’ are used?
VOAs - Quant ions from method are used and must be within 20% of the spectra generated from
the calibration (?). TICs are analyzed for and quantitated if> 10% of the internal standard
based on the response of the internal standard. (They also are calibrated for afew extra
compounds.)
How are target compounds quantitated? (From initial calibration curve) Describe for:
EDB- (external) % RSD or linear curve? RF(ave) or midpoint or continuing calibration
RF?
Retention times must be within the windows on both columns. A linear curve is used
VOAs - (internal) % RSD or linear curve RF(ave) or midpoint or continuing calibration
RF?
The continuing calibration RF is used
What are the review procedures? Is there secondary review?
For 24 hour turnaround - single analyst review
For 7 day turnaround - Electronic and hard copy sent to fixed lab for review kv QA personnel
(Peggy B.?)
How are the data reported?
Frequency of computer data back-up? Zip drive to be backed up weeQv.
IV. OTHER SYSTEMS AND DOCUMENTATION
Are the following itemslinformation addressed?
- Peggy Brewer - QAIQC Officer - has he been on site?
Not yet, maybe next week
- Laboratory Quality Assurance Program as documented in a Quality Assurance
Plan, for the fixed base lab in Westfield, in the trailer?
Yes
- Standard Operating Procedure for sample analysis (readily available)?
Yes
- Any other pertinent SOPs?
Custody SOPs need to be added
- Have any internal audits been conducted?
Not yet, maybe next week
- Are QA Deviations Forms in use?
Yes
- Health and Safety information? Yes
- Waste Disposal? Yes
- P’erse nnd training and qualifications?
Bob Robin has approximately six years experience as afield analyst. He has also done
sample prep and sample custody.
4
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Appendix 6
Example Overall Evaluation of Data - Data Validation Memorandum - Table IL
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EPA-NE - Data Validation Worksheet
Overall Evaluation ui Data - Data Validatioii Memorandum - Table II
VOLATILE OROANICS
DQO (list all DQOs)
Samplina and/or
Analytical Method
Appropriate
Yes or No
Measurement Error
Sampling
Variability
Potential
Usability
Issues
Analytical Error
Sampling Error
SEcological Risk Assessment
•Source Identification
•Surface waters colle t d from
this she were found to have the
following contaminants; benze,ic,
trichloroethene, tetrachioroethene,
l,2-dichloioetliene , and 1,1,2,2-
tetrachloroethane. Are (lie Site
soils a source of contamination?
Yes, sampling and
analytical method,
CLI’ SOW
OLMO3.2,
appropriate for
samples:
SAAU9 , SAAI2,
SAAI3, SAAI4
No, sampling and/or
analytical method,
CL ? SOW
OLMO3.2,
inappropriate for
samples:
SAAb, SAA II
Refer In qualifications
in ft/S Key:
J’ 4
I
Refer to qualifications
in R/S Kcy:
J 2 ”
f t ’ 4
•Poor field duplicate precision
indicates a problem in obtaining
representative data, limiting the
achievement of DQOs.
•MI tctrziclilorocihenc non-detects
are rejected in all volatile
soil/sediment samples due to low
bias of PE result and possibility UI
false negatives. All
tetrackloroetliene positive detects
are potentially biased low.
•AlI volatile non-detects are
rejected in SAAIO due to low
percent solids and all positive
detects are estimated.
•AlI volatile results are rejected in
SAM I due to extremely low
percent solids.
•Ml non-detects quantitated against
bromochloromethane in volatile
sample SAA14 are rejected as
unusable due to poor IS recoveries
and the possibility of false
negatives.
•All non-detects in SAAO9 are
rejected due to improper sample
preservation and storage by the
Jaboratori’.
* The evaluation of “sampling error” cannot be completely assessed in data validation.
** Sampling variability is hot assessed in data validation.
Validatot-: M. Howard
Dale. 5/20/97
12/96
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EPA-NE - Data Validation Worksheet
Overall Evaluation of Data - Data Validation Meiiioraiidum - Table II
SEMIVOLATILE
all DQOs)
Samplina and/or
Analytical Method
Appropriate
Yes or No
Measurement Error Sampling
Variability**
I
Analytical Error Sampling Error
Potential
Usability
Issues
Assessiiicnt
collected from
to have the
1,2-
1,2,4-
114-
Are the site
cuntatiunation?
Yes,sanipling and
analytical method,
CLI ’ SOW
OLMO3.2,
appropriate for
samples:
SAAO9, SAA I2,
SAAI3, SAA I4
No, sampling and/or
analytical method,
CLI’ SOW
OLMO3 .2,
inappropriate for
saisiples:
SAAIO, SAAII
Refer to qualifications
in RIS Key:
i l ’ . 37
R t • ’
Refer to qualilicatioiis
itt R/S Key:
J 456
R’ 4
•Poor field duplicate precision
indicates a problem in obtaining
representative data, limiting the
achievement of DQOs.
•1,2-dichlorobenzene and 1,3-
dichlorohenzene non-detects are
rcjccled clue to the possibility of
false negatives and 1,4-
dichilorol,enzene positive detects are
estimated in semivolatile samples
SAAI3 & SAAI4 due to potential
low bins indicated by low surrogate
recoveries.
• All semivolatile non-detects are
rejected in SAAIO due to low
percent solids and all positive
results are estimated.
SAIl emivolatile results are
rejected in SAA 11 due to extremely
low percent solids.
.
•l3enzolajpyrene non-detects are
rejected in seinivolatile samples
SAAQ9, SAAI I, & SAAI2 due to
lack gf instrument stability and the
possibility of false negatives.
