EPA/530-SW-90-021
REPORT ON
MINIMUM CRITERIA
TO
ASSURE DATA QUALITY
D*c«nb«r 12, 1989
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REPORT ON MINIMUM CRITERIA TO ASSURE DATA »"^T,TTY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
§3fft;ign Page
1..0 INTRODUCTION 1
2..0 QA PROJECT PLAN 3
2.1. DATA QUALITY OBJECTIVES 3
2.2. PROJECT OBJECTIVES 4
2.3. SAMPLE COLLECTION 4
2.4. ANALYSIS AND TESTING 4
2.5. QUALITY CONTROL 4
2.6. PROJECT DOCUMENTATION 5
2.7. ORGANIZATION 5
2.7.1. Performance Evaluation . . . 7
2.7.2. internal Aageagmgnt 7
2.7.3. External Asstagnant 7
2.7.4. On-5ite Evaluation ... 3
2.7.4.1. Field Activities 3
2.7.4.2. Laboratory Activities 9
2.7.5. qa Report 10
3..0 FIELD OPERATIONS 12
3.1. FIELD LOGISTICS 12
3.2. EQUIPMENT/INSTRUMENTATION 13
3.3. OPERATING PROCEDURES 13
3.3.1. Sample Management 14
3-3.2. Reagent/Standard Preparation 14
3.3.3. Decontamination 14
3.3.4. Sample Collection 14
3.3.5. Field Measurements 15
3.3.6. Equipment Calibration And Maintenance ... 15
3.3.7. Corrective Action .... 15
3.3.8. Data Reduction and Validation 16
3.3.9. Reporting 16
3.3.10. Records Management .... 16
3.3.11. Waste Disposal 16
3.4. FIELD QA AND QC REQUIREMENTS 17
3*4.1. Control Samples 17
3.4.2. Acceptance criteria . . 17
3.4.3. Deviations 17
3.4.4. Corrective Action 18
3.4.5. Data Handling 18
3.5. QUALITY ASSURANCE REVIEW 18
3.6. FIELD RECORDS 18
4..0 LABORATORY OPERATIONS 21
4.1. FACILITIES 21
4.2. EQUIPMENT/INSTRUMENTATION 22
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REPORT QW MINIMUM CRITERIA TO ASSURE DATA QUALITY
4.3. OPERATING PROCEDURES 22
4.3.1. ?MPle Management 22
4.3.2. Reaaent/Standard Preparation 23
4.3.3. fianaral Laboratory Techniques 23
4.3.4. Teat Methods 23
4.3.5. Equipment Calibration and Maintenance ... 24
4.3.6.
4.3.7. Corrective Action
4.3.8. Data Reduction and Validation
4.3.9. Reporting 26
4.3.10. Recorfla Management 26
4.3.11. Waste Disposal 26
4.4. LABORATORY QA AND QC PROCEDURES 26
4.4.1. Method Proficiency 26
4.4.2. Control Limits 27
4.4.3. Laboratory Control Procedures 27
4.4.4. Deviations 29
4.4.5. Corrective Action 29
4.4.6. Data Handling 29
4.5. QUALITY ASSURANCE REVIEW 30
4.6. LABORATORY RECORDS 30
5..0 DEFINITIONS 33
6.0 REFERENCES
December 12, 1989
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ffgPOPT Oft WTMYWm TO ASSURE DATA anftr,TTY
Page I
1.0 IMTBOftOCTXO*
It is the goal of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's
(EPA's) quality assurance (QA) program to ensure that all data be
scientifically valid, defensible, and of known precision and
accuracy. The data must be of sufficient known quality to
withstand scientific and legal challenge relative to the use for
which the data are obtained. The QA program is management's tool
for achieving this goal.
For RCRA analyses, the minimum requirements for a QA program
and the associated quality control (QC) procedures are provided in
this chapter. Any QA program which does not meet the minimum
requirements in this chapter must be approved' by the Agency.
Method-specific procedures are incorporated in the individual
methods since the vide variety of sampling and analytical
conditions in the RCRA program sake it impossible for all of the
necessary QC procedures to be applied universally. The data
acquired from QC procedures are used to estimate the quality -f
analytical data, to determine the need for corrective action, and
to interpret results after corrective action procedures are irpla-
mented .
A total prograa to generate data of acceptable quality rust
include both a QA component, which encompasses the management
procedures and controls, as well as an operational day-to-day
component. This chapter defines fundamental elements of sucn a
data collection prograa. Data collection efforts involve:
1. design of a project plan to meet the DQOs;
2. implementation of the project plan; and
3. assessment of the data to determine if the DQOs are -et.
The minimal QC components to be used in the performance ::
sampling and analyses are identified , including the QC infona:;:.-.
«ihich must be documented. Guidance is provided to construct ;a
programs for field and laboratory work conducted in support of t-e
RCRA program.
December 12, 1989
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¦^rmcr QH MINIMUM CRITERIA To DATX OUALTTV
The words "shall", "nay", and "should" ^re used to
reflect the importance placsd on the activities described in this
chapter. The words "must" and "shall" denote activities that are
mandatory for any RCRA-relatad data collection effort. Ths words
"may" and "should" denote activities that, while not aand*t~o?y,
are recommended. certain activities that are recoaaended but not
required in this chapter say, in fact, be necessary to satisfy the
data quality objectives of a specific project, or to satisfy
specific requirements in a facility permit.
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BfrPflPT QW MINIMtTM gPTfyglX TO fljSSTmg DATA OO^f^Ty
Pa
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Paqi 4
RgJQBT OH MINIMUM gglTgnXA TO iaam>f PATA OUALrTV
to the initiation o£ the field and laboratory work. The field and
laboratory organizations performing the work: should b« a war a of the
DQOs so that their parsonnal aay make informed daeisions during the
coursa of tha projact to attain thosa DQOs. Mora datatied
information on OQOs is availabla from tha Quality Assurance
Management Staff (QAKS).
2.2 PROJECT OBJECTIVES
A statement of tha projact objactivaa and hov tha objectives
ara to ba attained shall be concisely stated and sufficiently
detailed to permit clear understanding by all parties involved in
the data collection effort. This includes a stateaent of what
problem is to ba solved and tha inforaation Required in the
process. It also includes appropriate stataaants of tha OQOs
(i.e., tha acceptable level of uncertainty in tha information).
2.3 SAMPLE COLLECTION
Sampling procedures, locations, equipment, and sample
preservation and handling requirements shall ba specified. Further
details an the procedures for field operations ara described in
Section 3 of this chapter.
2.4 ANALYSIS AND TESTING
Analytical and tasting procedures to b« employed,, analyses
and properties of concern, required detection limits, and required
precision and bias shall be specified. Regulatory requirements and
OQOs shall bm considered when developing the specificaticr.s.
Further details on tha procedures for analytical operations are
described in Section 4 of this chapter.
2.5 QUALITY CONTROL
The quality assurance progran shall address both field and
laboratory activities. Quality control procedures must te
specified for estiaating the precision and bias of the data.
