$EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Sample Collection Procedures
for Radiochemical Analytes in
Environmental Matrices
Office of Research and Development
National Homeland Security
Research Center
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July 2012
EPA/600/R-12/566
Sample Collection Procedures
for Radiochemical Analytes in
Environmental Matrices
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Research and Development
National Homeland Security Research Center
26 West Martin Luther King Drive
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
July 2012
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Disclaimer
This document has been reviewed by representatives of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's
(EPA) National Homeland Security Research Center; National Air and Radiation Environmental
Laboratory; Office of Emergency Management; Region 8; and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and
Nuclear Consequence Management Advisory Team (CBRN CMAT); and Sandia National Laboratories.
Since its original publication in December 2006, it has been updated to reflect more recent revisions of
EPA's Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM). Neither the
U.S. Government, nor any of its employees, contractors, or their employees make any warranty,
expressed or implied, or assume any legal liability or responsibility for any third party's use of any
information, apparatus, products, or process described. Mention of company names, trade names, or
commercial products in this document does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Acronyms, Abbreviations, Units and Symbols
ฎ Registered Trademark
nฐ Degrees
% Percent
um Micrometer
AC Alternating Current
AF Air Filter
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
atm Atmosphere
B Bubbler
BKG Background
BLK Field Blank
Bq Becquerel
BZ Breathing Zone
CC Charcoal
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
cm Centimeters
COC Chain of Custody
Cu. Ft. Cubic Feet
DAS Delivery of Analytical Services
DC Direct Current
DCGL Derived Concentration Guidance Level
DHS Department of Homeland Security
DOT Department of Transportation
dpm Disintegration per Minute
DUP Duplicate
DW Drinking Water
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
FRMAC Federal Radiological Monitoring and Assessment Center
ft. Feet
G Grab
g Gram
gal. Gallon
GPS Global Positioning System
GV Gas or Vapor
GW Ground Water
HASP Health and Safety Plan
HOPE High Density Polyethylene
HDPP High Density Polypropylene
hr Hour
in. Inches
kg Kilogram
L Liter
LSA Low Specific Activity
m Meter
MDC Minimum Detectable Concentration
mL Milliliter
mm Millimeter
MQO Measurement Quality Objective
mR Milliroentgens
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
mrem Millirem
mSy Millisieverts
No. Number
NRC Nuclear Regulatory Commission
oz. Ounces
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
ppm Parts per Million
psi Pound per Square Inch
PT Particulate
PTFE Polytetrafluoroethylene
PVC Polyvinylchloride
QC Quality Control
qt Quart
REG Regular
RIN Sample Rinsate
RPG Radiation Protection Group
RSP Radiation Safety Plan
RWP Radiation Work Plan
S Solid
SAM Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery
SCO Surface Contaminated Object
SCP Sample Collection Plan
SD Sediment or Solid
SDG Sample Delivery Group
SG Silica Gel
SHO Safety and Health Officer
SIC Sample Identification Code
SNM Special Nuclear Material
SO Soil
SOP Standard Operating Procedure
SW Swipe
SZ Silver Zeolite Cartridge
TEDA Triethylenediamine
TI Transport Index
UST Underground Storage Tank
VAC Vacuum
WA Work Area
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Table of Contents
MODULE I - GENERAL INFORMATION [[[ 1-1
1.0 Introduction [[[ 1-1
1.1. SCOPE AND APPLICATION
1.2. SAMPLE COLLECTION PLAN (SCP)
1.3. PREPARATION
1.4. SAMPLING PHASES
1.5. SAMPLING LOCATIONS
1.6. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS, PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE), AND FIRST AID
-1
-1
-2
-3
-3
-3
2.0 Equipment and Materials -5
2.1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS -5
2.2. SAMPLING EQUIPMENT -5
2.3. CLOSURES AND SEALS 1-12
2.4. SAMPLING EQUIPMENT DECONTAMINATION 1-13
2.5. COMMUNICATIONS 1-14
3.0 Quality Control 1-14
3.1. FIELD BLANKS 1-14
3.2. RINSATE BLANKS 1-14
3.3. FIELD REPLICATES 1-15
3.4. BACKGROUND SAMPLES 1-15
3.5. EQUIPMENT 1-15
3.6. SAMPLE CONTROL 1-15
4.0 Documentation 1-16
4.1. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS 1-16
4.2. SAMPLE LABELS 1-17
4.3. SAMPLE IDENTIFICATION CODES (SICs) 1-17
4.4. FIELD LOGBOOKS 1-17
4.5. FIELD SAMPLE TRACKING FORM 1-18
4.6. CHAIN OF CUSTODY 1-18
4.7. VERBAL DISCUSSIONS 1-19
4.8. TRANSPORT DOCUMENTS 1-20
5.0 Personnel/Equipment Decontamination 1-20
5.1. SURFACE CONTAMINATION 1-20
5.2. PERSONNEL AND EQUIPMENT DECONTAMINATION 1-20
5.3. DRY, WET AND CHEMICAL WIPING 1-21
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
7.0 Sample Packaging and Transport 1-23
7.1. REGULATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS 1-24
7.2. TRANSPORT MATERIALS 1-25
7.3. PREPARING SAMPLES FOR TRANSPORT 1-26
7.4. PACKING THE TRANSPORT PACKAGING 1-27
7.5. TRANSFER OF CUSTODY TO AN AUTHORIZED CARRIER 1-29
MODULE II - SAMPLING PROCEDURES - SITE CHARACTERIZATION AND
REMEDIATION PHASES II-l
1.0 Collection of Samples II-l
1.1. OVERVIEW II-l
1.2. PRECAUTIONS AND LIMITATIONS II-3
2.0 Equipment and Materials II-6
3.0 Collection of Soil Samples II-6
3.1. GROUND DEPOSITION II-6
3.2. WET SOIL II-7
3.3. DRY AND SANDY SOIL OR SAMPLING A MIXTURE OF FINES AND GRAVEL II-8
3.4. SUBSURFACE SOIL II-8
3.5. SOIL WITH VEGETATION II-9
3.6. WASTE PILES (EXCAVATED PILED MATERIAL) II-9
3.7. SEDIMENT 11-10
3.8. SEDIMENT-DEEP WATER BODY GRAB SAMPLES 11-10
3.9. SEDIMENT - CORE SAMPLES 11-11
3.10. SOIL SAMPLE HANDLING 11-12
4.0 Collection of Air Samples 11-13
4.1. AIR SAMPLE PRE-STAGING REQUIREMENTS 11-13
4.2. COLLECTION OF PARTICULATE AND VAPOR SAMPLES 11-14
4.3. VACUUM FLASKS AND GAS COLLECTION VESSEL SAMPLES 11-16
4.4. LAPEL SAMPLES 11-16
4.5. BUBBLER OR SILICA GEL SAMPLERS 11-17
5.0 Collection of Water Samples 11-18
5.1. SURF ACE WATER 11-18
5.2. SUBSURFACE WATER AT SHORELINES 11-19
5.3. STREAM OR RIVER WATER 11-19
5.4. SHALLOW WELL WATER OR PUBLIC DRINKING WATER 11-19
5.5. STORAGE TANKS, CISTERNS, WELLS, AND UNDERGROUND STORM DRAINS OR SEWER LINES II-19
5.6. LAGOON, POND, AND LAKE WATER 11-21
5.7. WATER SAMPLE HANDLING 11-22
6.0 Collection of Vegetation Samples 11-23
6.1. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS 11-23
6.2. VEGETATION SAMPLE COLLECTION 11-23
7.0 Collection of Surface Area Samples Using Swipes 11-24
7.1. DRY SWIPES 11-24
7.2. WET SWIPES 11-24
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
7.3. TAPE SWIPES 11-25
7.4. SWIPE HANDLING 11-25
MODULE III - SAMPLING PROCEDURES - FINAL STATUS SURVEY PHASE III-l
1.0 Collection of Samples III-l
1.1. OVERVIEW III-l
1.2. PRECAUTIONS AND LIMITATIONS III-2
2.0 Equipment and Materials III-3
3.0 Collection of Soil Samples III-3
3.1. SURFACE SOILPRE-STAGINGREQUIREMENTS III-3
3.2. SURFACE SOIL COLLECTION III-4
3.3. SUBSURFACE SOIL PRE-STAGING REQUIREMENTS III-6
3.4. SUBSURFACE SOIL COLLECTION III-6
3.5. SEDIMENT III-7
4.0 Collection of Water Samples III-8
4.1. WATER SAMPLING PRE-STAGING REQUIREMENTS III-8
4.2. WATER SAMPLE COLLECTION PROCEDURES III-9
5.0 Collection of Swipe Samples III-9
6.0 Collection of Air Samples III-9
7.0 Collection of Vegetation Samples III-9
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A List of Sampling Equipment and Materials A-l
APPENDIX-Al SAMPLING EQUIPMENT A-l
APPENDIX - A2 SAMPLING EQUIPMENT APPLICATION ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES A- 2
APPENDIX-A3 SAMPLING CONTAINERS A-10
APPENDIX-A4 SHIPPING MATERIALS AND PACKAGING A-11
APPENDIX - A5 ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT TO CONSIDER FOR SAMPLING OPERATIONS A-12
APPENDIX-A6 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT A-14
APPENDIX B Forms B-l
APPENDIX-Bl FIELD SAMPLE LOGBOOK ENTRY B-l
APPENDIX-B2 FIELD SAMPLE TRACKING FORM B-2
APPENDIX-B3 CHAIN OF CUSTODY B-3
APPENDIX-B4 AIR SAMPLE TRACKING FORM B-4
APPENDIX-B5 EXAMPLE WASTE CONTROL FORM B-5
APPENDIX - C Filtration and Preservation of Aqueous Samples C-l
APPENDIX-D References D-l
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
MODULE I - GENERAL INFORMATION
1.0 Introduction
1.1. Scope and Application
The procedures described in this document are intended to provide instructions regarding the
collection of environmental samples to be analyzed for radiological contaminants following a
contamination incident or emergency. This document focuses on the Site Characterization,
Remediation, and Final Status Survey (site release) phases of a contamination incident and is not
intended to address the sample collection needs during Initial Response. The procedures are
intended for collection of environmental samples in response to a contamination incident or an
emergency at the point where Federal Radiological Monitoring and Assessment Center (FRMAC)
activities are turned over to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The procedures describe sample collection only and are intended for use by sampling personnel
who have been sufficiently trained in radiological sampling techniques and corresponding
radiation safety. It is also assumed that an initial site assessment has been performed prior to
implementation of these procedures. Specifically, the document provides information and
instructions regarding the following:
Procedures for sample collection during Site Characterization, Remediation, and Final
Status Survey (site release) phases
General sampling equipment and materials
Description of quality control samples
Sampling documentation
Decontamination of sample containers and equipment
Packaging of samples for transport
The procedures do not include information that is typically included in a site-specific Sample
Collection Plan (e.g., sample locations, expected contaminants and concentration levels or
methods for determination of the number and type of samples required). The document also does
not include tasks or activities that will be performed by site management, radiation protection
personnel, safety and hygiene individuals, and transportation certification personnel.
Specifically, this document does not provide information and instructions that are included in the
following documents:
Sample Collection Plan
Radiological Protection Guidance Plan and associated procedures
Health and Safety Plan and associated procedures
1.2. Sample Collection Plan (SCP)
A Sample Collection Plan (SCP) that is specific for the site being evaluated and outlines the site
sampling strategy should be in place prior to initiating the sampling procedures described in this
document. Guidance for development of SCPs is provided in EPA's Guide for Development of
Sample Collection Plans for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Following
Homeland Security Events (EPA/600/R-08/128), February 2009. The SCP should be based on
available historical data and recent site assessment information. The SCP will specify: derived
concentration guidance levels (DCGLs); measurement quality objectives (MQOs); matrices,
volumes, and number of samples to be collected; sample locations; sample container types and
sizes; quality control requirements; specific sample collection equipment to be used; and
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
requirements for field sample filtration and preservation. The information included in the SCP
provides detailed site-specific instructions and requirements that are to be used in conjunction
with the sample collection procedures that are described in this document.
1.3. Preparation
1.3.1. A laboratory(ies) should be identified and expected requirements corresponding to the
sampling event reviewed and discussed. The laboratory should review and be aware of
the quality control requirements included in the SCP. The SCP and the sample
collection procedures should also be reviewed by the laboratory for additional insight
into the analysis needed.
1.3.2. Prior to sample collection, sampler collectors should review the SCP. The sample
collectors' understanding of the requirements will greatly increase the success of the
sampling event.
1.3.3. Off-site evaluation of any historical data and site assessment prior to entering the
contamination area should be performed, and information regarding pertinent issues
should be provided to the field sampling team. Information may include an evaluation
of the general geology and potential transportation of contamination outside of the
designated area, into ground water, surface water, geological layers, or air.
1.3.4. The sample collection team should also evaluate and prepare sampling equipment and
personal protective equipment (PPE) needs prior to entry. A site map should be
prepared with details regarding the sample locations (if known) and other geological or
topographical information to assist in locating the sample points.
1.3.5. Prior to the initiation of sample collection activities and laboratory procurement, the
decision maker and the sample collection planning team should identify and discuss the
data needs and purpose for the sample collection being performed, including:
Types of samples to be collected or measurements to be performed
Radionuclide(s) of interest
Potential interfering radionuclides and chemical contaminants
DCGL for each radionuclide of interest
MQOs for each radionuclide (e.g., required method uncertainty, required
minimum detectable concentration [MDC], etc.)
Analytical or screening methods that will be used in the field and laboratory to
assay samples
Analytical bias and precision (e.g., quantitative or qualitative)
Number of samples to be collected
Type and frequency of field quality control (QC) samples to be collected
Amount of material to be collected for each sample
Sample collection locations and frequencies
Sample tracking requirements
Sample preservation, filtration, and shipping requirements
Additional standard operating procedures (SOPs) to be followed or developed
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
Cost of the methods being used (cost per analysis as well as total cost)
Specific background for the radionuclide(s) of interest, if applicable
Turnaround time required for sample results
Analytical measurement documentation requirements
Anticipated exposure rates, if known
1.4. Sampling Phases
WARNING: The sampling of special nuclear material (plutonium-239, plutonium-241, uranium-233,
uranium enriched in the isotope 233 or 235) requires special consideration. Improper handling
or collection may result in criticality (sustained nuclear reaction). Consult the site-specific
sample collection plan and radiation safety plan for further guidance.
1.4.1. There are three phases in the life span of a contamination incident that require
sampling: Site Characterization, Remediation, and Final Status Survey (site release).
1.4.2. Site Characterization Phase sampling takes place after the incident occurrence and prior
to initiation of site remediation activities. The levels of exposure may be the highest
encountered at any time during the process of sampling a site. Personnel should be
constantly aware of existing conditions and radiation levels to ensure personnel are not
unnecessarily exposed. This phase will be used to determine the extent and magnitude
of the problem (i.e., extent of contamination). The samples taken will be used to
determine the scope and range of activities needed to remediate the site.
1.4.3. Remediation Phase sampling takes place during remediation. During this phase, sample
collection can occur with deliberate planning and preparation. However, conditions are
still considered to be hazardous.
1.4.4. Final Status Survey Phase sampling takes place after remediation of the affected site.
This phase has specific requirements to ensure that the sampling procedures support the
expected low concentration levels in the samples collected. Conditions are expected to
be non-hazardous and clear of the presence of contamination levels that are in excess of
DCGLs.
1.5. Sampling Locations
Sampling locations may be identified by the use of an alpha/numeric grid, global positioning
system (GPS) coordinates (with ฑ1 meter accuracy), or distances from landmarks. Sample
collection during the Characterization Phase often uses landmarks, with the actual sample point
"fine tuned" using portable survey instrumentation. The survey team then flags or places another
marker at the sample location. Sample collection points are surveyed, and GPS coordinates
recorded, at the time of collection. Maps developed for the site are dependent on the
requirements of the SCP. Subsequent sample locations will be identified by the Field Team
Leader per the requirements of the SCP.
1.6. Safety Considerations, Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE), and First Aid
1.6.1. Safety is a prime consideration in any sampling event. Personnel safety requirements
and considerations for a particular site may extend beyond radiological concerns.
Additional concerns include physical hazards and chemicals that are toxic, corrosive,
emit harmful or explosive vapors, or are incompatible when mixed.
1.6.2. All radiation and industrial safety requirements and procedures associated with the site
are to be followed.
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
a. Radiation protection requirements are developed and instituted by the site
Radiation Protection Group (RPG). The RPG is responsible for:
Taking measurements of the radiation levels of all sampling sites and
associated activities
Dictating the radiation protection requirements for entering and working in
a radioactively contaminated sampling area
Stopping any activity to protect personnel from overexposure to radiation
or from radioactive material contamination
Developing and implementing a Radiation Safety Plan (RSP) and Radiation
Work Plans (RWP) for individuals working in the area to read and follow
b. Industrial safety requirements are developed and instituted by a designated
safety individual (e.g., Safety and Health Officer [SHO]). The SHO is
responsible for:
Assessing all site activities for potential safety concerns
Ensuring that personnel are informed as to the potential hazards in a
sampling area and dictating the requirements for safely working in the area
Stopping any job or activity to protect personnel from a dangerous situation
Developing and implementing a Health and Safety Plan (HASP) for
individuals working in the area to read and follow
1.6.3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is to be worn as designated by radiation
protection personnel and the designated site safety individual. PPE should be used
during all sample collection and equipment decontamination activities. The results of a
site assessment or incident evaluation should be used to determine the type and amount
of PPE used by sample collectors. The Sample Collection Plan should include a written
HASP and/or hazard evaluation of the area to be sampled. NOTE: As required by site
HASPs, all injuries must be reported and, if required, examined by medical personnel.
Any open cut, sore, or wound provides a path for contamination to enter the body.
a. Typical types of PPE are listed in Appendix A6 (Personal Protective
Equipment).
b. The amount of PPE used should be designed and designated to provide the
maximum personal protection and mobility for the task being performed. The
minimal amount of PPE typically used includes:
Gloves (nitrile or latex over cotton liners)
Coveralls
Water proof or water resistant shoe covers or boots
c. Care should be taken to ensure that PPE is not damaged. If PPE damage is
suspected, work must be stopped. Uncontrolled damage can result in
contamination of personnel.
d. Care should be taken to ensure that the PPE is sufficient to protect against
contamination exposure that can result from wicking when working in a wet
environment.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
e. The level of respiratory PPE needed should be directed by the HASP and/or
RSP, and stated in a work control permit. Appendix A6 (Personal Protective
Equipment) lists the various types of respirators that may be required.
1.6.4. First aid kits are to be available at all times during the sampling event. At least one kit
should be carried in any vehicle transporting the sampling team. At least one kit also
should be located at the primary sampling site office.
2.0 Equipment and Materials
2.1. General Requirements
2.1.1. Only equipment that has been certified (clearly identified) for use by the Field Team
Leader should be used to perform the procedures described in this document.
Substitution of materials or equipment must be approved and documented prior to use.
All instruments should have current calibrations or inspections clearly identified on the
instrument. Any corresponding certification documentation should be copied and
available to the sampling personnel, as appropriate. NOTE: It is highly recommended
that sampling equipment be properly and routinely maintained and organized before
responding to an event. This maintenance and organization will allow the sampling
team to enter and exit the suspected contaminated area in the shortest and most effective
amount of time. Sample materials should be contained in a controlled area or vehicle
with shelving/space sufficient to contain all PPE, sample bottles, materials, supplies,
and forms needed to perform sample collection, documentation, and packaging
activities.
2.1.2. Pre-staging
a. Pre-staging allows for a minimized time in the contamination zone and
maximized sample collection and processing efficiency.
b. As practical, all equipment, containers, PPE, and documentation should be
placed into a plastic bag. The common practice is to place the materials (bowls,
bottles, jars, trowels, etc.) for an individual sampling event (soil sample or
water sample) into a separate plastic bag. Each of these bags (up to a maximum
number that can be physically handled) is contained in a larger bag that holds
additional PPE (boots, gloves) and tape or other items needed. Carrying the
larger bag into the field, an individual can control contamination and sample
materials with minimal concern for cross contamination and exposure.
c. Each sampling team should be aware of the SCP for their designated
assignment. This includes being informed of the location and conditions for the
specific sampling point(s) prior to entry.
2.2. Sampling Equipment
2.2.1. Refer to Appendices Al - A6 (tables of sampling equipment and materials) for a more
extensive list of equipment necessary for sampling events. The Appendices are
supplied for reference. The actual sampling tools, materials, and equipment used will
be dependent on availability and the actual conditions at the site.
2.2.2. Sampling frames are used to mark areas for collection of soil and dirt samples during
Final Status Survey Phase sampling.
a. Sampling frames are used to provide specific control of the sample location and
size. Frames must be large enough to cover an area larger than the area to be
sampled and act to prevent intrusion of surrounding material into the sample.
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
They must be controlled to prevent movement during sample collection and are
properly dispositioned after the sampling event.
b. Frames are constructed of plastic sheeting that is labeled to clearly indicate the
presence of radioactive material (for example, a large yellow plastic bag labeled
as "radioactive material" in magenta lettering) and contain an opening to
designate a given surface area from which a sample is to be taken. Plastic
frames are used to reduce the volume and weight of material taken into the
field.
c. Frames can be approximately 0.5 to 1 m2 (5 to 11 feet2), with an opening for
sampling of approximately 100 cm2 (16 inches2).
2.2.3. Trowels, spoons, scoops, and spatulas are used to collect or remove accessible soils,
dirt, and other solid materials from subsurfaces.
a. Working surfaces are made of stainless steel or high density polypropylene
(HDPP) or polyethylene (FiDPE), with little ornamentation or exposed fasteners
to assist in decontamination. Wooden handles may be used, but should be
covered to minimize contamination.
b. The differences in design between these tools allow for variations in the
composition of the material being sampled.
Trowels aid in digging into surface dirt.
Scoops and spoons are used in loose or shifting sandy soil or sediments.
Spatulas aid in homogenization and removal of unwanted materials.
2.2.4. Bore hole tools (augers, drill rigs, post hole diggers, split spoon, thieves, triers and core
samplers) are used to collect or remove soils, dirt, and other solid materials from sub-
surface areas.
a. Bore hole tools are used to gain access and, in some cases, collect samples.
Augers, split spoon samplers, thieves, and triers can be used to collect the
actual sample as well as dig to access the sample location beneath a surface.
b. Caution should be taken when using these tools to avoid mixing sample layers
or causing release of volatile contaminants. Augers and drills scrape the sides
of the hole when inserted or removed, causing unwanted upper layer material to
fall into the hole where possible collection can occur. Each hole should be
cleared of all debris prior to sample collection.
c. Augers are used to collect samples of soils primarily during the Site
Characterization Phase. These tools will bite into each section of soil that is
being collected and are typically used to collect samples in parts.
Can be manually or machine power driven
Typically limited to 1.5 m (5 feet) of depth, but extensions to the handle
can increase the depth of the hole
d. Post hole diggers and drill rigs can be used to excavate to lower levels than can
OO O
be reached when using an auger. When used with a hollow stem auger, a drill
rig can retrieve reasonably undisturbed samples.
e. Split spoon samplers are used to collect core samples of undisturbed soils from
a wide range of depths.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
Split spoon samplers consist of two halves of a pipe, each from 15 to 45 cm
(6 to 18 inches) long, and threaded at both ends. The halves are held
together with a conical ring at one end and a driving bar at the other.
A core catcher is positioned in the sampler to prevent loss of sample
material upon extraction from the bore hole.
