ฉ CDA United States
I- I"-ฎ* Environmental Protection
* W I^hI i^m,Agency
Sample Collection Procedures
for Radiochemical Analytes in
Environmental Matrices
Office of Research and Development
National Homeland Security
Research Center
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December 2020
EPA/600/R-20/247
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
December 2020
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Acknowledgements
This document was developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Homeland Security
Research Program (HSRP) within EPA's Office of Research and Development, as a companion to EPA's
Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM) 2017 (EPA/600/R-
17/356). Kathy Hall (EPA's Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response) was the project
lead.
Special acknowledgement and appreciation are extended to the following individuals for their valuable
support and input:
James Burn, EPA National Analytical Radiation Environmental Laboratory
John Griggs, EPA National Analytical Radiation Environmental Laboratory
Mark Hannant, Bureau of Radiation Safety, Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA)
Thomas Papura, Division of Materials Management, New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation
Erin Silvestri, EPA Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions
&Emergency Response
Technical and editorial support were also provided by Eric Boring, Joan Cuddeback, Emily King, Marti
Sinclair and Larry Umbaugh (of CSRA), under EPA Contracts EP-C-15-012 and EP-C-17-024.
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Disclaimer
This document has undergone review in accordance with EPA policy prior to publication. Note that
approval for publication does not signify that the contents necessarily reflect the views of the Agency.
Mention of trade names, products, or services does not convey EPA approval, endorsement or
recommendation.
Questions concerning this document or its application should be addressed to:
Kathy Hall
Center for Environmental Solutions & Emergency Response
Office of Research and Development (NG16)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
26 West Martin Luther King Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45268
(513) 379-5260
hall.kathv(a)epa.gov
Foreword
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is charged by Congress with protecting the Nation's
land, air and water resources. Under a mandate of national environmental laws, the Agency strives to
formulate and implement actions leading to a compatible balance between human activities and the
ability of natural systems to support and nurture life. To meet this mandate, EPA's research program is
providing data and technical support for solving environmental problems today and building a science
knowledge base necessary to manage our ecological resources wisely, understand how pollutants affect
our health, and prevent or reduce environmental risks in the future.
The Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response (CESER) within the Office of Research
and Development (ORD) conducts applied, stakeholder-driven research and provides responsive
technical support to help solve the Nation's environmental challenges. The Center's research focuses on
innovative approaches to address environmental challenges associated with the built environment. We
develop technologies and decision-support tools to help safeguard public water systems and
groundwater, guide sustainable materials management, remediate sites from traditional contamination
sources and emerging environmental stressors, and address potential threats from terrorism and
natural disasters. CESER collaborates with both public and private sector partners to foster technologies
that improve the effectiveness and reduce the cost of compliance, while anticipating emerging
problems. We provide technical support to EPA regions and programs, states, tribal nations, and federal
partners, and serve as the interagency liaison for EPA in homeland security research and technology.
The Center is a leader in providing scientific solutions to protect human health and the environment.
Gregory Sayles, Director
Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response
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Acronyms, Abbreviations, Units and Symbols
NOTE: Units of measurement are provided throughout this document, in both metric and U.S.
standard formats, as appropriate for use. In addition to the definitions provided below, units are
defined with first use in each module.
ฎ registered trademark
nฐ degrees
% percent
approximately
Hm micrometer
AC alternating current
ALARA as low as reasonably achievable
ASTM ASTM International (formerly American Society for Testing and Materials)
atm atmosphere
Bq becquerel
CESER Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
cm centimeters
COC chain of Custody
DC direct current
DCGL derived concentration guidance level
DOT Department of Transportation
dpm disintegrations per minute
DUP duplicate
EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
ERT Environmental Response Team
ft feet
g gram
GPS Global Positioning System
HASP Health and Safety Plan
HCI hydrochloric acid
HDPE high density polyethylene
HDPP high density polypropylene
HN03 nitric acid
hr hour
IATA International Air Transport Association
in. inches
kg kilogram
L liter
lbs pounds
LLRW Low Level Radioactive Waste
LSA low specific activity
m meter
MDC Minimum Detectable Concentration
mL milliliter
mm millimeter
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
EPA 600/R-20/247
MQO
measurement quality objective
mR
milliroentgens
mrem
millirem
NAREL
National Analytical Radiation Environmental Laboratory
NIST
National Institute of Standards & Technology
No.
number
NRC
Nuclear Regulatory Commission
oz.
ounces
PPE
personal protective equipment
ppm
parts per million
psi
pounds per square inch
PTFE
polytetrafluoroethylene
PVC
polyvinylchloride
QC
quality control
qt
quart
RSP
Radiation Safety Plan
RWP
Radiation Work Permit
SAM
Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery
SCO
surface contaminated object
SCP
Sample Collection Plan
SHO
Safety and Health Officer
SIC
Sample Identification Code
SNM
special nuclear material
SOP
Standard Operating Procedure
TEDA
triethylenediamine
UST
Underground Storage Tank
WMP
Waste Management Plan
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Radiometric and General Unit Conversions
To Convert
To
Multiply by
To Convert
To
Multiply by
becquerel (Bq)
picocuries (pCi)
27.0
pCi
Bq
0.037
Bq/square centimeters (cm2)
(dpm/cm2)
60
(dpm/cm2)
(Bq/cm2)
0.0167
Bq/cubic meters (m3)
pCi/L
0.027
pCi/L
Bq/m3
37.0
Bq/kilogram (kg)
pCi/gram (g)
0.027
pCi/g
Bq/kg
37.0
Bq/cubic meter (m3)
Bq/L
0.001
Bq/L
Bq/m3
1000
cubic feet (ft3)
m3
0.0283
m3
ft3
35.3
disintegrations per minute (dpm)
nCi
pCi
4.5 x 10"7
0.45
pCi
dpm
2.22
disintegrations per second (dps)
Bq
1
Bq
dps
1
gallons (gal)
liters (L)
3.78
L
gallon
0.264
inches (in.)
centimeter (cm)
millimeter (mm)
2.54
25.4
cm
mm
in
0.394
0.0394
kilogram (kg)
pound (lb)
0.456
lb
kg
2.20
microcuries per milliliter
(nCi/mL)
pCi/L
109
pCi/L
nCi/mL
109
millirem (mrem)
millisievert (mSv)
0.01
mSv
mrem
1000
roentgen equivalent: man (rem)
sievert (Sv)
0.01
Sv
rem
1000
square centimeter (cm2)
square inch (in2)
0.155
in2
cm2
6.45
To Convert
To
Use
To Convert
To
Use
degree Fahrenheit (ฐF)
degree Celsius (ฐC)
(ฐF-32)/1.8
ฐC
ฐF
(ฐCxl.8)+32
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Table of Contents
Acknowledgements i
Disclaimer ii
Foreword ii
Acronyms, Abbreviations, Units and Symbols iii
Radiometric and General Unit Conversions v
MODULE I GENERAL INFORMATION 11
1.0 Introduction 11
1.1. Scope and Application 11
1.2. Supplemental Plans and Procedures 12
1.3. Preparation 14
1.4. Sampling Phases 15
1.5. Sampling Locations 15
1.6. Safety Considerations, PPE and First Aid 16
2.0 Equipment and Materials 18
2.1. General Requirements 18
2.2. Sampling Equipment 19
2.3. Closures and Seals 115
2.4. Decontamination Equipment 116
2.5. Communications Equipment 117
3.0 Quality Control 118
3.1. Field Blanks 118
3.2. Rinsate Blanks 118
3.3. Field Replicates 118
3.4. Background samples 119
3.5. Equipment 119
3.6. Sample Control 119
4.0 Documentation 120
4.1. General Considerations 120
4.2. Sample Labels 121
4.3. Sample Identification Codes (SICs) 121
4.4. Field Logbooks 121
4.5. Field Sample Tracking Form 122
4.6. Chain of Custody (COC) 123
4.7. Verbal Discussions 124
4.8. Transport Documents 124
4.9. Waste Documentation 125
5.0 Personnel/Equipment Decontamination 125
5.1. Surface Contamination 125
5.2. Personnel and Equipment Decontamination 125
5.3. Dry, Wet and Chemical Wiping 126
5.4. Decontamination of Pumps andTubing 126
5.5. Washing and Rinsing 126
6.0 Waste Management 127
6.1. General Information 127
6.2. Solids 128
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6.3. Liquids 128
6.4. Segregation 128
6.5. Disposal 129
7.0 Sample Packaging and Transport 129
7.1. Regulations and Requirements 130
7.2. Transport Materials 131
7.3. Preparing Samples for Transport 133
7.4. Packing the Transport Packaging 134
7.5. Transfer of Custody to an Authorized Carrier 136
MODULE II - SAMPLING PROCEDURES - SITE CHARACTERIZATION AND REMEDIATION PHASES II1
1.0 Collection of Samples II1
1.1. Overview II1
1.2. Precautions and Limitations 113
2.0 Equipment and Materials 117
3.0 Collection of Soil Samples 117
3.1. Ground Deposition 117
3.2. WetSoil 118
3.3. Dry and Sandy Soil or Sampling a Mixture of Fines and Gravel 119
3.4. Subsurface Soil 1110
3.5. Soil with Vegetation 1110
3.6. SoilWaste Piles (excavated soil material) 1111
3.7. Sediment 1111
3.8. Sediment- Deep Water Body Grab Samples 1112
3.9. Sediment-Core Samples 1113
3.10. SoilandSedimentSample Handling 1114
4.0 Collection of Air Samples 1115
4.1. Air Sample Pre-Staging Requirements 1115
4.2. Collection of Particulate and Vapor Samples 1116
4.3. Vacuum Flasks 1119
4.4. LapelSamples 1119
4.5. Bubbler or Silica Gel Samplers 1120
5.0 Collection of Water Samples 1121
5.1. Surface Water 1122
5.2. Subsurface Water at Shorelines 1122
5.3. Stream or River Water 1122
5.4. Shallow Well Water or Public Drinking Water 1123
5.5. Storage Tanks, Cisterns, Wells, and Underground Storm Drains or Sewer Lines 1123
5.6. Lagoon, Pond and Lake Water 1124
5.7. Water Sample Handling 1125
6.0 Collection of Vegetation Samples 1126
6.1. General Considerations 1126
6.2. Vegetation Sample Collection 1127
7.0 Collection of Surface Area Samples Using Swipes 1128
7.1. Dry Swipes 1128
7.2. Wet Swipes 11-28
7.3. Tape Swipes 1129
7.4. Swipe Handling 1129
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MODULE III - SAMPLING PROCEDURES - FINAL STATUS SURVEY PHASE Ill1
1.0 Collection of Samples Ill1
1.1. Overview Ill1
1.2. Precautions and Limitations Ill2
2.0 Equipment and Materials Ill3
3.0 Collection of Soil Samples Ill3
3.1. Surface Soil Pre-staging Requirements Ill3
3.2. Surface Soil Collection Ill4
3.3. Subsurface Soil Pre-staging Requirements Ill6
3.4. Subsurface Soil Collection Ill7
3.5. Sediment Ill8
4.0 Collection of Water Samples Ill9
4.1. WaterSampling Pre-staging Requirements Ill9
4.2. Water Sample Collection Procedures Ill9
5.0 Collection of Swipe Samples 11110
6.0 Collection of Air Samples 11110
7.0 Collection of Vegetation Samples 11110
Appendix A List of Sampling Equipment and Materials A1
APPENDIX-Al Sampling Equipment A2
APPENDIX-A2 Sampling Equipment Application Advantages and Disadvantages A3
APPENDIX-A4 Shipping Materialsand Packaging A12
APPENDIX-A5 Additional Equipmentto Consider for Sampling Operations A13
APPENDIX-A6 Personal Protective Equipment A15
Appendix B Forms B1
APPENDIX- B1 Example Field Logbook Entry B2
APPENDIX- B2 Example Field Sample Tracking Form B3
APPENDIX- B3 Example Chain of Custody Form B4
APPENDIX- B4 Example Air Sample Tracking Form B5
APPENDIX - B5 Example Waste Control Form B6
Appendix C Filtration and Preservation of Aqueous Samples C1
Appendix D Framework for Waste Management Plan Development for Waste Generated During
Radiological Sampling of Environmental Samples D1
Appendix E References and Supplemental Information E1
REFERENCES E-2
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION E-3
List of Figures
Figure 4.5-1 Tritium Bubbler 1120
Figure 4.5-2 Tritium Silica Gel Cartridge 1121
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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 an intentional or unintentional contamination incident or
emergency. This document focuses on the Site Characterization Phase, Remediation
Phase, and Final Status Survey Phase (site release) of a contamination incident and is
not intended to address sample collection needs during Initial Response. The
procedures are intended for collection of samples in support of the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) following a contamination incident.