Dscsabsr 12, 1989
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w.. -iflinun I-WITILKIA Tg ^gyPg DATA QtJArj^
gaqa ?
Certain minimum requirements for QC samples have been established
by EPA and muet be adhered to in order to satisfy minirum critaria
for acceptable data quality. Furthar datalis on procaduras for
field and laboratory operations are described in Sactlons 3 and 4
of this chapter.
2.6 PROJECT DOCUMENTATION
Documents shall be prepared and maintained in conjunction virh
the data collection effort. Project documentation shall be
sufficient to allov review of all aspects of tha work being
performed. In addition to tha previously described QAPjP, other
required documentation is addressed in Sections 3 and 4.
The length of storage time for project records shall comply
with regulatory requirements, organizational policy, or project
requirements, whichever is nore stringent. At a minimum,
documentation shall fee stored for three years from submission of
the project final report.
Documentation shall be securely stored in a facility that
adequately addresses/minimizes its deterioration for the length cf
time it is to be retained. A system allowing for the expedient
retrieval of information should exist.
Access to archived information shall be controlled to maintain
the integrity of the data.
All access to archived information should be documented. This
documentation should include the name of the individual, tha date,
the reason for accessing the data, and all changes, deletions, :r
vithdrawals that may have occurred.
2.7 organization
Proper organization is a vary valuable tool for effective
implementation of a quality assurance program, proper design ar.i
structure of the organization facilitates effective and efficient
transfer of information and prevents required procedures from bein
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KEPOttT OW WTMXMDM yq IBBCM PAT* OUALTf^
overb okad. There are many organizational structures that are
suitable and appropriate.
The organisational structure, functional responsibilities,
levels of authority, job descriptions, and lines of communication
for activities ahould be established and documented. while one
person may cover more than one organizational function, the
organization should be structured such that aach member of the
organization has a clear understanding of his or her duties and
responsibilities and the relationship of those responsibilities to
the total effort.
Tha management of tha organization(s) (e.g., waste management
facility, field organization, or laboratory organizations, if
these are separata entities} should estabLish tha organization's
operational and QA policies» This should be docuaented in the
Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPjP) (sea QAMS OOS/80). The
management should ensure that (1} tha appropriata methodologies are
followed as docuaented in tha projsct planar (2) personnel clearly
understand their duties and responsibilities; (3) each staff member
has access to appropriata projsct docuaants; (4) any deviations
from the project plan ars communicated to tha project management
and documented; and (5) communication occurs between the field,
laboratory, and project management, as spacifisd in tha project
plan.
Tha management of tha organisation should establish personnel
qualifications and training requirements for all positions. Each
member of the organisation should have the education, training,
technical knowledge, and experience, or a combination thereof, to
enable that individual to perform assigned functions. Training
should be provided for each staff aeaber as necessary to properly
perform their functions. Personnel qualifications should be
documented in terns of education, experience, and training, and
periodically reviewed to ansurs adequacy to current
responsibilities.
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OFOfWT QM MIMTKOM «lTTl!BTA Tfl AfiSURg DATA
Bw i
The organization should have a designated QA function to
monitor fiald and lab operations to anaura that tha equipment,
personnel, activities, procedures, and documentation ara in
conformance with tha QAPjP. To tha extent possible, the QA
monitoring function should ba entirely separata from, and
independent of, personnel engaged in tha work being monitored.
Tha QA function should ba responsible for tha QA review.
2.7.1 Performance Evaluation
Performance evaluation studies ara used to measure the
performance of tha laboratory on unknown samples. Performance
evaluation samples ara typically submitted to tha laboratory as
blind samples by an independent outside source. Tha results are
compared to predetermined acceptance limits. Performance
evaluation samples can also ba submitted to tha laboratory as part
of tha QA function during internal assessment of laboratory
performance. Records of all performance evaluation studies should
be maintained by the laboratory. Problems identified through
participation in performance evaluation studies should be
immediately investigated and corrected.
2.7.2 internal Aaawmint
Personnel responsible for performing fiald and laboratory
activities ara responsible for continually monitoring individual
compliance with tha QAPjP. Tha QA function should review
procedures, results and calculations to datarmina compliance with
the QAPjP. Tha results of this internal assessment should be
reported to management with requirements for a plan to correct
observed daflciancias.
2.7.3 External Aiitimn*
Tha fiald and laboratory activities may ba reviewed by
personnel external to tha organization. Such an aasassmant is s-
extremely valuable method Cor identifying overlooked problems
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REPORT ON MINIMUM CRITERIA TO n&r* OPALTTy
The results of the external assessment should be submitted to
management with requirements for a plan to correct observed
deficiencies.
2.7.4 Qn-Site Evaluation
On-site evaluations may be conducted as part of both internal
and external assessments. The focus of an on-site evaluation is
to evaluate the degree of conformance of project activities with
the applicable QAPjP. on-site evaluations may include, but aze not
limited to, a complete review of facilities, staff, training,
instrumentation, SOPs, methods, sample collection, analyses, QA
policies, and procedures related to the generation pf environmental
data. Records of each evaluation should include the date of the
evaluation, location, the area# reviewed, the person performing the
evaluation, findings and problems, and actions recommended and
taken to resolve problems. Any problems identified that are likely
to affect data integrity should be immediately brought to the
attention of management.
The review of records should be conducted by one or more
persons knowledgeable in the activities being reviewed, evaluating
at a minimum the following subjects:
2.7.4.1 Fifild Afitlvitill
CQTBPleteneaa of Field Reports — This review determines
whether all requirements for field activities in the project
plan have been fulfilled, that complete records exist for each
field activity, end that the procedures specified in the
project plan have been implemented. Emphasis on field
documentation will help aaeure sample integrity and sufficient
technical information to recreate each field event. The
results of this completeness check should be documented, and
environaantal data affected by incomplete records should be
identified.
Identification of Valid Samolee — This review' involves
interpretation and evaluation of the field records to detect
problems affecting the representativeness of environmental
samples. Examplea of items that might indicate potentially
invalid samples include improper well development, improperly
screened wells, instability of pH or conductivity, and collec-
tion of volatiles near internal combustion engines. The field
December 12, 1989
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REPORT Off WlfllMPH CPTTCTIA TO ASSURE cm QrhT,m
records should be evaluated against the project plan and sops.
The reviewer should document the aaapls validity and identify
the snvironmenta 1 data associated with even poor or incorrect
Correlation of Field Taat — This review involves
comparing any available rasults of fiald maasursnants obtained
by mora than ons method. For example, surface geophysics may
be surveyed using both ground penetrating radar and a
resistivity survey.
ratification of Anonalous Field Taafc Dj>»« — Anomalous field
test data should be identified. For example, a water
temperature for one well that is 5 degrees higher than any
other well temperature in the same aquifer should be noted.
The reviewer should evaluate the impact of anomalous field
measurement results on the associated environmental data.
validation of Field Analyses — All data frota field analysis
that are generated in situ or from a mobile laboratory should
be validated and documented as specified in section 4.7. The
reviewer should document: whether the QC checks meet the
acceptance criteria, and whether corrective actions were taken
for any analysis performed when acceptance criteria were
exceeded.