These samplers are often used with a drill rig or other power equipment and
sometimes forced into the ground with a sledgehammer.
f Trier samplers are used for sampling material with a particle diameter less than
one-half the diameter of the trier. Trier samplers are best used horizontally and
cannot be used to obtain a vertical sample from loose or sandy material. These
samplers are made of stainless steel, and consist of a tube cut in half with a
sharpened tip that allows the sampler to cut into soils, or moist or sticky solids.
g. A thief is used primarily to sample dry granular or powdered material with
particle diameters of less than one-third the width of the thief s slot. Thieves
used for collection of sediment samples are different than thieves used for
collection of liquid samples.
Soil and sediment thieves consist of a set of slotted tubes (i.e., an inner and
outer tube). The outer tube has a conical pointed tip that permits
penetration of the materials being sampled. The inner tube is rotated to
open and close the sampler.
Liquid thieves consist of a single tube, opened at both ends, that is inserted
into the liquid matrix and then plugged at the upper end to withdraw a
liquid sample.
h. Core samplers are driven into the ground, typically by machine power, and used
to collect samples of soils or sediment primarily during Site Characterization
and Remediation Phases.
Core samplers consist of a hollow tube or pipe that varies in diameter
(generally 3.75 to 10 cm or 1.5 to 4 inches).
The number and length of core samplers can be varied to obtain samples at
different depths.
Once the core piping is removed from the ground, it is separated into
sectional lengths and sections are opened length-wise to allow a solid cross-
sectional piece of material to be exposed.
2.2.5. Bottles and jars are used to collect liquid samples and to contain soil, solid and liquid
samples.
a. Bottles or jars may be attached to reach rod rigs, tethered to a line, or used to
collect a sample directly.
b. Bottle and jar types and materials are chosen in accordance with intended use.
HDPP, HDPE, or glass bottles and jars are used for dipping, drawing surface
samples, or sample containment. Stainless steel bottles are typically used to
collect samples from the bottom of a body of liquid.
c. Lid design is based on use. Typical designs include: pour lip, screw seal, large
or small mouth opening. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, Teflonฎ)-lined lids
are used for sample collection, storage, and transport. Container lids should not
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
be composed of materials that can absorb water and should not contain glue or
adhesives.
d. Refer to Appendix A3 (Sampling Containers) for typical sizes and dimensions.
e. Kemmerer bottle samplers are messenger-activated water sampling devices that
are dropped into deep water bodies or tanks.
These samplers consist of a lower stopper, an upper stopper with a tip head,
a bottle, a messenger, and a cable that runs through the components.
The components are separated, lowered to a given sample level and tripped
with the messenger to collect the sample.
Sampler components are primarily composed of brass, plastic, or stainless
steel.
f. Wheaton bottle samplers are messenger-activated water sampling devices used
in relatively deep waters no more than 2 to 3 m (6 to 10 feet).
Bottles are lowered to a given sample depth, then opened and closed with a
control rod to collect the sample. The sampler's reach and control rods are
limiting factors in determining the depth of sample collection.
Sampler components are primarily composed of plastic and stainless steel.
2.2.6. Thieves, bailers, bacon "bomb" (bacon collection vessel) samplers, dippers, and
coliwasa samplers used for collection of liquid samples
a. Thieves are used in shallow waters or for sampling from drums and other
containers, and are designed to fill once they are placed into a liquid.
Thieves vary in lengths of up to 2.1 m (7 feet) and in diameters of up to 2.5
cm (1 inch).
The top of the thief must be plugged or capped prior to removal from the
sample source to prevent sample from escaping out the bottom.
b. Bailers are tubes used in shallow water depths of up to approximately 1 meter
(3 to 4 feet).
Bailers are opened at the top and have a check valve or valves in the
bottom.
These devices are constructed of stainless steel to allow them to sink, and
begin filling with sample upon entry into a liquid.
The check valves prevent or minimize drainage and, retain the sample
volume as the bailer is removed from the sample source.
c. Bacon collection vessel samplers are used to take composite samples from a
liquid source (usually a tank, vat, pond, lagoon, or lake) at a given depth
determined by the length of the line used, up to approximately 60 m (200 feet).
d. These collection vessels are constructed of stainless steel and begin filling
when a sampling line is pulled to open valves at the top and bottom of the
collection vessel.
e. Release of the sampling line will close the valves on retrieving the collection
vessel from the sample source.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
f. Dippers are bottles or cups that can be attached to an extension rod and used to
collect a sample as they are dipped below the surface of a liquid. The depth of
sample collection is determined by the length of the extension rod.
These devices are generally constructed of HDPE or HDPP and begin
filling upon entry into the liquid.
The extension rods are usually retractable allowing for extended reaches of
up to 20 feet.
g. Coliwasa samplers are hollow tubes with a stopper at one end and are used in
collecting samples from shallow water or liquids in drums.
The stopper is attached to an internal rod that runs the length of the tube to
a locking mechanism at the other end of the tube.
Samplers begin filling with liquid upon the turning action of a handle at the
opposite end of the stopper.
These samplers are typically constructed of HDPE or HDPP but may also
be constructed of stainless steel or polyvinylchloride (PVC).
Decontamination of these samplers is difficult and costly. For this reason,
use is typically limited to collection of multi-phase samples that are
otherwise difficult to collect.
2.2.7. Sediment samples may be collected using grab samplers, core samplers, or dredges.
a. Grab samplers are similar to scoops or open dipping jars used in collecting
water samples.
Grab samplers, such as the Birge-Ekman sampler, are attached to long
poles.
The sampler is dragged across the sediment to collect the sample.
Depth is limited by the length of the reach rod attached to the sampler.
b. Dredges are buckets designed to retain soils and sediments collected from the
bottom of a pond, lagoon, or other body of water.
Dredges are typically constructed of stainless steel with either an open front
end or a swivel closure designed such that the majority of liquid collected
will drain away from the sample as the dredge is retrieved.
Some dredges have plastic liners that assist in decontamination and prevent
cross contamination of the sampler.
Dredges are activated by either gravity, a tug-line, or a messenger, to allow
the open jaws to close for sample collection.
Many dredges are extremely heavy and require the use of a winch to
retrieve samples.
Several types of dredges are named based on the designer including:
Petersen, Ponar, Shipek, and Van Veen.
c. Sediment core samplers are hollow rods or tubes that are inserted into the
sediment to extract a sample.
The sampler may or may not have a closure device to prevent sample loss.
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Either gravity or mechanical action is used to push the core sampler into the
sediment.
The type of sampler is dependent on the depth required and the type of
water body.
2.2.8. Air samplers, gas collection vessels, and gas bubblers are used to collect samples to be
measured for air contaminants.
a. The size and type of air sampler and type of collection format is dependent on
the type of air parameter sampled (e.g., media, analyte) and the corresponding
analytical MQOs. Collection filters should be selected to avoid potential
interferences (for example, radionuclides that may be present in filter materials,
such as potassium-40 and decay products of uranium that are naturally present
in glass-fiber air filters).
Glass fiber filters or plastic membranes are used to capture particulates.
Cyclone or cascade impactors are used to determine particle sizing.
Activated charcoal or silver zeolite cartridges are used for adsorbance of
iodine and certain noble gases.
Bubblers or silica gel cartridges are used for collection of atmospheric
tritium.
b. Air sampling pumps are based on the sample location and volume of air
required to meet analytical MQOs. Air flow rates are typically low for
personnel lapel monitors and high for high volume air samplers. Air flow rates
for large volume or long collection durations are generally at medium rates of
flow. Typical flow rates include:
Lapel samplers: 2 L/minute (0.01 feetVminute)
General area samplers: 28 to 56 L/minute (1 to 2 feetVminute)
High volume samplers: 140 to 2800 L/minute (5 to 100+ feetVminute)
Bubblers - flow rate varies from unit to unit
Vacuum collection vessels - instantaneous
Pressurized flasks - 2 to 3 atm (30 to 45 psi)
c. Filter sizes are typically 25 mm (1 inch) for personnel lapel monitors, 47 or 50
mm (1.9 or 2 inches) for general area monitors, and 100 mm (4 inches) for
long-term, high volume, general area monitors. NOTE: While use of 100 mm
(4 inch) filters has increased due to available analytical instrumentation, 200
mm x 250 mm (8 inch x 10 inch) filters are still being used by EPA (e.g.,
RadNet monitoring system). Use of these larger filters is discouraged in cases
where the laboratory uses alpha/beta counters that are capable of analyzing the
smaller filters, as the practice of folding or cutting a filter to achieve an
appropriate size can impact the accuracy and precision of the associated
counting results.
d. Air samplers that capture particulates or vapors are normally electrically
powered pumps that provide a consistent flow rate. However, personnel lapel
samplers are typically battery powered, which results in air flows that vary
from the start to the finish of the sampling event as the battery is drained.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
Availability of electric power limits the placement of air samplers to the
distance away from a power source.
DC to AC power converters allow for use of an air sampler from a vehicle.
Use of portable generators is limited to the supply of gasoline.
Power converters and portable generators have health and safety
considerations for handling; sample collectors should consult the site HASP
before use.
Use of lapel samplers is limited by the capacity of the charge on the battery.
NOTE: If it is possible that a power source may be depleted during sample
collection, the sampler should be equipped with a flow volume totalizer.
2.2.9. Water pumps are used when samples are required from depth or are taken over a
defined time period. NOTE: Water pumps have depth limitations; therefore, other
types of pumps or submersibles may be required for collecting samples of well water or
water from depths greater than 10.7 m (32 feet).
a. Pump features are dependent on the application.
Depth capabilities
Diaphragm, venturi, peristaltic, or piston-type pumping action
Manual or power driven operation
Flow regulators
Stroke counter or volume totalizer to measure flow rate or volume collected
Timing mechanisms
Collection basins or bottles
b. Construction materials are dependent on use and mode of operation. Plastic
and PTFE parts provide the greatest chemical resistance to materials sampled
but may not be sufficiently durable for long term sampling.
c. Flow volumes are dependent on mode of operation and pumping action.
Low flow pumps (50-200 cmVminute)
High flow pumps (500-3000 cnrVminute)
d. Pump flow volumes must be monitored and documented. Volume totalizers and
timers should be used when possible. Calculation of the volume collected, from
flow rate and collection duration, may be used if a volume totalizer is not
available.
2.2.10. Filters and swipes are used to collect samples from surface areas. These collection
materials are composed of cotton fiber, plastic, glass fiber, or paper. Sizes depend on
the surface area to be sampled and include:
Small (standard) surface area (e.g., desk top) - 100 cm2 (16 inches2)
Large surface area (e.g., portions of wall, floor) - Up to 300 cm2 (47 inches2)
Surfaces greater than 300 cm2 should be swiped in various, random locations
using multiple swipes to cover approximately 1% of the surface area.
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
NOTE: The use of large filters or swipes is discouraged in cases where the sample is to
be analyzed at an off-site laboratory. Some laboratories have instrumentation that is not
capable of directly analyzing larger samples and must fold or cut these samples to
achieve an appropriate size. This sample manipulation can impact the accuracy and
precision of associated counting results. Also see Note regarding air filters in Module I,
Section 2.2.8(c), above.
2.2.11. Plastic bags can be used to contain samples, sample containers, equipment and
materials, or waste.
a. Plastic bags in a variety of sizes and types (e.g., Ziplock, open bag with twist
ties) are used as needed to accommodate sample collection, double bag storage
and equipment storage.
Bags containing samples are sealed with tape and double bagged.
Bags without Ziplock capabilities can be used for sample shipment or waste
containment.
b. If elevated levels of radioactivity are suspected, use of a plastic container is
recommended to prevent sample loss and cross-contamination that could occur
if a bag becomes damaged.
c. Refer to Appendix A3 (Sampling Containers) for typical sizes and dimensions
required.
2.2.12. Envelopes made of paper or glassine (transparent paper coated with a glaze), with and
without sealing capabilities (either gummed or self-adhesive), are used to contain
swipes and documentation. Typical sizes and types are noted in Appendix A3
(Sampling Containers). NOTE: Glassine envelopes are resistant to humidity and small
amounts of water and are recommended for storing and shipping air filters and swipes.
These envelopes also are better at ensuring that sample material remains on the filter or
swipe and is not transferred to the envelope.
2.2.13. Other materials - Based on the nature of the incident and the area affected, other
materials or equipment may be needed for sample collection. These materials include
items such as tape, solvents, alcohol, paint scrapers, sanders, saws, and vacuum
cleaners. The requirements and procedures for these or other items should be reviewed
and discussed prior to use. A list of some of the additional equipment that may be
needed is included in Appendix A5.
2.3. Closures and Seals
2.3.1. Masking or other adhesive tape is used for sealing containers during sample shipment.
2.3.2. Security seals are attached over the cap of each sample container to provide an
indication of sample tampering and to ensure sample integrity. Security seals also can
be used for sample shipping or transport containers, to ensure package integrity is not
compromised during transport. Typically, one seal is placed on each sample container
and multiple seals (e.g., two seals placed on opposite ends) are used on shipping
containers.
a. Security seals may be commercially made or tape seals that contain the
signature or initial of the sample collector, and date and time of sample
collection.
b. The seal must break or tear if it is removed.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
c. Metal seals are usually crimped into place and require cutting or breakage for
removal.
2.4. Sampling Equipment Decontamination
NOTE: Materials that have been used for decontamination or for carrying samples should be
segregated until they have been decontaminated and surveyed as clean and free of contamination.
Unless determined to be free of contamination, water and other materials used for
decontamination must be retained and removed from the sampling site for proper disposal.
Rinsate water may be required to be collected and analyzed for quality control purposes.
Additional stages for washing should be used when elevated radiological contamination is
suspected.
2.4.1. Buckets and pails serve as tote containers and portable sinks.
a. Buckets and pails should be constructed of plastic.
b. Lids are needed for containment, but are generally not taken into the field.
c. Typically, 5-gallon and 20-gallon buckets are used.
d. Several buckets or pails are used in decontamination.
The number used is dependent on the degree of cleanliness required. At a
minimum, one is used for the initial wash and one is used for the final rinse.
Rinse water may be required to be collected as a quality control sample
(rinsate sample).
2.4.2. Drums or large garbage cans are used to contain contaminated PPE, accumulated
wastes, clean bags, containers, or equipment.
2.4.3. Brushes are used to remove deposits of solids from sampling equipment. Both bottle
brushes and flat brushes are used. Brush handles should be sufficient to prevent direct
contact with the brush during use.
2.4.4. Cloths are used to remove solids from or dry sampling equipment. Cloths should be
certified as clean for use in drying equipment, and may be pretreated to contain a
cleaning agent, if approved for the sampling event. Paper towels may be used, but lint-
free cloths are preferred.
2.4.5. Water is used to wash and rinse contamination from equipment, materials, and sampling
personnel. At least 16 L (4.2 gallons) is recommended for every 20 samples collected.
2.4.6. Soap and other non-ionic detergents are used for decontamination and washing. Soap
can be in either powder or liquid form, and must be non-reactive, anionic, phosphate-
free, and low-foaming. Stainless steel polishers or cleaners may be used, provided they
contain no petroleum distillates and leave no residue.
2.4.7. Step-off pads are used to designate the point for exiting a contaminated area. Personnel
are required to perform a given level of personal monitoring and decontamination at the
step-off pads to ensure contamination is not spread outside the contaminated area.
Step-off pads may be pre-established prior to site entry by the sampling team. These
pads should:
Be clearly designated
Allow for the easy egress out of the area
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Have sufficient containers for the disposal or control of contaminated equipment
and clothing
Tote containers should not be used as final rinsate containers, as the materials carried
may contaminate the rinsate.
2.4.9. Other materials - Based on the nature of the incident, the area affected, and the extent
of contamination, other materials may also be needed in equipment decontamination.
Additional materials may include items such as chemical abrasive cloths, sand paper,
grinders, solvents, alcohol, and acids. The requirements for and use of these items
should be reviewed and discussed prior to use.
2.5. Communications
2.5.1. Radios or any two-way communication device capable of transmitting the sampling
team's concerns or requests to the standby person or Field Team Leader shall be
employed.
2.5.2. A standby person (individual stationed outside the zone) is required to observe and
respond to the sampling team if problems arise. This person may be involved indirectly
or directly with sample collection activities.
3.0 Quality Control
Sample collectors should refer to the SCP to determine the kind and number of QC samples and
procedures that should be collected or performed. In some cases, additional samples or sample
volume will be needed to support laboratory QC sample analysis (e.g., matrix spikes). Because
QC samples may be shipped to the laboratory as either known QC or blind samples, sample
collectors should refer to the SCP to determine how QC samples are to be labeled for transport to
the laboratory.
3.1. Field Blanks
3.1.1. Field blanks are used to monitor contamination that may be introduced into samples
during sample collection, filtration, or preservation.
a. If required, the field blank is prepared in the field at the same location, using
the same procedures that are used to collect and process the sample. Field
blanks are typically prepared prior to sample collection.
b. The field blank is submitted to the laboratory for analysis with the collected
samples.
3.1.2. Field blanks are prepared by filling a sample container with blank matrix material (e.g.,
certified analyte-free water) and preservative (if necessary) using the same collection
and processing procedures and equipment that are used to collect the samples.
3.2. Rinsate Blanks
3.2.1. Rinsate blanks are samples collected from rinse water running off decontaminated
piece(s) of equipment.
a. The rinsate blank may or may not be preserved in the field, as described in the
SCP.
b. If the rinsate blank is preserved, a field blank is required.
3.2.2. Rinsate blanks are submitted to the analytical laboratory to evaluate equipment
decontamination.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
3.3. Field Replicates
3.3.1. Field replicates are samples collected in the same manner, location, and time as an
initial sample. Sample collectors must ensure that sample replicates are as equivalent in
mass or volume as possible. Variations can affect representative QC evaluations.
3.3.2. In the case of a solid sample, the location from which a replicate sample is collected
should be the space adjacent to the initial sample or the space of the initial sample
enlarged to allow for a greater volume of sample to be taken.
3.3.3. The replicate sample and initial sample are contained in the same sampling container,
homogenized, and then separated into individual containers. A field replicate is used to
measure sample heterogeneity, sample collection methodology, and analytical
procedures.
3.3.4. The replicate sample is handled and documented in the same manner as the initial
sample.
3.4. Background samples
3.4.1. Background samples are collected from a known uncontaminated area to allow for the
determination of natural or "background" radionuclide concentrations.
3.4.2. Background samples are collected under the same control requirements as Final Status
Survey Phase samples (see Module III).
3.5. Equipment
3.5.1. All equipment that is used to measure or analyze samples in the field requires
calibration, routine maintenance, and at least annual standardization/verification. This
equipment is calibrated following procedures included in the manufacturer's
product/equipment manual or performed in the laboratory. Equipment used to obtain
volumetric sample measurements must be certified to appropriate volume
specifications.
a. Instruments that are routinely used in the field and require calibration and
standardization/verification or certification to ensure measured sample weights
and volumes are accurate include:
Balances or scales
Volumetric pipettes, beakers, graduated cyclinders
Air sampler flow rate meters and totalizers
Lapel air samplers
Water pumps
b. Analytical equipment that may be used in the field that require calibration to
ensure sample analyses are accurate include:
pH meters
Turbidimeters
Dissolved oxygen and/or conductivity meters
3.6. Sample Control
3.6.1. Once samples are collected, they must be maintained under controlled conditions
through shipment to an analytical laboratory. This control is required to ensure that
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
samples are not compromised and that analytical data generated are representative of
site conditions.
3.6.2. Sample custody requirements
a. Keep samples in an area where they can be observed or are under lock and key
to prevent tampering
b. Maintain samples in the same configuration or condition in which the sample
arrived from the sampling site (e.g., cores intact in their casings, containers
sealed) until additional procedures are required
3.6.3. Sample tracking
a. As samples are transferred from collection through processing, packaging, and
shipment, record sample progress.
b. The person(s) performing each step is required to record their initials or
signature on the label, sample tracking log, Chain of Custody, and any other
document associated with the sample to qualify the condition of the sample at
that point of sample progression. See Module I, Section 4.0 (Documentation)
regarding documentation requirements.
3.6.4. All sampling personnel are required to perform sample collection, processing, and
packaging activities in a manner that does not compromise the integrity of the samples
or the requirements associated with the sampling event.
a. Follow documented procedures and adhere to requirements.
b. Notify supervision of problems or concerns.
c. Adhere to all requirements regarding documentation of activities, conditions,
observations, and measurements.
3.6.5. Unused sample collection materials, such as air filters and swipes are to be sent to the
laboratory with each batch of samples to be analyzed for radioactive analytes. These
materials provide the analytical laboratory with a suitable blank or with information that
will determine if any activity measured is the result of inherent radioactivity of the
filters or swipes used, and the results may be used in assessment of the final field
sample results.
4.0 Documentation
NOTE: ALL documentation produced in collecting and processing samples is considered a legal record
and is to be treated as such. Legibility and permanence are to be maintained. If errors are made, either
the document error is struck out using a single line and initialed and dated, or it is re-written, checked for
accuracy, initialed and dated, and attached to the original for record keeping.
4.1. General Considerations
4.1.1. Pens and markers should be of black indelible ink capable of writing on damp labels
and containers. Pens and markers taken inside the contamination zone should be
discarded with waste or used disposable PPE.
4.1.2. Logbooks, forms and reports should be assembled and maintained as permanent
records.
a. If taken to the sampling area, they should be controlled outside of the
contaminated zone to prevent contamination. If required to be taken into the
zone, take only a blank copy of the form or page of the logbook. Once out of
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
the contaminated area, they are to be rewritten into the original permanent
records and verified as transcribed correctly once outside of the zone.
b. Required records include:
Sample identification codes (SICs)
Field Sample Logbook
Field report forms
Chain-of-custody (COC) forms
Photographs, when practical
Make, model, and accuracy information for any equipment used
c. Written documents are generated and maintained as the primary records of the
sampling event. However, information also may be entered into an electronic
record during or, as soon as practical, following sample collection.
4.1.3. Control of written and electronic records is detailed in the SCP.
4.2. Sample Labels
4.2.1. Sample labels must be applied to each sample container (including any container that
holds a blank or quality control sample), with information that identifies and describes
the sample. Sample labels are to include the following information at a minimum:
SIC
Time and date sample collected
Sample volume and matrix
Sample collection location (GPS coordinates or brief description)
Signature or initials of the sample collector
4.2.2. If samples are placed in two containers (e.g., double bagged), a duplicate label may be
placed on the outside of the first bag or container, but inside the second bag or
container, for legibility. If a duplicate label is used, it must be identified as a duplicate
label or copy. If samples are triple-bagged, the duplicate label should be placed on the
outside of the second bag or container, and inside the third.
4.3. Sample Identification Codes (SICs)
4.3.1. SICs are required for all samples collected, with the exception of equipment blanks.
4.3.2. Each sample must have a unique SIC.
a. SICs typically consist of an alpha-numeric sequence code that includes a coded
date and location marker.
b. All assigned SICs are used to document the sample location, type of sample,
date and time of sample collection, and sample collector.
4.3.3. The SIC is recorded on all field documentation, sample container labels, Chain of
Custody forms, and any other documents pertaining to the sample.
4.4. Field Logbooks
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
4.4.1. Field personnel, including sample collectors, are responsible for recording data and
maintaining Field Logbooks with adequate information to identify a specific sample
and to provide information that may be necessary for interpreting analytical results.
4.4.2. Information that should be recorded in a Field Logbook entry includes: number of
samples collected, method of sample collection, date and time of collection, any
pertinent observations, names of sample collectors and/or observers, a description of
sample location, GPS coordinates, and field screening data, if available. A Field
Sample Logbook Entry is provided in Appendix B1. Electronic data recording devices
may also be used as a means of recording information in the field. If electronic
recording devices are to be used, however, they should be selected based on durability,
accuracy, backup capability, and ease of decontamination.