NOTE: The procedures in this document were developed to address collection of
soil, water, swipe, air and vegetation samples specifically intended for analysis by
methods that are included in EPA's Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental
Remediation and Recovery (SAM) 2017 (U.S. EPA 2017). The procedures target the
radiochemicals listed in SAM, and complement the information provided in the
Sample Collection Information Document (SCID) for Chemicals, Radiochemicals and
Biotoxins -Companion to Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation
and Recovery (SAM) 2017 (Campisano et al. 2017).
NOTE: References for all modules and appendices included in this document are
found in Appendix E (References and Supplemental Information).
The procedures describe sample collection only and are intended for use by 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 procedures for sample
collection during site characterization, remediation and final status surveys with respect
to the following:
General sampling equipment and materials
Description of quality control (QC) samples
Sampling documentation
Decontamination of sample containers and equipment
Packaging of samples for transport
Waste management and waste minimization considerations
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, site safety and hygiene, and transportation
certification personnel. Specifically, this document does not provide information and
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instructions that are included in the following documents:
Sample Collection Plan (SCP)
Radiological Protection Guidance Plan and associated procedures
Health and Safety Plan (HASP) and associated procedures
Analytical methods (e.g., methods listed in SAM)
Laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) (e.g., EPA's National Analytical
Radiation Environmental Laboratory [NAREL] SOPs)
Waste Management Plan (WMP) and associated procedures
1.2. Supplemental Plans and Procedures
1.2.1. Sample Collection Plan (SCP)
An SCP that is specific for the site being evaluated and that 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 (Hall et
al. 2009). The SCP should be based on available historical data and recent site
assessment information. The SCP will specify: derived concentration guidance
levels (DCGLs)1; 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 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.
1.2.2. Safety Plans
Safety is a primary consideration in any sampling event. Safety plans will be
specific to a site and incident. Personnel safety requirements and considerations
for a particular site can extend beyond radiological concerns and might include
physical hazards and also chemicals that are toxic, corrosive, emit harmful or
explosive vapors, or are incompatible when mixed. A site-specific Radiological
Protection Guidance Plan and HASP should address all radiation and industrial
safety requirements and procedures associated with a site.
Radiation protection requirements included in the site RSP are developed and
implemented by radiation protection personnel, who are responsible for:
Developing and implementing an RSP and Radiation Work Permits (RWPs)
for individuals working at the site
Taking measurements of the radiation levels of all sampling sites and
associated activities
1 DCGLs are radionuclide-specific surface or volume residual radioactivity levels that are related to a concentration
or dose or risk criterion. Additional information can be found at: https://www.epa.gov/radiation/what-derived-
concentration-guideline-level-dcgl
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Dictating the radiation protection requirements for entering and working in
a radioactively contaminated sampling area
Stopping any activity in order to protect personnel from overexposure to
radiation or from radioactive material contamination
Industrial safety requirements included in the site HASP are developed and
instituted by a designated safety and hygiene professional (e.g., safety and
health officer [SHO]), who is responsible for:
Developing and implementing a HASP and safety work plans
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 at the site
Stopping any job or activity in order to protect personnel from a dangerous
situation
1.2.3. Analytical Methods
Analytical methods and laboratory SOPs describe the likely analytical decision
paths that would be required by personnel at a radioanalytical laboratory
following a radiological or nuclear incident, such as that caused by a terrorist
attack. EPA's responsibilities, as outlined in the National Response Plan
Nuclear/Radiological Incident Annex (U.S. Department of Homeland Security
2004), include response and recovery actions to detect and identify radioactive
substances and to coordinate federal radiological monitoring and assessment
activities. EPA's SAM and existing laboratory SOPs are developed to provide
guidance to those radioanalytical laboratories that will support EPA's response
and recovery actions following a radiological or nuclear incident.
1.2.4. Waste Management Plan
A Waste Management Plan (WMP) that outlines waste management
requirements, procedures, strategies and processes, from the point of
generation to final deposition, should be in place prior to an incident. Ideally, a
general WMP will be in place that can be used to prepare an incident-specific
WMP. This plan should address federal, state and local waste management
requirements for the different waste streams, waste characterization and also
waste acceptance sampling and analysis, identification of waste management
facilities, strategies and tactics for on-site waste management and minimization,
off-site waste management, waste transportation, and health and safety, as well
as tracking and reporting of waste sampling results. It also should include
procedures for management and handling waste generated during sample
collection activities. (Additional details regarding the elements of a WMP are
provided in Appendix D). Sample collectors and planners also can refer to EPA's
Waste Management Options for Homeland Security Incidents website for
information on regulations and guidance to support decision-making regarding
waste treatment and disposal.
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1.3. Preparation
1.3.1. Prior to the initiation of sample collection activities and laboratory procurement
and as part of efforts to develop the site- and incident-specific SCP, 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)
Analytical or screening methods that will be used in the field and laboratory
to assay samples (e.g., SAM and/or existing laboratory SOPs)
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 and filtration
Sample shipping requirements
Additional SOPs to be followed or developed
Cost of the methods being used (cost per analysis as well as total cost)
Specific background for the radionuclide(s) of interest, if applicable (e.g.,
background levels in clean, non-contaminated material)
Turnaround time required for sample results
Analytical measurement documentation requirements
Anticipated exposure rates, if known
1.3.2. Laboratories should be identified and contacted, and expected requirements
corresponding to the sampling event should be reviewed and discussed. To
ensure appropriate sample preservation, sample sizes and other analytical
issues are considered, radioanalytical specialists should be involved in the
development of the SCP and the laboratory performing the analyses should
review and be aware of the QC 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.
1.3.3. Prior to sample collection, sample collectors should review the SCP. The sample
collectors' understanding of the requirements will greatly increase the success
of the sampling event. 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.
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1.3.4. Information regarding issues pertaining to site geology and potential transport
of contamination outside the designated sampling area (e.g., into ground water,
surface water, soil or air) should be provided to the field sample collection
team.
1.3.5. The sample collection team should also evaluate and prepare sampling
equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) needs prior to entry.
1.4. Sampling Phases
WARNING: Samples containing special nuclear material require special
consideration. Special nuclear material is defined by the Nuclear Regulatory
Commission as (Pu-239, Pu-241, U-233, uranium enriched in the isotope U-233 or U-
235). Improper handling or collection of this material may result in instability or
criticality (i.e., a sustained series of nuclear reactions). Sample collectors should
consult the site-specific Sample Collection Plan and Radiation Safety Plan for further
guidance in cases where these materials are known or suspected to be present.
There are three phases in the life span of a contamination incident that require
sampling: Site Characterization, Remediation, and Final Status Survey (site release).
Waste characterization is an overarching process that also requires sampling but is not
addressed in this document.
Site Characterization Phase sampling takes place after the incident occurrence and
prior to initiation of 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.
Remediation Phase sampling takes place during site remediation activities. During
this phase, sample collection can occur with deliberate planning and preparation.
However, conditions are still considered to be hazardous.
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 located by the use of an alpha/numeric grid, Global
Positioning System (GPS) coordinates, or distances from landmarks, with ฑl-meter (m)
(3.3 feet [ft]) accuracy. Sample collection during the Site 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 (e.g., fluorescent
paint) 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.
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1.6. Safety Considerations, 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.
a. Radiation protection requirements are developed and instituted by the site
radiation protection personnel. These individuals are responsible for:
Taking measurements of the radiation levels of all sampling sites and
associated activities, during and prior to initiating sampling activities
Monitoring personnel dosimeter readings and responses
If needed due to levels of radiation, escorting sample collectors in the
field
Dictating the radiation protection requirements for entering and
working in a radioactively contaminated sampling area by developing
and implementing a Radiation Safety Plan (RSP) and Radiation Work
Permit (RWP)
Stopping any activity in order to protect personnel from overexposure
to radiation or from radioactive material contamination
b. Industrial safety requirements are developed and instituted by a designated
safety and hygiene professional (e.g., SHO). This person 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 in order to protect personnel from a
dangerous situation
Developing and implementing a HASP for individuals working in the area
to read and follow
PPE is worn as designated by radiation protection personnel and the
designated site and hygiene personnel. 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. The SCP should include a
written HASP and/or hazard evaluation of the area to be sampled.
Typical types of PPE are listed in Appendix A6 (Personal Protective
Equipment).
NOTE: As required by the site HASP, 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.
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c. 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:
Protective helmet (i.e., hard hat)
Gloves (nitrile or latex over cotton liners)
Coveralls
Waterproof or water-resistant shoe covers or boots
Impact resistant eye protection with side protection (i.e., safety goggles)
Dosimeter or milliroentgen (mR) survey meter to measure personnel
exposure
Lapel air samplers
d. 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.
e. Care should be taken to ensure that PPE will protect against contamination
exposure that can result when working in a wet environment.
f. The level of respiratory PPE needed should be directed by the HASP and/or
RSP. Appendix A6 (Personal Protective Equipment) lists the various types of
respirators that may be required.
g. First aid kits are to be available at all times. At least one kit should be
carried in any vehicle transporting the sampling collection team. At least
one kit also should be located at the primary sampling site office.
NOTE: It is recommended that phone numbers for local Emergency
Medical Services be made available to all workers. Contact information
and procedures for communicating with emergency responders should
be identified and available for use at all times.
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2.0 Equipment and Materials
2.1. General Requirements
2.1.1. Only equipment that has been certified (clearly identified) by the site field team
leader for use should be used to perform the procedures described in this
document. Substitution of materials or equipment must be approved and
documented in the SCP (as an amendment or revision) prior to use. All
instruments should have current calibrations or inspections clearly identified.
Any corresponding certification documentation should be copied and available
to the sample collectors, as appropriate.
NOTE: It is highly recommended that sampling equipment be properly and
routinely maintained and organized. This allows sampling teams to enter and
exit contaminated areas 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.