2.7.4.2 Laboratory Activities
The evaluation of laboratory data should be conducted by one
or Tiore persons knowledgeable in laboratory activities evaluating,
at a minimum, the following subjects:
Coiftplafcenesa of Laboratory Record* — This review determines
whether: (1) all samples and analyses required by the prefect
plan have been processed, (2) complete records exist for eact:
analysis and the associated QC samples, and that (3) tire
procedures specified in project plan and procedures have been
implemented. Ths rasults of ths completeness check should be
documented, and environmental data affected by incomplete
records should be identified.
Evaluate! a* Data yim Rtipict to Dttictign Limits — The
reviewer should compare analytical results to required
detection lisits and document any detection limits that exceed
regulatory limits or action levels, as specified in the qap^p.
Evaluation of Data with Respect to Control Limits — The
reviewer should compare the results of QC and calibration
check samples to control criteria. Data not within control
limits require corrective action, and the reviewer should
December 12, 19*9
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ra" RggQB^ ftli WTWIMPM eait^Tft JQ J&SM data QVXT.TJy
check that corrective action reporta, and the raaulta 0c
rmmnmlymtm, ara available. The reviev ahould determine
whether eaaplea aaaociated vith out-of-control qc data are
identified in a vritten raeord of the data raviav, and vhether
an aaseaaaent of the utility of auch analytical reaulta ia
recorded.
Review at goidino fliw rut-fep — Thi* raviav compares sample
holding timea to thoaa required by thm QAPjP, and notes all
deviations.
aaviaw of PE Reaulta -- PS atudy raaulta can b« helpful in
evaluating tha impact of out-of'Control conditiona. this
raviav ahould document recurring tranda or problems evident
in PB studiaa and avaluataa thair affact on environmental
data.
Correlation of Laboratory Data -- Thie raviav ahould determine
whether tha raaulta of data obtained froa related laboratory
teats, auch aa Purgaabla Organic Kalidaa (POX) and Volatile
Organica, ara documented, and vhathar tha significance of
difference* ia discussed in tha reports.
2.7.5 OA Ranorta
Thara ahould ba pariodic reporting of partinant qa/qc
information to sanagaaent to allov assessment of tha ov«raLL
effectiveness of tha QA program* Thara are thraa major types zt
Qk reports to management:
Periodic Report on Hot OA Activities -- Provide a summary zt
key QA activitiaa during tha period, atraaaing measures :
are Taming taJcan to iaprova data quality; describee significant
quality problaaa ebaarvad and corractiva action* taken,
include* information regarding any change* -
certification/accreditation status? involvaaanta in reeolut.c-
cr quality iaauaa vith ciianta or aganciaa; QA organization*.
changaa* and providaa notice of tha distribution of revisej
dociaiawta controlled by tha QA organization (i.e., procedures.
QAM).
Ranart on Maaaureaanfc Ouelifcv Twdieafeof — Includes — •
aaseaament of QC data gathered over tha period, tha trequerc,
of analyse* repeated due to unacceptable QC performance, in
if poaaible, tha raaaon for tha unacceptable performance >-i
corrective action tafcan.
Reports on QA Aaaaaaaanta — Includaa tha raaulta of "•
asseasmants and tha plan for correcting identic.*:
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BIT PORT ' -? MXHTMPK CTtTTyHTl TQ DATA OPlf Tjy paq« II
difielanclaa? aubnittad iaunadiataly following any int-arn&i cr
a^tarrai on-aita avaluatlon or upon raeaipt. of tha racults of
dny parforaanca evaluation atudiaa.
Oacaabar 12, 1989
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atf MTMTMDW CaiTEfttA TQ ASSfTpff pjLTA QUHLrTy
a.o rziLO omxTxovs
The field operations must: be conducted in such a way as to
provide reliable information that, assts the OQOs. To achiava this,
certain minimal policias and procsduras must be implem«;» : £d.
Supplemental information and guidancs is availabls in the Technical
Enforcement Guidance Document (TEGD). The project documentation
shall contain the information specified below.
3.1 FIELD LOGISTICS
The project plan shall describe the type(s) of field
operations to be performed and the appropriate area(s) in which to
perform the work. The project plan shall addrass ventilation,
protection from extreme weather and temperatures, access to stable
power, and provision for water and gases of required purity.
whenever practical, the sampling site facilities shall be
examined prior to the start of work to ensure that all require
items are availabls. The actual arsa of sampling should ce
examined to ensurs that trucks, drilling equipment, and personnel
have adequate access to the site.
The determination as to whether sample shipping is necessary
should be made during planning for the project. This need is
established by evaluating the analyses required, sample holding
tines, and location of the site and the laboratory. Shipping or
transporting of samples to a laboratory must be done within a
timeframe such that recommended holding times are met.
Samples should be packaged, labelled, preserved (e.g..
preservative added, iced, etc.), and documented in an area v
is free of eontuiiuition and provides for secure storage. The levei
of custody and whether sample storage is required shall be
cut!ined.
Storage areas for solvents, reagents, standards, and reference
materials shall be adequate to preserve their identity,
concentration, purity, and stability prior to use.
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SPPQPT Oft MTNIMUM CT>TTCTIA TO ASSOM DATA QfTiT.T'rv
Paqt 13
Decontamination of sampling equipment may ba done at tha
location wherr. sampling occurs, prior to going to the sampling
site, or in designated areas near tha sampling sita. Project
documentation shall specify whara and hov this work is
accomplished. If decontamination is to be done at the sita, water
and solvents of appropriate purity shall be available. Tha method
of accomplishing decontamination, the materials, solvents, and
water purity shall be specified.
During the sampling process and during on-site or ia situ
analysis, waste materials are sometimes generated. The method for
storage and disposal of these waste materials shall be specified.
Adequate facilities should be provided for the collection and
storage of all wastes, and these facilities should be operated so
as to minimize environmental contamination. Waste storage and
disposal facilities shall comply with applicable Federal, state,
and local regulations.
The location of long-term and short-term storage for field
records, and the measures to ensure the integrity of the data shall
be specified.
3.2 EQUIPMENT/INSTRUMENTATION
The equipment, instrumentation, and supplies at the sampling
site shall be specified and must be appropriate to accomplish the
activities planned. The equipment and instrumentation shall meet
the requirements of pertinent specifications, methods, and sops.
3.3 OPERATING PROCEDURES
The QAPjP shall describe or make reference to all field
activities that may affact data quality. For routinely performed
activities, standard operating procedures (SOPs) are often prepared
to ensure consistency and to save time and affort. in preparing
project plans. Any deviation from an established procedure during
a data collection activity must be documented. The procedures
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REPOBT ON MIMIMDH CMTTOTfc TO PAT* QUAI^Ty
shall oe available for the indicated activities, and shall contain,
at a minimum, the information described below.
3.3.1 Saarola ManaaaMnt
Tha numbering and labeling ayetem, chain-of-custody
procedures, and how tha samples will ba trackad from collection to
shipment or relinquishment to tha laboratory shall ba specified.