4.4.3. If photographs are included as part of the sampling documentation, the name of the
photographer, SIC, date, time, site location, and site description are to be recorded
sequentially in a logbook as each photograph is taken. After the photographs are
developed, the associated information included in the logbook entries is to be written on
the back of the photograph.
4.5. Field Sample Tracking Form
4.5.1. Field personnel, including sample collectors, are responsible for recording data and
maintaining Field Sampling Tracking Forms with adequate information to identify a
specific sample.
4.5.2. Copies of these forms accompany samples during shipment.
4.5.3. Information recorded on these forms includes: SIC, sample matrix, sample description
and location, sample volume or mass, sample depth, sample type, and number of
containers. A Field Sample Tracking Form is provided in Appendix B2.
4.6. Chain of Custody
4.6.1. Tracking samples from collection to receipt at the analytical laboratory is documented
on a Chain of Custody (COC) form. A COC form is provided in Appendix B3 (Chain
of Custody Form).
CAUTION: Documentation of changes in the custody of a sample(s) is important. This is especially
true for samples that may be used as evidence of intentional contamination or to establish
compliance with a release criterion. In such cases, there should be sufficient evidence to
demonstrate that the integrity of the sample is not compromised from the time it is collected to
the time it is analyzed. During this time, the sample must either be under the physical custody
of a responsible individual who is currently listed on the COC or be secured and protected,
under lock and key, from any activity that would change the true value of the results or the
nature of the sample. Each individual responsible for sample custody is required to provide
signatory documentation each time a sample(s) is received or relinquished.
4.6.2. Information contained on the COC form is to include:
Site information - Address of the site, contact person, telephone number, and
emergency contact number
SIC for each sample
Date and time of sample collection
Sample volume or mass
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
Sample matrix
Contact gamma reading or any additional radiological screening results of the
sample, if available, and as provided by radiation protection personnel
Analyses requested - general analyses or specific isotopic tests
Printed names and signatures of all persons accepting and relinquishing sample
custody, and the date and time of transfer
The printed name of the certified courier, courier company, and the name and
signature of person(s) relinquishing and accepting custody of the samples
4.6.3. If deemed necessary, the following information also should be contained in the COC
form:
A brief description of the sample(s)
Initials of the sample collector(s)
Method of shipment (ground, air, or both)
Any other pertinent information or comments regarding the sample (s)
4.6.4. At the time of transport, the individual relinquishing the sample(s) must sign and date
the COC form. The receiver also must sign and date the form.
4.6.5. The COC is copied and usually has carbonless copies attached to the original that are
specified as to use.
a. A copy of the COC is to be retained by the individual or organization
relinquishing the samples.
b. A copy of the COC is to be placed into a sealed plastic bag. The sealed bag is
placed inside of the sample transport packaging prior to sealing for transport.
c. The original COC is sent to the analytical laboratory in a separate envelope.
4.6.6. The receiving laboratory is required to submit a signed copy of the completed COC to
the Field Team Leader after receipt of the samples, and the original is to be returned
with the data package. The laboratory should include the following information with or
on the completed COC:
Time and date received and signature of the person receiving the samples
(appears on the COC)
Condition of the packaging and the security seal, and condition of security seals,
where applicable
Condition of and any problems with the individual samples, such as a broken
container, missing samples, illegible information
4.7. Verbal Discussions
4.7.1. All verbal discussions pertinent to the sampling event, samples, or transport and receipt
of the samples by the analytical laboratory are to be documented in the Field Sampling
Logbook.
4.7.2. If sample collectors are contacted by the laboratory, the following information is to be
documented:
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Name of the person who called
Name of the person who received the call and answered the questions
Content of the conversation, including any specific data or information discussed
or provided
Time and date of the call
4.8. Transport Documents
4.8.1. Common Carrier documents should be included with each shipment and completed as
required by the individual carrier.
4.8.2. All packages must securely display the following:
Sampling contact information, mailing address, and phone number
Laboratory name(s), mailing address, and phone number
Quantity and description of contents
Date of shipment
Appropriate U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) radioactive/radiation
labels and/or Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) labeling
5.0 Personnel/Equipment Decontamination
NOTE: The instructions provided in this section are intended to provide general information and
guidelines. Requirements set forth by site radiation protection personnel also must be consulted and
followed for site-specific requirements and procedures.
5.1. Surface Contamination
Surface contamination can usually be detected by radiation protection personnel, using direct
monitoring equipment and methods. In areas of high background radiation levels, however,
surface swipes should be taken and provided to radiation protection personnel for assessment of
contamination prior to exiting the site. Alternatively, suspected contaminated equipment should
be controlled in an area of lower background levels for direct reading.
5.2. Personnel and Equipment Decontamination
5.2.1. All personnel, equipment, materials, tools, or other objects exiting a controlled area will
be surveyed by radiation protection personnel to determine the presence of
contamination, and if necessary, will be decontaminated prior to leaving the controlled
area.
5.2.2. Any material or personnel that exceeds the site's release limits, as detailed by Radiation
Protection (e.g., 2x background levels), are to be controlled to prevent the spread of
contamination.
5.2.3. Any personnel decontamination is to be handled by radiation protection personnel.
5.2.4. Contaminated sampling materials are to be decontaminated per procedures described in
Sections 5.3 and 5.4, and subsequently surveyed by radiation protection personnel for
controlled release.
5.2.5. Equipment that is considered complex (e.g., has recessed areas or crevices, air flowing
through it for cooling, or water pumps) are to be fully surveyed by radiation protection
personnel to determine if and how decontamination is to be performed.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
5.3. Dry, Wet and Chemical Wiping
NOTE: All wastes produced from wiping off a contaminated surface are to be considered
contaminated until proven otherwise.
5.3.1. Surfaces of used sampling equipment and sampling containers are to be cleaned with
single wiping motions, starting with equipment handles or outer edges and moving to
the most contaminated areas.
5.3.2. Dry wiping with clean cloths or paper towels should be used to remove all visible solids
contamination.
5.3.3. Swiping with cloths or paper towels dampened with deionized water should be used to
remove additional contamination. Additional swipes can be used as necessary.
5.3.4. Chemically treated swipes (soap swipes, alcohol prep pads, or other approved cleanser)
may be used to remove heavy grime.
5.4. Decontamination of Pumps and Hoses
5.4.1. Pre-rinse the pump and associated piping/tubing/hose by operating the pump in a deep
basin containing approximately 30 to 40 L (8 to 10 gallons) of potable water for
approximately 5 minutes.
5.4.2. Wash the pump and associated piping/tubing/hose by operating the pump in a deep
basin containing approximately 30 to 40 L (8 to 10 gallons) of potable water containing
a non-phosphate detergent (e.g., Alconox) for 5 minutes.
5.4.3. Repeat the wash with a fresh solution of detergent.
5.4.4. Rinse the pump and associated piping/tubing/hose by operating the pump in a deep
basin containing approximately 30 to 40 L (8 to 10 gallons) of potable water for 5
minutes.
5.4.5. If practical, take a sample of the rinse water (1L, or 0.25 gallons) and have the sample
evaluated by the Radiation Protection Team for gross alpha and beta radiation. If gross
alpha and beta screening is impractical, disassemble the major pump components and
allow to dry. Take a swipe of the internal openings of the pump suction and discharge
and the associated piping/tubing/hose and have the swipes counted for alpha and beta
contamination.
5.5. Washing and Rinsing
5.5.1. Place a small amount of water in a container with sufficient room for washing the
equipment.
5.5.2. Using a cloth, wash the piece of equipment.
5.5.3. Rinse the equipment with a minimal amount of water, collecting the rinsate into a wash
container.
5.5.4. Wipe off the equipment with a clean paper towel or cloth.
5.5.5. Give the equipment a final rinse with a minimum of rinse water, collecting the rinse
water in a separate clean sample container. The final rinsate is to be submitted as a
sample. NOTE: Deionized or distilled water should be used for all final rinsing.
5.5.6. Dry off the equipment with a clean paper towel.
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Module I
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
6.0
6.1.
6.2.
6.3.
5.5.7. Take a swipe of the equipment and submit the swipe to radiation protection personnel
for analysis to ensure the equipment is properly decontaminated. If radiation is detected
and is not removed by additional rinsing (e.g., additional rinsing with rinse water or
with 1% nitric or hydrochloric acid), bag and seal the equipment for delivery to a
decontamination station or laboratory.
Waste Control
Waste compiled for disposal is to be documented. Appendix B4 (Example Waste Control Form)
presents a typical format for documenting wastes for disposal.
General
6.1.1.
6.1.2.
6.1.3.
6.1.4.
Solids
6.2.1.
6.2.2.
Liquids
6.3.1.
6.3.2.
All waste containers are to be clearly labeled or identifiable as waste. Waste containers
may be bottles, drums, plastic bags, or garbage cans dependent on the type of waste.
Clean trash is to be clearly segregated from potentially contaminated or contaminated
waste.
Waste material should not penetrate or be capable of chemically reacting with the
containment used. To prevent leakage or loss of sample, use waste containers that are
durable, can be sealed, and are composed of materials that will not be affected or
compromised by the sample.
After each addition, the waste container should be closed. After final insertion of
material, the container should be sealed.
Dry Wastes
a. Place dry material in a labeled plastic bag or container that is appropriate for
containing the waste material.
b. Material should not cut through or penetrate the containment. If necessary,
sharp edges should be taped or otherwise wrapped.
c. After each addition, the container should be closed. After final insertion of
material, the container should be sealed.
Wet or Damp Wastes
a. Place wet or damp material in a labeled plastic bag or container that is
appropriate for containing the waste material.
b. Material that emits fumes or odors should be evaluated by the authorized safety
individual regarding the need to control vapors, as some vapors may cause
explosions of the container.
Liquids should be segregated based on material (e.g., water should be contained with
water, oils with oils, etc.). Wastes should be evaluated by the authorized safety
individual for compatibility to ensure that hazards are not produced from mixing.
Liquid wastes that emit fumes or odors should be examined for possible vapor control
problems as some vapors may cause explosions of the container.
6.4. Segregation
1-22
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
6.4.1. As waste material is produced and collected, segregation must be used to prevent and
control additional contamination and radiation exposure levels.
6.4.2. Radiation and radioactivity levels in the materials used for decontamination will
normally be insignificant.
6.4.3. Storing samples in a single location may result in radiation levels that could potentially
affect background radiation levels, or result in personnel exposure. Care should be
taken to monitor radiation levels according to applicable regulatory or radiation
protection requirements. If necessary, move or shield the samples. If radiation levels
from unshielded samples exceed applicable limits, the samples should be placed in
shielded containers. If radiation levels in an area where samples are being stored
exceed manageable levels, refer to the appropriate radiation protection guidelines.
a. The potential for decontamination materials to spread contamination is often
higher than the potential of contamination from the actual samples taken.
Materials used for decontamination should be handled in a manner such that its
accumulation and movement will not result in the potential for release.
b. Waste containers can release loose material, vapors, or liquids if the containers
are breached.
6.5. Disposal
6.5.1. Prior to creation of any waste, the procedures or mechanism for control or disposal of
the waste must be determined. The Field Team Leader is to instruct the sampling team
regarding the actions to take to control or remove the waste generated.
6.5.2. A sample of each waste stream may be required to be packaged and shipped to a
laboratory for characterization.
6.5.3. Wastes may be required to be left on site for disposal during the remediation process.
7.0 Sample Packaging and Transport
WARNING: Samples should be considered contaminated, and the appropriate PPE worn, during the
sample packaging and loading process. All samples being shipped for radiochemical analysis
are to be properly packaged and labeled before transport off site or within the site. U.S. DOT
shipping regulations must be consulted and are summarized in Module I, Sections 7.1 through
7.5 below. The primary concerns are incidents that can occur during sample transport (e.g.,
bumping, jarring, stacking, wetting, and falling) and can result in the breakage of the sample
containers or increase the possibility of spills and leaks. In addition to resulting in loss of
samples and cross contamination, the possible release of hazardous material poses a threat to
the safety of persons handling and transporting the package and to laboratory personnel
opening the package.
NOTE: Ice chests, constructed of metal or hard plastic, make excellent packaging for low-level
radioactive environmental samples. Drums (30- or 55-gallon) meeting the requirements of Type A
packaging (identified by markings on the drum) are required for samples meeting U.S. DOT placard
requirements for Radioactive White I, Radioactive Yellow II, or Radioactive Yellow III.
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
7.1. Regulations and Requirements
7.1.1. Various agencies have controls over the transport and shipment of radioactive material,
including the DOT and the NRC.
7.1.2. All requirements for transport and shipment included in this document reflect the
requirements of these agencies.
7.1.3. Definitions of terms pertinent to transportation of materials are stated in the Code of
Federal Regulations (CFR) at 49 CFR Parts 171 through 173.
a. Class - The hazard classification of the material for transport purposes.
Radioactive material is defined as Class 7.
b. Labels - Indication and signs on a packaging or on material contained in a
packaging that designate a hazard or hazardous condition or handling
requirements inherent to the packaging or package.
c. Markings - Indication signs pertaining to design or specifications of a package,
irrespective of its use.
d. Overpack - An enclosure that is used by a single consignor (the site) to provide
protection or convenience in handling of a package or to consolidate two or
more packages for shipping purposes.
e. Package - The packaging with its radioactive contents as presented for
transport. For example, a sample cooler used to transport a single sample or
multiple samples.
f. Packaging - The assembly of components necessary to enclose completely the
radioactive contents. It may, in particular, consist of one or more sample
containers, absorbent materials, spacing structures, radiation shielding, service
equipment for filling, emptying, and venting and pressure relief devices integral
to the package. The packaging may be a box, drum, or similar receptacle or
may also be a freight container consistent with the required performance
standards for transport.
g. Transport index (TI) - The dimensionless number (rounded to the next tenth)
placed on the label of the radiation level measured in mSv/hour times 100 or
the level in mrem/hour at 1 m (3.3 feet).
7.1.4. The NRC provides regulations governing packaging, preparation, and shipment of
licensed and special nuclear materials at 10 CFR Part 71.
a. Samples containing low levels of radioactivity are exempted as set forth in 10
CFR Part 71.10.
b. Low specific activity (LSA) material is defined and discussed in 10 CFR Parts
71.4 and 71.88.
c. Samples classified as LSA need to meet the requirements of the NRC and the
requirements of the DOT.
7.1.5. DOT provides regulations governing the transport of hazardous materials at 49 CFR
Parts 170 through 189.
a. Requirements for marking and labeling packages and placarding transport
vehicles for shipment are detailed in 49 CFR Part 172.
b. Accident Reporting is discussed in 49 CFR Part 171.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
c. Packaging definitions and requirements are in 49 CFR Part 173.
d. Requirements for training shippers; what is to be included in the shipping
papers; and what emergency information is necessary for the shipment are
detailed in 49 CFR Part 172.
7.2. Transport Materials
7.2.1. Alert and Hazard Labels
a. Color-coded alert labels can be used to assist in processing a sample by
identifying a sample emitting elevated radiation levels and/or designating
sample analysis priority in order to facilitate compliance with sample-
segregation requirements specified in the Manual for the Certification of
Laboratories Analyzing Drinking Water (EPA 815-R-05-004).
Red denotes radiation levels are equal to or greater than 0.005 mSv/hour
(0.5 mrem/hour) and the highest analysis priority.
Yellow denotes radiation five times above background but below 0.005
mSv/hour (0.5 mrem/hour) secondary analysis priority.
Blue denotes the lowest analysis priority.
Labels are typically circular with a diameter of 2.5 cm (1 inch).
b. Hazard labels are required by DOT for shipment and transport purposes. They
are specified as to appearance, wording, dimensions, and coloring to be
recognizable to handlers during their transport from the site to the analytical
laboratory. These labels include:
Radioactive Material
Surface Contaminated Object (SCO) - SCO-I and SCO-II
LSA (Low Specific Activity) - LSA-I, LSA-II, and LSA III
Radioactive White I, Radioactive Yellow II, and Radioactive Yellow III
Special Nuclear Material (SNM)
Corrosive
Red or black arrows ("This Way Up") indicating either direction the
package is to be maintained to prevent damage or spillage
c. All shipments of radioactive material, with the exception of those containing
excepted quantities (typical in the Final Status Survey Phase of sampling), are
to bear two identifying hazard labels affixed to opposite sides of the outer
package.
d. A single hazard or alert label, or a combination of these labels, may be required
to be placed on a sample container or package based on the hazards identified
or considered to be contained in the sample container or package.
e. DOT regulations at 49 CFR Parts 171 - 173 should be consulted for specific
packaging and labeling requirements. Several vendors and government
agencies, including DOT, offer specific training on these regulations.
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
7.2.2. Strong tight containers (packaging) should be used to transport samples.
a. Packages are to meet DOT design requirements; Type IP-I, II, or III, Type A, or
TypeB.
b. Packages should survive incidents that can occur during transport, without a
release of the contents.
c. Packages should be easy to handle and properly secured.
d. Each lifting attachment, if contained on the packaging, should have a minimum
safety factor of triple (3x) strength and provide non-structural damage if failure
occurs.
e. The external surface of the container should be smooth, free of unnecessary
protrusions, dents, or gouges, and easy to clean.
f. All construction materials should be compatible and able to withstand radiation.
g. Any valve on the container should be protected against leakage or inadvertent
opening.
7.2.3. Absorbent Material
a. The transport container must contain triple (3x) the amount of absorbent
material required to absorb the entire amount of liquid being shipped.
b. Absorbent material should not degrade when exposed to the liquid being
absorbed or from conditions incident to transport.
7.2.4. Cushioning Material
a. The material must be able to absorb impact placed on samples during transport.
b. It must be sufficient to prevent damage from occurring to samples.
c. Absorbent material may also be used as a cushioning material.
7.2.5. Shielding
a. Shielding materials range from plywood to tin or lead sheets. Shielding also
may be accomplished by placing low-level samples around high-level samples.
However, combined shipment of samples containing disparate levels of
contamination should be avoided, or extra precautions should be taken to
prevent cross-contamination.
b. Amount of shielding used is dependent on radiation levels, packaging strength,
and weight limits of the package.
7.3. Preparing Samples for Transport
7.3.1. Field and Sample Data Compilation
a. Original Field Sample Logbooks and Field Sample Tracking Forms are to be
maintained in a secure location.
b. Copies of the appropriate pages of the Field Sample Logbooks and Field
Sample Tracking Forms are to be sent to the laboratory with the samples.
Appropriate pages include information regarding sample volume or weight,
screening results, and potential hazards.
c. Ensure Sample Identification Code labels are on each sample container.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
7.3.2. Wipe each individual sample container with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any
exterior contamination.
a. If directed, or if contamination levels on the sample container cannot be
removed to levels specified in the HASP/RSP or SCP, then: (1) place the
sample container in a bag, and (2) place the bagged sample container in a
second clean bag. NOTE: The practice of double bagging is more efficient
than wiping containers with absorbent material, and is a more effective method
for preventing the spread of contamination and the generation of additional
waste.
b. If the sample container was not wiped or if removal of contamination could not
be achieved, it must be documented in the Field Sampling Logbook and on the
coc.
7.3.3. Ensure contamination and radiation levels of the outer container are measured. NOTE:
Sample radiation and contamination readings are performed by radiation protection
personnel. The following information is provided as guidance for steps to be performed
prior to sample transport:
a. Perform a surface gamma exposure rate measurement and a surface alpha and
beta contamination survey of sample containers. Record the results on the
Field Sample Tracking Form.
If surface contamination exceeds allowed limits, decontaminate the
container and repeat the survey.
If surface gamma exposure is greater than background levels, record the
reading on the sample container and the Field Sample Tracking Form.
Place Alert labels on containers that exceed 5x background radiation levels.
b. Based on gamma levels and types of samples, pre-stage samples for loading
into the sample transport packaging. Samples with higher radiation levels are
to be in the center of the packaging. NOTE: When determining loading of
packaging (i.e., arrangement, weight, and stabilization), allow for the addition
of packing materials.
c. The final package cannot exceed:
2 mSv/hour (200 mrem/hour) at any point on the outside of the package
ATI of 10
0.4 Bq/cm2 (22 dpm/cm2) beta - gamma loose surface activity
0.04 Bq/cm2 (2.2 dpm/cm2) alpha loose surface activity
d. Once the samples have been screened and selected for transport, create a list of
the samples and SICs that will be placed in the packaging container and record
the order of their arrangement in the packaging.
7.4. Packing the Transport Packaging
7.4.1. Avoid cross contamination of samples and sample containers during packing.
7.4.2. Ensure the sample containers are controlled and sealed to prevent spillage during
shipment.
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
a. Double bagging of sample containers is required prior to packing the samples.
Heavy plastic bags, with or without Ziplock seals, can be used.
b. Heavy plastic lawn bags can be used to contain vegetation samples.
c. Bags should be large enough to allow the upper ends to be twisted to seal the
top closed. Tape is applied to the area of the twist, and the top is folded over
and sealed with tape. One continuous piece of tape can be used, tabbing the
end to allow for removal.
d. Caps on containers holding liquid samples should be secured with tape, placed
into plastic bags containing sufficient liquid absorbing material (i.e., must be
able to absorb 3x the volume of the sample), and the bags sealed.
7.4.3. Pack the samples in the sample transport packaging. NOTE: DOT has design
specifications for each type of packaging; however, the construction of the packaging,
as certified by the manufacturer, limits the total weight of the package and the
capability to retain shielding. The shipping transporter will also have limitations as to
the maximum weight of any one package that they will transport. These considerations
will be determined prior to sample shipment, but the sampling team needs to be aware
of any restrictions that apply.
a. Use the packing list and pre-determined packing order (see Module I, Step
7.3.3.d) as guidance in loading the packaging, noting that changes may be
required based upon actual radiation levels and weight considerations.
b. If necessary, add shielding to the outer sides of the inside of the packaging.
c. Place shock absorbing material (bubble wrap, packing peanuts, vermiculite) or
liquid absorbing material (e.g., vermiculite) around the samples, as appropriate,
including the bottom of the transport packaging and the area above the samples.
Samples should be in contact with the shock or absorbent materials, and should
not be in contact with each other.
d. Ensure that heavier materials are placed on or near the bottom of the packaging.
e. DO NOT jam or overload packaging.
f. DO NOT pack the packaging to an overweight condition.
7.4.4. Assign the package an identification number. Record the package number, samples
contained within, and conditions of the contents in the Field Sample Logbook. Record
the sample package number on the package.
7.4.5. Obtain results of a surface contamination and radiation survey of the exterior of the
filled transport package from the site radiation protection personnel.
a. If surface contamination exceeds allowed limits, decontaminate the package
and repeat the survey. Record the results of the survey in the Field Sample
Logbook.
b. Record the highest and lowest gamma readings on contact, the highest reading
at 1 m (3.3 feet), and the location where the reading was noted on the Field
Sample Tracking Form.
7.4.6. Complete the COC form with all necessary information, per Section 4.6, and place a
copy of the COC in a Ziplock bag taped to the top of the inside lid of the packaging.
7.4.7. Close and seal the transport package.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module I
a. Apply a security seal in such a manner that it will be torn (broken) if the
package if opened. The tape should include the signature of the sender, and the
date and time the seal was applied, so that it cannot be removed and replaced.
b. Place a completed custody seal on the package.
c. The container is to be secured with a locking mechanism or a method of
securing closure.
If a White I, Yellow II, or Yellow III label is required, the package is to
have a locking mechanism and a security seal.
Industrial Type I packaging, such as a cooler, may be secured with clear
packing tape or duct tape.
d. Write the following information on the outside of the package.
Weight of the package
Sender's name and address
e. Attach "This Way Up" labels and any other required labels, 180ฐ apart from
each other (opposite sides) on the package.