2.1.2. Staging of Equipment, Supplies and Samples
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 for a
sampling event should be combined into single sampling kit. The common
practice is to place each piece of sampling equipment for an individual
sampling event into separate plastic bags. Each of these bags (up to a
maximum number that can be physically handled) can be combined in a
larger bag or container that holds additional PPE (boots, gloves) and tape or
other items needed. Carrying the larger container into the field, an
individual can control contamination and sample materials with minimal
concern for cross contamination and exposure.
c. Each sample collection team should be aware of the SCP for their
designated assignment, including being informed of the location and
conditions for the specific sampling point(s) prior to entry. Sampling
locations are often marked with fluorescent paint, flags, stakes and/or
frames. It is recommended that sample locations be bar-coded in order to
facilitate identification of the locations for resurvey.
d. Place markers, such as 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 these markers to ensure
contamination is not spread outside the contaminated area. The markers
should be clearly designated, allow for easy egress from the contaminated
area, and pre-established prior to site entry by the sample collection team.
e. Once samples are collected, they must be maintained under controlled
conditions through shipment to the analytical laboratory(ies). This control is
required to mitigate exposure to personnel and to ensure that samples are
not compromised prior to analysis. Samples should be stored in a staging
area where they can be observed or are under lock and key to prevent
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tampering. See Module I, Sections 4.0 and 7.0 for additional information
regarding on-site sample control and storage.
2.2. Sampling Equipment
Refer to Appendices A1-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.
2.2.1. Soil Samples
a. Sampling frames are used to mark areas for collection of soil samples during
Final Status Survey Phase sampling, providing 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.
Frames must be controlled to prevent movement during sample
collection and are properly dispositioned after the sampling event.
Frames contain plastic sheeting with an opening to designate the
surface area from which a sample is to be collected. The sheeting is
labeled to clearly indicate the presence of radioactive material (for
example, a large yellow plastic bag labeled as "radioactive material" in
magenta lettering).
Frames can be approximately 0.5 to 1 m2 (5 to 11 feet2 [ft]), with an
opening for sampling of approximately 100 cm2 (16 inches2 [in.]2), and
constructed of plastic to reduce the weight of material taken into the
field.
b. Trowels, spoons, scoops and spatulas are used to collect or remove
accessible soils and other solid materials from sub-surfaces.
These tools are made of stainless steel or high-density polypropylene
(HDPP) or polyethylene (HDPE), with little ornamentation or exposed
fasteners to assist in decontamination. Wooden handles may be used
but should be covered to minimize contamination.
Differences in design between these tools allow for variations in the
composition of the material being sampled.
Trowels aid in digging into surface soil.
Scoops and spoons are used in loose or shifting sandy soil or sediments.
Spatulas aid in homogenization and removal of unwanted materials.
c. Bore hole tools (augers, post hole diggers, split spoon, thieves and core
samplers) are used to collect or remove soils and other solid materials from
sub-surfaces. These tools are used to gain access to and/or collect samples.
Caution should be taken when using these tools to avoid mixing sample
layers. Augers and drills can scrape the sides of a hole when inserted or
removed, causing unwanted upper layer material to fall into the sample
location. Each hole should be cleared of all debris prior to sample
collection.
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Augers are used to collect soil samples primarily during the Site
Characterization Phase. These tools can be manually or machine driven
to bite into each section of soil that is being collected, and are typically
used to collect samples in parts. Depths are often limited to 1.5 m (5 ft),
but can be increased using handle extensions.
Post hole diggers and drill rigs can be used to excavate to lower levels
than can be reached when using an auger. When used with a hollow
stem auger, a drill rig can retrieve reasonably undisturbed samples.
Split spoon samplers are used to collect core samples of undisturbed
soils from a wide range of depths, and are often used with a drill rig or
other power equipment, or forced into the ground with a
sledgehammer.
Split spoon samplers consist of two halves of a pipe, each from 15 to
45 cm (6 to 18 in.) 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.
Thieves are used primarily to collect 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 soil and sediment samples are
different than thieves used for collection of liquid samples (see Module
I, Section 2.2.3). 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.
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.
Core samplers consist of a hollow tube or pipe that varies in
diameter (generally 3.75 to 10 cm or 1.5 to 4 in.).
- 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 lengthwise to allow a
solid cross-sectional piece of material to be exposed.
2.2.2. Sediment samples are collected using grab samplers, core samplers or dredges.
a. Grab samplers are similar to the open dipping jars used in collecting water
samples. Grab samplers, such as the Birge-Ekman sampler, are attached to
long poles, and the sampler is dragged across the sediment to collect the
sample. Sample collection depth is limited by the length of the pole.
b. Sediment core samplers are hollow rods or tubes that are inserted into the
sediment to extract a sample. The type is dependent on the depth and type
of water body containing the sediment. Samplers are pushed into the
sediment by either gravity or mechanical force, and may or may not have a
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closure device to prevent sample loss.
c. Dredges are buckets designed to retain soils and sediments collected from
the bottom of a pond, lagoon, or other body of water. They 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 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.
2.2.3. Water Samples
a. Bottles and jars are used to collect water samples, and can be attached to
extension rods, tethered to a line, or used to collect a sample directly.
Types and materials are chosen according to their intended use. For
example, 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 water body.
Lid design is based on use, and should not be composed of materials
that can absorb water or contaminate samples. 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.
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
water body. Maximum depth 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 water. Extension rods are usually
retractable allowing for extended reaches of up to 6 m (20 ft).
b. Mechanically-activated collection vessels include samplers that can be
lowered to a specified depth, then closed using a control rod, weighted
messenger, tug line or plug to contain the sample.
Bailers are tubes used to collect liquids from shallow depths of up to
approximately 1 m (3 to 4 ft). These devices are constructed of stainless
steel, allowing them to sink and begin filling upon entry into a liquid.
They are open at the top, with a check valve or valves in the bottom to
prevent or minimize drainage and retain sample volume once removed
from the source.
Bacon collection vessels are used to take composite samples from a
liquid (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 ft). These vessels are constructed of stainless steel and begin filling
when a sampling line is pulled to open valves at the top and bottom of
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the collection vessel. Release of the sampling line will close the valves
upon retrieving the collection vessel from the source.
Coliwasa samplers are used in collecting samples from shallow water or
liquids in drums. These samplers are hollow tubes with a stopper at one
end that 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 upon the turning action of a handle at the opposite end of the
stopper. The samplers are typically constructed of HDPE or HDPP but
may also be constructed of stainless steel or polyvinylchloride (PVC).
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. These samplers vary in lengths of up to 2.1 m
(7 ft) and in diameters of up to 2.5 cm (1 in.), and are designed to fill
once they are placed into a liquid. 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.
Kemmerer bottle samplers are messenger-activated water sampling
devices that are dropped into deep water bodies or tanks. These
samplers are composed primarily of brass, plastic and/or stainless steel,
and 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
closed with the messenger to collect the sample.
Wheaton bottle samplers are messenger-activated water sampling
devices used in relatively deep waters for collection of samples at no
more than 2 to 3 m (6 to 10 ft) depth. The bottles are lowered to a given
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.
c. Water pumps and tubing are used when samples are required from depth
or are taken over a defined time period. Selection of pumps depends on the
intended application, and will involve considerations such as: depth
capabilities; pumping action (diaphragm, venturi, peristaltic or piston-type);
manual or power-driven operation; flow regulators; stroke counter or
volume totalizer to measure flow rate or volume collected; timing
mechanisms; and collection basins or bottles that will be used.
NOTE: Water pumps have depth limitations; therefore, other types of
pumps or submersibles may be required for collecting samples from
depths greater than 10.7 m (32 ft).
Pump and tubing materials are dependent on use and mode of
operation. Plastics such as polyethylene and PTFE provide the greatest
chemical resistance to materials sampled but, in some cases, might not
be sufficiently durable for long term sampling.
Flow volumes depend on mode of operation and pumping action.
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Low flow pumps (50-200 cm3/min)
High flow pumps (500-3000 cm3/min)
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.
2.2.4. Air Samples
a. Air samplers consist of a sampler unit, flask or collection vessel, and a filter,
cartridge of other collection medium (e.g., bubbler or vacuum flask). The
type of air sampler and collection format (media) depend on the air media
being sampled (particulate or vapor), as well as the target contaminant and
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.
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 samplers that capture particulates or vapors are typically battery
operated or electrically powered pumps. Ideally, the pump used will provide
a consistent flow rate. Personnel lapel samplers are typically battery
powered and, in some cases, can result in flow rates that vary can as the
battery is drained.
Use 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 air samplers 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 battery-operated samplers can be limited by battery capacity and
charge.
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.
c. Air sampling pumps are used to pull air through or into the collection
medium, and 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. Typical flow rates include:
Lapel samplers: 2 L/min (0.01 ft3/min)
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General area samplers: 28 to 56 L/min (1 to 2 ft3/min)
High volume samplers: 140 to 2800 L/min (5 to 100+ ft3/min)
Bubblers - flow rate varies from unit to unit
Vacuum collection vessels - instantaneous
Pressurized flasks - 2 to 3 atmospheres (atm) (30 to 45 pounds per
square inch [psi])
d. Filter sizes are typically 25 mm (1 in.) for personnel lapel monitors, 47 or 50
mm (1.9 or 2 in.) for general area monitors, and 100 mm (4 in.) for long-
term, high volume, general area monitors.
NOTE: While use of 100 mm (4 in.) filters has increased due to available
analytical instrumentation, 200 mm x 250 mm (8 in. x 10 in.) 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.
Field samplers and laboratories should communicate to determine
appropriate filter/swipe sizes.
2.2.5. Surface Area Samples
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:
a. Small (standard) surface area (e.g., desktop) - 100 cm2 (16 in.2)
b. Large surface area (e.g., portions of wall, floor) - Up to 300 cm2 (47 in.2)
c. Surfaces greater than 300 cm2 should be swiped in various, random
locations using multiple swipes to cover approximately 1% of the area.
NOTE: The use of large filters or swipes is discouraged. 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 can
impact the accuracy and precision of associated counting results. Also see
Note regarding air filters in Module I, Section 2.2.4(c), above. Field samplers
and laboratories should communicate to determine appropriate filter/swipe
sizes.
2.2.6. Vegetation
Cutting tools such as scissors or shears are used to collect samples of vegetation
that can then be placed in a plastic bag(s) or a hard, plastic container for
primary containment. The tools should be sufficient to collect:
a. Small Bushes - the outer leaves
b. Tall Grasses-the upper tips
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c. Trees - the upper or outer leaves or branches, limited to those that are less
than 1.5 cm (0.6 in.) in diameter
2.2.7. Containers
a. Plastic bags can be used to contain samples, sample containers, equipment
and materials, or waste.
Plastic bags in a variety of sizes and types (e.g., zip-locking, 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 zip-locking capabilities can be used for sample shipment or
waste containment.
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.
b. 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.
c. Bottles and jars are used to contain soil, solid and liquid samples.
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.
Plastic (polypropylene or polyethylene) jars, bottles or bags can be used
to collect soil samples, as well as borosilicate glass jars.
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 be composed of materials that can absorb
water and should not contain glue or adhesives.
Refer to Appendix A3 (Sampling Containers) for typical sizes and
dimensions.
2.2.8. 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
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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 can be used that
contain the signature or initial of the sample collector and the date and time
of sample collection.
b. The seal must break or tear if it is removed.
c. Metal seals are usually crimped into place and require cutting or breakage
for removal.