Benzotajpyrene positive detects are
estimated in semivolatile samples
SAAb, SAA I3, & SAAI4 due to
lack of instrument stability and
potem t Ia! low bias.
* The evaluation o [ ‘sampling error” cannot be completely assessed iii data validation.
** Sampling variability is not assessed in data validation.
M. Howard
Date: 5/20/97
Validator:
1,IQ
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Attachment B
“The Volunteer Monitor’s Guide to Quality Assurance Project Plans,”
EPA 841-B-96-003, September 1996
Contact the National Technical Information Service (NTIS)
1-800-553-6847
for a copy of this publication
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ATI’ACHMENT B
FORWARD
EPA Order 5360.1 CHG 1 requires that a Quality Assurance Project Plan be prepared and
approved for all Agency-funded environmental monitoring projects.
-If your volunteer monitoring program does not receive EPA funding, then EPA-NE
recommends that The Volunteer Monitor ‘s Guide to Quality Assurance Project Plans
(VMGQAPP) be used to plan environmental monitoring projects and to prepare QAPP
documents.
- If your volunteer monitoring program receives EPA funding either directly from EPA-
NE or indirectly (through a State or Tribe), then EPA-NE requires that a QAPP be prepared and
approved before beginning sample collection. QAPPs must be prepared and approved in
accordance with the requirements described in the Region I. EPA-New England Compendium of
Ouality Assurance Project Plan Guidance (EPA-NE QAPP Compendium). The VMGQAPP
should be used as guidance, together with the Region 1. EPA-New England Quality Assurance
Project Plan Manual (EPA-NE QAPP Manual), to plan environmental projects and prepare
QAPPs. The abbreviated QAPP Form in Appendix D of the VMGQAPP will not necessarily
capture all project information required by EPA-NE. Therefore, volunteer monitors should
complete all EPA-NE QAPP Worksheets found in Appendix A of the EPA-NE QAPP Manual
and include them in the QAPP. If a QAPP Worksheet does not apply to the project, then indicate
“Not applicable” on the Worksheet and include in the QAPP as an attaclunent. The following
additional comments are provided to clarify sections of the VMGQAPP and to provide
consistency with EPA-NE’s QA policies as described in the EPA-NE QAPP Compendium and
EPA-NE QAPP Manual:
Chapter 3: The discussion of accuracy on page 18 of the VMGQAPP is inconsistent with the EPA-NE definition of
accuracy. EPA-NE defines accuracy as “. . . the extent of agreement between an observed value (sample result)
and the accepted, or true value of the parameter being measured. Accuracy is frequently used synonymously with
bias. Specifically, the term bias describes the systematic or persistent error associated with a measurement process.
Both terms are used interchangeably in this document” For guidance on assessing accuracy/bias refer to Section
6 0 of the EPA-NE QAPP Manual, Attachment A
Chapter 3: The discussion of QC samples on pages 21 and 22 of the VMGQAPP is inadequate. Refer to Section 13
of the EPA-NE QAPP Manual for a complete discussion of QC samples and the required frequency for field and
laboratory QC checks and QC samples.
Chapter 4: The example organizational chart on page 24 of the VMGQAPP shows the same person performing the
QA Officer (QAO) function and the Laboratory Leader function. Because this situation may present a conflict of
interest, it is recommended that QAOs not perform and/or supervise sample analyses.
Chapter 4: The discussion of Instrument Calibration and Frequency on pages 34 and 35 is incomplete EPA-NE
recommends calibrating instruments before sample analysis and checking the calibration periodically during the day
and again at the end of the day. If the calibration check does not meet the acceptance criteria, then the instrument
should be recalibrated and the samples should be reanalyzed. Additional calibration checks should be performed
when there are more than twenty samples in a sample analytical group.
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Attachment C
“Generic Quality Assurance Project Plan Guidance for Programs Using
Community Level Biological Assessment in Wadable Streams and Rivers,”
EPA 841-B-95-004, July 1995
Contact the National Technical Information Service (NTIS)
1-800-553-6847
for a copy of this publication
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Attachment D
“Quality Assurance Requirements for Conducting
Brownfields Site Assessments”, Draft, October 1996
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QUALITY ASSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
FOR CONDUCTING
BROWNFIELDS SITE ASSESSMENTS
U.S. EPA-NEW ENGLAND
Region I
Quality Assurance Unit Staff
Office of Environmental Measurement and Evaluation
October 1996
Draft
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Table of Contents
Instructions 2-4
Appendices
Appendix A Title and Approval Page
Appendix B Project Organization and Responsibility
Appendix C Problem Definition
Appendix D Project Description
Project Timeline
Appendix E Sampling Design
Appendix F Sampling and Analytical Methods Requirements
Method and SOP Reference Table
Appendix G Preventive Maintenance - Field Equipment
Appendix H Calibration and Corrective Action - Field Equipment
Appendix I Preventive Maintenance - Laboratory Equipment
Appendix J Calibration and Corrective Action - Laboratory Equipment
Appendix K Sample Handling and Custody Requirements
Appendix L Analytical Precision and Accuracy
Appendix M Field Quality Control Requirements
Laboratory Quality Control Requirements
Appendix N Data Management and Documentation
Appendix 0 Assessment and Response Actions
Appendix P Project Reports
Appendix Q Data Validation
Appendix R Data Usability
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INTRODUCTION
A Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPjP) is a planning document that ensures data collected
and analyzed meet project requirements and support environmental decision-making. The
QAPJP documents all quality assurance, quality control, technical activities and procedures
associated with planning, implementing and assessing environmental data collection projects.
A QAPjP must be clearly written, complete and accurate. It should reflect the complexity of the
project. The content and level of detail in the QAPjP will vary according to the nature of work
being perfonned and the intended use of the data.