7.5. Transfer of Custody to an Authorized Carrier
7.5.1. Samples, by federal law, may be transported only by authorized carriers.
a. Authorized carriers must be identified prior to sample shipment. Authorized
carriers of hazardous materials must be certified by DOT and, as of September
2005, these carriers must also be certified by the U.S. Department of Homeland
Security (DHS) according to DOT's Hazardous Materials Regulation Unit.
b. Transport by an individual or sample collector is not authorized by federal
regulations.
c. The U.S. Postal Service will not ship radiological samples.
d. Government-specified carriers may be used. FedEx and United Parcel Service
are typical authorized carriers. There are other carriers that specifically
transport high level radioactive materials.
e. Shipment of high-level radioactivity samples should be coordinated in advance
to avoid delays that could impact response.
7.5.2. Transfer custody of the samples to the carrier, obtaining a signature from the authorized
agent on the COC form.
a. It is the responsibility of the carrier and the shipper to ensure packages are
properly loaded for transport prior to departure from the site.
b. Packages loaded into a vehicle are to be secured from movement during
transport.
c. Packages of varying contamination levels are segregated. Packages containing
samples that are above background (greater than or equal to 5x background) are
stored in a shielded area of transport vehicles as far away from transport
personnel and meters (e.g., dosimeters) as possible.
d. A loading plan may be required to be determined prior to loading samples into
transport vehicles.
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Module I Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
e. The vehicle is surveyed prior to transport to ensure that the limits for radiation
levels outside the vehicle are met.
Not to exceed 2 mSv/hour (200 mrem/hour) on the external surface of the
vehicle
Not to exceed 0.1 mSv/hour (10 mrem/hour) at any point 2 m (6.6 feet)
from the outer lateral surfaces of the transport vehicle
Not to exceed 0.02 mSv/hour (2 mrem/hour) in any normally occupied
space on the transport vehicle
f The vehicle should remain locked at all times during transport.
7.5.3. The original COC form (after custody transfer signature), copies of corresponding Field
Sample Logbook entries and Field Sample Tracking Form(s), and a copy of the
shipment paperwork should be sealed in a plastic bag and sent overnight to the
analytical laboratory.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module II
MODULE II - SAMPLING PROCEDURES - SITE CHARACTERIZATION AND
REMEDIATION PHASES
1.0 Collection of Samples
1.1. Overview
1.1.1. This module outlines procedures, equipment, and other considerations specific to the
collection of representative environmental samples for the measurement of radiological
contaminants during the Site Characterization and Remediation Phases of a
contamination incident.
1.1.2. The intent of any sampling event is to maintain sample integrity by preserving physical
form and chemical composition to as great an extent as possible. Sample collectors
should rely on training, experience, and supervisory guidance to ensure the sampling
event provides the best samples possible to determine the extent and nature of the
hazards encountered.
1.1.3. Materials exposed to a release of radioactive contamination can contain four types of
contamination: (1) loose surface contamination from the deposition (fallout) of airborne
material, (2) fixed surface contamination from deposited material that has been
absorbed or physically impregnated into a surface, (3) contamination that is being
transported by a liquid or solvent, and (4) activated material. The latter is a result of the
release of neutron radiation, which transforms the material from non-radioactive
radionuclides into radioactive radionuclides. Generally, activated materials generally
will be found only at ground zero of a nuclear detonation.
1.1.4. The following issues should be considered by the sample collection team and the Field
Team Leader during implementation of the procedures described in this document and
the requirements of the Sample Collection Plan (SCP). NOTE: Surveys of the ground
surface are performed by the radiation protection personnel. The sampling team is
required to review survey results for contamination and radiation prior to taking a
sample.
a. The amount of sample collected may be larger, but should never be less than
the required volume or mass. In general, large volumes or numerous samples
are more representative than small volumes. NOTE: Large samples may cause
problems with shipping, storage, and disposal, as larger volumes can contain
higher radiation levels and require shielding or more numerous smaller sample
shipments. Large amounts of sample may also cause problems in the
laboratory due to increased radiation and difficulties in homogenization of
samples to obtain representative aliquots for analysis.
b. During the Remediation Phase, the sample volume may increase, decrease, or
both. The variations will be dependent on the results found during Site
Characterization Phase sampling, specifically the radionuclides and
activities/concentrations found.
c. Large samples may cause problems with shipping, storage, and disposal, as
larger volumes can contain higher radiation levels and require shielding or more
numerous smaller sample shipments.
1.1.5. During the Characterization Phase of sample collection, measurement quality obj ectives
(MQOs) corresponding to the specific event are based on unknown contaminants or on-
site assessment and screening. The MQOs set during the Remediation Phase will be
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Module II Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
based on the knowledge obtained from samples taken during the Characterization
Phase.
1.1.6. The following sample sizes have been determined to be necessary to meet MQOs in the
Site Characterization and Remediation Phases of sampling and are to be the
volumes/masses taken unless otherwise specified by the SCP.1 NOTE: The sample
volumes and masses in this document are provided as guidance with respect to typical
laboratory requirements for current analytical methods. Sample volumes/masses will
be site- or event-specific, and sample collectors should consult the SCP regarding
requirements for the number and volume/mass of samples to collect. These sample
volumes/masses should be considered to be minimum sample sizes; additional sample
volume/mass may be necessary to satisfy laboratory quality control (QC) sample
requirements.
a. The required volume for soil and sediment samples is 1 L (0.26 gallons) or
approximately 1.6 kg (3.5 pounds). Because 1 L of dry, debris-free sample is
required for analysis, it is recommended that at least 1.5 L (0.4 gallons) of
sample be collected.
Collect samples that are free of debris, vegetation, rocks, stones, etc., to the
greatest extent practical.
Collect samples that do not contain a significant amount of liquid.
Consult with the SCP regarding area and depth dimensions needed for
collection of an appropriate sample amount.
b. The volume for water is 4 L (1.1 gallons).
Samples are to be relatively free of sediment or debris.
Samples are to be free of oil and sludge.
c. Air sample volumes are highly dependent on the sample collection device and
site-specific MQOs. Sample collectors should consult the SCP for
requirements regarding the air sample collection device to use, collection flow
rate, duration, and sample amounts needed.
d. The area required to be covered by swipe samples is dependent on the surface
sampled and is to be reported in cm2.
Small surfaces (standard surface areas) should be at least 100 cm2 (16
inches2) per swipe
Large surfaces should be 300 cm2 (47 inches2) per swipe
Surfaces greater than 300 cm2 should be swiped in various, random
locations using multiple swipes to cover approximately 1% of the surface
area.
e. The required amount for samples of vegetation is 1 kg (2.2 pounds) or
approximately 6.5 L (1.7 gallons) of solid packed, low density (0.6 g/mL)
vegetation (leafy material such as grass).
f. All other material volumes are dependent on the material sampled and ability to
obtain the sample, and are to be reported in activity per kilogram or liter.
1 MQOs are based on sample amounts needed to meet the analytical and QC requirements of the methods listed in
EPA's Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM) (www.epa.sam).
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module II
1.2. Precautions and Limitations
1.2.1. General Precautions and Limitations
a. ALL Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is to be donned, worn, and properly
disposed of during the sampling event.
Improper use of the PPE can result in contamination of or injury to the
individual.
Improper use of the PPE may result in the spread of contamination beyond
the incident sampling site.
b. To collect a representative sample, collect from a relatively open area. If
possible, and unless otherwise instructed in the SCP, samples should not be
taken from areas located under trees or in areas containing numerous rocks, or
large growths of vegetation. These features can prevent surface deposition, and
can act as absorbers of deposited material.
c. Avoid contacting equipment and materials with any contaminated or potentially
contaminated surface. Use a plastic bag to cover the surface and place
materials onto the plastic bag or sheeting. This reduces carryover,
contamination, and exposure.
d. Note road locations and landmarks in the Field Sample Logbook. Any
information that can be used to clearly ascertain the position of a sample
location is important. Global positioning system (GPS) coordinates are used to
specify an exact sampling point.
e. Always refer to the instructions provided in the SCP or by the Field Team
Leader prior to taking any samples.
1.2.2. Collection of Soil Samples
a. Soil samples require minimal field preparation and are not preserved.
Homogenization is of greater importance, except in cases when samples of true
surface contamination are requested.
b. Simple field techniques, such as coning and quartering, are used to homogenize
soil or sediment samples. If required, homogenized samples are divided for the
creation of replicate samples.
c. During Site Characterization, if a sample contains significant amounts of
residual water (e.g., forms clumps of soil or has standing water),
homogenization and separation into sample aliquots must be performed in a
laboratory. This will minimize the contamination of personnel and equipment.
The sample should be examined to determine the potential volume of liquid and
to ensure sufficient soil or sediment sample is collected for all required
analyses.
d. During Site Characterization, the SCP must be reviewed for specific
instructions for retaining or shipping excess materials such as rocks, stones, and
vegetation. If required, these materials are separated and placed into separate
bags containing the same Sample Identification Code (SIC) of the sample. This
is of particular concern for surface soil samples. Refer to the SCP for the
proper disposition of these materials (i.e., sent to the laboratory, retained on site
in storage, or disposed).
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Module II Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
e. During site remediation, rocks, stones, and vegetation are typically segregated
and left at the sampling site.
1.2.3. Collection of Sediment Samples
a. When sampling sediment, a wide variety of materials may be encountered. The
matrix may include fine-grained material, a mixture of coarse and fine-grained
material, and dead vegetative material (leaves, sticks, etc.) or peat moss.
b. Bulk sediment samples can be collected by grab sample, dredge, or core
sampler. The equipment used to collect discrete samples will depend upon the
type of material encountered. Therefore, various sampling tools should be
available to ensure the collection of representative samples. Refer to Module I,
Section 2.0 (Equipment and Materials) and Appendix Al (Sampling
Equipment).
c. One of the problems encountered when sampling sediments is the amount of
water in the sample. A high level of water content will increase the analytical
detection limits of the sample, as the concentration calculation is determined on
a dry weight basis.
1.2.4. Collection of Water Samples
a. Water samples must be representative of the body of water from which the
samples are collected. If the sampling event is conducted in heavy rain, rain
water and sediments might be present in the sample, causing bias.
b. If possible, samples should be collected from a point of lesser turbidity and
limited vegetation.
c. During Site Characterization, sample volumes should be consistent over the
sampling events.
d. During the Characterization Phase, all material collected during the sampling
event should be included in the sample. Unless sample filtration is required and
performed in the field (see Appendix C), any sediment present in the sample is
required to be shipped with the sample and not separated. If the sample
contains significant amounts of residue or sediment, the sample is allowed to sit
until the majority of the sediment has settled, and the volume of water is
evaluated to ensure that sample volume requirements are met.
e. During the Remediation Phase of sample collection, specific volumes or
weights may be requested. The SCP should specify whether a water sample is
to be taken based on the sample volume or weight.
f. During site remediation, samples containing significant amounts of residue or
sediment should be allowed to settle and the liquid decanted. The body of
water is resampled to ensure the proper volume is obtained, and the sediment is
discarded at the site.
g. Replicate samples are collected by pouring aliquots of a bulk sample into
separate containers. Each container should include the required sample
volume.
h. Further water sample preparation and handling requirements, including
preservation, are to be performed as required by the SCP, and should be
performed in a controlled area outside of the sampling zone. Procedures for
filtration and preservation of samples in the field are provided in Appendix C as
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module II
guidance in cases when an SCP requires that these procedures are to be
performed in the field. In these cases, samples to be analyzed for dissolved
constituents must be filtered prior to preservation.
1.2.5. Collection of Air Particulate, Vapors, and Gas Samples
a. Weather conditions such as heavy snow, rain, dust and wind, can have a major
impact on whether an air sample is representative of the actual environmental
contamination levels. Air filters can become completely clogged with snow,
dust, ice, or particulates. If fires are in the area, particulate loading of filters
can become as significant problem.
After reviewing the direction of the wind to determine the spread of the
plume, air samples should be taken at a location that is downwind of
locations at which high depositions are expected. The direction of the
prevalent wind also must be used to determine where long term air
samplers should be located.
If the weather is inclement, a covering or housing should be placed either
underneath or inside of a covering or housing to minimize debris, rain, or
snow from being impinged on the sample filter or cartridge.
If air samples are taken in the vicinity of an automotive vehicle, the sampler
should be positioned upwind of the vehicle's exhaust.
b. Power supplies are required to take particulate and vapor air samples.
When using a generator, place the generator downwind and far enough
away to reduce exhaust capture.
When using power from a vehicle, such as a power inverter plugged into
the cigarette lighter outlet, place the sampler on the hood of the vehicle to
reduce exhaust capture.
Make sure to have fire suppression equipment readily available.
c. Gas samples are often taken using vacuum flasks, collection vessels, or
bubblers. Care must be taken to ensure the valves on the vacuum flasks and
sample collection vessels are prevented from being inadvertently opened prior
to and after sampling.
d. Sampler units (filter and cartridge units) can be assembled outside the plume
zone, but should be sealed in plastic bags until the sampler is positioned and
placed in a plastic bag upon retrieval.
e. Air filter, gas, and cartridge samples are to be taken with care to minimize the
collection of liquid, water, or water vapor. Air cartridges, particularly those
using triethylenediamine (TEDA) impregnated charcoal, have a life expectancy
of approximately 1 week at low volumes in high humidity.
f When retrieving a filter, it is imperative to collect notes on the condition of the
filter, flow rate of the sampler, collection start and stop time, and general
environmental conditions.
g. During site remediation, air samples are taken as determined by the SCP and, at
a minimum, weekly around the site perimeter, daily at job locations, and per
task on workers assigned in the field. The actual locations of perimeter
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Module II Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
samplers and the number of worker lapel samplers should be dictated in the
SCP.
1.2.6. Collection of Surface Swipes
a. Swipes are to be collected with care to minimize damage to the swipe material
or introduction of airborne contamination during the sampling event.
b. Collection of a swipe sample involves a physical motion that, in areas of high-
level surface activity, can cause the material to become airborne. The extent of
the airborne problem will be local, but may influence the activity found in other
areas as the material falls out from the air. Also, an increase in airborne activity
may add a respiratory concern to the sample collector.
c. Wet swipes are used for collection of samples from non-porous surfaces or
when the surface contains large amounts of particles that are considered to be
part of the sample.
d. Dry swipes are used when the sample surface is porous and moisture could
"push" the contamination deeper into the material.
2.0 Equipment and Materials
The equipment and materials used for sample collection are dependent on the sampling activity.
Refer to Module I, Section 2.0 and Appendices Al through A6.
NOTE: All PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and sampling equipment is to be pre-staged and
available prior to entering a sampling area. The sampling team is to set up a step-off pad at the entrance
to the survey point, and to don appropriate PPE prior to entering the area. Personnel outside of the area
may hand material over to, and retrieve material from, personnel in the area using appropriate
contamination control techniques. All steps that will reduce the time in the area, such as pre-writing of
labels or sample containers, are to be used to minimize exposure.
3.0 Collection of Soil Samples
NOTE: Removal of large stones, rocks, twigs, vegetation and other debris may result in a less than
required volume of soil. It is recommended that at least 1.5 L (0.4 gallons) is collected to support
analytical method requirements for a 1 L dry sample that is free of debris.
3.1. Ground Deposition
3.1.1. Record the location, time, date and other pertinent observation information on the Field
Sample Tracking Form.
3.1.2. Sample the soil as instructed using either Method A (Maintaining a True Surface
Sample) or Method B (Shallow Surface Sample). NOTE: Care should be taken to
minimize contact of gloves with portions of the sample. Do not disturb the sample
collection area around a sample point. Stake out and put up boundary lines around the
sample point as necessary to ensure that the area is not disturbed
3.1.3. Method A - Maintaining a True Surface Sample
a. Using a trowel, mark the edges around the collection area specified in the SCP.
b. Dig a cut line around the edges of the sampling point as wide as the trowel and
to the depth specified in the SCP.
c. Wipe the trowel with a clean paper towel, removing all visible signs of dirt.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module II
d. Slide the trowel or a flat spatula under the sample point to cut away at the 15
cm deep point. This will likely require a series of cuts.
e. Using the trowel or spatula, pick up the sample.
f. Slowly place the material into a large Ziplock bag. If elevated levels of
radioactivity are suspected, use of a plastic container is recommended to
prevent cross-contamination that could occur if a bag becomes damaged.
g. Proceed to Module II, Section 3.10 (Soil Sample Handling). DO NOT
homogenize the sample.
3.1.4. Method B - Collecting a shallow surface sample
a. Using a trowel, mark the edges of the sample collection area specified in the
SCP.
b. Cut down to the depth specified in the SCP, picking up the sample, and slowly
place the material into a clean stainless steel bowl large enough to hold more
than the required sample volume.
c. Prior to homogenization, remove twigs, roots, leaves, rocks and miscellaneous
debris (glass, bricks, etc.) from the sample using a clean stainless steel spoon or
spatula and return the removed material to the sample location. Consult the
SCP for specific instructions for retaining or shipping excess materials such as
rocks, stones, and vegetation. If required, these materials are separated and
placed into separate bags containing the same Sample Identification Code (SIC)
of the sample.
d. If the volume collected does not meet the sample volume requirements, cut
additional material from the outer edges of the hole as needed. Record the
amount of additional material in the Field Sample Logbook and Field Sample
Tracking Form.
e. Wipe the trowel with a clean paper towel to decontaminate it, removing all
visible signs of soil.
f. Proceed to Module II, Step 3.10 (Soil Sample Handling).
3.2. Wet Soil
WARNING: Sample collection activities performed in wet soil or standing water are to be reviewed
and approved by radiation protection personnel and the designated site safety individual.
These conditions can pose a personnel hazard. Individuals may sink into the surface resulting
in twisted ankles or knees, or broken limbs. The sampling of severely soaked soils is to be
evaluated for personnel safety prior to the sampling event. As necessary, and under the
direction of the site safety individual, the soil may be stabilized using a platform, such as %-
inch plywood or !/2-inch plank boards. Additional concern is required for the penetration or
wicking of radioactive materials through non-waterproof clothing. In these conditions,
radiation protection personnel shall assess the need for upgraded PPE.
3.2.1. If rain and water saturation make the collection area impossible to dig, attempt to
remove the surface layer of the collection area with a scoop or sample cup on a reach
rod.
3.2.2. If snow has fallen or is present, gently remove as much snow as practical prior to
collecting the sample. The SCP or the Field Team Leader should be consulted to
determine if and how snow samples should be collected as a sample.
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Module II Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
3.2.3. Record information on the wet soil in the Field Sample Logbook and Field Sample
Tracking Form.
3.2.4. Proceed to Module II, Step 3.10.4 (Soil Sample Handling).
3.3. Dry and Sandy Soil or Sampling a Mixture of Fines and Gravel
NOTE: Samples of unconsolidated or sandy soil that is extremely dry and falling apart, should be
sampled carefully. Material from the area surrounding the sample point should be left as
undisturbed as possible. If needed, use a retaining form to prevent side-wall debris from entering
the area sampled.
3.3.1. Using a core sampler, split spoon, thief, or grain sampling tool, make a straight plunge
into the soil. The SCP or the Field Team Leader should be consulted regarding the
depth the sample. NOTE: Sampling of poorly sorted material consisting of large
aggregate and fines might not allow a core sampler to be used.
3.3.2. Give the sampling tool a twist to create a coring action.
3.3.3. Remove the sampling tool carefully from the soil.
3.3.4. Empty the sample into a clean stainless steel bowl. NOTE: Separation of coarse and
fine-grained material will be inherent to the process, and may bias the data due to non-
representation of all particle sizes present. As a result, data generated from samples of
this matrix must be used with caution. As much as possible, samples that are collected
should be representative of the particle size distribution present in the material being
sampled.
a. With a thief, twist the sample handle to open the sampler and lightly shake the
sampler.
b. With a corer or split spoon, place the sampling tool over a clean stainless steel
bowl and carefully disassemble the sampler.
3.3.5. Transfer the sample to the sample container. A small funnel can be used to channel the
sample into the container, provided the funnel does not restrict the passage of the larger
pieces of sample aggregate.
3.3.6. Proceed with Module II, Step 3.10.4.
3.4. Subsurface Soil
NOTE: At-depth samples are not normally collected during Site Characterization. At-depth
samples are generally required if the ground transport mechanisms (water, soil conditions, ground
faults) transport the contamination after the contamination incident. The duration of time from
incident to cleanup will determine the extent of transport and the need to sample at depth.
3.4.1. Consult the SCP to determine depth of sample collection. If the depth is not noted in
the SCP, consult the Field Team Leader for instruction.
3.4.2. Record the depth, time, date, sample collector, and other information on the Field
Sample Logbook and Field Sample Tracking Form.
3.4.3. For samples less than 2 m (6.6 feet) deep, advance the hole to the desired sampling
depth with a hand auger or a hand operated hammer. An extension rod with a split
spoon may also be used.
3.4.4. For samples greater than 2 m (6.6 feet) deep, advance the hole to the desired sampling
depth with a back hoe bucket, power auger or other drilling rig.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module II
3.4.5. Cover a designated spot next to the sample location but sufficiently clear to allow work
(within 1 m or 3.3 feet) with a plastic sheet large enough to retain the soil excavated.
NOTE: A 2 x 2 m (6.6 x 6.6 feet) sheet of plastic is typically sufficient for a shallow
dig. For a deep dig, the size will be dependent on the depth of the hole and the tool
used to excavate the sample point. Plastic sheeting may be placed after the majority of
the digging is completed, prior to excavation of the sample volume.
3.4.6. Using the sampling tool, deposit the excavated soil onto the designated spot.
3.4.7. Upon reaching the prescribed depth (see Section 3.4.1), collect the sample and move the
auger or split spoon to a clean designated area of the plastic sheeting. DO NOT mix the
sample with excavated soil.
3.4.8. Obtain the sample directly from the auger or split spoon, or place the contents onto the
designated plastic sheeting and collect the sample from the plastic.
3.4.9. Proceed to Section 3.10 (Soil Sample Handling).
3.5. Soil with Vegetation
3.5.1. When it is necessary to collect a sample from an area that is covered with grass, weeds
or other organic material, clip the organic material closely to the sample area surface
and treat the clippings as a vegetation sample following procedures described in Section
6.0 (Collection of Vegetation Samples).
3.5.2. If the vegetation has stalks greater than 0.6 cm (0.25 inch) in diameter, note the
presence of the stalk and take the sample by digging around the stalk. If the stalks are
numerous, dig up the stalks and remove the soil from around the roots. DO NOT shake
soil free. Hold the stalks over a clean stainless steel bowl, and lightly tap or scrape the
roots with the trowel or scoop.
3.5.3. Bag any vegetation taken separately from the soil. Label the bags with the SIC for the
soil samples.
3.5.4. Record the sample location; the type(s) of vegetation encountered and removed; the
area (dimensions) of vegetation sampled; time and date of sample collection; name of
the sample collector; and other information in the Field Sample Logbook and on the
Field Sample Tracking Form.
3.5.5. Collect a soil sample as described in Section 3.1.
3.5.6. Proceed to Section 3.10 (Soil Sample Handling).
3.6. Waste Piles (excavated piled material)
NOTE: Waste piles are best sampled as they are made (i.e., as the material is dumped), radiation
protection personnel can perform a walk-over survey of the pile with a survey instrument to aid in
determining the potential activity in the pile and allowing samples to be taken that are
representative of pile activity.
3.6.1. Using a trowel, spoon, or scoop, collect a full scoop from each individual dumping and
place it into a stainless steel bowl.
3.6.2. Cut through the sample to remove rocks, stones, foreign material, and vegetation. Save
this material in a separate sample container for possible evaluation.
3.6.3. After ten samples have been collected, record the location, time, date and other
information on the Field Sample Logbook and Field Sample Tracking Form.