2.4. Decontamination Equipment
NOTE: Procedures for decontamination of personnel and equipment are described
in Module I, Section 5.0. Unless determined to be free of contamination, water and
other materials that are 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. Waste generation should be
minimized whenever possible, and solid and liquid wastes should be segregated to
the greatest extent possible in preparation for waste disposal. The generation of
liquid waste should be minimized as much as possible. Information on waste
minimization strategies and techniques can be found in the incident WMP (see
Appendix D).
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. The number and size
used depend on the degree of cleanliness required. At a minimum, one is
used for the initial wash and one is used for the final rinse.
2.4.2. Drums or large cans are used to contain contaminated PPE or accumulated
wastes; or clean bags, containers or equipment. Waste segregation and
minimization strategies should be included in the incident WMP.
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.
a. Dry wiping with clean cloths or paper towels is used to remove visible solids.
b. Swiping with cloths or paper towels dampened with deionized water is used
to remove additional contamination.
c. Chemically treated swipes (soap swipes, alcohol prep pads, or other
approved cleanser) are used to remove heavy grime.
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2.4.5. Water is used to wash and rinse contamination from equipment, materials and
sample collectors. At least 16 L (~4 gallons) is recommended for every 20
samples collected. Rinse water may be required to be collected as a quality
control sample (see Module I, Section 3.2).
NOTE: Deionized or distilled water should be used for all final rinsing, and
the final rinsate submitted as a sample. Depending on the target
radiochemical, rinsate samples are to be preserved (see Appendix C).
Soap and other non-ionic detergents are used for decontamination and
washing. Soap can be either powder or liquid, 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.
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 sample collection team. These pads should:
a. Be clearly designated
b. Allow for the easy egress from the area
Sufficient containers should be located at step-off pads to allow for disposal and
control of contaminated equipment and clothing. Additional information
concerning proper waste containment and disposal can be found in the incident
WMP (see Appendix D).
Tote containers should not be used as final rinsate containers, as the materials
carried may contaminate the rinsate.
Other materials - Based on the nature of the incident, the area affected, and
the extent of contamination, other materials might also be needed in
equipment decontamination. Additional materials can include items such as
chemical abrasive cloths, sandpaper, grinders, solvents, alcohol and acids. The
requirements for and use of these items should be reviewed and discussed prior
to use.
2.5. Communications Equipment
2.5.1. Radios or any two-way communication device capable of transmitting the
sample collection team's concerns or requests to the standby person or site
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 sample collection team if problems arise.
2.4.6.
2.4.7.
2.4.8.
2.4.9.
Mm
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3.0 Quality Control
Sample collectors should refer to the SCP to determine the kind and number of QC samples that
should be collected or procedures that should be performed. In some cases, additional samples
or sample volume will be needed to support laboratory QC sample analysis (e.g., matrix spikes,
field replicates). 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 these 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 and are used to determine and
document that equipment have been adequately decontaminated.
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 in the field, a field blank should also be
prepared.
3.2.2. Depending on the radiochemical of interest, rinsate and rinsate blanks are
preserved using hydrochloric or nitric acid (see Appendix C) and submitted to
the analytical laboratory to evaluate equipment decontamination.
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 proximity, and 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. A field replicate is used to evaluate sample heterogeneity, sample collection
methodology and analytical procedures.
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3.3.4. The replicate sample is handled and documented in the same manner as the
initial sample.
3.3.5. Field replicates will be sampled and remain in separate packages throughout
transport to and storage in the laboratory.
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. Equipment that is used to measure or analyze samples in the field requires
calibration, operational checks as applicable, routine maintenance, and at least
annual standardization/ verification. This equipment is calibrated following
procedures included in the manufacturer's product/equipment manual, site
SOPs, or performed in the laboratory.
3.5.2. Equipment used to obtain volumetric sample measurements must be certified
to appropriate volume specifications.
3.5.3. 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.
3.5.4. Linear measuring devices (e.g., tape measures, rulers) are used to measure the
length, width and depth of samples. These devices should meet National
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) requirements (NIST 2014).
3.5.5. Analytical equipment that may be used in the field that require calibration to
ensure sample analyses are accurate include:
a. Balances or scales
b. Volumetric pipettes, beakers, graduated cylinders
c. Air sampler flow rate meters and totalizers
d. Lapel air samplers
e. Water pumps
f. pH meters
g. Turbidimeters
h. 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 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
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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 (COC) form,
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 sample collectors 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 needed in the
contaminated zone, take only a blank copy of the form or page. Once out of
the contaminated area, they are to be rewritten into the original permanent
records and verified as transcribed correctly once outside of the zone.
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b. Required records include:
Sample identification codes (SICs)
Field logbook
Field report forms
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:
a. SIC
b. Time and date sample collected
c. Sample volume and matrix (including decontamination rinsate samples)
d. Sample collection location (GPS coordinates or brief description)
e. Signature or initials of the sample collector
4.2.2. If samples are placed in two containers (e.g., double bagged), a duplicate (DUP)
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, including rinsate 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, COC
forms, and any other documents pertaining to the sample.
4.4. Field Logbooks
4.4.1. Field personnel, including sample collectors, are responsible for recording data
and maintaining field logbooks with adequate information to identify a specific
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sample and to provide information that may be necessary for interpreting
analytical results.
Information that should be recorded in a field logbook entry (see Appendix Bl)
includes:
a. Number of samples collected, method of sample collection
b. Date and time of collection
c. Any pertinent observations
d. Names of sample collectors and observers
e. Description of sample location
f. GPS coordinates
g. Field screening data, if available
An example field logbook entry is provided in Appendix Bl. 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.
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 each field sampling tracking form with adequate information to
identify a specific sample.
4.5.2. Copies of these forms accompany samples during shipment.
4.5.3. Example field sample tracking forms are provided in Appendices B2 and B4.
Information recorded on these forms includes:
a. SIC
b. Sample matrix
c. Chemical decontamination/fixative used on matrix (identification of
technology used)
d. Sample description and location
e. Sample dimensions, mass or volume
f. Sample depth (soils)
g. Sample type (including whether wet or dry swipes were used)
h. Number of containers
4.4.2.
4.4.3.
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4.6. Chain of Custody (COC)
4.6.1. Tracking samples from collection to receipt at the laboratory is documented on
a COC form. An example COC form is provided in Appendix B3 (Chain-of-Custody
Form). EPA policy is to use Scribe wherever practical to generate COC forms.2
CAUTION: Documentation of changes in sample custody 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:
a. Site information - Address of the site, contact person, telephone number,
and emergency contact number
b. SIC for each sample
c. Date and time of sample collection
d. Sample volume or mass
e. Sample matrix
f. Contact gamma reading or any additional radiological screening results of
the sample, if available, and as provided by radiation protection personnel
g. Analyses requested - general analyses or specific isotopic tests
h. Printed names and signatures of all persons accepting and relinquishing
sample custody, and the date and time of transfer
i. 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. A brief description of the sample(s)
b. Initials of the sample collector(s)
c. Method of shipment (ground, air, or both)
d. Any other pertinent information or comments regarding the sample(s)
2Scribe is a software tool developed by EPA's Environmental Response Team (ERT) to assist in managing
environmental data. It includes functionality to support sample documentation, including sample labels, COC, and
laboratory data reports. For additional information regarding this tool see
https://www.epa.gov/ert/environmental-response-team-information-management
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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.
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.
The receiving laboratory is required to submit a signed copy of the completed
COC to the site field team leader after receipt of the samples, and the original is
to be returned with the laboratory's data package. The laboratory should
include the following information with or on the completed COC:
a. Time and date received and signature of the person receiving the samples
(appears on the COC)
b. Condition of the packaging and the security seal, and condition of security
seals, where applicable
c. 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 logbook.
4.7.2. If sample collectors are contacted by the laboratory, the following information is
to be documented:
a. Name of the person who called
b. Name of the person who received the call and answered the questions
c. Content of the conversation, including any specific data or information
discussed or provided
d. 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:
a. Sampling contact information, mailing address and phone number
b. Laboratory name(s), mailing address and phone number
c. Quantity and description of contents
d. Date of shipment
4.6.4.
4.6.5.
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e. Appropriate U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) radioactive/radiation
labels, Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) labeling, and/or International
Air Transport Association (IATA) labeling (see Module I, Section 7.0)
4.9. Waste Documentation
Documentation needs and requirements pertaining to waste generated during sampling
are addressed in the incident WMP (see Appendix D).
5.0 Personnel/Equipment Decontamination
NOTE: The instructions provided in this section are intended to provide general information and
guidelines. Requirements set forth by radiation protection personnel also must be consulted and
followed for site-specific requirements and procedures.
5.1. Surface Contamination
Personnel or equipment surface contamination can usually be detected by radiation
protection personnel, using direct monitoring equipment and methods. In cases where
personnel or equipment have been in areas of high background radiation levels,
however, surface swipes should be taken (see Module II, Section 7.0) 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. Complex equipment (e.g., has recessed areas or crevices, air flowing through it
for cooling, or water pumps) is to be fully surveyed by radiation protection
personnel to determine if and how decontamination should be performed.
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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. Placing plastic sheeting beneath
the equipment to be cleaned facilitates waste collection and disposal. Additional
information regarding the management of wastes generated from these activities
can be found within the incident WMP (see Appendix D).
5.3.1. Clean surfaces of equipment and sampling containers with single wiping
motions starting with equipment handles or outer edges and moving to the
most contaminated areas.
a. Dry wiping with clean cloths or paper towels should be used to remove all
visible solids contamination.
b. Swiping with cloths or paper towels dampened with deionized water
should be used to remove additional contamination.
c. Chemically treated swipes (soap swipes, alcohol prep pads, or other
approved cleanser) may be used to remove heavy grime.
5.3.2. If radiation is detected and is not removed by additional wiping, proceed to
Section 5.5 for washing and rinsing.
5.4. Decontamination of Pumps and Tubing
5.4.1. Pre-rinse the pump and associated tubing 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 tubing 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., Alconoxฎ cleaner [Alconox, Inc., White Plains, NY])
for 5 minutes.
5.4.3. Repeat the wash with a fresh solution of detergent.
5.4.4. Rinse the pump and tubing 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 [0.25 gallons]) and have the
sample evaluated by the radiation protection personnel 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 tubing and have the swipes counted for
alpha and beta contamination.
5.5. Washing and Rinsing
NOTE: All wastes produced from wiping off a contaminated surface are to be
considered contaminated until proven otherwise. Placing plastic sheeting beneath
the equipment to be cleaned facilitates waste collection and disposal. Additional
information regarding the management of wastes generated from these activities
can be found within the Pre-lncident WMP (see Appendix D).
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5.5.1. Place the equipment in a container with sufficient room for washing. Add the
minimum amount of water needed for washing.
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. Spray bottles can be used to minimize the amount used.
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.
5.5.6. Dry off the equipment with a clean paper towel
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, 1% nitric acid [HN03] or hydrochloric acid [HCI]), bag
and seal the equipment for delivery to a decontamination station or laboratory.