The following framework should be used to generate a Brownfield Site QAPjP. The tables and
figures contained in the Appendices to this document should be used to compile the Brownfield
Site QAPJP. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and standard analytical methods should be
referenced in the text and included as appendices to the Brownfield Site QAPjP. SOPs must be
referenced in the QAPjP by title, date, revision number and the originator’s name.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT - These elements ensure that the project has a defined goal and
that participants understand the goal and approach to be used.
1. Title and Approval Page
Complete template provided in Appendix A.
2. Project Organization and Responsibility
Complete template provided in Appendix B or insert another project-specific
chart. Develop an organizational chart which identifies the chain of command of
key personnel. Include titles and/or responsibilities and organizational affiliation
of all project participants.
3. Problem Definition
Complete Appendix C. Briefly state the specific problem that the data collection project
is designed to solve or the decisions to be made (i.e., the project objectives). Include
any background information, such as reference to previous studies, that indicate why the
project is needed.
4. Project Description
Ci .n pkteAppantfi . D (ibeins 4. and4a.).. Pnwidea Gletailcddescliptionoftlie
work to be performed and a schedule for implementation. Prepare an overall
project timetable that outlines beginning and ending dates for the entire project as
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well as specific activities and products within the project.
MEASUREMENT/DATA ACQUISITION - These elements ensure that appropriate methods
for sampling, analysis and data handling; proper Quality Control (QC) procedures and
performance criteria are employed and documented.
5. Sampling Design
Complete Appendix E. Discuss project sampling design and provide rationale for
choice of sampling locations for each parameter/matrix to be sampled during this
project. Identify sampling locations per matrix on a detailed site map and attach
site map to the Brownfleld Site QAPJP. Describe rationale for use of field
screening techniques and identify comparability acceptance criteria and
percentages for fixed laboratory confirmation by parameter/matrix.
6. Sampling and Analytical Procedures and Requirements
Complete templates provided in Appendices F-J. Provide complete references for
all sampling SOPs to be utilized for this project. Attach SOPs for sample
collection and preservation, field equipment operation, decontamination, and
preventive maintenance. Attach analytical SOPs for sample preparation and
analysis for each parameter/matrix.
7. Sample Handling and Custody Requirements
Complete Appendix K. Describe the procedures for sample handling and custody.
Include chain-of-custody forms and/or written procedures that field crews and
laboratory personnel should follow when collecting, transferring, storing,
analyzing and disposing of samples.
8. Quality Control Requirements
Complete Appendices L and M. The procedures and requirements contained in
the EPA Region I Performance Evaluation Program Guidance. 7/96 . or latest
revision, should be followed and referenced in Appendix M. To facilitate project
operations and data assessment at Brownfield Sites in EPA-New England, EPA
will supply the EPA PE samples that are referenced in the guidance as available
and appropriate to meet project objectives.
9. Data Management and Documentation
Complete Appendix N. Briefly discuss data documentation and management
from field collection and lab analysis to data storage and use. Analytical data
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packages must include all relevant documents. Reference Attachment 1 for data
package elements. Describe procedures for detecting and correcting errors during
data reporting and data entry. Provide examples of any forms or checklists.
ASSESSMENT/OVERSIGHT - These elements ensure proper implementation of the QAPjP.
10. Assessments and Response Actions
Complete Appendix 0. Describe procedures for identifying and correcting any
problems encountered during project operations.
11. Project Reports
Complete Appendix P. Identify the frequency, content and distribution of project
reports that detail project status, results of internal assessments, corrective actions
implemented and project results.
DATA VALIDATION AND USABILITY - This element encompasses activities used to
ensure that the collected data are scientifically defensible and meet project objectives.
12. Data Validation
Complete Appendix Q. Describe the process to be used for reviewing the data
and for making decisions regarding accepting, rejecting or qualifying the data.
Reference Validation Tier from Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional
Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental Analyses. 7/96 . or latest revision.
It is expected that a Tier I Validation, in conjunction with acceptable PE sample
score results, will be the minimum requirement for generating acceptable data for
Brownfield sites.
13. Data Usabifity
Complete Appendix R. Describe the process for determining whether the data
collection and analysis activities successfully characterized the site in terms of
precision, accuracy, representativeness and completeness to meet project
objectives. Discuss the assessment of sample representativeness and
measurement precision and accuracy based upon total error as described in the
Region I. EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating
Environmental Analyses. 7/96 , or latest revision. Completeness should be
described in terms of the total number of samples successfully analyzed as
compared to the total number of samples analyzed.
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Title:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: — of_
Appendix A
Title and Approval Page
Document Title
Prepared by: (Preparer’s Name and Organizational Affiliation)
Address and Telephone Number
Day/Month/Year
Proj ect Manager:
Signature
Printed Name/Date
Project QA Officer: ____________________________________
Signature
Printed Name/Date
U.S. EPA Project Manager Approval:
Signature
f _______________________________
Printed Name/Date
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Site Name:
Site Location:
Title:
Revision Number:
Revision Date:
Page: ____ of____
Appendix B
2. Project Organization and Responsibility
(Fill-in the blanks, if applicable, otherwise insert another project-specific chart.)
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Title:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: — of
Appendix C
3. Problem Definition (use multiple pages if needed)
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Site Name:
Site Location:
Title:
Revision Number:
Revision Date:
Page: ____ of____
Appendix D
4. Project Description (use multiple pages if necessary):
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Title:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: ____ of____
Appendix D (Cont.)