3.6.4. Proceed to Section 3.10 (Soil Sample Handling).
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Module II Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
3.7. Sediment
3.7.1. Drag a cup, dredge, or scoop through the sediment at the bottom of the body of water to
collect the sample. If possible, the sampler should not exceed a depth of 6 cm (2.4
inches) when removing a sediment sample.
3.7.2. Retrieve the sediment sampling device and lower it into a stainless steel bowl large
enough to retain the contents.
3.7.3. Deposit the sediment into the bowl.
a. Allow the water to rise and sediment to settle.
b. Decant the water carefully into a sample container using a funnel. Consult the
SCP or the Field Team Leader regarding disposal of decanted water.
3.7.4. Using a scoop or spoon, remove the sediment and place it into the sample container.
3.7.5. Repeat the procedure as necessary to collect the required amount of sample.
3.7.6. Proceed to Section 3.10 (Soil Sample Handling).
3.8. Sediment - Deep Water Body Grab Samples
NOTE: Grab samplers used to collect sediment from deep water bodies (lakes, reservoir, rivers,
marine basin) normally increase in weight based upon the depth and type of water body and the
volume of sample they extract. Many grab samplers are gravity activated and use their weight to
penetrate the sediment. Mechanical winches may be required for retrieval. The size and weight
of the sampler and the need for a winch will dictate the type of boat or barge that is needed.
3.8.1. Drop a sediment grab sampler down into the body of water until the sampler hits the
sediment. Allow or trigger the sampler to scoop a sample.
3.8.2. Retrieve the grab sampler, using the winch, if required.
3.8.3. Inspect the sample retrieved. NOTE: DO NOT discard any unused sample into the
body of water during the sampling event.
a. If the sample does not meet the criteria set in the SCP for filling the grab
sampler bucket, drop the sample into a separate container, decontaminate the
sampler (if required) or replace the bucket sleeving, and take another sample.
Potential reasons for rejection include:
Sampler jaws not closed and major portion of sample lost
Sample appears to be washed out of bucket
Sample leveled at a slope in the bucket (higher at one side than the other)
b. If the sample meets the criteria set in the SCP, continue to the next step.
3.8.4. Subsample the sediment as required by the SCP.
3.8.5. Decontaminate or re-sleeve the grab sampler as required.
3.8.6. Place the sediment sample or subsample into a stainless steel bowl large enough to
retain the contents.
a. Allow the sediment to settle.
b. Decant the water carefully into a sample container using a funnel. DO NOT
collect more than 4 L (1.1 gallon) of water.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module II
c. Mix the sediment sample or subsample to create a homogenous composite
sample.
3.8.7. Using a scoop or spoon, remove the sediment and place it into the sample container.
3.8.8. Upon completion of the sampling event, discard the unused sample material back into
the body of water unless instructed otherwise by the SCP.
3.8.9. Proceed to Section 3.10 (Soil Sample Handling).
3.9. Sediment- Core Samples
NOTE: Core sediment samplers normally increase in weight based upon the depth and type of
water body and the volume of sample they extract. Many core samplers are gravity activated and
use their weight to penetrate the sediment. Mechanical winches may be required for retrieval.
The size and weight of the corer, the type of penetration device used (hand operated, weights,
mechanical vibration, or gas piston driven) and the need for a winch will dictate the type of boat
or barge that is needed, as well as the number of people required to safely perform the operation.
3.9.1. Drop a sediment core sampler into the body of water until it reaches the sediment layer.
3.9.2. Push the manual core sampler into the sediment, or start the core vibration or
mechanical penetration device to push the core sampler into the sediment.
3.9.3. Stop the vibration or mechanical penetration device after the prescribed time frame
identified in the SCP.
3.9.4. Retrieve the core sampler, using the winch, if required.
3.9.5. Remove the corer sleeve and open the core sample. NOTE: DO NOT discard any
unused sample into the body of water during the sampling event.
3.9.6. Inspect the sample retrieved.
a. If the sample does not meet the criteria set in the SCP for filling of the grab
sampler bucket, drop the sample into a separate container on board,
decontaminate the sampler (if required) or replace the bucket sleeving, and take
another sample.
b. Potential reasons for rejection include:
Core not filled
Core catcher or water valve failed to close
Sample leveled at a slope in the core (higher at one side than the other)
c. If the sample meets the criteria set in the SCP continue to the next step.
3.9.7. Subsample the sediment as required by the SCP.
3.9.8. Place the sediment sample or subsample into a stainless steel bowl large enough to
retain the contents.
a. Allow the water to rise and sediment to settle.
b. Decant the water carefully into a sample container using a funnel. DO NOT
collect more than 4 L (1.1 gallon) of water.
c. Mix the sample or subsample to create a homogenous composite sample.
3.9.9. Using a scoop or spoon, remove the sediment and place it into the sample container.
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Module II Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
3.9.10. Upon completion of the sampling event, discard the unused sample material back into
the body of water unless instructed otherwise by the SCP.
3.9.11. Proceed to Module II, Section 3.10 (Soil Sample Handling).
3.10. Soil Sample Handling
NOTE: Homogenization of the soil includes a series of mixing and quartering steps. It is
important that mixing of soil be as thorough as possible, while taking necessary precautions to
avoid exposure to radioactive materials.
3.10.1. Using the trowel, homogenize or mix the soil.
a. Use a mixing technique dependent on the physical characteristics of the soil
(including observed moisture content, particle size, and particle size
distribution) to achieve a consistent physical appearance over the entire soil
sample.
b. Soil should be scraped from the sides, corners and bottom, rolled into the
middle of a clean stainless steel bowl or tray (or in situ hole) and mixed.
c. Quarter (i.e., divide into four) the soil and move it to the sides of the bowl or
hole.
d. Mix each quarter individually, and then roll them to the center of the bowl.
e. Mix the quarters together as an entire sample again.
3.10.2. Repeat the quartering and remixing at least three times to ensure homogenization.
3.10.3. Once a consistent physical appearance over the homogenized sample has been obtained,
transfer the sample into an appropriate sample container using a clean stainless steel
spoon or spatula. NOTE: A 1-L HPDE or HDPP wide mouth bottle is the preferred
container for soil samples, as it requires less disturbance of the sample transferred into
the bottle and reduces the risk of cross-contamination. A Ziplock bag may be used, but
requires double bagging to ensure retention of contents during shipment.
3.10.4. Once the sample containers are full, use a clean paper towel to remove any sample
particles from the threads or sealing surface of the sample container. NOTE: The
presence of soil particles can compromise a container's seal and may result in a loss of
soil moisture, cross contamination, or sample spillage during transport. Always make
sure the container lid is firmly secure.
3.10.5. Place a sample label on the container.
3.10.6. Weigh the sample, or determine the volume based on the container size.
3.10.7. Sample containers should be placed in separate Ziplock bags to protect other containers
in case of spillage during transport.
3.10.8. Record the required information on the Field Sample Logbook, Field Sample Tracking
Form, and the sample label(s). The following information is to be included at a
minimum:
SIC
Time and date sampled
Sample location
Depth and area of sample collection
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module II
Type of sample
Sample volume or weight collected
Sample collector's initials
3.10.9. Decontaminate the sampling equipment or place it into a bag for decontamination
outside of the sampling area per the requirements of Module I, Section 5.0
(Personnel/Equipment Decontamination).
3.10.10. After sample collection, place the container into a transport container in a secure
position for transport out of the sampling area.
3.10.11. Recover all wastes, placing them in appropriate waste containers for transport out of the
sampling area. Handle wastes per the requirements of Module I, Section 6.0 (Waste
Control).
3.10.12. Exit the sampling area using proper techniques to minimize the spread of
contamination.
3.10.13. Once outside of the area, prepare the sample(s) for transportation per the requirements
of Module I, Section 7.0 (Sample Packaging and Transport).
4.0 Collection of Air Samples
NOTE: Tritium exists as a vapor and should no longer be present in the atmosphere at the time of site
remediation. If an SCP includes collection of air samples to be measured for tritium, the samples should
be collected using either bubblers or silica gel (Module II, Section 4.5).
4.1. Air Sample Pre-Staging Requirements
4.1.1. An appropriate air filter or cartridge must be selected based on requirements included in
SCP, target analytes, laboratory capabilities, and potential interferences with the
analytical methods that will be performed.
4.1.2. Sample collection equipment must be assembled outside the contamination zone, prior
to sample collection.
4.1.3. Install the particulate filter (membrane) into the sampler head.
a. Remove the particulate filter retaining ring.
b. Use disposable examination gloves to handle a new filter for each sample
collection.
c. Center the filter into the ring.
d. Reinstall the ring and tighten to finger tightness.
4.1.4. If collecting a vapor sample for analytes other than tritium, install a vapor cartridge
(silver zeolite or charcoal) into the sampler head. If collecting a vapor sample for
tritium, install a bubbler or silica gel cartridge downstream from the particulate filter
(see Module II, Section 4.5). NOTE: When cartridges are used in sampling, ONLY
low volume samplers are to be used due to the retention factors of gaseous vapors on
the charcoal or silver zeolite bed.
a. Remove the retaining ring.
b. Use disposable examination gloves to handle a new cartridge for each sample
collection.
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Module II Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
c. Note the flow direction of the cartridge and align it with the sampler flow
direction.
d. Reinstall the ring and tighten to finger tightness.
4.1.5. If collecting a gas sample with a vacuum flask or collection vessel, ensure the flask or
collection vessel is vacuumed and the valves are shut.
4.1.6. Place a Sample Label on the sampler unit head, flask, or collection vessel.
4.1.7. Place the sampler unit into a clean plastic bag for transport into the area.
4.2. Collection of Particulate and Vapor Samples
4.2.1. Make sure the pump is on the OFF position.
4.2.2. Secure the air sampler to a tripod, table, platform, vehicle hood or tailgate, or other
sturdy non-moving surface.
a. Position the sampling unit with the air intake facing the source of the suspected
contamination, making sure the face of the sampler is in the breathing zone,
approximately 1.25 to 2 m (4 to 6 feet) above the ground surface.
b. Position the sampling unit to avoid interferences from structures, by placing the
unit at a distance twice as far as the height of the tallest immediate building.
c. Care should be taken to control exhaust gases that can damage, overwhelm, or
block the filter when using a gasoline generator or battery to power air
samplers. If air samples are taken in the vicinity of an automotive vehicle, the
sampler should be positioned upwind of the vehicle's exhaust.
4.2.3. Attach the appropriate sampling head (i.e., particulate filter).
a. If collecting radioactive iodine, a silver zeolite or charcoal cartridge is installed
downstream from the particulate filter and connected to the suction end of the
pump with a flow-rate indicator.
b. If collecting tritium, a silica gel cartridge or bubbler is installed downstream
from the particulate filter and connected to the suction end of the pump with a
flow-rate indicator. Caution: If bubblers are used as described (see Module II,
Section 4.5 and Figures 4.5-1 and 4.5.2), care must be taken to ensure that the
pressure gradient caused by the pump flow rate is sufficient to collect air
without pulling water from the bubbler(s). An alternative scenario is to connect
the bubbler(s) to the discharge end of the pump, downstream from the
particulate filter.
4.2.4. Record the required sample information onto the Field Sample Logbook, Field Sample
Tracking Form, and sample label on the sampler unit head. The following information
is to be included at a minimum:
Sampler unit ID
Sampler unit location (GPS coordinates or description)
Date and time started
Sample collector's initials
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module II
4.2.5. Turn on the unit and observe the flow rate, adjusting as necessary to reach the required
flow rate per the SCP. Record the flow rate (mVminute or feetVminute) onto the Field
Sample Logbook and the label on the sampler unit head.
4.2.6. Routinely monitor the sampler throughout sample collection as specified by the SCP.
a. Samplers are typically checked once every 2 hours during an 8-hour shift.
b. Samplers located in work zones may require more frequent monitoring due to
the potential for increased particulates resulting from associated work activities.
4.2.7. If any of the following conditions exist, turn off the sampler, and remove the sample
head. Record if and why sampling heads were prematurely removed, along with the
time or flow volume. Reasons may include:
Unit air flow has significantly decreased (greater than 50%)
Filter is clogged
Filter is wet or covered with snow
Filter is torn or otherwise compromised
4.2.8. If the filter unit was turned off prematurely, replace the sampler head unit with a new
unit and re-start the sampler.
Record the time and date or approximate time the unit was turned off.
Record the time and date of the installation of the new unit or head and the restart
time and date.
4.2.9. At the end of the sampling period, turn off the unit power. If the sample head is
replaced or the sample unit fails, treat the filter and/or cartridge as a sample and proceed
with the following steps.
4.2.10. Record the sample information onto the Field Sampling Logbook and the label on the
sampler unit head.
Flow rate (m3/minute or ftVminute)
Total flow volume (if volume totalizer is attached)
Date and time initiated and stopped
Sample collector's initials
4.2.11. Remove the sampler unit head.
4.2.12. Place the sampler unit head into a plastic bag and seal the bag.
CAUTION: Air samplers will be warm, and may be hot, after a sampling event. Used units should be
placed into a plastic bag or other containment to control contamination. A hot air sampler must be
allowed to cool prior to placing it into a plastic bag, and bags should remain loosely closed around any
warm air sampler until cooling is complete.
4.2.13. Recover all wastes, and place them in appropriate waste containers for transport out of
the sampling area. Handle wastes per the requirements of Module I, Section 6.0 (Waste
Control).
4.2.14. Exit the sampling area using proper techniques to minimize the spread of
contamination.
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Module II Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
4.2.15. After sample collection, immediately place the bag containing the sample head into a
sample transport container in a secure position.
4.2.16. Disassemble the sampler head unit in an appropriately controlled area.
a. Open the filter ring.
b. Using forceps or tweezers, remove the filter. If necessary for large filters (200
x 250 mm or 8 x 10 inches), fold the filter in quarters with collection side
inward. DO NOT CUT OR TEAR THE FILTER. See Note in Module L
Section 2.2.8(c), regarding concerns about the use of large air sample collection
filters.
c. Place the filter into a Petri dish or directly into a plastic bag and seal the Petri
dish or bag.
d. Open the cartridge ring.
e. Remove the cartridge and place the cartridge into a plastic bag.
f. Place the filter and cartridge bags together into a second plastic bag.
4.2.17. Perform an equipment radiation survey or swipe and, if necessary, decontaminate the
sampling equipment per the requirements of Module I, Section 5.0 (Decontamination).
4.2.18. Prepare the sample(s) for transportation per the requirements of Module I, Section 7.0
(Sample Packaging and Transport).
4.3. Vacuum Flasks and Gas Collection Vessel Samples
4.3.1. At the sample point, open the valve of the evacuated flask or collection vessel at the
breathing zone.
4.3.2. Shut the valve once the flask reaches atmospheric pressure, as indicated by the absence
of the sound of the flow of air into the container.
4.3.3. After sample collection, immediately place the sample container into a sample transport
container in a secure position.
4.3.4. Exit the sampling area using techniques to minimize the spread of contamination.
4.3.5. Record the sample information onto the Field Sampling Logbook and the label on the
sampler flask or collection vessel.
Date and time sampled
Location sampled
Flask or collection vessel volume
Sample collector's initials
4.3.6. Obtain results of an equipment radiation survey or swipe from the site radiation
protection personnel. If necessary, decontaminate the sampling equipment per the
requirements of Module I, Section 5.0 (Personnel/Equipment Decontamination).
4.3.7. Place gas collection vessels or vacuum flasks into an appropriate container to protect
the valves.
4.3.8. Prepare the sample(s) for transportation per the requirements of Module I, Section 7.0
(Sample Packaging and Transport).
4.4. Lapel Samples
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Module II
4.4.1. Lapel samplers are set up and prepared according to manufacturer's instructions.
a. Flow rates are required to be verified.
b. Sampler heads are assembled per manufacturer's requirements.
4.4.2. Samplers are worn with the sample pump strapped to the waist under PPE and the unit
head in the breathing zone.
4.4.3. Upon exit from the contaminated area of concern, record the sample information onto
the Field Sampling Logbook and sample label.
Flow rate at the start and stop (m3/minute or ftVminute)
Total flow volume (if volume totalizer is attached)
Date and time started and stopped
Individual wearing the sampler
Sample collector's initials
4.4.4. Place the filter and cartridge into a plastic bag. Place a sample label on the bag.
4.4.5. Obtain results of an equipment radiation survey or swipe from the site radiation
protection personnel. If necessary, decontaminate the sampling equipment per the
requirements of Module I, Section 5.0 (Personnel/Equipment Decontamination).
4.4.6. Prepare the sample(s) for transportation per the requirements of Module I, Section 7.0
(Sample Packaging and Transport).
4.5. Bubbler or Silica Gel Samplers
4.5.1. Bubbler or silica gel samplers can be used to collect air samples for tritium, and are set
up as described in Section 4.2.3 and Figure 4.5-1 (bubblers) or Figure 4.5-2 (silica gel).
a. Flow rates must be verified. When using bubblers, caution must be taken to
ensure the flow rate is sufficient to pull air, without removing bubbler water.
b. Bubblers or cartridges are filled and assembled per manufacturer's
requirements.
Figure 4.5 -1
Tritium Bubbler
Bubbler
bottle A
Care must be taken to ensure that the pressure gradient caused by the pump flow rate is
sufficient to collect air without pulling water from the bubbler(s).
July 2012
11-17
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Module II Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Figure 4.5-2
Tritium Silica Gel Cartridge
Participate
filter
Silica gel
cartridge
Air [ i ^M A ::::: -v ^Mi jo pump
4.5.2. Samplers are set at specified locations and operated for the time frame required by the
SCP.
4.5.3. Upon exit from the contaminated area of concern, record the sample information onto
the Field Sampling Logbook and sample label.
Flow rate at the start and stop (m3/minute or ftVminute)
Total flow volume (if volume totalizer is attached)
Date and time started and stopped
Sample collector's initials
4.5.4. Remove the bubbler or cartridge. Cap the inlet and outlet with parafilm or
manufacturer-provided caps, and place a sample label on the bubbler or cartridge.
4.5.5. Obtain results of an equipment radiation survey or swipe from site radiation protection
personnel. If necessary, decontaminate the sampling equipment per the requirements of
Module I, Section 5.0 (Personnel/Equipment Decontamination).
4.5.6. Prepare the sample(s) for transportation per the requirements of Module I, Section 7.0
(Sample Packaging and Transport).
5.0 Collection of Water Samples
NOTE: Water samples should generally be discrete (i.e., not composited) and sample locations should be
located as necessary to detect contamination from the suspected sources under investigation (e.g., point
source discharges, non-point/sheet flow runoff, discharge of contaminated ground water to surface water
body, landfill leaches, etc.). Unless otherwise specified in the SCP, surface water samples should be
collected directly above sediments, near banks/other depositional areas where water currents are slower
and there is greater retention time for the surface water to accumulate contaminants.
5.1. Surface Water
CAUTION: Collection of samples from streams and rivers can pose a safety hazard. Sample
collectors should not wade into deep water or fast moving currents, or enter water systems
where the bottom surface is not clearly visible.
5.1.1. Choose an area that is not sheltered by trees or biased by land runoff.
5.1.2. Take a sample midstream, at least 0.5 to 1 m (20 inches to 3.3 feet) from the shoreline
of the body of water (if possible) or most representative of the entire water body.
5.1.3. Dip a sampling cup or bottle at the surface of flow.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module II
5.1.4. Avoid stirring up sediment.
5.1.5. Proceed to Module II, Section 5.7 (Water Sample Handling).
5.2. Subsurface Water at Shorelines
5.2.1. Choose an area that is not sheltered by trees or biased by land runoff.
5.2.2. Stand as close as practical to the body of water without causing shoreline material from
entering into the water resulting in turbidity.
5.2.3. Dip a sample cup between 10 to 25 cm (4 to 10 inches) below the surface and at least
0.5 to 1 m (20 inches to 3.3 feet) from the shoreline of the body of water.
5.2.4. Raise the bottle above the waterline and return the sample to the shore.
5.2.5. Proceed to Module II, Section 5.7 (Water Sample Handling).
5.3. Stream or River Water
5.3.1. Wearing boots and other protective gear, wade into the water, facing upstream or
against the current.
5.3.2. Avoid stirring up sediment. If needed, wait for any turbidity to subside prior to
sampling.
5.3.3. Take a sample at least 50 cm to 1 m (20 inches to 3.3 feet) from the shoreline (if
possible) or most representative of the entire water body.
5.3.4. Dip a bottle with a pull stopper or a sample collection vessel between 10 to 25 cm (4 to
10 inches) below the surface.
5.3.5. Remove the stopper from the bottle and allow the bottle to fill.
5.3.6. Proceed to Module II, Section 5.7 (Water Sample Handling).
5.4. Shallow Well Water or Public Drinking Water
NOTE: Sampling points from public water supplies should be identified in the SCP and will be
based on areas of concern within the distribution system.
5.4.1. Locate the tap nearest to the discharge pump or the tap identified in the SCP.
5.4.2. Turn on the pump and/or open the tap. Allow the water to purge for 1 minute (40-foot
well) or longer to allow for a representative sample collection. EPA requires a 3x
displacement for purging.
5.4.3. Proceed to Module II, Section 5.7 (Water Sample Handling) to take the sample.
5.4.4. Upon completion of taking the sample, close the tap and turn off the pump.
5.5. Storage Tanks, Cisterns, Wells, and Underground Storm Drains or Sewer Lines
CAUTION: There are several safety concerns associated with collection of samples from
underground storage tanks (USTs), wells, storm drains, or sewer lines. At least two sample
collectors are needed and appropriate procedures for confined space entry must be in place to
ensure safe conditions. Hatches or manholes are not to be left open or unmanned when
sampling is not in progress unless site safety personnel are in control of the access point.
Materials lowered into a tank, cistern or well are to be secured to retrieval lines to prevent loss
inside of the tank. NEVER place loose materials around the opening of the tank.
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Module II Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
5.5.1. Clearly identify any accessible area around the hatch, manhole or opening with a
warning barrier line or tape. These warnings are typically used for side entrances, and
are not applied to above ground tanks with access points at the top of the tank.
5.5.2. Open the access.
5.5.3. Use the sampling method identified in the SCP to collect the sample.
a. Method A: Dip cup on reach rod [not applicable to underground storage tanks
(USTs) or wells]
Extend a dip cup to the required depth below the surface.
Allow the cup to fill, and retrieve the cup.
Drain the cup contents into an appropriate sample container.
Repeat as necessary to fill the sample container with the required volume.
Proceed to Module II, Section 5.7 (Water Sample Handling).
b. Method B: Stopper bottle on reach rod
Extend the stopper bottle to the required depth below the surface.
Pull the rod to remove the stopper from the bottle and allow the bottle to
fill.
Push the rod to close the bottle after a few minutes. The bottle is
potentially full after the last bubble reaches the surface.
Retrieve the sample bottle.
Proceed to Module II, Section 5.7 (Water Sample Handling).
c. Method C: Kemmerer sampler on a line
Open up the Kemmerer sampler and set it for taking a sample.
Drop the sampler to the desired depth.
Send the messenger to close the sampler.
Hold the centerline, and retrieve the sampler.
Grasp the lower stopper and the body of the sampler in one hand.
Carefully open the top stopper, and pour the required volume of sample
into a sample container.
Proceed to Module II, Section 5.7 (Water Sample Handling).
d. Method D: External and submersible pumps
A level probe may be required when collecting samples from a well casing
to prevent drawdown of the well, which can result in biased sample results.
If required, lower a level probe into the sample point and determine the
level by stable reading of the probe.