6.0 Waste Management
Prior to the initiation of sample collection activities, a WMP (see Appendix D) should be in place
to address waste management considerations, including waste minimization, segregation,
containment and disposal, as well as corresponding regulations. This section provides general
summary information regarding waste management. Additional information regarding
management and disposal of the low volume of wastes resulting from collection and analysis of
environmental samples is provided in EPA's Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental
Remediation and Recovery (SAM) companion document, Laboratory Analytical Waste
Management and Disposal Information Document (Hall et al. 2019). If interested, sample
collectors and planners also can refer to EPA's Waste Management Options for Homeland
Security Incidents website and EPA's Incident Waste Decision Support Tool (l-WASTE DST),
which provide information regarding regulations and guidance to support decision-making
regarding waste treatment and disposal of waste associated with site remediation activities.3
6.1. General Information
6.1.1. Some or all waste generated as a result of sample collection activities, including
equipment and personnel decontamination waste, will be considered low level
radioactive waste (LLRW).
6.1.2. Waste that is generated and compiled for disposal is to be documented.
Appendix B5 (Example Waste Control Form) presents a typical format for
documenting wastes for disposal.
6.1.3. All waste containers are to be clearly labeled or identifiable as waste. Waste
containers may be bottles, drums, plastic bags or garbage cans, depending on
the type of waste.
6.1.4. Uncontaminated waste is to be clearly segregated from potentially
contaminated or contaminated waste (see Section 6.4).
3 Pre-registration is needed to access EPA's l-WASTE Tool and Disposal Decision Tool at
http://www2.ergweb.com/bdrtool/login.asp
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6.1.5. Waste material should not penetrate or be capable of chemically reacting with
the container 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.
6.1.6. Waste containers should be sealed and, if necessary, taped and wrapped, while
implementing as-low-as-reasonably achievable (ALARA) principles.
6.1.7. After each addition, the waste container should be closed. After final insertion
of material, the container should be sealed.
6.2. Solids
6.2.1. 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.
6.2.2. 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 and hygiene personnel regarding the need to control vapors, as
some vapors can cause explosions of the container.
6.3. Liquids
6.3.1. Liquids should be segregated based on material (e.g., water with water, oils with
oils). Wastes should be evaluated by the authorized safety and hygiene
personnel for compatibility to ensure that hazards are not produced from
mixing.
6.3.2. Liquid wastes that emit fumes or odors should be examined for possible vapor
control problems as some vapors can cause explosions.
6.3.3. Use a liquid containment vessel to collect wet decontamination waste (i.e.,
decontamination rinsate that is not submitted as a sample).
NOTE: Wet decontamination can involve the use of a pump to transfer liquid
wastes, and drums or other containers with liners for storing liquid wastes.
The drums should have secondary containment. Decontamination rinsate
containing solvents or acids may need to be analyzed for pH and/or
ignitability prior to disposal.
6.4. Segregation
6.4.1. As waste material is produced and collected, segregation must be used to
prevent and control additional contamination and radiation exposure levels. If
possible, waste should be screened and segregated in the field to minimize the
amount.
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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 can 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. If breached, waste containers can release loose material, vapors, or liquids.
Waste containers should be handled in a manner such that they will not be
breached.
6.5. Disposal
6.5.1. Procedures or mechanisms for control or disposal should be determined prior to
generation of any waste. The field team leader will instruct the sample
collection 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 to inform disposal decisions.
6.5.3. Wastes may be required to be left on site for disposal during remediation.
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, in accordance with U.S. DOT regulations in 49 CFR parts 170-189 or IATA
Dangerous Goods Regulations. Specific applicable state requirements also must be
considered. Any individual involved in transporting hazardous materials, including packaging
hazardous materials for transport, must be trained in and comply with these regulations (DOT
49 CFR 172.700; IATA 1.5). Packages shipped within the U.S. must be verified by a DOT-
certified Class 7 shipper. Courses to train individuals regarding these regulations are available
in several states. A summary of related requirements is provided in Module I, Sections 7.1
through 7.5 below. The primary concerns are incidents that can occur during sample
transport and result in the breakage of the sample containers or that can increase the
possibility of spills and leaks (e.g., bumping, jarring, stacking, wetting, and falling). In addition
to 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 laboratory
personnel receiving the package.
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NOTE: Boxes or ice chests, constructed of metal or hard plastic, make excellent packaging
for low-level radioactive environmental samples. Containers (e.g., 30- or 55-gallon drums)
meeting Type A packaging requirements (addressed in 49 CFR 173.412, and 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.
7.1. Regulations and Requirements
7.1.1. Various federal and state 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 package could be 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 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. It may also be a freight container consistent with the required
performance standards for transport.
g. Transport index (Tl) - The dimensionless number (rounded to the next
tenth) placed on the label of the radiation level measured in mSv/hr times
100 or the level in mrem/hr at 1 m (3.3 ft).
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.
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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.
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 by
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 (U.S. EPA 2005).
Red denotes radiation levels are equal to or greater than 0.005 mSv/hr
(0.5 mrem/hr) and the highest analysis priority.
Yellow denotes radiation five times above background but below 0.005
mSv/hr (0.5 mrem/hr) secondary analysis priority.
Blue denotes the lowest analysis priority.
Labels are typically circular with a diameter of 2.5 cm (1 in.).
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.
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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.
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
Type B. Exempted or excepted quantities may be transported in "General
design" packages.
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 should 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 or their
containers.
c. Absorbent material may also be used as a cushioning material.
7.2.5. Shielding
a. Shielding materials can include plastic or aluminum sheeting (for alpha or
beta radiation), lead sheets or concrete (for gamma radiation), and
polyethylene or concrete (for neutron radiation). Shielding also may be
accomplished by placing low-level samples (100 nR/h at surface of
container) around high-level (100,000 nR/h at container surface) samples.4
However, combined shipment of samples containing disparate levels of
contamination should be avoided, or extra precautions should be taken to
prevent cross-contamination.
4 See EPA's Guide for Radiological Laboratories for the Control of Radioactive Contamination and Radiation
Exposure, EPA 402-R-12-005.
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b. The type and amount of shielding used depends on the type of radiation,
radiation levels, packaging type and strength (e.g., cardboard box, plastic
cooler), and weight limits of the package.
7.3. Preparing Samples for Transport
7.3.1. Field and Sample Data Compilation
a. Original field logbooks and field sample tracking forms are to be maintained
in a secure location by the individual or organization relinquishing the
samples. The interagency RadResponder Network is an additional resource
that facilitates recording and sharing data.5
b. Copies of the appropriate pages of the field 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 SIC labels are on each sample container.
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 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
personnel trained in the use of radiation monitoring equipment.
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.
5 RadResponder is a product of collaboration between the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA),
Department of Energy (DOE), National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), and the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA), and is provided free of charge to all federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial response
organizations, https://www.radresponder.net/
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The final package cannot exceed:
2 mSv/hr (200 mrem/hr) at any point on the outside of the package
- A Tl 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
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. 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 by:
a. Ensuring the sample containers are controlled and sealed to prevent spillage
during shipment.
b. Double bagging sample containers prior to packing the samples. Heavy
plastic bags, with or without zip-locking seals, can be used.
c. Using heavy plastic lawn bags to contain vegetation samples.
d. Using bags that are 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.
e. Securing caps on containers holding liquid samples with tape, then placing
them into plastic bags containing sufficient liquid absorbing material (i.e.,
must be able to absorb the entire contents of the inner packagings), and
sealing the bags.
7.4.2. Pack the samples in the sample transport packaging.
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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. Liquid samples should be packaged and shipped separately from other
sample types, in packaging that includes liquid absorbing material (e.g.,
vermiculite) that is sufficient to absorb any spilled liquid. Filters and swipes
should be shipped in containers without other types of solids that can crush
filters and swipes during shipment.
b. Use the packing list and pre-determined packing order (see Module I, Step
7.3.3.c) as guidance in loading the packaging, noting that changes may be
required based upon actual radiation levels and weight considerations.
c. If necessary, add shielding to the outer sides of the inside of the packaging.
d. 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.
e. Ensure that heavier materials are placed on or near the bottom of the
packaging.
f. DO NOT jam or overload packaging.
g. DO NOT pack the packaging to an overweight condition.
7.4.3. Assign the package an identification number. Record the package number,
samples contained within, and conditions of the contents in the field logbook.
Record the sample package number on the package.
7.4.4. 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 logbook.
b. Record the highest and lowest gamma readings on contact, the highest
reading at 1 m (3.3 ft), and the location where the reading was noted on the
field sample tracking form.
c. If surface contamination or dose rate readings exceed allowable limits,
contact the radiation protection and site safety personnel for further
instruction.
7.4.5. Complete the COC form with all necessary information, per Section 4.6, and
place a copy of the COC form in a zip-locking bag taped to the top of the inside
lid of the packaging.
7.4.6. Close and seal the transport package.
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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 offsite 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 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 both 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, whether for onsite or offsite transport, 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 personal radiation dosimeters as possible.
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d. A loading plan may be required to be determined prior to loading samples
into transport vehicles.
e. When appropriate, 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/hr (200 mrem/hr) on the external surface of the
vehicle
Not to exceed 0.1 mSv/hr (10 mrem/hr) at any point 2 m (6.6 ft) from
the outer lateral surfaces of the transport vehicle
Not to exceed 0.02 mSv/hr (2 mrem/hr) in any normally occupied space
on the transport vehicle
f. Once samples are transferred to the authorized carrier, the carrier is
responsible for the safety and security of the samples during transport.
7.5.3. The original COC form (after custody transfer signature), copies of
corresponding field 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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MODULE II - SAMPLING PROCEDURES - SITE CHARACTERIZATION AND REMEDIATION PHASES
1.0 Collection of Samples
Sampling efforts requiring the collection of multiple samples, particularly those involving
hazardous conditions, could involve a sample collection team consisting of more than a
single individual. In these cases, individual team members should be trained to assume
specific activities or duties related to the sampling effort. This team approach can reduce
the time required for sample collection and adds an additional layer of quality assurance to
the overall process. Importantly, sample collection teams also provide an additional level of
safety. Each team member must be trained in the 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 site characterization and remediation.
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:
a. loose surface contamination from the deposition (fallout) of airborne
material
b. fixed surface contamination from deposited material that has been
absorbed or physically impregnated into a surface
c. contamination that is being transported by a liquid or solvent
d. 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 will be found only at or near 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 sample collection team is required to review
survey results for contamination and radiation prior to taking a sample.
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a. The amount of sample collected may be larger but should not 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.
1.1.5. During the Site Characterization Phase of sample collection, measurement
quality objectives (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 based on the knowledge obtained from
samples taken during the Site Characterization Phase.
1.1.6. The following sample sizes are recommended in EPA's Sample Collection
Information Document for Chemicals, Radiochemicals and Blotoxlns (Campisano
et al. 2017) to meet MQOs in the site characterization and remediation phases
of sampling and should be collected unless otherwise specified by the SCP.6
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 incident-
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 QC sample requirements.
a. The volume recommended for soil and sediment samples is 0.5 L (0.13
gallons) or approximately 500 g (1.1 lbs).
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 2 to 4 L (0.5-1.1 gallons).
Samples are to be relatively free of sediment or debris.
6 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) 2017 (U.S. EPA 2017).
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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 (typical surface areas) should be at least 100 cm2 (16 in.2)
per swipe
Large surfaces should be 300 cm2 (47 in.2) 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 600 g (1.3 lbs) or
approximately 4.0 L (1.1 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.
1.2. 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. 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.
c. Note road locations and landmarks in the field 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.
d. Always refer to the instructions provided in the SCP and by the field team
leader prior to taking any samples.
1.2.2. Collection of Soil Samples
a. 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.