4a. Project Timeline
Activities (list products) Project Start Dates (MMIDD/YY) Project End
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Title:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: of_
Appendix E
5. Sampling Design (use multiple pages if needed)
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Title:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: — of_
Appendix F
6. Sampling and Analytical Methods Requirements (use multiple pages if needed)
Parameter
Matrix
Number of
Analytical
Sampling
Containers
Preservation
Maxhnum Holding
Samples
Method*
SOP 1 ’
(Number,
Requirements
Time
(include
size and
(temperature,
(J)reparation/
field QC)
type)
light, chemical)
analysis)
* Complete the Method and SOP Reference Table and insert appropriate number/letter reference in the abovà table. Attach all
referenced PrOject Analytical and Sampling SOPs to the QAPJP. Use the appropriate number/letter reference from the Method and
SOP Reference Table to complete Appendices F through J and L.
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1 iiie;
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site LocatioR: Page: — of_
Appendix F (continued)
Method and SOP Reference Table (use multiple pages if needed)
Project Sampling SOPs:
Include document title, date, revision number, and originator’s name
1 C.
2c.
3c.
4c .
(i.) Project amp1ing SOPs are to include sample collection, sample preservation, equipment di
maintenance, etc.
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.Tiitlie:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: ____ of____
Appendix G
6. Preventive Maintenance - Field Equipment
Activity
Frequency
SOP
Ref. *
* Insert the appropriate reference number/letter from Appendix F, Method and SOP Reference Table.
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Title:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: ____ of____
Appendix H
6. Calibration and Corrective Action - Field Equipment
Instrument
Activity
Frequency
Acceptance
Corrective
SOP
*
Criteria
Action -
Ref.
* Insert thc appropriate reference number/letter from Appendix F, Method and SOP Reference Table.
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Title:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: ____ of____
Appendix I
6. Preventive Maintenance - Laboratory Equipment
Instrument
Activity
Frequency
SOP
Ref. *
* Insert the appropriate reference number/letter from Appendix F, Method and SOP Reference Table.
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I iuv;
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: ____ of____
Appendix J
6. Calibration and Corrective Action - Laboratory Equipment
Instrument
Activity
Frequency
Acceptance
Corrective
SOP
Ref. *
Criteria
* Insert the appropriate reference number/letter from Appendix F, Method and SOP Reference Table.
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Site Name:
Site Location:
Title:
Revision Number:
Revision Date:
Page: — of
Appendix K
7. Sample Handling and Custody Requirements (use multiple pages if needed)
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Title:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: — of_
Appendix L
8. Analytical Precision and Accuracy (use multiple pages if needed)
Analyte
Analytical
Detection
Quantitation
Precision
Accuracy
Method*
Limit
Limit
(water/soil)
(water/soil)
(water/soil)
(water/soil)
(units)
(units)
* Insert the appropriate reference number/letter from Appendix F, Method and SOP Reference
Table.
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Title:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: ____ of____
Appendix M
6. Field Quality Control Requirements
QC Sample
Frequency *
Acceptance
Criteria
Corrective
Action
Duplicate
5% per parameter per matrix
or
Equipment Blank
5% per parameter per matrix
or
VOA Trip Blank
1 per Cooler
or_______________
Cooler
Temperature Blank
1 per Cooler
or_______________
Bottle Blank
1 per Lot #
or
Other
Other
* Circle criteria listed or indicate alternative criteria.
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Tiuc;
Revision Nuniber:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Locatiom Page: ____ of____
Appendix M (Cont.)
6. Laboratory Quality Control Requirements
QC Sample
Frequency *
Acceptance
Criteria
Corrective
Action
VOA
Reagent/Method
Blank --
Daily
or
Reagent/MethOd
Blank
5% per parameter per matrix
or
Duplicate
5% per parameter per matrix
or
Matrix Spike
5% per parameter per matrix
or
Performance
Evaluation (PE)
Sample —
5% per parameter per matrix
per concentration level
or
Other
Other
* Circle criteria listed or Indicate alternative criteria.
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Title:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: of_
Appendix N
11. Data Management and Documentation (use multiple pages if needed)
See Attachment 1 for suggested data package elements.
Types of information to request from the laboratory:
a) Data Results Sheets (include P13 sample results)
b) Method Blank Results
c) Surrogate Recoveries and Acceptance Limits
d) Matrix Spike/Matrix Spike Duplicate Results and Acceptance Limits
e) Spike/Duplicate Results and Acceptance Limits
Laboratory Control Sample Results and AcceptanceLi,n ts
g) ICP Serial Dilution Results
h) ICP Interference Check Sample Results
i) Project Narrative which contains all observations and deviations
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Site Name:
Site Location:
Title:
Rioi Number
Revision Date:
Page: — of_
Appendix 0
10. Assessment and Response Actions (use multiple pages if needed)
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Tit’e:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: — of —
Appendix P
11. Project Reports (use multiple pages if needed)
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Title:
Site Name:
Site Location:
Appendix Q
12. Data Validation (use multiple pages if needed)
Rev ion Number:
Revision Date:
Page: — of_
b. Data Validation Tier (circle one): Tier I Tier II Tier III
Is the circled Data Validation Tier applicable to all parameters/matrices analyzed
during this project? (circle one) Yes No
i no, document the Validation Tier per parameter/matrix in the table below.