Sample management procedures shall also specify tha holding times,
volumes of sample required by the laboratory, required preserva-
tives, and shipping requirements.
3.3.2 Reagent/Standard Pranaration
The procedures describing how to prepare- standards and
reagents shall be specified. Information concerning specific
grades of materials used in reagent and standard preparation,
appropriate glassware and containers for preparation and storage,
and labeling and record keeping for stocks and dilutions shall be
included.
3.3.3 pscqntfliainatifln
The procedures describing decontamination of field equipment
before and during the sample collection process shall be specified.
These procedures shall include cleaning materials used, the order
of washing and rinsing with the cleaning materials, requirements
1 J 2
for protecting or covering cleaned equipment, and procedures for
disposing of cleaning materials.
The procedures describing how the sampling operations are
actually performed in the field shall be specified. A simple
reference to standard methods is not sufficient, unless a procedure
is performed exactly as described in the published method. Methods
from source documents published by the EPA, ASTM, U.S. Department
of the Interior, National water Hell Association, American
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REPORT OH MINIMUM cfijTTTttlA TO AfiStIPE n*Tft nTTArryy
P»<» H
Petroleum Institute,' or other recognized organization* with
appropriate expertise should be used, if possible. The procedures
for sample collection should includa at least tha following:
• Applicability of tha procadura,
• Equipment required,
• Datailad description of procedures to ba followad in
collecting tha samples,
• Common problems ancountarad and corractiva actions to be
followad, and
• Precautions to ba taken.
3.3.5 Field Measurements
Tha procedures describing all methods used in the field to
determine a chemical or physical parameter shall be described in
detail. The procedures shall address criteria from Section 4, as
appropriate.
3.3.6 Equipment Calibration And Maintenance
The procedures describing how to ensure that field equipment:
and instrumentation are in working order shall be specified. These
describe calibration procedures and schedules, maintenance
procedures and schedules, maintenance logs, and service
arrangements for equipment. calibration and maintenance of field
equipment and instrumentation shall be in accordance with
manufacturers' specifications or applicable teat specifications
and shall be documented.
3.3.7 corrtttlYi ftfitian
The procedures describing how to identify and correct
deficiencies in ths sample collection process shall be specified.
These should include specific steps to take in correcting
deficiencies such as performing additional decontamination oi
equipment, resampling, or additional trailing of field personnel.
The procedures shall specify that each corrective action must
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REPORT ON MINIMUM rPTTCTTA TO ASST^y; nftTft ^TMJTY
documented with a description of the deficier.cy, the corrective
action taXen, and ehould include the person(a) responsible for
implementing the corrective action.
3.3.8 Data Reduction and Validating
The procedures describing how to compute results from field
neasurements and to review and validate these data shall be
specified. They shall include all formulas used to calculate
results and procedures used to independently verify that field
measurement results are correct.
3.3.9 Reporting
The procedures describing the process fo* reporting the
results of field activities shall be specified.
3.3.10 Records Management
The procedures describing the means for generating,
controlling# and archiving project-specific records and field
operations records shall be specified. These procedures shall
describe record generation and control and the requirements for
record retention, including type, time, security, and retrieval
and disposal authorities.
Proiact-specific records relate to field vorfc performed for
a project. These records may include correspondence, chain-
of-custody records, field notes, all reports issued as a
result of the worX, and procedures used.
Flttid QT»ratlor>i records document overall field operations
and may include equipment performance and maintenance logs,
personnel files, general field procedures, and corrective
action reports.
3.3.11 Waste Disposal
The procedures describing the methods for disposal of waste
materials resulting froa field operations shall be specified.
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PFPOPT ON MINIMUM rurraiA TO AaaORB n^Tl nn»r|TTT
Faqt 1?
3.4 YIELD OA AND QC REQUIREMENTS
"The QAPjP shall deecribe how the following required elements
of the field QC program shall bs inplemented.
3.4.1 cantrgl Saaplii
Control saaplas ars QC samplea that are introduced into a.
process to monitor the performance of the system. Control samples,
which nay include blanks, duplicates, spikes, analytical standards,
and reference materials, can be used in different phases of the
data collection process beginning with sampling and continuing
through transportation, storage, and analysis.
For each sampling batch, vhen appropriate for the method, at
Least one field duplicate and one equipment rinaate must be
collected. In addition, for each batch, enough volume must be
collected for at least one sample to allow the laboratory to
prepare one matrix spike and either ona matrix duplicate or one
matrix spike duplicate par analytical batch. Additional control
samples may be necessary in order to assure data quality to meet
the project*specific OQOe.
3.4.2 AscflBtftnct criteria
Procedures shall be in place for establishing acceptance
criteria for field activities described in the project plan.
Acceptance criteria may be qualitative or quantitative. Field
events or data that-fall outside of established acceptance criteria
may indicate a problem with the sampling process that should be
investigated*
3.4.3 Deviations
All deviations from plan shall ba documented as to the extent
of, and reason tor, the deviation. Any activity not performed
accordance with procedures or project plana is considered i
deviation from plan. Deviations from plan may or may not affect
data quality.
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REPQgTf QM MIN1MUK CRITERIA TO ASBTffifi n»TA QUAT.rjv
3.4.4 Corrective aafeian
Error*# deficiencies, deviations, certain field eventsr or
data that fail outside established acceptance criteria require
investigation, in some instances, corrective action may be needed
to resolve the problem and restore proper functioning to the
system. The investigation of the problem and any subsequent
corrective action taken shall be documented.
3.4.5 pat* Handling
All field measurement data shall be reduced according to
protocols described or referenced in th« QAPjP. Computer programs
used for data reduction shall be validated before use and verified
on a regular basis. All information used in the calculations shall
be recorded to enable reconstruction of the final result at a later
date.
Data shall be reported in accordance with the requirements of
the end-user as described in the project plan.
3.5 QUALITY ASSURANCE REVIEW
The QA Review consists of internal and external assessments
to ensure that QA/QC procedures are in use and to ensure that field
staff conform to these procedures. The QAPjP shall specify the
requirements for internal, external, and on-site assessment,
including the frequency and documentation of thsss assessments.
1.6 FIELD SSCORDS
Records provide the direct evidence and support for the
necessary technical interpretations, judgmentsr and discussions
concerning project activities. These records, particularly those
that are anticipated to be used as evidentiary data, must directly
support current or ongoing technical studies and activities and
shall provids the historical evidence needed for latsr revievs and
Oscesber 12, 1999
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PgPOPT OM MIHIMtm TO AflSPftg PAT1 rui^jyy
Paq« 19
analyses. IU. lords shall be legible, identifiable, and retrievable
and protectee against damage, deterioration, or loss.
Fiald racords generally eonalat of bound tiald notebooks with
p renumbered pagea, saapla collaction forms, parsonnal qualification
and training forma, saapla location maps, equipment maintanance and
calibration forms, chain-of-custody forms, sanpla analysis raquest
forms, and fiald ehanga request forms. All racords should be
completed with indalibla ink.