Lower the pump suction head (external pump) or a submersible pump to
the desired depth. If using a submersible pump, ensure the pump is
properly assembled with a suction line that extends upward at least 30 to 45
cm (12 to 18 inches) from the bottom of the pump. NOTE: Submersible
pumps are often needed when collecting samples from USTs, cisterns,
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module II
wells or other bodies of contained water that have a limited depth of 10 m
(33 feet).
Secure the sample suction line to prevent it from moving during sample
collection.
Sampling pumps may require priming using water brought to the site or
taken from the sampling location. Prime the pump per manufacturer's
instructions.
Limit the flow rate of the pump to prevent aeration or disruption of
sediment.
Throttle down the flow to 50 - 500 mL per minute as required in the SCP.
Flush the sample line by pumping approximately 5 to 7 volumes through
the line. Depending on the diameter and length of tubing, piping, or hose,
the volume capacity of the pumping system will vary.
Note any problems associated with pumping, such as (but not limited to)
sputtering, excessive air bubbles, bursts of sediment.
Once the line has been flushed, proceed to Module II, Section 5.7 (Water
Sample Handling) to collect the required sample volume into a sample
container.
Upon completion of sample collection, stop the pump. Remove the suction
head from the sampling point, and secure the sampling site.
Decontamination)
5.6. Lagoon, Pond, and Lake Water
Decontaminate equipment and materials as appropriate, using procedures
described in Module I, Section 5.0 (Personnel/Equipment
CAUTION: Collection of samples from Lagoons, Ponds, and Lakes can constitute a safety hazard.
Sample collectors are required to wear a personal floatation device at all times after leaving
the shoreline, and should not be placed into a situation that requires leaning over the water or
outside the safety of the boat or skiff that might result in falling into the water or unbalancing
the boat or skiff. Samples collected from locations on top of a water body require at least two
individuals.
5.6.1. Paddle or troll the boat or skiff out to the determined location, and use procedures from
on of the following methods to collect water samples.
5.6.2. Method A - Stopper bottle on reach rod
a. Drop a bottle to the required depth below the surface.
b. Pull the rod to remove the stopper from the bottle and allow the bottle to fill.
c. Wait a few minutes, and push the rod to stop up the bottle.
d. Retrieve the sample bottle.
e. Proceed to Module II, Section 5.7 (Water Sample Handling).
5.6.3. Method B - Kemmerer sampler on a line
a. Open up the Kemmerer sampler and set it for taking a sample.
July 2012 11-21
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Module II Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
b. Drop the sampler to the desired depth.
c. Send the messenger down to the sampler.
d. Hold the centerline and retrieve the sampler.
e. Grasp the lower stopper and the body of the sampler in one hand.
f. Open the top stopper to pour the contents into a sample container following the
procedures in Section 5.7.
5.7. Water Sample Handling
5.7.1. Using a funnel, if necessary, add a small amount of sample water to the container and
rinse the container.
5.7.2. Discard the rinse water by pouring into a labeled waste bottle and wipe the outside of
the container dry.
5.7.3. Fill the sample container to within 2 cm (0.75 inch) of the cap and close the container.
5.7.4. Wipe the outside of the sample container with a dry paper towel.
5.7.5. Record the required information on the Field Sample Logbook, Field Sample Tracking
Form, and the sample container label(s). The following information is to be included at
a minimum:
SIC
Time and date of sampled
Sample location
Sample volume collected
Sample collector's initials
5.7.6. Place a sample label on the container.
5.7.7. Obtain results of an equipment radiation survey or swipe from site radiation protection
personnel. If necessary, decontaminate the sampling equipment or place it into a bag
for decontamination outside of the sampling area per the requirements of Module I,
Section 5.0 (Personnel/Equipment Decontamination).
5.7.8. After sample collection, place the sample container into a sample transport container in
a secure position for transport out of the sampling area.
5.7.9. Recover all wastes, placing them in appropriate waste containers for transport out of the
sampling area. Handle per the requirements of Module I, Section 6.0 (Waste Control).
5.7.10. Exit the sampling area using proper techniques to minimize the spread of
contamination.
5.7.11. Once outside the area and back at an appropriate location, prepare the sample(s) for
transportation per the requirements of Module I, Section 7.0 (Sample Packaging and
Transport).
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module II
6.0 Collection of Vegetation Samples
NOTE: The required amount for samples of vegetation is 1 kg (2.2 pounds) or approximately 6.5 L (1.7
gal) of solid packed, low density (0.6 g/mL) vegetation (leafy material such as grass). Aim2 area should
be staked out from which a sample of vegetation is collected. If a greater area is required to obtain the
specified weight or volume of sample, the specific area is to be documented.
6.1. General Considerations
6.1.1. During Site Characterization, samples collected from bushes, small trees, tall grasses,
grass or other vegetation should focus on the upper or outer surfaces of exposed
vegetation. DO NOT sample plants that are found under large trees or the covering of
buildings unless directed to do so.
6.1.2. Using care to minimize physical disturbance of the vegetation, carefully cut the upper
exposed surfaces (any area not covered by the plant) of the vegetation away.
Small Bushes - the outer leaves
Tall Grasses - the upper tips
Small Trees - the upper or outer leaves of branches
Branches - Limited to those that are less than 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) in diameter
CAUTION: Branches and other woody materials can pierce plastic bags. Bags may require double
bagging or placement in a separate harder plastic container.
6.1.3. Gather leaves off a tree or bush if possible. If leaves are collected from the ground,
collect leaves that are not covered.
6.1.4. Vegetative material should be cut to approximately 2.5 to 25.5 cm (1 to 10 inches) in
length.
6.2. Vegetation Sample Collection
6.2.1. Roll over the opening of a plastic bag (sample container). NOTE: Rolling over the top
of the bag will provide a hand-hold for the bag (by allowing the bag to be grasped from
under the rolled area), prevent the possible spread of contamination, and ease cleanup
during final sample container closing.
6.2.2. Use scissors or cutters to cut the material making sample pieces no longer than
approximately 25 cm (10 inches).
6.2.3. DO NOT cut by using exertion or "gnawing" away at the stalk.
6.2.4. Place the retrieved sample in the plastic bag.
6.2.5. Record the required information on the Field Sample Logbook, Field Sample Tracking
Form, and the sample container label(s). The following information is to be included at
a minimum:
SIC
Time and date sampled
Sample location
Area sampled
Sample volume collected
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Module II Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Sample collector's initials
6.2.6. Affix the sample label(s) to the container(s).
6.2.7. Obtain results of an equipment radiation survey or swipe from the site radiation
protection personnel. If necessary, decontaminate the sampling equipment or place it
into a bag for decontamination outside of the sampling area per the requirements of
Module I, Section 5.0 (Personnel/Equipment Decontamination).
6.2.8. After sample collection, place the sample container to a sample transport container in a
secure position for transport out of the sampling area.
6.2.9. Recover all wastes, placing them in appropriate waste containers for transport out of the
sampling area. Handle wastes per the requirements of Module I, Section 6.0 (Waste
Control).
6.2.10. Exit the sampling area using proper techniques to minimize the spread of
contamination.
6.2.11. Once outside of the area and back at an appropriate location, prepare the sample(s) for
transportation per the requirements of Module I, Section 7.0 (Sample Packaging and
Transport).
7.0 Collection of Surface Area Samples Using Swipes
NOTE: Appropriate swipe materials and sizes to be used for the collection of surface area samples, along
with the number of swipes that should be taken, are selected based on requirements included in the SCP.
7.1. Dry Swipes
7.1.1. Measure or determine by observation the total surface area to be sampled and record the
area on the Field Sample Logbook.
7.1.2. Using a large area swipe [e.g., at most 300 cm2 (47 inches2)], wipe the surface area in
parallel strokes. Place the swipe into a glassine envelope or bag, and place a sample
label on the envelope or bag.
7.1.3. Using a smaller area swipe [e.g., 100 cm2 (16 inches2) disc or square], wipe the surface
in one continuous stroke of approximately 40 cm in length (16 inches), or a 10 x 10 cm
(4x4 inches) square area, so that an area of approximately 100 cm2 is sampled. An "S"
pattern, or moving from one edge to the other without overlap, is the preferred method.
Place the swipe into a glassine envelope or bag, and place a sample label on the
envelope or bag.
7.1.4. Proceed with 7.4 (Swipe Handling).
7.2. Wet Swipes
7.2.1. Measure or determine by observation the total surface area to be sampled, and record
the area on the Field Sample Logbook.
7.2.2. Dampen either a large area or small area swipe with the solvent fluid prescribed by the
SCP. DO NOT soak the swipe. If necessary, allow the swipe to dry slightly before use.
7.2.3. If a volatile solvent is used, proceed with speed to prevent evaporation of the solvent.
7.2.4. Wipe the area per the procedures described in Section 7.1 (Dry Swipes) for either large
area or small area swipes.
7.2.5. Proceed with 7.4 (Swipe Handling).
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module II
7.3. Tape Swipes
NOTE: Tape swipes are typically collected for field screening and are not intended for transport
to and analysis in the laboratory. When analyzed for radioactivity, the glue side of the tape must
face the detector, because the paper backing of the tape will attenuate any alpha particles.
7.3.1. Measure or determine by observation the total surface area to be sampled, and record
the area on the Field Sample Logbook.
7.3.2. Create a tape swipe by laying successive strips of 5 cm (2 inches) duct tape sufficient to
collect an area of 100 cm2 (16 inches2) or less. The edges of the tape should be folded
over or covered with tape to prevent them from sticking to the surface of the object.
This will create a "picture frame" around the actual sample.
7.3.3. Lay the tape swipe onto the surface to be sampled and press down over the sample area.
7.3.4. Carefully remove the tape and cover the exposed area with a piece of plain paper.
7.3.5. Place the swipe in a plastic bag or envelope. A sample label is to be placed on the bag
or envelope.
7.3.6. Proceed with Module II, Section 7.4 (Swipe Handling).
7.4. Swipe Handling
7.4.1. Exit the sampling area using proper techniques to minimize the spread of
contamination.
7.4.2. Record the required information on the Field Sample Logbook, Field Sample Tracking
Form, and the sample label(s). The following information is to be included at a
minimum:
SIC
Time and date sample collected
Sample location
Sample area collected
Percent of total area (calculated from surface area recorded in the Field
Sample Logbook)
Sample collector's initials
7.4.3. Place a sample label on the container.
7.4.4. Once outside of the area and back at an appropriate location, process the sample for
direct reading by radiation protection personnel or, if required in the SCP, for transport
per the requirements of Module I, Section 7.0 (Sample Packaging and Transport).
July 2012 II - 25
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module III
MODULE III - SAMPLING PROCEDURES - FINAL STATUS SURVEY PHASE
1.0 Collection of Samples
1.1. Overview
1.1.1. This module outlines procedures, equipment, and other considerations specific to the
collection of representative environmental samples during the Final Status Survey
Phase of sample collection following a radiological contamination incident. This Final
Status Survey Phase involves collecting samples to support decisions in determining
site release.
1.1.2. Samples collected during the Final Status Survey Phase can be assumed to contain zero
to slightly above background levels of radioactive material. For this reason, specific
precautions are needed during Final Status Survey Phase sampling to ensure samples
are not compromised or contaminated.
1.1.3. During the Final Status Survey, methods for collection of soil samples vary slightly
from those used during Site Characterization and Remediation. Air, water, and swipe
samples are collected using the same procedures described in Module II, Sampling
Procedures (Characterization and Remediation Phases). The measurement quality
objectives (MQOs) are modified for all sample matrices.
1.1.4. A Final Status Survey is performed to demonstrate that residual radioactivity in each
survey unit satisfies the predetermined criteria for site release. The survey provides
data to demonstrate that radiological parameters do not exceed the established Derived
Concentration Guidance Levels (DCGLs). For the Final Status Survey, survey units
represent the fundamental elements for compliance demonstration.
1.1.5. Site surveys of the sampling units dictate the samples required.
a. A scale drawing of each survey unit is prepared and included in the Sample
Collection Plan (SCP), along with the overlying planar reference coordinate
system or grid system (normally the global positioning system [GPS]
coordinates).
Any location within the survey unit is identified by a unique set of
coordinates.
The maximum length (X) and width (Y) dimensions of each survey unit are
determined and included in the SCP.
b. Identifying and documenting a specific location for each field measurement
performed and each sample collected is an important part of a Final Status
Survey to ensure that measurements can be reproduced if necessary.
Part of this identification is the measurement of radiation levels by hand-
held survey instruments, which involves a walk-over survey of the area,
including surfaces of buildings or other structures.
Any vegetation that was deemed contaminated, or for which concern was
raised over potential contamination, should have been removed as part of
remediation.
1.1.6. The following sample weights, volumes, and requirements have been determined to be
necessary to meet the MQOs in the Final Status Survey Phase of sampling and are to be
the volumes/masses taken unless otherwise specified in the SCP.
a. Soil and sediment samples are to meet the following requirements:
July 2012 III - 1
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Module III Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
0.6 L (~1 kg) of soil is to be collected for gamma scans
60 mL (-100 g) of soil is to be collected for radiochemistry methods
Discussions with the analytical laboratory will determine if separate
additional sample volumes are needed, or if only one sample is required.
b. Soil samples are collected only in the top 15 cm of soil.
c. Subsurface samples are generally not taken unless ground water transport has
been an issue.
Subsurface samples are taken in areas where excavation has not occurred.
Derived Concentration Guidance Levels (DCGLs) will drive the decision to
take subsurface samples.
d. Based on known soil density, the area of sample collection will vary and must
be noted for each sample location or area in the SCP.
e. Water samples are to meet the following volume requirements.
4 L of water, unless otherwise specified in the SCP
Sediments are to be filtered from the sample prior to shipment.
f Air sample volumes are highly dependent on the sample collection device and
site-specific MQOs. Sample collectors should consult the SCP for
requirements regarding the air sample collection device to use, collection flow
rate, duration, and sample amounts needed.
g. The area required to be covered by swipe samples is dependent on the size of
the object to be checked for contamination, and is to be reported in cm2.
Small (standard) surfaces can be sampled to cover up to 100 cm2 (16
inches2) per swipe.
Large surfaces can be sampled to cover up to 300 cm2 (47 inches2) per
swipe.
Surfaces greater than 300 cm2 should be swiped in various random
locations using multiple swipes to cover at least 1% of the total surface
area.
h. The required amount for samples of vegetation is 1kg (2.2 pounds) or
approximately 6.5 L (1.7 gallons) of solid packed, low density (0.6 g/mL)
vegetation (leafy material such as grass).
1.2. Precautions and Limitations
1.2.1. All sample collection activities during Final Status Survey Phase sampling are to be
observed for quality control purposes by an independent observer from the start of
collection through sample container labeling.
1.2.2. Although Final Status Survey samples could be considered clean and radiation and
contamination levels should be at background levels, personnel are to use radiation
protection precautions. All equipment and materials, as well as areas where samples
are handled, are to be surveyed by radiation protection personnel for contamination and
released prior to unrestricted use.
Ill - 2 July 2012
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module III
1.2.3. If, during a sampling event, levels of radiation and contamination are measured above
levels that are allowed or expected in the SCP, STOP the sampling event and notify the
Field Team Leader prior to continuing sample collection activities.
1.2.4. Survey points are located within a grid, and should be marked using flags, stakes, or
paint markings. These markings must not be disturbed during sample collection.
1.2.5. Soil samples
a. Special cutting tools (e.g., bulb cutter) or simple hand held tools, such as a
shovel or trowel, should be used for Final Status Survey Phase soil sample
collection.
b. If the soil below a paved surface is to be sampled, the pavement should be
cored out, extracting the soil below the pavement, rather than excavating the
pavement and potentially losing soil in the process.
c. Grass, rocks, and foreign debris are removed from soils to the extent possible.
d. Subsurface samples (below 15 cm, or 6 inches) are to be taken by coring
equipment only.
The core should be retained intact for monitoring and subsequent analysis.
Unless otherwise directed, core samples should be taken (separated) in 1-
meter (3.3-feet) intervals, as measured from the surface.
Gamma logging of boreholes is to be performed immediately after core
samples are taken.
If ground water is evident in holes remaining after core samples have been
secured, ground water samples are to be taken using portable pumps.
2.0 Equipment and Materials
The equipment and materials used for sample collection are dependent on the sampling activity.
Refer to Module I, Section 2.0 and Appendices Al through A6.
NOTE: All PPE (personal protective equipment) and sampling equipment are to be pre-staged and
available prior to entering a sampling area. The sampling team is to set up a step-off pad at the entrance
to the survey point, and to don appropriate PPE prior to entering the area. Personnel outside of the area
may hand material over to, and retrieve material from, personnel in the area using appropriate
contamination control techniques. All steps that will reduce the time in the area, such as pre-writing of
labels or sample containers, are to be used to minimize exposure.
3.0 Collection of Soil Samples
NOTE: Refer to Module III, Section 1.2.5, for precautions and limitations regarding collection of soil
samples.
3.1. Surface Soil Pre-staging Requirements
3.1.1. Create sample frames for the sampling locations.
a. Each sampling event will require one sampling frame for each sample location.
b. Each frame should contain an opening equivalent to the determined sample area
as described in the SCP for that area.
3.1.2. Ensure that sample collection equipment is clean or sufficiently decontaminated prior to
initiation of sample collection activities.
July 2012 III - 3
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Module III Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
a. Each sampling event will require one clean stainless steel bowl and trowel or
spoon for each sample for homogenization.
b. All sampling equipment is to be wrapped in clean aluminum foil with the shiny
side of the foil facing the equipment.
c. Extra materials (approximately 15% more) should be prepared for use as
potentially needed.
3.1.3. Ensure a copy of the sample collection procedure is provided to the QC observer.
3.2. Surface Soil Collection
NOTE: Surveys of the ground surface are performed by the radiation protection personnel.
However, the sampling team will be required to: (1) locate the sample location by GPS
coordinates and posted sample point flags, (2) verify readings of the area prior to taking a sample,
and (3) take a radiation reading of the subsurface at the sample point after the sample is taken. If
variations are noted from reported survey / sampling points, they are to be noted on the Field
Sampling Log. If there is a significant difference over reported levels and the levels at the time of
sampling or if the sampling point appears to be in error (e.g., radiation levels are actually noted at
a point adjacent to the sampling point but not at the sampling point), contact the Field Team
Leader for instructions.
3.2.1. Note the location of the sample point flag.
3.2.2. Survey, by scanning, the area around the flag using an appropriate survey meter.
NOTE: While surveying and sampling, do not disturb the sample collection area within
a sample point. Stake out and put up boundary lines around the sample point as
necessary to ensure that the area is not disturbed.
a. Radiation readings should be taken at 2.5 cm (1 inch) above the ground.
b. The location of the sample point is to be clearly identified by GPS or other
coordinate system, and the coordinates recorded in the Field Sample Logbook
and Field Sampling Tracking Form.
3.2.3. Collect the Soil Sample.
a. Place the sampling frame over the sample point.
b. Using a trowel, mark edges into the soil around the sample point per the
sampling frame dimensions.
c. Cut to a depth specified in the SCP and pick up the sample. Slowly place the
material into a decontaminated stainless steel bowl large enough to hold more
than the required sample volume.
d. Prior to homogenization, remove twigs, roots, leaves, rocks and miscellaneous
debris (glass, bricks, etc.) from the sample using a decontaminated stainless
steel spoon or spatula. Return the debris to the sample location. NOTE:
Removal of large stones, rocks, twigs, vegetation and other debris may result in
a less than required volume of soil. It is recommended that at least 1.5 L (0.4
gallons) is collected to support analytical method requirements for a 1 L dry
sample that is free of debris.
3.2.4. If the amount of material collected does not appear to meet the amount required, cut
additional material from the outer edges of the hole as needed. Record the approximate
amount of additional material collected in the Field Sample Logbook and Field Sample
Tracking Form.
Ill - 4 July 2012
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module III
3.2.5. Using a clean trowel, homogenize or mix the soil. NOTE: Homogenization of soil
includes a series of mixing and quartering steps. It is important that mixing be as
thorough as possible.
a. Use a mixing technique dependent on the observed physical characteristics of
the soil (including moisture content, particle size distribution) to achieve a
consistent physical appearance over the entire soil sample.
b. Soil should be scraped from the sides, corners and bottom, rolled into the
middle of a clean stainless steel bowl and mixed.
c. Quarter (divide into 4) the soil and move it to the sides of the bowl/tray/hole.
d. Mix each quarter individually and then roll them to the center of the bowl.
e. Mix the quarters together as an entire sample again.
3.2.6. Repeat the steps of quartering and remixing several times to ensure homogenization.
3.2.7. Once a consistent physical appearance of the homogenized soil has been obtained,
transfer the soil into the appropriate sample container using a clean stainless steel spoon
or spatula. A 1-L HPDE or HDPP wide mouth bottle is the preferred container for soil
samples, as it requires less disturbance of the sample transferred into the bottle. A
Ziplock bag may be used, but requires double bagging to ensure retention of contents
during shipment.
NOTE: Once the sample containers are full, use a clean paper towel to remove any
particles from the threads or sealing surface of the sample container. The presence of
soil particles can compromise the container's seal and may result in loss of soil
moisture, cross contamination, or the lid opening in transit. Always make sure the
container lid is firmly secure.
3.2.8. Label the sample container.
3.2.9. Weigh the sample(s) or determine the volume based on the container size.
3.2.10. Sample containers should be placed in separate Ziplock bags to protect other containers
in case of spillage during transport.
3.2.11. Record the required information on the Field Sample Logbook, Field Sample Tracking
Form, and the sample label(s). The following information is to be included at a
minimum:
SIC
Time and date sampled
Sample location
Area sampled
Sample volume or weight collected
Sample collector's initials
3.2.12. Decontaminate the sampling equipment or place it into a bag for decontamination
outside of the sampling area per the requirements of Module I, Section 5.0
(Personnel/Equipment Decontamination).
3.2.13. After sample collection, place the sample container securely into atransport container
for transport out of the sampling area.
July 2012 III - 5
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Module III Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
3.2.14. Recover all wastes, placing them in appropriate waste containers for transport out of the
sampling area. Handle wastes per the requirements of Module I, Section 6.0 (Waste
Control).
3.2.15. Exit the sampling area using proper techniques to minimize the spread of
contamination.
3.2.16. Once outside of the area and back at an appropriate location, prepare the sample(s) for
transportation per the requirements of Module I, Section 7.0 (Sample Packaging and
Transport).
3.3. Subsurface Soil Pre-staging Requirements
3.3.1. Ensure the coring rig is not located at the edge of an excavated area.
3.3.2. Obtain polyvinylchloride (PVC) tubing at a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of
the core interior diameter and cut lengths of tubing of 32 cm (12.8 inches). One length
is used for each sample collected.
3.3.3. Obtain end caps for the PVC tubing. One round (or pointed) end and one flat end are
needed for each cut tube.
a. The pointed or rounded cap will be placed on the upper or shallow end of the
cut.
b. The flat cap will be placed on the lower or deeper end of the cut.
3.3.4. If sample cores are NOT to be opened in the field, designate an area that is free of
contamination and preferably out of the elements prior to sampling operations.
3.4. Subsurface Soil Collection
3.4.1. Determine the depth to be sampled as noted in the Sample Collection Plan.
3.4.2. Record the depth, diameter of the core, time, date and other information on the Field
Sample Logbook and Field Sample Tracking Form.
3.4.3. Take the sample, with core boring equipment, by boring to 50 cm (20 inches) below the
desired depth.
3.4.4. Lay down a clean plastic sheet for the retention of the required sample. NOTE: A 2m2
(21.8 feet2) sheet is typically sufficient for a shallow dig. For a deep dig, the plastic size
will be dependent on the depth of the hole and the tool used to excavate. The clean
sheet may be placed after the majority of the digging is done, prior to excavation of the
sample volume.
3.4.5. Upon reaching the prescribed depth, move the core to a clean designated area of the
plastic sheet.