Have the data validation procedures been modified? (circle one) Yes No
If yes, document modifications in the table below.
a. Data Review Process
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Title:
Revision Number:
Site Name: Revision Date:
Site Location: Page: — of_
Appendix R
13. Data Usability (use multiple pages if needed)
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‘9I b
copp
EPA NEW ENGLAND•
QUALITY ASSURANCE
PROJECT PLAN PROGRAM GUIDANCE
U.S. EPA NEW ENGLAND
Quality Assurance Unit
Office of Environmental Measurement and Evaluation
April 2005
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Preface
The EPA New England Quality Assurance Unit implements a Quality Assurance Project Plan
(QAPP) Program in accordance with EPA Order 5360.1 A2, May 2000. Among other
requirements, the “QA Order” requires the development, review and approval of QAPPs for all
environmental data operations performed by or for EPA. The term “environmental data
operations” refers to activities involving the collection, generation, compilation, analysis,
evaluation and use of environmental data. The EPA New England Quality Assurance Project
Plan Program Guidance document implements national QAPP requirements specified in EPA
Requirements for Quality Assurance Project Plans (EPA QA/R-5), and the EPA Quality Manual
for Environmental Programs, 5360 Al.
As a regional implementation document, the EPA New England Quality Assurance Project Plan
Program Guidance
• Outlines a regional planning process to ensure project quality objectives are
systematically identified
• Defines a minimum set of project QAJQC activities that must be described in a
QAPP to ensure that data collected by or for EPA New England are of known and
documented quality and can be used in environmental decision making
• Describes the roles and responsibilities of project management and personnel
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Program Guidance
General EPA Guidance for Quality Assurance Project Plans (EPA QAIG-5),
December 2002, EPA/240fR-02/009,
http://www.epa.gov/gual ity/ga _ docs.html
Water Quality The Volunteer Monitor’s Guide to Quality Assurance Project Plans,
Monitoring September 1996, EPA/8411B-961003,
http://epa.gov/owowfmonitoririg/volunteer/gapp/vo l _ gapp.pdf
Wadeable Streams Generic Quality Assurance Project Plan Guidance for Programs Using
and Rivers Community Level Biological Assessments in Wadeable Streams and
Rivers, http://www.epa.gov/bioindicators/html/gapp.html
Brownfields Quality Assurance Guidance for Conducting Brownfields Site
Assessments, September 1998, EPA 540-R-98-038,
http://www.epa.gov/swerosps/bf/pdf/bfgag4.pdf
Hazardous Waste Un(fonn Federal Policy for Quality Assurance Project Plans, July 2004,
(Federal Facilities, OSWER Directive 9272.0-17
Superfund, and http://www.epa.gov/fedfac/pdf/ufp _ manualv I julyO4.pdf
RCRA)
Air Ambient Monitoring Technology Information Center
http://www.e a.gov/ttn/amtic /
Pesticides Guidance for Quality Assurance Project Plans-Development for EPA
Funded Cooperative Agreements with State and Tribal Agencies for the
Conduct of FIFRA Pesticide Programs, December 15, 2000
httD://www.epa.gov/region9/ga/pdfs/finalgaappver9.pdf
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Table of Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION .2
2.0 SCOPE 3
3.0 REQUIRED QAPP ELEMENTS 3
4.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
5.0 QAIP REVIEW AND APPROVAL
6.0 IMPLEMENTATION OF APPROVED QAPP 7
7.0 REVISION AND MODIFICATION OF APPROVED QAPP 7
8.0 QAPP ARCHIVAL - 8
9.0 REFERENCES 9
EPA New England QAPP Program Guidance
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EPA NEW ENGLAND
QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN PROGRAM GUIDANCE
1.0 INTRODUCTION
A quality assurance project plan (QAPP) is a required planning document that provides a
“blueprint” for obtaining the type, quantity and quality of data needed to support environmentai
decision making. The QAPP documents all quality assurance (QA), quality control (QC) and
technical activities and procedures associated with planning, implementing and assessing
environmental data operations, Figure 1.
Figure 1. Life Cycle of an Environmental Data Operation
EPA New England (EPA NE) recognizes the following two types of QAPPs:
1. “Project-specific QAPPs” provide a QA blueprint specific to one project or task. Proj ect-
specific QAPPs are used when projects are limited in scope and time and, in general, can
be considered the sampling and analysis plan/workplan for the project.
2. “Generic program QAPPs” provide an overarching plan that describes a program’s quality
objectives and document the comprehensive set of sampling, analysis, QA/QC, data
review, and assessment procedures specific to one program or group. In contrast to the
project-specific QAPP, the generic program QAPP serves as an umbrella under which
multiple project-specific tasks may be conducted over an extended period of time. Project
or task-specific infonnation, not covered by the umbrella, is documented in detailed
sampling and analysis plans/workplans, which use the generic program QAPP as an
informational reference.
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EPA Order 5360.1 A2 requires that a QAPP be prepared and approved for all environmental data
operations performed by or for EPA prior to the initiation of those data operations. In addition to
the QAPP requirement, this Order mandates that quality systems be in place to support the
development, review, approval, implementation and assessment of data operations and to ensure
that environmental technologies are designed, constructed, and operated according to defmed
expectations. EPA NE designates those organizations performing work for or on behalf of EPA as
“Lead Organizations.” Lead Organizations include organizations performing work under financial
assistance agreements and in response to voluntary, consentual or unilateral enforcement
agreements, decrees and orders. Lead Organizations are required to develop, operate and
document their quality system in quality management plans (QMPs) to ensure that environmental
data collected and used by the Agency are of known and documented quality and are suitable for
their intended use.
Guidance for developing quality systems is provided in Quality Systems for Environmental Data
and Technology Programs - Requirements with Guidance for Use, American National Standard,
(ANSJ/ASQ E4 - 2004) February 2004; EPA Requirements for Quality Management Plans, EPA
QA/R-2, March 2001; and EPA Quality Manual for Environmental Programs, 5360 Al, May 5,
2000.