Procedures for reviewing, approving, and ravising field
records must ba claarly dafinad, with tha Unas of authority
included. At a minimum, all documantation arrors shall be
corrected by drawing a single lina through tha arror so it remains
legible and shall ba initialed by tha responsible individual, along
with tha data of change. Tha correction is written adjacent to the
error.
Field records shall include (but ara not limited to) the
following:
calibration Rscordi k Iras lability or SUndttgdi/Riwnvs --
Calibration is a reproducible reference point to which all
sample measurements can ba correlated. A sound calibration
program shall include provisions for documantation of
frequency, conditions, standards, and racords reflecting the
calibration history of a measurement system. Tha accuracy of
the calibration standards is important because all data will
be in reference to tha standards usad. A program for
verifying and documenting the accuracy of all working
standards against primary grade standards shall ba routinely
followed.
Sample Col lection — To ensure maximum utility of tha sampling
effort and resulting data, documantation of tha sampling
protocol# as performed in tha fiald, is essential. Sample
collection records shall contain, at a minimum, tha names of
parsons conducting the activity, sample number, sample
location, equipment used, climatic conditions, documantation
of adherence to protocol, and unusual observations. The
actual sample collection record is usually one of the
following: a bound field notebook with prenumbered pages, a
pre-printed form, or digitized information on a computer tape
or disc.
Chain-of"Custody Records -- Chain-of-custody records involving
the possession of samples from the time they are obtained
December 12, 1989
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Pac* 3 0
RgpoftT on immmM airniA to ^ssom naTa orT&r rTv
until they art disposed or shipped off-site shall be
documented as specified in ths OAPjP and should include >ha
following information: (1) ths project name; (2) signatures
of samplers? (3) ths sample number, date and time of
collection, and grab or coapoeite sample designation? (4)
signatures of individuals involvsd in aample transfer; and
(5} if applicable, ths air bill or other shipping number.
Mans and Drawings — Projset planning documents and reports
often contain saps. The saps are used to document the
location of saapls collection points and monitoring wells and
as a means of prsssnting environmental data. Information used
to prspare maps and drawings is normally obtained through
field surveys, property surveys, surveys of monitoring "lis,
aerial photography or photogrammstric mapping. Ths il,
approvsd maps and/or drawings should have a revision r. er
and date and shall be subjset to the same controls as c. ar
project records*
QC Samples -- Documentation for generation of QC samples, such
as field, trip, and equipment rinsats blanks, duplicate
samples, and any field spikes shall be maintained.
Deviations — All deviations from procedural and documents
and the QAPjP shall be recorded in the aits logbook.
Reports — a copy of any report isausd and any support ir.g
documentation shall be retained.
December 12, 1989
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RFPORT OH MIHIMPH CWTTERIA TO ASSPM niTl QtliTrTV
4. o ukSoaasoAY om&TXOM#
The laboratory oust conduct its operations in such a way as
Co provide reliable information. To achieve this, certain minimal
policies and procedures oust be implemented.
4.1 FACILITIES
The project plan shall address all facility-related issues
that may impact project data quality. Each laboratory should be
of suitable size and construction to facilitate the proper conduct
of the analyses. Adequate bench space or working area per analyst
should be provided. The space requirement per analyst depends on
the equipment or apparatus that is being utilized, the number of
samples that the analyst is expected to handle at any one time, and
the number of operations that are to be performed concurrently by
a single analyst. Other issues to be considered include, but are
not limited to, ventilation, lighting, control of dust and drafts,
protection from extreme temperatures, and access to a source of
stable power.
Laboratories should be designed so that there is adequate
separation of functions to ensure that no laboratory activity has
an adverse effect on the analyses. The laboratory may require
specialized facilities such as a perchloric acid hood or glovebox.
Separate space for laboratory operations and appropriate
ancillary support should be provided, as needed, for the
performance of routine and specialized procedures.
As necessary to ensure secure storage and pravent
contamination or aisidentification, there should be adequate
facilities for receipt and storage of samples. The level of
custody required and any special requirements for storage such as
refrigeration and lighting should be described in planning
documents.
December 12, 1989
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Fag* 22
RgPQPT ON tfTHIMPH CBITCTIA p^STra* PXTA QU&r TTy
Storafl* areas for reagents, solvents, standarde, and reference
material* should b* adequate to preserve their identity,
concentration, purity, and.
Adaquata facilities ahouid ba providad for tha eollaction and
storage of all wastes, and these faeilitiaa ahouid ba operated so
as to niniaiza environmental contamination. Waste storage and
disposal faeilitiaa ahall comply with applicable Federal, state,
and local regulations.
Tha location of long-tans and short-tarn storaga of laboratory
records and tha measures to ensure tha intagrity of tha data shall
be specified.
4.2 EQUIPMENT/INSTRUMENTATION
Equipaant and instruasntation ahall neat th# requireaents and
specification of tha specific taat aethods and other SOPa. Tha
laboratory ahouid aa intain an aquipaent/instruaenc daacription list
that includes tha aanufacturer, nodal nuabar, year of purchase,
accessories, and any aodifications, updataa, or upgrades that have
been made.
4.3 OPERATING PROCEDURES
The QAP^P shall describe or aake rafaranca to all laboratory
activities that aay affect data quality. For routinely performed
activities, standard operating procedures (SOPs) ara oftan prepared
-O ensure consistency and to sava tiae and effort in preparing
project plana* Any deflation from an established procedure during
a data collection activity aust be docuaented. Tha procedures
shall be available for the indicated activities, and ahall contain,
at a rainiaua, the information described belov,
4.3.1 SftfflBit ttanwiaiirt
The procedures describing tha receipt, handling, scheduling,
and storage of saaplss shall be specified.
Sample Receipt and Handling -- Thaaa proceduras deacriba the
pracautions to be used in opening saapla shipaent containers
Deceaber 12, 1989
-------
CRTTTPrA TO ASSPRg QfcTX QtT^T T^V
JPagt 23
and hov to verify that chain-of-custody has been maintained,
examine samples for damage, check for proper . ^ wrvatives
and temperature, and log samples into tha labo< at ->ry sample
Streams.
g»mole Scheduling — These procedures describe the sample
scheduling in tha laboratory, which includes procedures used
to ensuring that holding time requirements are mat.
Sample Storage — These procedures describe tha storage
conditions for all samples, verification and documentation of
daily storage temperature, and how to ansura that custody of
the samples is maintainsd while in tha laboratory.
4.3.2 Haaaant/Standard Preparation
The procedures describing how to prepare standards and
reagents shall ba specified. Information concerning specific
grades of materials used in reagsnt and standard preparation,
appropriate glassware and containers for preparation and storage,
and labeling and recordkeeping for stocks and dilutions shall be
included.
4.3.3 General Laboratory Techniques
The procedures describing all sssentials of laboratory
operations that are not addressed elsewhere shall be specified.
These techni<(ues shall include, but are not limited to, glassware
cleaning procedures, operation of analytical balances, pipetting
techniques, and use of volumetric glassware.