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b. 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.
c. Simple field techniques, such as coning and quartering, can be used to
homogenize soil or sediment samples. If required, homogenized samples
are divided for the creation of replicate samples.
d. 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.
e. 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 management of
these materials (i.e., sent to the laboratory, retained on site in storage, or
disposed of).
f. 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 course 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 A1
(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,
rainwater 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 the Site Characterization Phase, sample volumes should be
consistent over the sampling events.
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d. During the Site 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 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 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.
Based on data collected to determine wind direction and 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. Batteries or an electric power supply 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.
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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 one 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 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
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 would be local but could influence the
activity found in other areas as the material falls out from the air. Also, an
increase in airborne activity might add a respiratory concern to the sample
collector.
c. Wet swipes can be 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.
e. An indication of whether wet and/or dry swipes were used should be
included in the sample documentation.
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2.0 Equipment and Materials
NOTE: The equipment and materials used for sample collection are dependent on the
sampling activity. Refer to Module I, Section 2.0 and Appendices A1 through A6.
All personal protective equipment (PPE) and sampling equipment is to be pre-staged and
available prior to entering a sampling area. The sample collection 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
In addition to practicing safety precautions, sample collectors must wear appropriate PPE
during all sample collection activities. The amount of PPE used should be designed to
provide the maximum personal protection and mobility for the task being performed, and
documented in the site- and incident-specific HASP and Radiological Protection Guidance
Plan.
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 1.0 L (0.26 gallons) is
collected to support analytical method requirements for a 100-g dry sample that is free of
debris. These sample sizes are provided for guidance and may vary depending on the
specific contamination incident and MQOs.
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 (Section 3.1.3, Maintaining
a True Surface Sample) or Method B (Section 3.1.4, 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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d. Slide the trowel or a flat spatula under the sample point to cut away at the
15 cm (~6 in.) 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 zip-locking 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 and Sediment 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 logbook and on the 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 %-in. plywood or %-in. 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. Record the location, time, date and other pertinent observation information on
the field sample tracking form.
3.2.2. If rain and water saturation make the collection area impossible to dig, attempt
to remove the surface layer with a scoop or sample cup on a reach rod.
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3.2.3. 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.
3.2.4. Drag a cup, dredge, or scoop through the soil. If possible, the sampler should
not exceed a depth of 6 cm (2.4 in.).
3.2.5. Retrieve the sampling device and lower it into a stainless-steel bowl large
enough to retain the contents.
3.2.6. Deposit the soil into the bowl.
a. Allow the water to rise and soil to settle.
b. Decant the water carefully into a sample container using a funnel. Consult
the SCP or the field team leader regarding whether the decanted water
should be disposed of or treated as a sample.
3.2.7. Using a scoop or spoon, remove the soil and place it into the sample container.
3.2.8. Repeat the procedure as necessary to collect the required amount of sample.
3.2.9. Proceed to Module II, Step 3.10.4 (Soil and Sediment 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. Record the location, time, date and other pertinent observation information on
the field sample tracking form.
3.3.2. Using a core sampler, split spoon or thief, 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.
3.3.3. Give the sampling tool a twist to create a coring action.
3.3.4. Remove the sampling tool carefully from the soil.
NOTE: Separation of coarse and fine-grained material will be inherent to the
process and may bias 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 should be representative of the
particle size distribution present in the material being sampled.
3.3.5. Empty the sample into a clean stainless-steel bowl.
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.
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3.3.6. 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.
3.3.7. Proceed with Module II, Step 3.10.4.
3.4. Subsurface Soil
NOTE: Subsurface samples are not normally collected during site characterization.
Subsurface 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 site field team leader for instruction.
3.4.2. Record the depth, time, date, sample collector and other information in the
field logbook and on the field sample tracking form.
3.4.3. For samples less than 2 m (6.6 ft) 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 ft) deep, advance the hole to the desired
sampling depth with a back-hoe bucket, power auger or other drilling rig.
3.4.5. Cover a designated spot next to the sample location but sufficiently clear to
allow work (within 1 m or 3.3 ft) with a plastic sheet large enough to retain the
soil excavated.
NOTE: A 2 x 2 m (6.6 x 6.6 ft) 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 plastic sheet.
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 clean designated area of the plastic sheeting and collect the sample
from the plastic.
3.4.9. Proceed to Section 3.10 (Soil and Sediment 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
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described in Section 6.0 (Collection of Vegetation Samples).
3.5.2. If the vegetation has stalks greater than 0.6 cm (0.25 in.) 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
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. Soil Waste Piles (excavated soil material)
NOTE: Soil 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. Record the location, time, date and other pertinent observation information on
the field sample tracking form.
3.6.2. Using a trowel, spoon or scoop, collect a full scoop from each individual
dumping and place it into a stainless-steel bowl.
3.6.3. Cut through the sample to remove rocks, stones, foreign material and
vegetation. Save this material in a separate sample container for possible
evaluation.
3.6.4. After ten samples have been collected, record the location, time, date and other
information in the field logbook and on the field sample tracking form.
3.6.5. Proceed to Section 3.10 (Soil and Sediment Sample Handling).
3.7. Sediment
3.7.1. Record the location, time, date and other pertinent observation information on
the field sample tracking form.
3.7.2. 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 in.) when removing a sediment sample.
3.7.3. Retrieve the sediment sampling device and lower it into a stainless-steel bowl
large enough to retain the contents.
3.7.4. Deposit the sediment into the bowl.
a. Allow the water to rise and sediment to settle.
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b. Decant the water carefully into a sample container using a funnel. Consult
the SCP or the field team leader regarding whether the decanted water
should be disposed of or treated as a sample.
3.7.5. Using a scoop or spoon, remove the sediment and place it into the sample
container.
3.7.6. Repeat the procedure as necessary to collect the required amount of sample.
3.7.7. Proceed to Section 3.10 (Soil and Sediment 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. Record the location, time, date and other pertinent observation information on
the field sample tracking form.
3.8.2. 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.
3.8.3. Retrieve the grab sampler, using a winch, if required.
3.8.4. Inspect the sample retrieved.
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)
NOTE: DO NOT discard any unused sample into water body at this time.
b. If the sample meets the criteria set in the SCP, continue to the next step.
3.8.5. Subsample the sediment as required by the SCP.
3.8.6. Decontaminate or re-sleeve the grab sampler as required.
3.8.7. 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 gallons) of water.
c. Mix the sediment sample or subsample to create a homogenous composite
sample.
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3.8.8. Using a scoop or spoon, remove the sediment and place it into the sample
container.
3.8.9. Upon completion of the sampling event, discard the unused sample material
back into the body of water unless instructed otherwise by the SCP.
3.8.10. Proceed to Section 3.10 (Soil and Sediment 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. Record the location, time, date and other pertinent observation information on
the field sample tracking form.
3.9.2. Drop a sediment core sampler into the body of water until it reaches the
sediment layer.
3.9.3. 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.
3.9.4. Stop the vibration or mechanical penetration device after the prescribed time
frame identified in the SCP.
3.9.5. Retrieve the core sampler, using a winch, if required.
3.9.6. Remove the corer sleeve and open the core sample.
3.9.7. 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, 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)
NOTE: DO NOT discard any unused sample into water body at this time.
c. If the sample meets the criteria set in the SCP continue to the next step.
3.9.8. Subsample the sediment as required by the SCP.
3.9.9. 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.
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b. Decant the water carefully into a sample container using a funnel. DO NOT
collect more than 4 L (1.1 gallons) of water.
c. Mix the sample or subsample to create a homogenous composite sample.
3.9.10. Using a scoop or spoon, remove the sediment and place it into the sample
container.
3.9.11. Upon completion of the sampling event, discard the unused sample material
back into the body of water unless instructed otherwise by the SCP.
3.9.12. Proceed to Module II, Section 3.10 (Soil and Sediment Sample Handling).
3.10. Soil and Sediment Sample Handling
NOTE: Homogenization includes a series of mixing and quartering (i.e., dividing into
four) steps. It is important that the mixing of soil be as thorough as possible, while
taking necessary precautions to avoid exposure of personnel 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. If the sample cannot be quartered, stir the sample in a circular fashion,
reversing direction and occasionally turning the sample material over.
d. If the sample can be quartered, quarter the sample into separate sides of
the bowl or tray, mix each quarter separately, and roll the mixed quarters
into the center of the bowl. Then mix and combine the quarters into an
entire sample.
3.10.2. Repeat homogenization steps 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 zip-locking
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 particles can compromise a container's seal and
result in a loss of soil moisture, cross contamination, or sample spillage
during transport. Always make sure the container lid is firmly secure.
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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 zip-locking bags to protect
other containers in case of spillage during transport.
3.10.8. Record the required information in the field logbook, on the field sample
tracking form, and on the sample label(s). The following information is to be
included at a minimum:
a. SIC
b. Time and date sampled
c. Sample location
d. Depth and area of sample collection
e. Type of sample
f. Sample volume or weight collected
g. 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
In addition to practicing safety precautions, sample collectors must wear appropriate PPE
during all sample collection activities. The amount of PPE used should be designed to
provide the maximum personal protection and mobility for the task being performed, and
documented in the site- and incident-specific HASP and Radiological Protection Guidance
Plan.
As noted in Module I, Section 2.2.4, an appropriate air sampling assembly is selected based on
requirements included in the SCP, the target analytes, laboratory capabilities, and potential
interferences with the analytical methods that will be used. In general:
Glass fiber or plastic membrane filters are used to capture particulates.
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.
4.1. Air Sample Pre-Staging Requirements
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4.1.1. Sample collection equipment must be assembled outside the contamination
zone, prior to sample collection.
4.1.2. If collecting particulates, 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.
4.1.3. If collecting a vapor sample, install a vapor cartridge (silver zeolite or charcoal)
into the sampler head. ONLY low-volume samplers are to be used with
cartridges, due to the retention factors of gaseous vapors on the charcoal or
silver zeolite bed. A new cartridge should be used for collection of each sample.
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 cartridges (see Module II, Section 4.5).
a. Remove the retaining ring.
b. Install cartridge.
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.
4.1.4. If collecting a gas sample with a vacuum flask, ensure the flask or collection
vessel is vacuumed and the valves are shut.
4.1.5. Place a sample label on the sampler unit head, flask, or collection vessel.
4.1.6. Place the sampler unit into a clean plastic bag for transport into the
contaminated area.
4.2. Collection of Particulate and Vapor Samples
4.2.1. Open the bag to access the sampling pump, and 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
another sturdy non-moving surface, and protect the sampler from surface
contamination with clean plastic sheeting.
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 ft) 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,
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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 (see Module II, Section 4.5 and Figure
4.5-1), 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, as instructed in Section 4.5.
4.2.4. Record the required sample information onto the field logbook, field sample
tracking form, and sample label on the sampler unit head. The following
information is to be included at a minimum:
a. Sampler unit ID
b. Sampler unit location (GPS coordinates or description)
c. Date and time started
d. Sample collector's initials
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 (m3/min or ft3/min) into the
field logbook and the label on the sampler unit head.
4.2.6. Routinely monitor the sample collectors throughout sample collection as
specified by the SCP.
a. Sample collectors are typically checked once every 2 hr during an 8-hr shift.
b. Sample collectors 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:
a. Unit air flow has significantly decreased (greater than 50%)
b. Filter is clogged
c. Filter is wet or covered with snow
d. 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.