3.4.6. Obtain results of a gamma logging core hole radiation survey from radiation protection
personnel.
a. Note radiation readings at 15-cm (6-inch) intervals and at the point of the
sample.
b. Record the results on the Field Sample Logbook and Field Sample Tracking
Form.
3.4.7. Per requirement of the SCP, either open the core in situ or wrap the core in plastic,
taping the plastic closed, and transport the core to a designated area.
Ill - 6 July 2012
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module III
Upon opening the core, record observations as to the makeup of the core.
a. Measure the core length compared with the depth of the coring. Note any voids
in the Field Sample Logbook.
b. Allow radiation personnel to take radiation readings of the cores.
c. Note the depth of the highest reading and the reading at the point from which
the sample will be collected.
3.4.9. Measure the core to the sample point determined by the Field Sample Coordinator.
Measure a point 15 cm (6 inches) above the initial sample point and a point 15 cm (6
inches) below the initial sample point for a total sample depth of 30 cm (12 inches).
Mark these two locations above and below the target core sample as the points at which
the core is to be cut. Cut the core at the locations indicated.
3.4.10. Remove the sample material with minimal disturbance to the core.
3.4.11. Wrap the sample in plastic wrap and tape to seal.
3.4.12. Place the sample in a piece of PVC tubing and cap the ends, sealing the caps with duct
tape and a custody seal if required.
3.4.13. Record the required information on the Field Sample Logbook, Field Sample Tracking
Form, and the sample label(s). The following information is to be included at a
minimum:
SIC
Time and date sampled
Sample location
Core area
Sample volume or weight collected
Sample collector's initials
3.4.14. Place a sample label on the tubing
3.4.15. Decontaminate the sampling equipment or place it into a bag for decontamination
outside of the sampling area per the requirements of Module I, Section 5.0
(Personnel/Equipment Decontamination).
3.4.16. After sample collection, place the sample tube into a sample transport container in a
secure position for transport out of the sampling area.
3.4.17. Recover all wastes, placing them in appropriate waste containers for transport out of the
sampling area. Handle wastes per the requirements of Module I, Section 6.0 (Waste
Control).
3.4.18. Exit the sampling area using proper techniques to minimize the spread of
contamination.
3.4.19. Once outside of the area and back at an appropriate location, prepare the sample(s) for
transportation per the requirements of Module I, Section 7.0 (Sample Packaging and
Transport).
3.5. Sediment
July 2012 III - 7
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Module III Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
3.5.1. Drag a cup, dredge, or scoop to collect the sample of sediment from the bottom of the
body of water.
3.5.2. Retrieve the sediment sampling device and lower it into a clean stainless steel bowl
large enough to retain the contents of the sampling device.
3.5.3. Deposit the sediment into the bowl.
a. Allow the water to rise and sediment to settle.
b. Decant the water carefully into a container using a funnel.
3.5.4. Using a scoop or spoon, remove the sediment and place it into the sample container.
3.5.5. Repeat the procedure as necessary to collect the required sample volume.
3.5.6. Discard the water into the sampled area.
3.5.7. Sample containers should be placed in separate Ziplock bags to protect other containers
in case of spillage during transport.
3.5.8. Record the required information on the Field Sample Logbook, Field Sample Tracking
Form, and the sample label(s). The following information is to be included at a
minimum:
SIC
Time and date sampled
Sample location
Sample volume or weight collected
Sample collector's initials
3.5.9. Decontaminate the sampling equipment or place it into a bag for decontamination
outside of the sampling area per the requirements of Module I, Section 5.0
(Personnel/Equipment Decontamination).
3.5.10. After sample collection, place the container to a sample transport container in a secure
position for transport out of the sampling area.
3.5.11. Recover all wastes, placing them in appropriate waste containers for transport out of the
sampling area. Handle wastes per the requirements of Module I, Section 6.0 (Waste
Control).
3.5.12. Exit the sampling area using proper techniques to minimize the spread of
contamination.
3.5.13. Once outside of the area and back at an appropriate location, prepare the sample(s) for
transportation per the requirements of Module I, Section 7.0 (Sample Packaging and
Transport).
4.0 Collection of Water Samples
4.1. Water Sampling Pre-staging Requirements
Ensure that sample collection equipment is clean or sufficiently decontaminated prior to initiation
of sample collection activities.
Each sampling event will require one funnel for each sample collected.
Ill - 8 July 2012
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Module III
Extra sampling materials (approximately 15% additional materials), including equipment
and tools, should be prepared for use as potentially needed.
4.2. Water Sample Collection Procedures
a. Water sampling procedures to be used will depend on the body of water to be sampled.
Perform the sampling steps per the requirements of Module II, Section 5.0 (Collection of
Water Samples) for the body of water to be sampled. NOTE: Instructions regarding
filtration and preservation of samples in the field are included in Appendix C.
b. Water that is not included in the sample volume is to be returned to the sampled body of
water unless otherwise stipulated in the SCP.
5.0 Collection of Swipe Samples
Swipe sample collection is performed per the requirements of Module II, Section 7.0 (Collection
of Surface Area Samples Using Swipes).
6.0 Collection of Air Samples
Air sample collection is performed per the requirements of Module II, Section 4.0 (Collection of
Air Samples).
7.0 Collection of Vegetation Samples
Vegetation sample collection is performed per the requirements of Module II, Section 6.0
(Collection of Air Samples).
July 2012 III - 9
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Module III Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
III - 10 July 2012
-------
APPENDIX A
List of Sampling Equipment and Materials
-------
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix Al
APPENDIX-Al
Sampling Equipment
Sample Matrix
Powdered or Granular Solids
Soil, Dirt, Waste Pile
Liquids, Slurries
Sludges, Sediments
Ponds, Lagoons
Oily Materials, Other Liquids
Air Samples
Vegetation
Sampling Tools
Trowel/Scoop/Spoon
Waste Pile Sampler
Thief
Soil Auger
Trowel/Scoop/Spoon/Spatula
Pesthole
Digger/Shovel/Pickax/Spade
Glass ,Tube, and Drum Pipettes
Open Tube (thief)
Bailer
Coliwasa Sampler
Dip Cup or Dip Bottle Sampler
w/Reach Rod
Open Tube and Pipe
Thin Wall Corer
Gravity Corer
Dip Sampler/Dipper
Weighted Bottle Sampler
Bailer
Dredge
Manual Pump
Powered Pump
ASTM Oil Sampler
Bacon Collection Vessel
Dipper
Vacuum Collection Vessel
Bubbler w/air pump
Silica Gel Traps w/air pump
Trier Sampler
Funnels
Split Spoon Sampler
Sampling Trier
Dipper
Pump (Manual or Powered)
Weighted Bottle Sampler
Bottle Sampler w/Reach Rod
Bacon Collection Vessel
Kemmerer Sampler
Funnels
Ponar Dredge
Trier Sampler
Funnels
Bottle Sampler w/Reach Rod
Bacon Collection Vessel
Kemmerer Sampler
Funnels
Dip Cup or Dip Bottle Sampler
w/Reach Rod
Thief
Funnels
Filters
Gas or Vapor Cartridge
Air pump
Cutting tool (e.g., knife, shears)
Bags (plastic, burlap)
Tape
July 2012
A-l
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Appendix A2
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
APPENDIX-A2
Sampling Equipment Application Advantages and Disadvantages
TOOL
MATRIX
ADVANTAGE
DISADVANTAGE
STANDARDS
Soil Sampling Equipment
Auger, Screw Type
Auger, Dutch
Auger, Eijkelcamp
(Eijkelcamp,
Glesbeck,
Netherlands)
Auger, Planar
Auger, Iwan (Post
Hole Digger)
Auger, Spiral
Auger , Tip Type -
Mud Tip
Auger, Tip Type -
Sand Head
Soil
Soil
Soil
Soil
Soil
Soil
Soil
Soil
Good for cohesive soils
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 15 feet with
extensions
Good for wet clayey,
fibrous, or rooted soils
(marshes)
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 15 feet with
extensions
Good for stony soil or
asphalt
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 15 feet with
extensions
Cleans out and flattens
bottom of pre-drilled
holes
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 15 feet with
extensions
Good for cohesive, soft,
or hard soils
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 15 feet with
extensions
Good for removal of rock
from auger holes
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 15 feet with
extensions
Good for removal of
heavy, wet soil and clay
samples
Bit tips are farther apart
than typical soil augers
Good for extremely dry
or sandy soils
Bit tips are closer
together to retain loose or
sandy samples
Will not retain dry,
loose, or granular
material
Hand manipulated
Accurate soil profiling is
difficult
Not applicable for
consolidated formations
Hand manipulated
Accurate soil profiling is
difficult
Not applicable for
consolidated formations
Hand manipulated
Accurate soil profiling is
difficult
Not applicable for
consolidated formations
Hand manipulated
Accurate soil profiling is
difficult
Not applicable for
consolidated formations
Will not retain dry,
loose, or granular
material
Hand manipulated
Accurate soil profiling is
difficult
Not applicable for
consolidated formations
Hand manipulated
Accurate soil profiling is
difficult
Not applicable for
consolidated formations
ASTMD 1452-09
ASTMD4700-91
A-2
July 2012
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix A2
TOOL
Bulb Planter
Core Borer
Probe, soil
Scoops and
Spoons
Spoon, split
Shovels
Trier
MATRIX
Soil
Soil
Soil
Soil
Soil
Soil
Soil
ADVANTAGE
Good for use in
extremely dry or sandy
soils
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 0-15 cm
Easy to use
Uniform diameter and
sample volume
Preserves soil core
Rotating core allows for
the penetration of heavy
consolidated soils
Maximum depth
dependent on number of
sections and size of
drilling rig
Better than augers for
retention of volatiles
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 15 feet with
extensions
Hand held
Easily manipulated
Low cost
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 25 cm (10
in.)
Good for cohesive soils
Solid barrels for use in
sands, silts, and clays
Can be power driven by
weight through 30 in. to
penetrate harder soil
compositions
Provides core type
sample for assessment
Can be used up to a
maximum of 25 ft.
beyond an existing
access hole
Hand held
Easily manipulated
Low cost
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 2 m (7 ft.)
Good for collection of
undisturbed core samples
in cohesive soils, moist
sands, and silts
Inexpensive
Easy to use and
decontaminate
DISADVANTAGE
Limited depth capability
Can be difficult to
decontaminate
Expensive
Good for cohesive, soft
soils, and silts
Limited to surface
sampling
Hand manipulated
Limited durability, easily
broken or bent in
cohesive or hard packed
soils
Not for use on
consolidated formations
Less effective in non-
cohesive sands
Questionable recovery if
used to extract material
below water table
Limited to surface
sampling
Hand manipulated
Difficult to use in stone
or dry soil
If sample is overly moist
or sticky, difficulty may
be encountered retrieving
sampler
STANDARDS
-
ASTMD6 169-98
(2005)
ASTMD4700-91
(2006)
ASTMD5633-04
(2008)
ASTM 4700-91
(2006)
ASTMD1586-11
ASTMD3550-01
(2007)
ASTMD4700-91
(2006)
ASTM D6 169-98
(2005)
ASTMD5633-94
(2008)
ASTM 4700-91
(2006)
-
July 2012
A-3
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Appendix A2
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
TOOL
MATRIX
ADVANTAGE
DISADVANTAGE
STANDARDS
Trowel
Soil
Good for collection of
surface soils
Can be used up to
maximum of 25 cm (10
in.) beyond an existing
access hole
Not for use on
consolidated formations
Painted surface trowels
should be avoided
Tube, Shelby
Soil
Excellent depth range
May be used in
conjunction with drill rig
for obtaining deep cores
Preserves soil core
Tube may be used for
shipping core to lab
Tube, Thin wall Open
Soil
Good for collection of
undisturbed core samples
in cohesive soils, sands,
and silts
Can be used up to
maximum of 25 ft.
beyond an existing
access hole
Not for use below water
table
Might not be strong
enough to penetrate
compact soil sediments
Ineffective in non-
cohesive sands or stony
material
ASTMD1587-08
ASTMD4700-91
(2006)
ASTMD6169-98
(2005)
Water Sampling Equipment
Bailer
Water
Use check valves, balls,
or mechanically operated
valves to open/close tube
Can be lowered prior to
opening to collect an at-
depth sample
Maximum recommended
depth 60.6 m (200 ft.)
Inexpensive
Sample coats exterior of
bailer
Bailer and line can be
difficult to decontaminate
Bottle (jar), swing
Water
Easy to use
Adaptable to jars or
bottles of various sizes
Cannot collect samples at
discrete depths
Pump, Bladder
Water,
Ground-
water
Good for use on
collecting samples from a
single well
Good for sample
containing trace
inorganics
Maximum depth 100 ft.
Up to 3 gallons per
minute
Deep sampling requires
large volumes of
compressed gas and
longer cycles
Affected by water with
high suspended solids
Requires compressed gas
for operation
Difficult to
decontaminate
ASTMD4448-01
(2007)
Pump, Gear
Water
Gear set drives fluid
resulting in positive
displacement
Maximum depth 100 ft.
Up to 1.5 gallons per
minute
Requires electricity
Flow rates cannot be
controlled
Sampling water with
suspended solids will
clog gears
Pumping may stall at low
flow rates
A-4
July 2012
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix A2
TOOL
Pump, Helical
Pump, Piston
Pump, Peristaltic
Pump, Centrifugal
Sampler, Bacon
Collection Vessel
Samplers, Cup,
bottle, or jar swing
sampler
MATRIX
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
ADVANTAGE
Helical (worm gears)
drive fluid resulting in
positive displacement
Maximum depth 100 ft.
Up to 1.5 gallons per
minute
Pump piston drives fluid,
resulting in positive
displacement with
pulsing flow
Maximum depth 100 ft.
Up to 1.5 gallons per
minute
Good for shallow water
Lift action of pump
creates a suction
resulting in a positive
displacement
Maximum depth 25 ft.
Up to 8 gallons per
minute variable
Good for shallow water
sampling
Lift action of pump
requires constant volume
of water to prevent loss
of flow (cavitation)
Maximum depth 25 ft.
Up to 60 gallons per
minute variable
May be purchased in
submersible form
Mechanically operated
by tug line to close
valves
Can be lowered prior to
opening to collect an at-
depth sample
Maximum recommended
depth 200 ft.
Sample volume ranges
from0.12L(4oz.)to 1L
( 32 oz.)
Easy to use
Adaptable to jars or
bottles of various sizes
Good for taking samples
up to 6 ft. below surface
DISADVANTAGE
Requires electricity
Flow rates cannot be
controlled
Sampling of water with
suspended solids will
clog gears
Pumping may alter
chemistry due to sample
turbulence introduced by
pumping mechanism
Requires electricity
Requires filtration to
prevent damage to piston
and valve mechanism
Expensive
Requires electricity
Small diameter lines
Requires electricity
Small diameter lines
Loss of flow occurs
frequently when ever air
enters sampling line
Does not handle viscous
water easily
Sampler remains open
until at depth
Can be difficult to
decontaminate
Tends to aerate sample
Cannot collect samples at
discrete depths
Easy to spill sample
STANDARDS
ASTMD4448-01
(2007)
July 2012
A-5
-------
Appendix A2
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
TOOL
Samplers, Coliwasa,
Kemmerer,
Van Dorn
MATRIX
Water
ADVANTAGE
Coliwasa sampler is
controlled by a rod that
opens and closes the
sampler
Kemmerer and Van Dorn
samplers use a line to
trigger the sampler to
collect the sample at
depth
Kemmerer and Van Dorn
samplers good up to
maximum depth 70 m
(200 ft)
DISADVANTAGE
Sample coats exterior of
sampler
Sampler can be difficult
to decontaminate
Difficult to ensure proper
operation at depth
Coliwasa sampler limited
to depths of 1.5m (5 ft.)
Waterborne solids may
prevent closures from
sealing
Sample may be lost due
to improper sealing
STANDARDS
ASTMD5495-03
(2011)
Sediment Sampling Equipment
Birge - Ekman
Sampler
Corer - tube,
hand operated
Corer - tube,
gravity:
Benthos
Corer - tube,
Gravity:
Kajak - Brinkhurst
Sediment,
Grab
Sediment,
Core
Sediment,
Core
Sediment,
Core
Used on shallow lakes
and basins
Adequate on soft
sediments, silts, and sand
Handles easily without a
winch
Allows subsampling
Sample depth up to 30
cm with volume up to
12L
Used for shallow,
wadable or easily
accessible water,
Can be made of stainless
steel or plastic
Can have plastic or glass
liners
Preserves layering of
sediments
Minimal risk of
contamination
Handles aids in
penetration of sediment
Sample depth up to 10
cm with volume up to
0.5L
Used on soft grained
sediments
Core valve in liner
retains complete sample
in tube
Fins permit vertical
penetration of substrate
Sample depth up to 3 m
with volume up to 10 L
Used for deep lakes and
rivers
Collects greater volume
Restricted to low currents
due to its light weight
Top flaps may not close
completely resulting in
sample loss
Small sample size
Requires careful handling
to prevent spillage
If liners are used,
requires removal of liners
prior to next sample
Glass liners may break
Requires weights for
penetration, resulting in
need of winch with 1000
kg lifting capacity
Compacts sediments
Requires careful handling
to avoid loss of sample
Requires removal of
-
-
-
-
A-6
July 2012
-------
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix A2
TOOL
(Wildcoฎ Wildlife
Supply Co., Yulee,
FL)
Corer - tube,
Gravity:
Alpine
Corer - tube,
Gravity:
Phlenger cover
Corer - box:
gravity
Corer- tube
piston
Sampler, Petersen
(Petersen
Instruments, Calgary,
AB Canada)
MATRIX
Sediment,
Core
Sediment,
Core
Sediment,
Core
Sediment,
Core
Sediment,
Grab
ADVANTAGE
than other samplers
Sample depth up to 70
cm with volume up to
1.25 L
Used for soft fine grain
semi-consolidated
sediments
Allows different
penetration depths due to
interchangeable steel
barrel
Sample depth up to 2 m
with volume up to 2 L
Used for deep lakes and
rivers
Good on semi-
consolidated substrates
Sample depth up to 50
cm with volume up to
0.5L
Used on shallow wadable
water, but depth of
sediment must be
approximately 1 m
Collects large,
undisturbed sample
Optimal for collecting
intact subsamples
Sample depth up to 70
cm with volume up to
SOL
Used on large deep lakes
Applicable for most
substrates
Typically recovers an
undisturbed sample
Sample depth up to 20 m
with volume up to 40 L
Used on deep lake,
rivers, and estuaries
Adequate on most
substrates
Sample depth up to 30
cm with volume up to
9.5L
DISADVANTAGE
liners prior to next
sample
Lacks stabilizing fins for
vertical penetration
May penetrate non-
vertically and
incompletely
Requires a lifting
capability of 200 kg
Disturbs sediment strata
and integrity
Compacts sediment
Requires careful
handling to avoid loss of
sample
Requires removal of
liners prior to next
sample
Small sample volume
Difficult to handle
Relatively heavy,
requiring a winch
Requires lifting capacity
of 200 kg
Piston and piston
positioning at penetration
may fail
Disturbs surface layer (0
to 0.5 m)
May not close
completely, resulting in
sample loss
Shock wave from descent
may disturb upper fine
grain layer of sediment
Restricted to low current
conditions
Metal frame may
contaminate sample
May exceed target
penetration depth
STANDARDS
-
-
-
-
-
July 2012
A-7
-------
Appendix A2
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
TOOL
MATRIX
ADVANTAGE
DISADVANTAGE
STANDARDS
Sampler, Shipekฎ
(Wildcoฎ Wildlife
Supply Co., Yulee,
FL)
Sediment,
Grab
Used on basins, large
inland lakes, and
reservoirs
Allows subsampling
Retains fine grain
sediments effectively
Sample depth up to 10
cm with volume up to 3L
Not useful on compacted
soils, silts, or clay
May not close
completely, resulting in
sample loss
Shock wave from descent
may disturb upper fine
grain layer of sediment
Restricted to low current
conditions
Metal frame may
contaminate sample
May exceed target
penetration depth
Sampler, Van Veen
Sediment,
Grab
Used on deep lakes,
rivers, and estuaries
Good for use on sandy,
silted or clay sediment
Adequate on most non-
compacted substrates
Available in stainless
steel; can be lined
Large sample maintained
intact for subsampling
Screened bucket covering
prevents "wave" effects
from removing or
altering sample
Sample depth up to 30
cm; volume up to 75L
May not close
completely, resulting in
sample loss
May close prematurely in
rough water
May require winch
Relatively expensive
Air pump, battery
operated
Air
Air Sampling Equipment
Portable
Small units can be used
to take breathing zone air
samples
Battery power declines
with use, resulting in
slower speeds over time
Low velocity
Failure during operation
very probable, due to
unknown battery life
Low pump head limits
length of air line from
filter or sample rig
Air pump, electric
operated
Air
Continuous air flow at
preset levels
Used for taking large
volume air samples
Cannot be used for
personnel safety
monitoring
Can have longer lines
attached to filter or
sample rig
Flow rates variable to
low flow and high flow
Require power source
Can overheat if air drawn
through filter or canister
compromises air flow
Pumps tend to be noisy
A-8
July 2012
-------
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix A2
TOOL
Cartridge, Charcoal
Cartridge, Zeolite
Bubbler
Filters, single
Filter, chart spool
type
Silica gel
Vacuum bulb
MATRIX
Air
Air
Air
Air
Air
Air
Air
ADVANTAGE
Good for the majority of
radionuclides
Particularly good for
iodine
Retains noble gases
Good for the majority of
radionuclides
Retains noble gases
(though fewer than
charcoal cartridges)
Entrains gas in water or
another liquid for later
analysis
Capture paniculate
matter down to 0. 1 um
particle size
Capture paniculate
matter down to 0. 1 um
particle size
Allows method of
determining time frame
of deposition
Entrains tritium-
containing moisture
Grabs a volume of the
ambient air for analysis
Provides a reasonably
large sample volume (up
to4L)
DISADVANTAGE
Relatively expensive
compared with charcoal
Limit solubility of gases
in water
Bubblers can dry out if
not maintained properly
Easily clogged
No differentiation in
particle size
Excessive loading can
attenuate results
No method of
determining time frame
of deposition
Material chosen may
have inherent
radioactivity from
naturally occurring
isotopes
Easily clogged
No differentiation in
particle size
Excessive loading can
attenuate results
Material chosen may
have inherent
radioactivity from
naturally occurring
isotopes
Relative humidity is a
limiting factor in
sampling duration
Vacuum can easily be
lost
Loss of vacuum results in
contaminated sample
No clear indication of
state of vacuum or
integrity of bulb valves
STANDARDS
July 2012
A-9
-------
Appendix A3
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
APPENDIX-A3
Sampling Containers
Sample Matrix
Containers
Water, Liquids
Bottles (HDPE or glass)* - wide and small mouth
500 mL
1L
4 L (1 gal.) Cubitainersฎ
Soils
Bottles - wide mouth
500 mL
1L
Plastic Jars - wide mouth w/ PTFE (Teflonฎ) lids
500 mL
1L
Plastic Bags (Ziplock - Scalable)
Note: durability must be considered to prevent
punctures from solid materials - normally used to
contain sample bottles or jars
1 quart
2 quart
Solids
Bottles - wide mouth
500 mL
1L
Plastic Jars - wide mouth w/ PTFE (Teflonฎ) lids
500 mL
1L
Plastic Bags (Ziplock - Scalable)
Note: durability must be considered to prevent
punctures from solid materials - normally used to
contain sample bottles or jars
1 quart
2 quart
Air Samples
Envelopes - Paper
2.5 in. x 5 in.
3 in. x 5 in.