4.3.4 Taafc Methodm
Procedures for test methods describing how the analysis is
actually performed in tha laboratory and not a simple reference to
standard methods, unlearn the analysis is performed exactly as des-
cribed in the published method, shall be specified. whenever
methods from SW-846 are not appropriate, recognised methods from
December 12, 1989
-------
Paqi 24
sourc# doements published by the CPA, AMrxean Public Health
Association (APKA), American Society for Tasting and Materials
(ASTM), the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH), or other recognized organisations with appropriate
expertise should be used, if possible. The procedures for
analytical methods should include the following:
Sample Preparation and Analysis Procedure* — These include
applicable holding tins, extraction, digestion, or preparation
steps as appropriate to the method; procedures for determining
the appropriate dilution to analyze; and any other information
required to perform the analysis accurately and consistently.
Instrument Standardization — This includes concentration and
frequency of analysis of calibration standards, linear range
of the method, and calibration acceptance criteria.
Sample Data « This includes recording requirements and
docunentation including sanple identification muaber, analyst,
data verification analyst, date of analysis and verification,
and computational method(s).
Detection and Reporting Limits — This includes all analytes
in the method.
Tast-Specific oc — This describes QC activities applicable
to the specific test and references any applicable QC
procedures.
4.3.5 Eemlnmfff iteration and Maintenance
The procedures describing how to ensure that laboratory
equipment and instrumentation are in working order shai:,
presented. These procedures include calibration procedures and
schedules, maintenance procedures and schedules, maintenance logs,
service arrangements for all equipment, and spare parts available
in-house. Calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment and
instrumentation shall be in accordance with manufacturers'
specifications or applicable test specifications and shall be
documented.
December 12, 1989
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erpflPT ow tmmwm ^jyntix to xasm data «rM,TTY
Pao*
4.3.6 Q£
The type, purpose, and frequency"of QC samples to b« analyzed
in the laboratory and the acceptance criteria shall be specified,
information should include the applicability of tha QC sample to
tha analytical process, tha statistical treatment of tha data, and
the responsibility of laboratory staff and management in generating
and using tha data. Further detail* on development of project-
specific QC protocols are described in Section 4.4.
4.3.7 Corrective Action
Tha procedures describing how to idantify and correct
deficiencies in tha analytical procass shall b« specified. These
should includa specific steps to take in -correcting the
deficiencies such as preparation of nev standards and reagents,
racaliteration and restandardization of equipment, reanalysis of
samples, or additional training of laboratory personnel in methods
and procedures. The procedures shall specify that each corrective
action must be docuaented with a description of the deficiency, the
corrective action taken, and the person (a) responsible far
implementing the corrective action.
4.3.3 Data Reduction and Validation
The procedures describing how to reviev and validate the data
shall be specified. They shall include procedures for computing
and interpreting the results froa QC saaples, and independent
procedures to verify that the analytical results are reported
correctly. Zn addition, routine procedurss used to monitor
precision and bias, including evaluations of reagent, field, and
trip blanks, calibration standards, control saaples, duplicate and
matrix spike saaples, and surrogate recovery, should be detailed
in the procedures. The bias deternined froa the aatrix spike
information shall be used to correct the measured values. Details
on the calculations are provided in the glossary under the
definition of bias.
December 12, 1989
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qM W1HIMCK CRITSftTA TO ASStTBE OATA QtrAr tTy
4.3.9 OBQrtlny
The procedures describing the process for reporting the
analytical results shall b« specified.
4.3.10 Baeords Management
The procedures describing the means for generating,
controlling, and archiving laboratory record* shall be specified.
The procedures shall detail record generation and control, and trie
requirements for record retention, including type, time, security,
ar.d retrieval and disposal authorities.
Pro iact-apacifte records nay include correspondence, chain-
of^custody records, request for analysis, calibration data
records, raw and finished analytical and QC data, data
reports, and procedures used.
Laboratory operations records may include laboratory
notebooks, instrument performance logs and maintenance logs
in bound notebooks with prenusbered pages; laboratory
benchshsets; software documentation; control charts; reference
material certification; personnel files; laboratory
procedures; and corrective action reports.
-;.3.n wasttt piapqaal
The procedures describing the methods for disposal of
chemicals including standard and reagent solutions, process waste,
and samples shall be specified.
4.4 LABORATORY QA AMD QC PROCEDURES
The QAPjP shall describe how the following required elements
of the laboratory QC program shall be implemented.
4.4.i ttflthrt PragjgitncY
The laboratory shall have procedures for demonstrating
proficiency with each analytical method routinely used in the
laboratory. These shsll include procedures for demonstrating the
December 12, 1989
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»-*nwn.
cn TTirtt r a m ksstrftg data nrrflr.fY
*a«e 37
precision and bias of the method as perfon-td by the laboratory
and procedures for determining the method dc.action limit
(MOL). All terminology, procedures and freguency of determinations
associated with the laboratory^ establishment of the MDL and the
reporting limit shall ba wall-definad and well-documented.
Documented precision, bias, and MDL information shall be maintained
for all methods performed in tha laboratory.
4.4.2 control Limif
Procedures shall be in place for establishing and updating
control limits for analysis* Control limits shall ba established
to evaluate laboratory precision and bias based on the analysis of
control samples. Typically, control limits for bias are based on
the historical mean recovery plus or minus three standard deviation
units, and control limits for precision rang# from zero (no
difference between duplicate control samples) to the historical
mean relative percent difference plus three standard deviation
units. Procedures shall be in place for monitoring historical
performance and should include graphical (control charts) and/or
tabular presentations of tha data.
4.4.3 Labomarf Control Progeria
The laboratory shall have procedures for demonstrating that
the laboratory is in control during each data collection activity.
Laboratory Control SarelU — Laboratory control samples
shall be^analyied for each analytical method when appropriate
for th* msthod. A laboratory control sample consists of a
control matrix, spiked with analytes repressntative of the
targe* analytes, or a certified reference material.
Laboratory control sample(s) shall b« analysed with sach batch
of saartes processed to verify tha precision and bias of the
analytical process. Tha results of tha laboratory control
sample(s) arc compared to control limits established for both
precision and bias to determine usability of tha data.
Analytical data generated with laboratory control samples that
fall within prascribad limits ara judged to be generated while
tha laboratory was in control. Data generated with laboratory
control samples that fall outside the est&blished control
limits ara judged to be generated during an "out-of-control
December 12, 1989
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pmi aa
.REPORT Qtf MXlflKPK
-------
rr pnKT aw Hiffimm rprran tq assum ^ftTlTTY
Piqi 29
4.4.4 QfVlltlflni
Any activity not performed in accordance viti* laboratory
procedures or project plans is considered a deviation from plan.
All deviations from plan shall be documented as to the extent of,
and reason for, the deviation.
4.4.5 Correctly Action
Errors, deficiencies, deviations, or laboratory events or data
that fall outside of established acceptance criteria require
investigation. In some instances, corrective action may be needed
to resolve the problem and restore proper functioning to the
analytical system. The investigation of the problem and any
subsequent corrective action taken shall be documented.