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a. Record the time and date or approximate time the unit was turned off.
b. 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 in the field logbook and on the label on the
sampler unit head.
a. Flow rate (m3/min or ft3/min)
b. Total flow volume (if volume totalizer is attached)
c. Date and time initiated and stopped
d. Sample collector's initials
4.2.11. Don a pair of new gloves and 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.
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 in.), fold the filter in quarters with collection side
inward. DO NOT CUT OR TEAR THE FILTER. See Note in Module I. 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).
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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
4.3.1. At the sample point, open the valve of the evacuated flask 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, use packing to immediately secure the flask and protect
its valves inside a box or other suitable containment for transfer outside the
contaminated area.
4.3.4. Exit the sampling area using techniques to minimize the spread of
contamination.
4.3.5. Record the sample information in the field logbook and on the label on the
sampler flask or collection vessel.
a. Date and time sampled
b. Location sampled
c. Flask or collection vessel volume
d. 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. Prepare the sample(s) for transportation per the requirements of Module I,
Section 7.0 (Sample Packaging and Transport).
4.4. Lapel Samples
4.4.1. Lapel samplers (personal air sampler) 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 in the field logbook and on sample label.
a. Flow rate at the start and stop (m3/min or ft3/min)
b. Total flow volume (if volume totalizer is attached)
c. Date and time started and stopped
d. Individual wearing the sampler
e. Sample collector's initials
4.4.4. Place the filter and cartridge into a plastic bag. Place a sample label on the bag.
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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. As noted in Section 4.2.3, bubblers are installed downstream from the
particulate filters, and connected to the suction end of the pump with a
flow indicator.
b. 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.
c. Bubblers or cartridges are filled and assembled per manufacturer's
requirements.
Figure 4.5-1
Tritium Bubbler
Particulate
filter
bottle A bottle B
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).
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Figure 4.5-2
Tritium Silica Gel Cartridge
Particulate
filter
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 in the field logbook and on the sample label.
a. Flow rate at the start and stop (m3/minute or ft3/minute)
b. Total flow volume (if volume totalizer is attached)
c. Date and time started and stopped
d. 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
In addition to practicing safety precautions, sample collectors must wear appropriate PPE
during all sample collection activities. The amount of PPE used should be designed to
provide the maximum personal protection and mobility for the task being performed, and
documented in the site- and incident-specific HASP and Radiological Protection Guidance
Plan.
NOTE: Water samples should generally be discrete (i.e., not composited), and it is
recommended that at least 2-4 L are collected to support analytical requirements. These
sample sizes are provided for guidance and may vary depending on the specific
contamination incident and MQOs.
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Module II
5.1. Surface Water
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.
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. If possible, take a sample midstream, at least 0.5 to 1 m (20 in. to 3.3 ft) from
the shoreline of the body of water, or at a point most representative of the
entire water body.
5.1.3. Dip a sampling jar or bottle into the surface of flow and collect the sample.
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. Lower a sample jar, bottle or dipper between 10 to 25 cm (4 to 10 in.) below the
surface and at least 0.5 to 1 m (20 in. to 3.3 ft) from the shoreline.
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 turbidity to subside prior to
sampling.
5.3.3. If possible, take a sample at least 50 cm to 1 m (20 in. to 3.3 ft) from the
shoreline, or at a point most representative of the entire water body.
5.3.4. Dip a bottle, jar or manually-activated collection vessel from 10 to 25 cm (4 to
10 in.) below the surface.
5.3.5. Allow the bottle, jar or opened vessel to fill.
5.3.6. Remove the filled bottle, jar or closed vessel from the water body.
5.3.7. Proceed to Module II, Section 5.7 (Water Sample Handling).
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Module II
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 min (40-
foot well) or longer to allow for a representative sample collection. EPA requires
a three times (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.
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: Dipper with extension rod (not applicable to underground
storage tanks [USTs] or wells)
Extend a dipper cup to the required depth below the surface.
Allow the cup to fill and retrieve the cup when filled.
Pour the collected water 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: Manually-activated collection vessel
Ensure the sample collection vessel is open to allow water to enter.
Drop the vessel to the described sampling depth.
Allow the vessel to settle/flush with water for a few minutes, then
follow the manufacturer's instructions to close or stopper the vessel.
Retrieve the vessel.
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Module II
Proceed to Module II, Section 5.7 (Water Sample Handling),
c. Method C: 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 (tubing) that extends upward at
least 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in.) from the bottom of the pump.
NOTE: Submersible pumps are often needed when collecting samples
from USTs, cisterns, wells or other bodies of contained water that
have a limited depth of 10 m (33 ft).
Secure the tubing 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 the
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/min, as required in the SCP.
Flush the tubing 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, or 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.
Decontaminate equipment and materials as appropriate, using
procedures described in Module I, Section 5.0 (Personnel/Equipment
Decontamination).
5.6. Lagoon, Pond and Lake Water
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
personnel 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.
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Module II
5.6.1. Paddle or troll the boat or skiff out to the determined location and use
procedures from one of the following methods to collect water samples.
a. Method A - Dipper with extension rod
Extend a dipper cup to the required depth below the surface.
Allow the cup to fill and retrieve the cup when filled.
Pour the collected water 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 - Kemmerer water 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 down to the sampler.
Hold the centerline and retrieve the sampler.
Grasp the lower stopper and the body of the sampler in one hand.
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 it into a labeled waste bottle and then wipe
the outside of the container dry.
5.7.3. Fill the sample container to within 2 cm (0.75 in.) 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 in the field logbook, on the field sample
tracking form, and on the sample container label(s). The following information is
to be included at a minimum:
a. SIC
b. Time and date of sampled
c. Sample location
d. Sample volume collected
e. 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.
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Module II
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).
6.0 Collection of Vegetation Samples
In addition to practicing safety precautions, sample collectors must wear appropriate PPE
during all sample collection activities. The amount of PPE used should be designed to
provide the maximum personal protection and mobility for the task being performed, and
documented in the site- and incident-specific HASP and Radiological Protection Guidance
Plan.
NOTE: The required amount for samples of vegetation is 600 g (1.3 lbs) or approximately
4.0 L (1.1 gallons) 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 of the vegetation away.
a. Small bushes-the outer leaves
b. Tall grasses-the upper tips
c. Trees - the upper or outer leaves, or branches, limited to those that are less
than 1.5 cm (0.6 in.) 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 in.)
in length.
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Module II
6.2. Vegetation Sample Collection
6.2.1. Roll the opening of a plastic bag (sample container) over.
NOTE: Rolling the top of the bag over will provide a handhold 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 cutters (scissors or shears) to cut the material making sample pieces no
longer than approximately 25 cm (10 in.).
6.2.3. Avoid disturbance of vegetation as much as possible during sample collection.
DO NOT cut by using exertion or "gnawing" away at the stalk.
6.2.4. Place the retrieved sample in the plastic bag, packing it by hand as densely as
possible without disrupting the vegetation or compromising the bag's integrity.
6.2.5. Record the required information in the field logbook, on the field sample
tracking form, and on the sample container label(s). The following information is
to be included at a minimum:
a. SIC
b. Time and date sampled
c. Sample location
d. Area sampled
e. Sample volume collected
f. Sample collector's initials
6.2.6. Affix the sample label(s) to the container(s).
6.2.7. Obtain sample container and sampling equipment survey results from the site
radiation protection personnel. If necessary, decontaminate the container. If
equipment is contaminated, 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 into 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 once 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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Module II
7.0 Collection of Surface Area Samples Using Swipes
In addition to practicing safety precautions, sample collectors must wear appropriate PPE
during all sample collection activities. The amount of PPE used should be designed to
provide the maximum personal protection and mobility for the task being performed, and
documented in the site- and incident-specific HASP and Radiological Protection Guidance
Plan.
NOTE: Sample collectors should consult the SCP to determine the 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.
7.1. Dry Swipes
7.1.1. Measure or determine by observation the total surface area to be sampled and
record the area in the field logbook.
7.1.2. If using a large area swipe (e.g., at most 300 cm2 [47 in.2]), wipe the entire
surface area in parallel strokes. Place the swipe into a glassine envelope or bag,
then place a sample label on the envelope or bag.
7.1.3. If using a smaller area swipe (e.g., 100 cm2 [16 in.2] disc or square), wipe the
entire surface in one continuous stroke of approximately 40 cm in length (16 in.)
or a 10 x 10 cm (4 x 4 in.) 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 then place a sample label on the envelope or bag.
7.1.4. Proceed with 7.4 (Swipe Handling).
7.2. Wet Swipes
Appropriate wetting solvents are determined according to the surface being sampled
and the target contaminant. Sample collectors should consult the SCP to determine
whether wet swipes are to be used, as well as the appropriate wetting solvent.
7.2.1. Measure or determine by observation the total surface area to be sampled and
record the area in the field 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 (e.g., acetone), 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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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 in the field logbook.
7.3.2. Create a tape swipe by laying successive strips of 5 cm (2 in.) duct tape sufficient
to collect an area of 100 cm2 (16 in.2) 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 in the field logbook, on the field sample
tracking form, and on the sample label(s). The following information is to be
included at a minimum:
a. SIC
b. Time and date sample collected
c. Sample location
d. Sample area collected
e. Percent of total area (calculated from surface area recorded in the field
logbook)
f. 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).
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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 for determining site release.
1.1.2. 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). Samples collected
during the Final Status Survey Phase are expected to contain radioactive
material below the site's release criteria. There may, however, be random spots
of elevated contamination encountered during sampling, therefore, specific
precautions are needed during this phase to ensure samples below the release
level 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 (Site Characterization and Remediation phases).
The measurement quality objectives (MQOs) are modified for all sample
matrices.
1.1.4. 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.
1.1.5. The following sample weights, volumes, and requirements have been
determined to be necessary to meet the MQOs in the Final Status Survey Phase
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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:
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.
(DCGLs and the distribution of contamination 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, collection 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
in.2) per swipe.
Large surfaces can be sampled to cover up to 300 cm2 (47 in.2) 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 600 g (1.3 lbs) or
approximately 4.0 L (1.1 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
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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.
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.
2.0 Equipment and Materials
NOTE: The equipment and materials used for sample collection are dependent on the sampling
activity. Refer to Module I, Section 2.0 and Appendices A1 through A6 for additional information
regarding equipment used during sampling. For Final Status Survey Phase sampling, approximately
15% additional materials and equipment including equipment and tools should be prepared for use
as needed.
All PPE (personal protective equipment) and sampling equipment are to be pre-staged and available
prior to entering a sampling area. The sample collection 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
In addition to practicing safety precautions, sample collectors must wear appropriate PPE
during all sample collection activities. The amount of PPE used should be designed to
provide the maximum personal protection and mobility for the task being performed, and
documented in the site- and incident-specific HASP and Radiological Protection Guidance
Plan.
3.1. Surface Soil Pre-staging Requirements
3.1.1. Create sample frames for the sampling locations (see Module I, Section 2.2.1).
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.
a. Each sampling event will require one clean stainless-steel bowl and trowel
or spoon for each sample for homogenization.
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b. Special cutting tools (e.g., bulb cutter) or simple handheld tools, such as a
small shovel or trowel, should be used for Final Status Survey Phase soil
sample collection. All sampling equipment is to be wrapped in clean
aluminum foil with the shiny side of the foil facing the equipment.
c. Extra equipment and materials (approximately 15% more) should be
prepared for use as potentially needed.
d. If the SCP includes requirements to sample soil below a paved surface, the
pavement should be cored out, extracting the soil below the pavement,
rather than excavating the pavement and potentially losing soil in the
process.
e. Remove grass, rocks, and foreign debris from soils to the extent possible.