9 in. x 12 in.
Plastic Bags (Ziplock - Scalable)
1 quart
Vegetation
Plastic Bags (Ziplock - Scalable)
1 quart
2 quart
Plastic Bags (Non-sealable)
15 gallon
30 gallon
55 gallon
Plastic Jars - wide mouth w/ PTFE (Teflonฎ) lids
500 mL
1L
"Note: If water samples collected for tritium are to be stored for a long period of time (e.g., greater
than 6 months), the samples should be collected in glass bottles. Alternatively, samples could
be collected in plastic and transferred to glass bottles in the laboratory.
A-10
July 2012
-------
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix A4
APPENDIX-A4
Shipping Materials and Packaging
Type
Cushioning and Packing
Absorbents
Industrial Package Type 1
Industrial Package Type 2
Type A
Type B (U) or (M)
Potential Materials
Styrofoam Peanuts and Pieces
Bubble Wrap
Vermiculite
Vermiculite
Chem-sorb
Fiberboard Box or Drum
Plywood or Natural Wood Box or Drum
Plastic Drum or Jerrican
Plastic Cooler
Steel Box or Drum
Aluminum Box or Drum
Any Industrial Package Type 2, Type A, or Type B
container
Steel Box or Drum
Specific Steel Container
July 2012
A-ll
-------
Appendix A5
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
APPENDIX-AS
Additional Equipment to Consider for Sampling Operations
Item
AC Generator
Bottle
Bowls
Bucket
fTiispl
Drill
Drum Hand Truck
First AiH Kit
Filter Paper
Forceps
Funnels
Gas Cartridges for air
samplers
Gasoline containers
GPS Unit
Hammer
Labels
Ladder
Mixing paddle
Pens and Markers
Petri Dishes
Plastic Bags
Plastic Sheeting
Rope - Nylon
Rope - Nylon
Pack Drums
Saw
Screw drivers
Shielding material
Sieves
Signs
ADDITIONAL SAMPLING EQUIPMENT
Item Description
Gasoline powered - 1500 W
16-oz. squeeze bottle with nozzle
Stainless steel mixing - approximately 18-in. diameter, 6-in. depth
(approximately 2 gal.)
Plastic w/handle - 5 gal. For carrying tools and materials; can be used for
carrying samples or for equipment decontamination
3/8 in.
Transport 30- and 5 5 -gal. drums
Quantitative -grade paper with greater than 8 um particle retention;
e.g., Whatman 40ฎ 12.5 cm (5 in.) and 18.5 cm (7.4 in.), or equivalent
6 in.
240 mL; 960 mL; plastic
Silver Zeolite; Activated Carbon; Others as needed based on site conditions and
target radionuclides
5 gal. with spark arrest and safety cap closure
Hand held; Preferably able to tie into the radiation detection equipment for
logging sample radiation readings at location
12 oz., 20 oz., and small sledge
Labels and markings for required shipping and samples
6 ft. and 10 ft.
Attachable to drill with extension 2-3 ft.
Indelible; Water proof; Black and Red
30 mm and 50 mm
(Non-sealable) 15,30, and 55 gal. for general wastes
(Non-sealable) 15,30, and 55 gal. for contaminated wastes
Preferably in a large roll (20 ft. x 33.3 ft.)
White - 3/8 in. and 1/2 in.; nylon or weatherproof cotton
Yellow and Magenta; 3/8 in.
Electric Circular, Manual Hand, and Hack Saws
Flat and Philips head; small and large
Sheet steel, plywood, lead blankets and bricks
Stainless steel No. 4 (100 mm mesh)
Yellow and Magenta for radiation work
A-12
July 2012
-------
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix A5
ADDITIONAL SAMPLING EQUIPMENT
Item
Signs
Sign
Soap and Cleansers
Spill Kit
Stakes
Stakes w/ flag
Step-off pads
Tape
Tape
Tape measure
Tripod
Tripod
Utility Carts
Weigh scale
Item Description
Red, White, and Black for safety concerns
Blue and White for entry and other instruction
Wooden construction
Wire with flag for marking
Yellow and Magenta for radiation work
Yellow and Magenta for radiation work
Duct tape; Packing Tape; 2 in. and 3 in. wide
50-200 ft. preferably with metric scale as well
For mounting air samplers
For retrieving material from pits or excavations
Hanging pull type; kg with gram divisions capable of weighing up to 5 kg
July 2012
A-13
-------
Appendix A6
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
APPENDIX-A6
Personal Protective Equipment
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
Item
Boot / Shoe Covers
Boots
Coveralls
Coveralls - Cotton
Ear Protection
Eyewear
Face Shields
Gloves - Exam
Gloves - Work
Hard Hats
Respirators
Monitoring Devices
Description
Plastic
Rubber
Paper - Tyvekฎ
May require sunshades for outdoor work in bright conditions
Latex or Nitrile; Powder Free
Heavy cotton
Full Face Air Purifying
Full Face Powered Air
Airline Full Face
Self-Contained Air Supplied
Radiation Dosimeter
Lapel Sampler
A-14
July 2012
-------
APPENDIX B
Forms
-------
-------
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix B1
APPENDIX-Bl
Field Sample Logbook Entry
This logbook entry format is provided to demonstrate the minimum information to be recorded in a bound
logbook. Illustrations or pictures of the site also should be included with annotations, and should
accompany or be referenced in the entry. Pagination (Page X of Y) should correspond to each sample
event. The logbook should also contain pagination to demonstrate logbook maintenance.
Site Name
Sample Collection: Number
K Taken
Sample
Collectors
(Print Names)
Pa
ae X of Y .
Matrix Date Time :
Observed
By Initials
Location of Sample Collection:
Landmark Description
Compass Point
Sample Identification
Code (SIC)
1 -
2-
3-
4-
5-
6-
7-
8-
9-
10-
11 -
12-
13-
14-
15-
16-
17-
18-
19-
20-
GPS Coordinates
Contact
Gamma
mR/hr
Remarks
Comments: Note sample number and describe problem or information. Add pictures or illustrations on
separate page.
July 2012
B-l
-------
Appendix B2
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
APPENDIX - B2 Field Sample Tracking Form
Field Sample Tracking Form
Site Name
No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Sample Identification
Code
Matrix1
Sample Location / Description2
Date
Volume (mL) /
Mass (g)
Area Sampled
(cm2)
Depth
(m/ft.)
Page X of Y
Sample
Type3
Number of
Containers
Remarks:
Notes: 1 - Matrix codes: SO - Soil; GW - Water; AF - Air Filter; GV - Gas/Vapor: B - Bubbler (Tritium); SG - Silica
Gel (Tritium); SD - Solid; SW - Swipe; VEG - Vegetation
2 - Describe the sample location by compass point relative to landmark or GPS coordinates.
3 - Sample Type Code - REG - Regular; DUP - Duplicate; RIN - Sample Rinsate; BLK - Field Blank; BKG -
Background
Reviewed By Initials
Date
B-2
July 2012
-------
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix B3
APPENDIX - B3 Chain of Custody
0
EPA
USEPA
Radionuclide Analysis Traffic Report & Chain of Custody Record
Date Shipped
Carrier Name
Airbill:
Shipped To:
Sample
Identification Code
1
2
3
4
5
6
Sample
Collector
Chain of Custody Record:
Relinquished By: (Date/Time)
1)
2)
3)
4)
Matrix / Type Volume / Mass
Additional Sample Collector Signature(s):
Analysis
Key:
Sample Collector Signature:
Received By: (Date /Time)
Analysis Sampling
Required Location /
Sample Depth
Sample(s) to be used for
laboratory QC?
Case No.:
DAS No.:
SDG No.:
Paqe of
For Lab Use Only
Lab Contract No.:
Unit Price:
Transfer To:
Lab Contract No.:
Unit Price:
Date/
Time
Cooler
temperat
ure Upon
Receipt:
Shipment
Iced?
(Yes/No)
Laboratory
Sample No.
FOR LAB USE
ONLY
Sample Condition
on Receipt
Chain of Custody Seal Number:
Custody Seal Intact?
(Yes/No)
Type: Comp, Core, Grab Analysis Required: Gross Alpha, Gross Beta, Alpha Scan, Gamma Scan,
Specific Isotopes or Radionuclides, Other
Matrix: AF- Air Filter; GV - Gas or Vapor; DW - Drinking Water; GW - Groundwater; SD - Sediment; SO - Soil; S - Solid; SW - Swipe;
B - Bubbler (Tritium); SG - Silica Gel (Tritium); VEG - Vegetation
DAS - Delivery as Analytical Services; SDG - Sample Delivery Group
July 2012
B-:
-------
Appendix B4
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
APPENDIX - B4 Air Sample Tracking Form
Site Name
Location Sampled
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
Sample
Type
Cartridge/Sampler
Type
Air Sampler
Identification
Number
Sample Date
Air
Sampler
Flow Rate
(mL/min)
Time
Started
Tech
Initials
Page of
Time
Stopped
Tech
Initials
Total
Volume
(mL)
Key Sample Type: BZ - breathing zone, G-grab, WA- work area, VAC -vacuum, Other (must be described in Comments)
Cartridge Type: PT - paniculate, CC - charcoal, SZ - Silver Zeolite cartridge (NOTE: If combination is used add both codes)
Tritium Sampler Type: B- Bubbler, SG- Silica Gel
Comments:
Reviewed By Initials
Date
B-4
July 2012
-------
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix B5
APPENDIX - B5 Example Waste Control Form
All material sent for disposal will need to be manifested with approved FULL analytical documentation.
A full listing of all contaminants is required for Disposal Approval Codes.
Industrial Package 1
Type A
Industrial Package 2
Type
B(U)
Industrial Package 3
Type B (M)
Markings found on approved containers:
Volume:
Cu. Ft. /gal. / L
UN Code:
Container to have less than 5% void space after filling.
UN ID No.
Soil
Solids
PPE
Aqueous Liquid
Non-Aqueous Liquid
Hazardous Material
Flammable
Other (identify below)
Waste Control Form
Site Name:
Waste ID Number:
Date Opened:
Signature:
Instructions: Cross out unused items with "X". If the term "Other" is used, indicate by name in blank space an item
description appropriate for shipping information. Mixed wastes (i.e., radioactive material and chemical wastes),
explosives, and gases are NOT allowed, unless specific permission is granted in writing. All material shall be
made as inert as practical (e.g., liquids solidified, acids or bases neutralized) for shipment.
Waste Container:
Waste Type
Hazard Level
(state known internal levels or assumptions/calculated values)
Chemical
Chemical
% or ppm
% or ppm
Radioactive Material
LSA-1 /LS-II/LSA-III
dpm/ 100cm2
Ai/A2
External Radiation and Contamination Levels
Surface
Radiation on Contact
dpm /100cm2
mR/hr
Attach Copy of Survey Map
At 1 meter (3.3 ft.)
mR/hr
Container Labels Required:
(Package Orientation is mandatory for any package capable of being hand carried or trucked)
Toxic Substance
Corrosive
Solid - Flammable
Liquid - Flammable
Gas- Flammable
Gas Non-Flammable
Gas -Toxic
SCO-I
Radioactive LSA-I
Radioactive ISA- 1 1
Radioactive LSA-II
SCO-I I
Radioactive I
Radioactive II
Radioactive III
Fissile
Date Closed:
Signature:
Disposal Approval Code:
I Overpacking Required/Completed
Transportation Company: Name, Contact Name and information
Disposal Company: Name, Contact Name and information
Date Disposed:
Date Disposal Certificate Received:
July 2012
B-5
-------
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
B -6 July 2012
-------
APPENDIX C
Sample Filtration and Preservation
-------
-------
Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Appendix C
APPENDIX - C Filtration and Preservation of Aqueous Samples
1 General
1.1 It is recommended that aqueous samples containing larger amounts of sediment, or that will be
analyzed for dissolved constituents, be filtered in the laboratory. If field filtration is required, the
samples must be filtered in a controlled area. If these samples require preservation, the samples
must be filtered prior to the addition of preservative.
1.2 Samples requiring filtration and/or preservation are identified in the Sample Collection Plan.
1.2.1 Section 2 of this Appendix describes procedures for sample filtration. Filtration of samples to be
analyzed for dissolved constituents requires that the sample is passed through a 0.45 (im filter.
The filter, filtrate, and the filtered sample are sent to the laboratory for analysis.
1.2.2 Section 3 of this Appendix describes procedures for sample preservation. Samples are preserved
by the addition of acid to reduce the sample pH to less than or equal to 2.0.
2 Sample Filtration
NOTE: According to EPA's Manual for the Certification of Laboratories Analyzing Drinking Water
(EPA 815-R-05-004), drinking water samples are measured for total activity, which represents the
maximum potential exposure. For this reason, drinking water samples collected for measurement of
radionuclides are not filtered.
2.1 Samples containing a large amount of settleable materials should be allowed to settle, and the
water decanted from the settled materials prior to filtration. If, after decanting, the sample
appears to contain suspended materials, it may require filtration to remove the suspended
materials.
2.2 Only samples that are to be analyzed for dissolved constituents should be filtered through a 0.45
(im filter.
2.3 To prevent filter clogging and potential loss of target contaminants, allow all samples requiring
filtration to settle as much as possible prior to filtration.
2.4 Set up a filtration funnel or filtration apparatus (see Figure Cl).
NOTE: In cases when a sufficient volume of sample cannot be obtained using gravity filtration alone, it
may be necessary to use vacuum filtration. If this is necessary, precautions should be taken to ensure that
sample does not overflow into the vacuum system during filtration.
2.5 Rinse the filter using a squeeze bottle containing demineralized water (ASTM grade Type I or II)
and discard the rinse water.
2.6 Slowly filter the sample until a sufficient amount of sample volume has been collected into a
flask or other collection vessel.
2.7 If the filter becomes clogged, carefully pour any sample remaining in the filter funnel back into
the original sample bottle, and allow the sample to settle further. Collect the filter as described in
Section 2.18. Install and rinse a new filter, and continue sample filtration.
CAUTION: The volume of sample in the filter assembly should not reach more than three quarters of
the filter assembly capacity.
2.8 When the remaining sample volume is near the level of any settled sediment in the sample bottle,
stop and allow the filter to drain.
2.9 If practical, attempt to decant additional water from the sample, without clogging the filter with
sediment.
July 2012 C - 1
-------
Appendix C Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
2.10 Cap the original sample container containing the remaining sediment and refer to the Sample
Collection Plan to determine whether it will be sent to the laboratory.
2.11 Remove the collection vessel from the filtration assembly and transfer the filtrate to a temporary
container (e.g. disposable plastic beaker).
2.12 Reattach the collection vessel to the filtration assembly.
2.13 Rinse the filter with half of the volume of the filtered sample in the temporary container. Collect
the rinsate (i.e., re-filtered sample) into the collection vessel.
2.14 Allow the filter to drain and then add the remaining portion of filtered sample, in the temporary
container, to rinse the filter.
2.15 Allow the filter to drain.
2.16 Disconnect the collection vessel from the filter assembly and transfer the filtrate to a clean sample
bottle.
2.17 Place a sample label on the filtered sample bottle and ensure the label has the following.
information:
Sample Identification Number
Date and Time of Sampling
Sample Location
Initials of Sample Collector
Date and Time of Filtration
Preservation Status of the sample at time of filtration (Preserved Yes/No)
Initials of Technician performing filtration
2.18 Using tweezers, carefully remove the filter from the filter rig. Place the filter on a drying plate in
a covered area and allow the filter to air dry. Place the dried filter in a Petri dish or other suitable
container and seal with tape to prevent opening. Place a sample label on the Petri dish and ensure
the label has the following information:
Sample Identification Number
Date and Time of Sampling
Sample Location
Initials of Sample Collector
Date and Time of Filtration
Initials of Technician performing filtration
3 Sample Preservation
3.1 If a sample requires preservation, perform these steps in a controlled designated area.
NOTE: According to EPA's Manual for the Certification of Laboratories Analyzing Drinking Water
(EPA 815-R-05-004), sample preservatives provided by the laboratory should be screened for radioactive
content by lot number prior to their use in the laboratory, and the results documented. Drinking water
samples preserved in the field, with reagents that are not provided by the laboratory, are to be
accompanied by a radioactive free field blank sample that is preserved in the same manner as the
submitted sample.
C - 2 July 2012
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix C
CAUTION: Refer to the Sample Collection Plan to determine the type of acid that should be used for
sample preservation. There are several limitations to the type of acid used based upon the
isotope of interest. Table C.I lists acids that should be used for preservation of isotopes that
are included in EPA's Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and
Recovery (SAM) 2012.
WARNING: Concentrated and dilute acid solutions must be handled with caution. Nitric acid should
not be allowed to dry on paper towels or absorbent materials at full strength. A fire may result.
Ensure that any spills are properly cleaned up and that any spill on absorbent materials is
properly processed prior to disposal. Refer to site safety personnel for proper disposal
requirements.
Table C.I: Acids for Preservation of Samples Collected for Measurement of Radioisotopes included in
EPA's Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM) 2072.
Analyte
Note. Preservation requireme
Laboratories Analyzing Drint
Gross Alpha
Gross Beta
Cesium- 137
Iodine-131
Radium-226
Strontium-89
Strontium-90
Tritium (Hydrogen-3)
Uranium-238
Note: The following analvtes
Laboratories Analyzing Drint
based on best professional juc
Gamma
Americium-24 1
Californium-252
Cobalt-60
Curium-244
Europium- 154
Iodine-125
Iridium-192
Molybdenum-99
Phosphorus-32
Plutonium-238
Plutonium-239
Polonium-210
Ruthenium- 103
Ruthenium- 106
Selenium-75
Technetium-99
Total Activity Screening
Uranium-234
Uranium-235
Preservative
nts taken from EPA's Manual for the Certification of
ting Water (EPA 815-R-05-004).
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
pH<2
pH<2
Cone. HC1 to pH <2
Do not acidify
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
pH<2
pH<2
pH<2
Do not acidify
Conc.HClorHNO3to
are not included in EPA
ting Water. Preservation
[gment.
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
pH<2
's Manual for Certification of
recommendations for these analytes are
pH<2
pH<2
pH<2
pH<2
pH<2
pH<2
Do not acidify
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Conc.HClorHNO3to
pH<2
pH<2
pH<2
pH<2
pH<2
pH<2
pH<2
pH<2
pH<2
Do not acidify
Do not acidify
Conc.HClorHNO3to
Cone. HClorHNO3to
pH<2
pH<2
July 2012
C-3
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Appendix C Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
3.1.1 Ensure the area is set up for the addition of acid by performing the following:
3.1.1.1 Clear the work area.
3.1.1.2 Place a sufficient amount of absorbent material to cover the area, and secure it with duct tape.
3.1.1.3 Ensure another person knows you are working with acid.
3.1.2 Open the sample container and the acid bottle.
3.1.3 Using a pipette or dropper, transfer approximately 8 mL of concentrated HC1 or 6 mL of
concentrated HNO3 per liter of sample. (Adjust the amount added, as needed, for sample volumes
other than one liter.)
3.1.4 Place the pipette or dropper in a secure location to prevent dripping, and close the acid and
sample bottles.
3.1.5 Carefully agitate the sample, remove the lid, and check the pH with pH paper (recommended for
contamination control) or a pH probe. Add additional acid as necessary to reach a sample pH of
less than or equal to 2.
3.1.5.1 DO NOT add more than 5 additional mL of concentrated acid.
3.1.5.2 If the sample pH can not be lowered sufficiently after the addition of an extra 5 mL of acid, close
the sample container and record the information in the Field Sample Logbook and on the Sample
Label.
3.1.6 Once the sample pH is less than or equal to 2.0, close the sample container and note the following
in the Field Sample Collection Logbook and on the sample label.
Acid added - Type, concentration, and volume
pH of the sample
Date and time of preservation
Initials of the person who added the acid
3.1.7 Package the sample perthe requirements of Module I, Section 7.0.
3.1.8 Clean the area of materials, ensuring any drips or spills of acid are contained and processed per
the requirements of Site Safety.
C - 4 July 2012
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix C
Figure Cl: Example Filtration Apparatus
July 2012
C-5
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APPENDIX D
References
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices Appendix D
APPENDIX - D References and Supplemental Information
References
1. Standard Guide for Sampling Ground-Water Monitoring Wells, D4448-01, ASTM-International Vol.
11.04-Enviromnental Assessment; Hazardous Substances and Oil Spill Responses; Waste
Management; Environmental Risk Assessment, 2001
2. Standard Practice for Sampling with a Scoop, D5633-04, ASTM-International, 2004
3. Manual for the Certification of Laboratories Analyzing Drinking Water, EPA 815-R-05-004, U.S.
EPA, January 2005
4. Guide for Development of Sample Collection Plans for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental
Matrices Following Homeland Security Events (EPA/600/R-08/128), U.S. EPA, February 2009
5. Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM) [formerly
Standardized Analytical Methods for Environmental Restoration Following Homeland Security
Events}, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, http://www.epa.gov/sam.
6. D6169-98(2005): Standard Guide for Selection of Soil and Rock Sampling Devices Used With Drill
Rigs for Environmental Investigation, ASTM-International. 2005
7. D4 700-91 (2006): Standard Guide for Soil Sampling from the Vadose Zone, ASTM-International,
2006
8. D3550-0l(2007): Standard Practice for Thick Wall, Ring-Lined, Split Barrel, Drive Sampling of
Soils, ASTM-International, 2007
9. Dl 587-08: Standard Practice for Thin-Walled Tube Sampling of Soils for Geotechnical Purposes,
ASTM-International, 2008
10. Dl 452-09: Standard Practice for Soil Exploration and Sampling by Auger Borings, ASTM-
International, 2009
11. Dl 586-11: Standard Test Method for Standard Penetration Test (SPT) and Split-Barrel Sampling of
Soils, ASTM-International, 2011
12. D5495-03(2011): Standard Practice for Sampling With a Composite Liquid Waste Sampler
(COLIWASA), ASTM-International, 2011
Supplemental Information
13. FRMAC Monitoring and Analysis Manual Volumes 1 and 2 - Radiation Monitoring and Sampling,
DOE/NV/11718-181, U.S. Department of Energy, September 2002
14. Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual, NUREG-1575, EPA 402-R-97-016,
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Defense,
and U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, December 1997
15. Multi-Agency Radiological Laboratory Protocols Manual Volumes 1, 2, and 3, NUREG-1576, EPA
402-B-04-001, NTIS PB2004-105421, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of
Energy, U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Nuclear
Regulatory Commission, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Geological Survey, and National
Institute of Standards and Technology, July 2004
July 2012 D - 1
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Appendix C Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
16. SuperfundRepresentative Sampling Guidance, Volume 1: Soil EPA 540 R-95 141, U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, December 1995
17. Compendium of ERTSoil Sampling and Surface Geophysics Procedures, EPA 540 P-91-006, U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, January 1991
18. EML Procedures Manual, HASL-300, 28th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 2, Sampling, U.S. Department
of Energy, February 1997
19. Compendium of ERT Groundwater Sampling Procedures, EPA 540 P-91-007, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, January 1991
20. Requirements for the Development of Sampling and Analysis Plans, E200-1-3, U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, February 2001
21. Chemical Quality Assurance for Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste (HTRW) Projects, EM
200-1-6, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, October 1997
22. USAGE Kansas City And St. Louis District Radionuclide Data Quality Evaluation Guidance for
Alpha And Gamma Spectroscopy, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, June 2001
23. Standard Practice for Sampling Surface Soils for Radionuclides, C 998-90 (Reapproved 2000),
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 2000
24. Ground Water Sampling Procedure Low Stress (Low Flow) Purging and Sampling, U.S. EPA Region
II; http://www.epa.gov/swerustl/cat/monitor.htm.
D - 2 July 2012
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