4.4.6 Deta Handling
Data resulting from the analyses of samples shall be reduced
according to protocols described in the laboratory procedures.
Computer programs used for data reduction shall be validated before
use and verified on a regular basis. Ail information used in the
calculations shall be recorded in order to enable reconstruction
of the final result at a later date. This information may include
veight or volume of sample used, percent dry weight for solids,
extract volume, dilution factor used, and blank- or background-
correction protocols followed.
All date should be reviewed by a second analyst or supervisor
according to laboratory procedures to ensure that calculations are
correct and to detect transcription errors. Spot checks should be
performed on computer calculations to verify program validity.
Errors detected in the review process should be referred to the
analyst(s) for corrective action. Data should be reported in
accordance with the requirements of the end-user. The supporting
documentation shall include as a minimus:
* Laboratory name and address.
December 12, 1989
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Pflge 3Q.
£gPQRT QW MTWTHPM CRITERIA TO AastTBW data OUALTtv
• Sampin information (including unique sample identification,
sample collection date and time, data of sample receipt, and
date(a) of sample preparation and analyaia).
• Analytical results reported with appropriate significant
figures.
• Detection limits that reflect dilutions, interferences, or
correction Cor equivalent dry weight.
• Method reference.
• Appropriate QC results.
• Data qualifiers with appropriate references and narrative on
the quality of the results.
4.3 QUALITY ASSURANCE REVIEW
The QA review consists of internal and external assessments
to ensure that Qk/QC procedures are in use and to ensure that
Laboratory staff conform to these procedures. The QAPjP shall
specify the requirements for internal, external, and on-site
assessment, including the frequency and documentation of these
assessments.
4.6 LABORATORY RECORDS
Records provide the direct evidence and support for t.'-.e
necessary technical interpretations, judgements, and discussions
concerning project activities. These records, particularly those
that are anticipated to be used as evidentiary data, must direct!/
support technical studies and activities, and provide tr*.e
historical evidence needed for latar reviews and analyses. Records
shall be legible, identifiable, and retrievable, and protected
against damage, deteriorations, or loes.
Laboratory records generally consist of bound notebooks wit-
prenumbered pages, sample collection forma, personnel qualificat:r-
and training forms, sample location maps, equipment maintenance :
calibration forms, chain-of-custody forma, sample analysis request
December 12, 1989
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REPORT OK MINIMUM CPTTgBTl TO iSSURg Q1T1. ™iftT|TTY
Paqi 31
forms, and analytical- change request forms. All records should be
completed with indalibla Ink.
Procaduraa tor ravlaving, approving, and raviaing laboratory
record* oust be claarly dafinad, with tha Unas of authority
included. As a minimum, all documentation errors shall be
corrected by drawing a singla lina through tha arror so it remains
legible and shall be initialed by the responsible individual, along
with the date of change. The correction is written adjacent to the
error.
Strip-chart recorder printouts should be signed by the person
who performed the instrumental analysis. If corrections need to
be made in computerized data, a system parallel to the corrections
for handwritten data should be in place.
Records of sample management should be available to permit
the re-creation of an analytical event for review in the case of
an audit or investigation of a dubious result.
Laboratory records shall include, but are not limited to, the
following:
Operating Procaduraa — Procedures should be available to
those performing the task outlined. Any revisions to
laboratory procedures shall be written and distributed to all
affected individuals to ensure implementation of changes.
Areas covered by operating procedures are given in Section 3.5
and 4.5.
Quality Assurance Plana — The QAPjP Shall be on file.
Equipment Maintenance Documentation — A history of the
maintenance record of each system serves as an indication of
the adequacy of maintenance schedules and parts inventory,
when maintenance is necessary, it shall be documented in
either standard forma or in logbooks. Maintenance procedures
shall be clearly defined and written for each measurement
systea and required support equipment.
Proficiency — Proficiency information on all compounds
reported shall be maintained and shall include (1) precision;
(2) bias; (3) method detection limits; (4) spike recovery,
where applicable; (5) surrogate recovery, where applicable;
(6) checks on reagent purity, where applicable; and (7) checks
on glassware cleanliness, where applicable.
December 12, 1989
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Pag* 33 REPORT OH WTNIMUM CaiTgPT^ 70 ASSURE DATA QUATLTTV
calibration ttecords S Traceabllitv at «»flnderds/Haaq«n*» —
calibration ia a reproducible reference point to which all
sample measurements can b« eorralatad. a sound calibration
program shall includ« provisions tor documentation of
frequency, conditions, standards, and raeords reflecting the
calibration history of a measurement system. The accuracy of
the calibration standards is important because all data win
be in reference to tha standards used. A program for
verifying and documenting tha accuracy of all working
standards against primary grada standards shall be routinely
followed.
sample Management — All raquired records pertaining to sample
management shall ba maintained and updated regularly. These
includa chain-of-custody forms, saapla receipt forms, and
sample disposition records.
Original Data — Tha raw data and calculated rasults for all
samples shall be maintained in laboratory notebooks, logs,
benchsheets, files or other saapla tracking or data antry
forms. Instrumental output should ba stored in a computer
file or a hardcopy report.
qc Data — Tha raw data and calculatad rasults for all QC and
field samples and standards shall ba maintained in tha manner
described in the preceding paragraph. QC samplea include, but
are not liaitad to* control samples, method blanks, matrix
spikes, and matrix spike duplicatas.
gorr*M«ondence — Project correspondence can provide evidence
supporting technical interpratations. Correspondence
pertinent to tha project should ba kept and placed in the
project files.
Deviations — All deviations froa procedural and planning
documants shall ba recorded in laboratory notebooks.
Deviations from project plans are to be reviewed and approved
by the authorised personnel who performed the original
technical review or by their designees.
M A copy of any report issued and any supporting
documentation should be retained.
December 12, 1989
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REPORT OH MINIMUM CRTTgHIA TO ASSttM DATA ^rtftTiTTY
3. 0 DWXaXTXOVC
The following terms are defined for uae in this document:
Accuracy
The closeness of agreement batwaan an obaarvad valua and an
accaptad rafaranca valua. Whan applied to a sat of obaarvad
values, accuracy vill ba a combination of a random component
and of a coaaon systematic arror (or biaa) coaponent.
3atch
A group of saaplaa which bahava similarly with raapact to the
tasting procaduras baing aaployad and which ara procassad as
a unit* Por QC purposes, if tha nuabar of saaplaa in a group
is greater than 20, than aach group of 20 saaples or lass will
all ba handlad as a saparata batch {i.e., for aach batch, one
method blank, ona equipment rinsata, ona aatrix spike, and
either ona aatrix duplicate or ona aatrix apika duplicate vill
be analyzed).
Bias (B)
Tha deviation of tha aeaaured valua (x,) froa an accepted
reference valua (T) or a known apikad aaount (K). Bias can
ba asaasaad by comparing a aaaaurad valua to an accepted
reference valua in a sample of known concentration or by
determining tha recovery of a known aaount of contaminant
spiked into a saapla. Thus, tha bias is calculated as:
B * x, - T
or
B - (X, - X. ) - K
where x* • aaaaurad valua for rafaranca value,
x, » measured valua for spiked saapla,
- aaaaurad valua for unspiked saapla, and
K ¦ known valua of tha spika in tha saapla.