2.0 SCOPE
The EPA New England Quality Assurance Project Plan Program Guidance (hereafter referred to
as the EPA NE QAPP Program) is based on Agency requirements as outlined in EPA
Requirements for Quality Assurance Project Plans, EPA QA/R-5, March, 2001. The EPA NE
QAPP Program provides the framework for all project-specific and generic program QAPPs. It is
a companion guidance to other documents written by the EPA NE Quality Assurance Unit which
are available at http://epa.gov/ne/lab/qa/qualsys.html. These documents form the basis of the EPA
NE quality system that supports the generation, collection and use of scientifically defensible data.
Program-specific QAPP guidance documents, listed on page ii, should be used when so directed by
the environmental program office. General QAPP guidance is provided in EPA Guidance for
Quality Assurance Project Plans, EPA QA/G-5.
Since the content and level of detail in individual QAPPs will vary according to the work being
performed and the intended use of the data, EPA NE supports a “graded approach” when preparing
QAPPs. In other words, the amount of documentation and level of detail will vary based upon the
complexity and cost of the project. Appropriate consideration should be given to the significance
of the environmental problem to be investigated, the environmental decision to be made, and the
impact on human health and the environment.
3.0 REQUIRED QAPP ELEMENTS
In accordance with EPA QA/R-5, there are four basic element groups that must be addressed in a
QAPP, as depicted in Figure 2. In order to piece these interrelated element groups together to
meet project objectives, a systematic planning process, similar to the one outlined in Figure 3,
should be used to determine project tasks and to select technical and QAIQC activities.
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rrojeci ivianagemeni anu uojecnves
This element group details the oversight
activities that will be conducted to ensure proper
implementation of the project plan. It also
describes the assessments that will be conducted
to identify and correct problems and describes
minimum requirements for QA Reports to
management and Final Project Reports.
This element group provides the purpose and
background of the project and describes the project
quality objectives. It also identifies the roles and
responsibilities of project personnel, describes
communication procedures, and details the proposed
project schedule.
Figure 2. Required QAPP Element Groups
Specific requirements for each element group are detailed in program-specific QAPP guidance
documents listed on page ii. If some or all of the required QAPP elements are incorporated into
other planning documents (i.e., Sampling and Analysis Plans [ SAPs], Field Sampling Plans
[ FSPs], Field Operations Plans [ FOPs], Project Operations Plans [ POPs] or general Project
Workplans [ WPs]), then a cross-reference table should be provided to identify where the required
QAPP elements are located. The referenced SAP, FSP, etc., should be identified with the
document title, date, section number, and page numbers.
EPA New England QAPP Program Guidance
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Data Validation and Usabifity
This element group details the review activities
that will be performed to ensure that the
collected data are scientifically defensible, of
known quality, and can support project
objectives. All el?vironmental data collected by
or for EPA NE must be reviewed and the
limitations of those data determined prior to use.
\l easurement/Data Acquisition
This element group describes the design and
implementation of all measurement systems that will
be used to collect data. It details sampling, data
generation and documentation procedures. All quality
control samples, including their frequency
requirements, acceptance criteria, and corrective
action procedures, associated with methods/procedures
are documented. In addition, when previously
collected data will be used, the acceptance criteria for
those “secondary” data are described.
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4.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Lead Organization
The Lead Organization is responsible and accountable for all phases of the project. The Lead
Organization may perform the project work directly or contract for field sampling, analytical, data
validation, data usability assessment, and oversight assessment services.
The Lead Organization is responsible for ensuring that there is an approved QAPP in place prior to
beginning any environmental data operation. Also, the Lead Organization is responsible for
ensuring that organization personnel, contractors and/or subcontractors perform project work as
prescribed in the approved QAPP. To that end, Lead Organizations should plan and conduct
oversight assessments, such as technical system audits (TSAs), of project activities.
Lead Organizations may include the following:
• EPANE
• Other Federal agencies under interagency agreements, Federal facility agreem nts, and
memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with EPA NE
• States, tribes and local governments under fmancial assistance agreements with EPA,
including grants and cooperative agreements
• Non-profit organizations under fmancial assistance agreements with EPA NE, including
institutions of higher education, hospitals, volunteer organizations, and interstate associations
• Regulated facilities (e.g., potentially responsible parties) under voluntary or enforcement
consent decrees, agreements and orders with EPA NE
Project Manager
The project manager is responsible for directing, coordinating, and overseeing all project activities
for the Lead Organization. He/she is responsible for submitting the QAPP, QAPP amendments,
revisions and annual review letters to appropriate personnel, with sufficient lead time, for review
and approval. QAPPs should be submitted to EPA NE for review and approval no less than 30
days in advance of the scheduled environmental data operation. The project manager ensures that
all technical issues identified during QA review are satisfactorily addressed and documented prior
to beginning of field work. Refer to Figure 4 for an outline of the QAPP development process.
Project Team
The project manager assembles a project team consisting of technical personnel including data
generators, QA scientists, and data users to plan the project. The size of the project team should
reflect the complexity of the project. For example, small volunteer monitoring projects may have
project teams comprised of only two or three people.
Planning (scoping) meetings are convened to identify the project objectives; enviromnental
decisions that will be made with the collected data; project action limits; type and quantity of data;
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and how “good” the data must be (the data quality) to support the decisions that will be made. The
project team defines the quality of the data by setting acceptability limits for the project, otherwise
known as measurement performance criteria. Once the measurement performance criteria have
been decided upon, the project team can select sampling and analytical methods that have
appropriate quantitation limits and quality control limits to achieve project objectives.
The project team is responsible for compiling project information as defined in the program-
specific QAPP guidance (page ii) and for resolving all technical issues prior to the preparation of
the QAPP document. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the project team, and not the
QAPP preparer alone, to design a QA “blueprint” that meets project objectives.
The QAPP should be written by members of the project team experienced in many aspects of
environmental science including chemistry, engineering, hydrogeology and risk assessment. In
addition, they should be familiar with the sample collection procedures, analytical methods and
data review and assessment procedures that will be used for the project.
Project Personnel
An organizational chart, or detailed discussion, should clearly indicate the reporting relationships
between EPA NE and project personnel, including contractors and subcontractors. All project
personnel are responsible for reading and understanding the QAPP before beginning field work,
and for implementing the QAPP as prescribed.
EPA NE QA Unit
The EPA NE QA Unit is responsible for reviewing and approving all intramural and extramural
QAPPs, except in the case where the review and approval authority has been delegated by the EPA
NE regional quality assurance manager (RQAM) in accordance with Section 5.2.
Members of the QA Unit are available to provide assistance and QA/QC guidance during the
planning and implementation of environmental projects. In addition, they perform technical
system audits and data review activities.
The QA Unit is also responsible for identifying the QA/QC training needs for the region, including
project planning and QAPP training, and for conducting assessments of environmental programs.
5.0 QAPP REVIEW AND APPROVAL
5.1 Internal Review and Approval
The Lead Organization is responsible for ensuring that the QAPP includes all required QAPP
elements and information and that project quality objectives (PQOs), technical activities and
supporting QA/QC will result in data of known and documented quality that can be used in
environmental decision making. To that end, the Lead Organization should review the QAPP and
require that all project personnel, contractors, and subcontractors review applicable sections of the
QAPP to ensure technical accuracy prior to submitting the QAPP to EPA NE for approval.
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5.2 EPA NE Review and Approval
As specified in EPA Order 5360.1 A2, EPA NE must review and approve all intramural and
extramural QAPPs before environmental data operations can begin. To that end, a technical
review is performed by the QA Unit and the project officer/project manager to ensure that project
quality objectives, technical tasks, and supporting QA/QC activities will result in data of known
and documented quality that can be used in making environmental decisions. All comments
provided by EPA NE must be acceptably addressed in writing before environmental data
operations can begin. The response document (either a revised QAPP or letter responding to
specific deficiencies) should provide identifying information, as it is presented on the “title and
approval page” of the original QAPP.
In accordance with the QA Order, the RQAM has delegated QAPP approval authority to the
Superfluid and RCRA Corrective Action Programs within EPA NE, as described in Appendix 12
of the EPA NE QMP. As a condition of this delegated authority, the program is required to
provide to the QA Unit a copy of the “title and approval page” for each approved QAPP.
The RQAM may also delegate QAPP approval authority to non-EPA organizations in conjunction
with the EPA NE environmental program(s). Delegation of this approval authority is contingent
upon having an EPA-approved QMP and an effectively implemented quality system.
6.0 IMPLEMENTATION OF APPROVED QAPP
The approved QAPP must be implemented as prescribed; however, the QAPP may be modified at
any time after undergoing the proper approval process, to ensure project objectives are met.
7.0 REVISION AND MODIFICATION OF APPROVED QAPP
QAPPs are approved for a fixed period of time specific to the environmental data operation. They
must be kept current and revised whenever necessary and when so directed by EPA NE or national
program office.
7.1 Modification of Approved QAPP
When procedures or project activities need to be modified to achieve project quality objectives, the
QAPP must be amended (e.g., change of sampling locations, methods, matrices, QC samples).
This amendment must be reviewed and approved in the same manner as the original QAPP. The
amendment should contain complete identifying information, as presented on the original QAPP
title and approval page, with updated signatures and dates. Amendments should be approved
before changes are implemented.
Verbal approval of modifications may be obtained to expedite project work. Descriptions of
modifications and verbal approvals must be documented in telephone logs or emails which are
retained in the project file. Subsequently, this verbally approved modification must be
documented in an amendment to the QAPP and submitted to EPA NE within seven working days,
or on a mutually agreed upon date, for formal signature approval.
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Note that when “minor” changes are made to a QAPP (e.g., extending the monitoring period,
adding a sampling station), approved amendments are not required. Instead, EPA should be
notified by email of all changes and a letter documenting the changes or revised QAPP pages
should be sent as a follow up.
7.2 Annual Review of Approved QAPP
Approved QAPPs must be reviewed annually by the Lead Organization, and this annual review
should be documented in a letter to the EPA NE RQAM. The annual review letter should describe
all changes to the QAPP and/or include revised QAPP pages. If extensive revisions are necessary,
greater than ten pages, then a revised QAPP document should be submitted.
8.0 QAPP ARCHIVAL
All QAPPs, reviewers’ comments, and responses to reviewers’ comments (revised QAPPs, QAPP
amendments, and response letters addressing specific issues) must be archived in the appropriate
project/program file according to the procedures specified by the Lead Organization in the QAPP
and/or their QMP.
Project files must be retained for the period of time specified in the interagency agreement, MOU,
cooperative agreement, financial assistance agreement, contract, or voluntary or enforcement
consent decree, agreement or order.
EPA NE retains the authority to request project/program files for any extramural project/program
during the period of performance of the extramural agreement.