Using tha following aquations yields tha percent recovery
(%R). Tha valua of %R is than used to corract the measured
valuaa for that batch of data. Thus,
%R • 100 (X./T),
or
%R - 100 (x, - xj/ K,
and
x, - 100 (x^R),
where x, - corrected valua.
Blank
Oacaabar 12, 1989
-------
Fags H
roow OK Mitronm cbitfqt* xastraTi avgy qoxt T~f
see equipment Ri.aata, Method Blank, Trip BlanX.
iliialt
A QC sample introduced into a prticee* to monitor the
performance of the aystem.
Pafc* Quality Oh^tctlva (DQOS)
Statements of the level of uncertainty that. a. decision maxer
is willing to accept in results derived fron environmental
data (see EPA/QAMS, July 16, 198€). This is qualitative!/
distinct fron quality measurements such as precision, bias,
and detection limit.
Pup] ieat;»
see Matrix Duplicate, Field Duplicate, Matrix SpiJce Duplicate.
Eati^oaei)* ftlanl;
sea Equipment Sinuate.
Eguipae^ finaa^
A sample of analyte-trea media vhieli has peen u*ed to rinse
the sampling equipment. It is collected after completion of
decomf.aainat.ion end prior to saapling. This blank is useful
in documenting adequate decontamination of stapling equipment.
Fiejtf Pupljcafcf
Independent samples which are collected as close «s possible
to the nu point in space and tine. They ere two separate
samples taken from the sane source, stored in separate
containers, and analyzed IndependentLY* These duplicates are
useful in documenting the precision of the sampling and
analytical process.
laboratory gantfal
A known matrix spiked with compoundfs) representative at the
target analytm*. This is . used to document laboratory
performance.
¦TqtCfX DupllCCfcj
An intralaboratory split sample which is used to document the
precision of * method in a given saapla matrix*
Matri.y Spifte
An aliquot of sample spiked with a known concentration of
target snalyt«(«K Tlie. occurs prior to sample
preparation and analysis. A matrix spike is used to document
the bias of a method in a givsn sample matrix.
December 12, 1949
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—HJ.ni.HQw cbttwti TO xasm data ogftrjTY
?aq« 3 3
gnlke Puwl
Ii.tralaboratory split samples spiked with identical
cjncentrationa of target analyta(a). The spiking occurs prior
to sample preparation and analysis. They ara used to document
tha praeiaion and bias of a method in a given sample matrix.
.rethod Blank
An analyte-free madia to which all reagents ara addad in the
same volumas or proportions as usad in sample processing.
Tha method blank must ba carriad through tha complete sample
preparation and analytical procedure. The mathod blank is
used to document contamination resulting from the analytical
process.
"ethed Detection Limit
-------
ra^ tS aEPQB^ flH MTHTMEK atTWII ^ ^fltrag DATA aUKT.TTy
Determine tha KDL for «a~h analyte as follows:
where t,*.v » . w • «.»«3 lor three replicates a* determined
from tha table of Student's t-valuas at the 99 parcant lavel.
Practical Quantitation Llnift
Tha lowest analyte concentration in a given matrix that the
Agency baliavaa a competent laboratory can b« expected t-
achiava consistently.
Tha agreement among a sat of replicate measurements without
assumption of Jcnowledge of tha trua value. Precision is
estimated by naana of duplicate/replicate analyses. Thesa
sample* should contain concentrations of analyte abov« zhe
PQL, and may involve tha uaa of matrix spikes. Tha most
commonly uaad estimates of pracision ara tha relative standard
deviation (BSD) or tha coefficient ot variation (CV),
RSD - CV • 100 S/x
and tha ralativa parcant difference (RPD) whan only two
samples ara available,
RPD - 1QQ tUi - * xa)/2)].
Single er multiple data collection activities that are related
through tha sans planning sequence.
Quality Assurance Prolect Plan (QAfjP)
An orderly assemblage of detailed procedures designed to
produce data of sufficient quality to neat the data quality
objectives for a specific data collection activity.
3CRA
Tha Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.
?aaq&Tkt fira^d
Analytical reagent (AS) grade, ACS reagent grade, and reagsr*
grade are synonyaous terns for reagents which conform to tru.
current specifications of the committee on Analytical Reagents
of tha American Chemical society.
Oecen&er 12t 1*4*
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REPORT QM MINIWTm (*PTTTBT^ TO ASSX199 pin ^TftT.TTY
faqfl 37
Water that, has been generated by any mathod which would
achieve tha performance specifications for ASTM Typa IZ watar.
aefftp»ne«
A material containing known quantities of target analytes in
solution or in a homogeneous matrix, it ia usad to document
tha bias of tha analytical procass.
Split Samples
Aliquots of sampla taken from tha saaa containar and analyzed
indapandantly. In cases whara aliquots of samples are
impossible to obtain, fiald duplicate samples must be taken
for the matrix duplicate analysis. These are usually taken
after mixing or compositing and are used to document intra-
or interlaboratory precision.
Standard Addition
The practice of adding a known amount of an analyte to a
sampla immediately prior to analysis. It is typically used
to evaluate matrix effects.
standard curve
A plot of concantrations of known analyte standards versus
the instrument response to the analyte. Calibration standards
are prepared by diluting the expected range of the samples
being analyzed. Standards should be prepared at the frequency
specified in the appropriate section. The calibraticr.
standards must be prepared using the same type of acid cr
solvent and at the same concentration as will result in zhe
samples following sample preparation. This is applicable to
organic and inorganic chemical analyses.
Surrogate
An organic compound which is similar to the target analyte(s)
in chemical composition and behavior in the analytical
process, but which ia not normally found in environmental
samples.
Trip Blank
A sample of analyte-free media taken from the laboratory t;
the stapling site and returned to the laboratory unopened.
A trip blank ia used to document contamination attributable
to shipping and field handling procedures. This type of blank
is useful in doeuaenting contamination of volatile organics
samples.
December 12, 1989
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Paqg 38 HgPOBT QM WIHIMPM CRITT^fft jq ASSURg n*TA PCALT^;
6.0 unincii
Interim Guidelines and Specifications far Preparing Quality
Assurance Project Plana, QAHS°OOS/ao, December 29, 1980, office of
Monitoring Systems and Quality Assurance, ORD, U.S. EPA,
Washington, DC 20460.
Development of Data Quality Objectives, Description of Stages I
and IX, July 16, 1986, Quality Assurance Management staff, ord,
u.s. EPA, Washington, DC 20460.
hcra Ground-Water Monitoring Technical Enforcement Guidance
Document, Septembar, 1986, Office of Waste Programs Enforcement.
CSWER, U.S. EPA, Washington, DC, 20460.
DQO Training Software, Version 6.5, December/ 1988, Quality
Assurance Management Staff, ORD, U.S. EPA, Washington, DC 20460.
Oeceaber 12, 1989
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