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9.0 REFERENCES
1. Quality Systems for Environmental Data and Technology Programs - Requirements with
Guidance for Use, American National Standard, (ANSI/A SQ E4 -2004), February 2004
2. EPA Requirements for Quality Management Plans, March 2001, (EPA QA/R-2)
EPA/240/B-0 1/002, http://www.epa.gov/guality/QS-docs/r2-final.pdf
3 Overview of the EPA Quality System for Environmental Data and Technology, November
2002, EPA/240/R-02/003, http://www.epa.gov/guality/gs-docs/overview-final.pdf
4. March 2, 1999 Memorandum From Norine E. Noonan (AA) to Assistant Administrators
and Regional Administrators Re: Clarification of Terminology for the EPA Quality System
with attachments
5. EPA Requirements for Quality Assurance Project Plans, March 2001, (EPA QA/R-5),
EPA/240/B-0 1/003, http://www.epa.gov/guality/cis-docs/r5-final.pdf
6. EPA Guidance for Quality Assurance Project Plans, December 2002, (EPA QA/G-5),
EPA/240/R-02/009, htt1,://www.eDa.gov/Qua1ity/ps-docs/g5-fmal. ,df
7 Guidance for the Data Quality Objective Process, EPA/600/R-98/0l 8, February 1998,
(EPA QA/G-4), EPA/600/R-96/055, http://www.epa.gov/guality/gs-docs/g4-final .pdf
8. EPA New England Quality Management Plan, May 5, 2005
httD://epa.gov/ne/lab/qalgualsys.htm l
9. Region 1, EPA-NE Data Validation Functional Guidelines for Evaluating Environmental
Analyses, December 1996, http://epa.gov/ne/lab/Qa/ciua lsys.html
10. Region 1, EPA NE Assessment Program, February 2002.
11. Guidance for the Preparation of Standard Operating Procedures for Quality-Related
Operations, November 1995, (EPA QA/G-6), EPA/600/R-96/027,
httD://www .epa .gov/Quality/gs-docs/g6 -final .pdf
12. Guidance for Data Quality Assessment: Practical Methods for Data Analysis, July 2000
(EPA QA/G-9), EPA/600/R-96/084, http://www.epa.gov/ciuality/gs-docs/g9 -fina l .pdf
13. National Enforcement Investigations Center (NEIC) Policies and Procedures,
EPA-330/9-78-00l-R, May 1978, Rev. December 1981 NTIS: 1-800-553-6847
14. Implementation of Quality Assurance Requirements for Organizations Receiving EPA
Financial Assistance http://www.epa.gov/ogd/ga.htm
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Figure 3. EPA NE Systematic Planning Process
Identify Lead Orgaii,zatmn, Approval
Autlionty, and Prejeet Trim
Identify Project Organization and Responsibilities
include project management, data users, data generators, QA
personnel, QAPP prcparers, and stakeholders
Schedule and Convene Planning Meetings
I
Derine Environmental Problem
Research site history and background
Identify secondary data sources (acquired data) and limitations
- Identify environmental decisions that need tobe made
Identify questions that need to be answered to make environmental decisions
- Determine if formal DQO process (EPA QA/G4) is needed for critical decision-making
Identtfy data users’ needs
- Develop ‘ illthcn ’ Statements that link data results to possible actions
I
Develop Project Schedule
- Identify resource and/or time limitations
- Identify regulatory requirements and/or restnctionn
Identify seasonal aampling restrictions
Dctennine “Type” of Data Needed
Identify target analyten/contaminanls ofconcem and
concentration levels
Select analytical parameters/groups
Determine appropristoness of field screening, on-ate
analytical and/or off-site fixed laboratory techniques
- Evaluate appropriateness of sampling techniques
Project Quality
Objectives Determine “Quality” of Data Needed
Establish prtqect sampling/analytical messurentent
performance criteria (MPC) for precision, accuracy/bias,
sensitivity (quantitation Iimitu), comparability.
e nscntativcncss and completeness
—
Determine “Quantity” of Data Needed
- Determine the number of samples needed for each analytical

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I
Devehip Sasipling Design Rationale
•Selcos sampling lecitens tare mamnitul mancits
I
Deteradire Sampling Requirements
Sekcl Sampluig SOPs That Have Documented
QC Lm.mts Suppouling the MFCa
(j Ddcrsune frequency and type of sampling QC
checku and namptes
• Dstensune required held documentation
• Datamine review procnmbn’es
Oblain aervlceu
of Field
Sampling Group
Develop Aaalytlcal Requirements
I — I
Select On-nile Analytical Methods/SOPs That
Have Documented QC LimUs Supporting the
MPC
- Detremunc frequency and type of on-site
analytical QC checks nod samples
- Drtamine required data rqiontieg format
- Detninine data review procedures
Seleet Off-site Pined Laboratory
Melhsd,/SOPi Thai Have Decusnented QC
Limits Supporting he MPC
- Detaistinc frequency and type of laboratory QC
diecka and samples
- Deternane required data repnmtmg format
- Determine data reviews
N
Determine Quality Assurance Assessment, that wfll be
performed and Identify Organizations Perlornthig
Assessments
- Fmdd sampling Tcdimcal Systems Audits (TSAa)
- Os-site and Off-site Fined LabenaiomyTSAs
- Data Assessments
- Split Sampling amid Anulynin Audits
- Pwfotniancc Evaluatioaffestsng Samples
- Quality System Aaacaanieet (QSA)
.L
Decide How Project Data Will Be Evaluated
After Review ts Determine If the Users’ Needs
Have Been Met.
(Data Usability Aaseonment)
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Prepare QAPP and Submit for Approval
Figure 3
continued
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Assign project manager, assemble project team
Schedule and conduct planning meeting
Plan project, determine project objectives and tasks, and select methods
Prepare project-specific or generic QAPP
Perform internal review, and submit QAPP for external approval
Revise QAPP as required
QAPP Approved
Implement Q !’ as written
Amend QAPP as needed, and submit amendments for approval
Review QAPP annually,
Revise QAPP as necessary, when directed by EPA NE or national program office
Archive QAPP in accordance with records retention policy
Figure 4. Life Cycle of a QAPP
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