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 in the field sample logbook. 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 in.) 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 logbook and
on the field sample 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.
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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 1.0 L (0.26 gallons) is collected to support
analytical method requirements for a 100-g 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
logbook and on the field sample tracking form.
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 four) 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 zip-locking 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.
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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 zip-locking bags to protect
other containers in case of spillage during transport.
3.2.11. Record the required information in the field logbook, on the field sample
tracking form and on the sample label(s). The following information is to be
included at a minimum:
a. SIC
b. Time and date sampled
c. Sample location
d. Area sampled
e. Sample volume or weight collected
f. 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 a transport
container for transport out of the sampling area.
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
in.). 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.
3.3.5. Subsurface samples (below 15 cm, or 6 in.) are to be taken by coring equipment
only.
a. The core should be retained intact for monitoring and subsequent analysis.
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b. Unless otherwise directed, core samples should be taken (separated) in 1-
meter (3.3-ft) intervals, as measured from the surface.
c. Gamma logging of boreholes is to be performed immediately after core
samples are taken.
d. If ground water is evident in holes remaining after core samples have been
secured, ground water samples are to be taken using portable pumps.
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 in the
field logbook and on the field sample tracking form.
3.4.3. Take the sample, with core boring equipment, by boring to 50 cm (20 in.) below
the desired depth.
3.4.4. Lay down a clean plastic sheet for the retention of the required sample.
NOTE: A 2 m2 (21.8 ft2) 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-in.) intervals and at the point of the
sample.
b. Record the results in the field logbook and on the 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.
3.4.8. 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 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 in.) above the initial sample point and a
point 15 cm (6 in.) below the initial sample point for a total sample depth of 30
cm (12 in.). 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.
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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 in the field logbook, on the field sample
tracking form, and on the sample label(s). The following information is to be
included at a minimum:
a. SIC
b. Time and date sampled
c. Sample location
d. Core area
e. Sample volume or weight collected
f. 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
3.5.1. Drag a cup, a dredge or a 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 zip-locking bags to protect
other containers in case of spillage during transport.
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3.5.8. Record the required information in the field logbook, on the field sample
tracking form, and on the sample label(s). Include the following information at a
minimum:
a. SIC
b. Time and date sampled
c. Sample location
d. Sample volume or weight collected
e. 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
In addition to practicing safety precautions, sample collectors must wear appropriate PPE
during all sample collection activities. The amount of PPE used should be designed to provide
the maximum personal protection and mobility for the task being performed, and
documented in the site- and incident-specific HASP and Radiological Protection Guidance
Plan.
4.1. Water Sampling Pre-staging Requirements
Ensure that sample collection equipment is clean or sufficiently decontaminated prior to
initiation of sample collection activities.
4.1.1. Each sampling event will require one funnel for each sample collected.
4.1.2. Extra sampling equipment and materials (approximately 15% additional
materials) should be prepared for use as potentially needed.
4.2. Water Sample Collection Procedures
4.2.1. 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.
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4.2.2. 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 Vegetation Samples).
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Appendix A
Appendix A
List of Sampling Equipment and Materials
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Appendix A1
APPENDIX-A1 Sampling Equipment
Sample Matrix
Sampling Tools
Soil
Frames Back-hoe bucket
Trowel/shovel Split spoon sampler
Scoop/spoon/sample cup Thief
Spatula Core sampler
Dredge Bulb cutter
Auger
Sediment
Grab samplers (scoop/cup/jar) Dredge
Extension rods Funnel
Core sampler
Air
Vacuum with pump
Collection vessel
Filters (glass fiber, plastic)
Cartridges (charcoal, zeolite, silica gel)
Bubbler
Vacuum flask
Water
Grab samplers (Bottles/Jars)
Dippers with extension rod
Pump (manual or powered)
Tubing
Surfaces
Wipes (cotton fiber, glass fiber, plastic, paper, tape)
Vegetation
Cutting tool (e.g., scissors, shears)
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Appendix A2
APPENDIX-A2 Sampling Equipment Application Advantages and Disadvantages
Table A. 1 Soil and Sediment Sampling Equipment
Tool
Type
Matrix
Advantages
Disadvantages
References*
Auger
Screw Type
Soil
Cohesive soils
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 15 feet with
extensions
Will not retain dry, loose or
granular material
Hand manipulated
Soil profiling is difficult
Not applicable for
consolidated formations
ASTM D1452-09
ASTM D4700-91
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Auger
Dutch
Soil
Wet clayey, fibrous or
rooted soils (marshes)
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 15 feet with
extensions
Hand manipulated
Soil profiling is difficult
Not applicable for
consolidated formations
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Auger
Eijkelcamp,
Soil
Stony soil or asphalt
Hand manipulated
Manufacturer's
Glesbeck,
Near surface sampling to
Soil profiling is difficult
Instructions
Netherlands
depths up to 15 feet with
extensions
Not applicable for
consolidated formations
Auger
Planar
Soil
Cleans out and flattens
bottom of pre-drilled holes
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 15 feet with
extensions
Hand manipulated
Soil profiling is difficult
Not applicable for
consolidated formations
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Auger
Spiral
Soil
Removal of rock
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 15 feet with
extensions
Hand manipulated
Soil profiling is difficult
Not applicable for
consolidated formations
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Auger
Tip Type -
Mud Tip
Soil
Heavy, wet soil and clay
Bit tips are farther apart
than typical soil augers
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Auger
Tip Type -
Sand Head
Soil
Extremely dry or sandy
soils
Bit tips are closer together
to retain loose or sandy
samples
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Iwan (Post Hole Digger)
Soil
Cohesive, soft or hard soils
Will not retain dry, loose or
Manufacturer's
Near surface sampling to
granular material
Instructions
depths up to 15 feet with
Hand manipulated
extensions
Soil profiling is difficult
Not applicable for
consolidated formations
Core Borer
Soil
Rotating core allows for
Expensive
ASTM D6169-98
penetration of heavy
(2005)
consolidated soils
Manufacturer's
Maximum depth depends
Instructions
on number of sections
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Appendix A2
Tool Type
Matrix
Advantages
Disadvantages
References*
Scoops and
Spoons
Soil
Handheld
Easily manipulated
Low cost
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 25 cm (10
inches)
Limited to surface sampling
Hand manipulated
Limited durability, easily
broken or bent in cohesive
or hard packed soils
ASTM D5633-04
(2008)
ASTM 4700-91
(2006)
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Split Spoon
Soil
Cohesive soils
Solid barrels for use in
sands, silts and clays
Can be power driven by
weight to penetrate
harder soil compositions
Provides core type sample
Can be used up to a
maximum of 25 feet
Not for use on consolidated
formations
Less effective in non-
cohesive sands
Questionable recovery if
used to extract material
below water table
ASTM D1586-11
ASTM D3550-01
(2007)
ASTM D4700-91
(2006)
ASTM D6169-98
(2005)
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Shovels
Soil
Handheld
Easily manipulated
Low cost
Near surface sampling to
depths up to 2 m (7 feet)
Limited to surface sampling
Hand manipulated
ASTM D5633-94
(2008)
ASTM 4700-91
(2006)
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Trowel
Soil
Surface soils
Can be used up to 25 cm
(10 inches)
Not for use on consolidated
formations
Painted surface trowels
should be avoided
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Thief
Soil
Dry granular material with
small particle diameters
Pointed tips facilitate
penetration of soil
material
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Grab
sampler
Birge-Ekman
Sampler
Sediment
Soft sediments, silts and
sand from shallow water
Handles easily
Allows subsampling
Sample depth up to 30 cm
with volumes up to 12 L
Restricted to low currents
due to its light weight
Top flaps may not close
completely resulting in
sample loss
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Grab
sampler
Dredge -
Petersen
Sediment
Deep lakes, rivers and
estuaries
Most sediments
Sample depth up to 30 cm
with volumes up to 9.5 L
May not close completely,
resulting in sample loss
Descent shock wave can
disturb upper sediment
layer
Low current conditions
Metal frame may
contaminate sample
Can exceed target depth
Manufacturer's
Instructions
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Appendix A2
Tool
Type
Matrix
Advantages
Disadvantages
References*
Grab
Dredge -
Sediment
Basins, large inland lakes,
Not useful on compacted
Manufacturer's
sampler
Shipekฎ
and reservoirs
Allows subsampling
Retains fine grain
sediments effectively
Sample depth up to 10 cm
with volumes up to 3 L
soils, silts or clay
May not close completely,
resulting in sample loss
Descent shock wave can
disturb upper sediment
layer
Low current conditions
Metal frame may
contaminate sample
Can exceed target depth
Instructions
Grab
Dredge - Van
Sediment
Sandy, silted or clay
May not close completely,
Manufacturer's
sampler
Veen
sediment from deep lakes,
rivers and estuaries
Adequate on most non-
compacted substrates
Stainless steel; can be
lined
Large sample maintained
intact for subsampling
Screened covering
prevents "wave" effects
Sample depth up to 30 cm;
volumes up to 75 L
resulting in sample loss
May close prematurely in
rough water
May require winch
Relatively expensive
Instructions
Corer
Tube,
Sediment
Shallow, wadable or easily
Small sample size
Manufacturer's
hand
accessible water
Requires careful handling to
Instructions
operated
Stainless steel or plastic,
with plastic or glass liners
Preserves layering
Minimal contamination
risk
Sample depth up to 10 cm
with volumes up to 0.5 L
prevent spillage
If liners are used, requires
removal of liners prior to
collection of next sample
Glass liners may break
Corer
Tube,
Sediment
Soft grained sediments
Requires weights for
Manufacturer's
gravity:
Valve in liner retains
penetration, resulting in
Instructions
Benthos
complete sample in tube
Fins permit vertical
penetration of substrate
Sample depth up to 3 m
with volumes up to 10 L
need for winch with 1000
kg lifting capacity
Compacts sediments
Corer
Tube,
Sediment
Deep lakes and rivers
Requires careful handling to
Manufacturer's
gravity:
Collects greater volume
avoid loss of sample
Instructions
Kajak-
than other samplers
Requires removal of liners
Brinkhurst
Sample depth up to 70 cm
with volumes up to 1.25 L
prior to collection of next
sample
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Appendix A2
Tool
Type
Matrix
Advantages
Disadvantages
References*
Corer
Tube,
gravity:
Alpine
Sediment
Soft fine grain semi-
consolidated sediments
Interchangeable steel
barrel allows different
penetration depths
Sample depth up to 2 m
with volumes up to 2 L
Lacks stabilizing fins for
vertical penetration
May penetrate non-
vertically and incompletely
Requires lifting of 200 kg
Disturbs sediment strata
Compacts sediment
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Corer
Tube,
gravity:
Phlenger
cover
Sediment
Deep lakes and rivers
Semi-consolidated
substrates
Sample depth up to 50 cm
with volumes up to 0.5 L
Requires careful handling
to avoid loss of sample
Requires removal of liners
prior to collection of next
sample
Small sample volume
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Corer
Box, gravity
Sediment
Shallow wadable water
Large, undisturbed sample
Optimal for collecting
intact subsamples
Sample depth up to 70 cm
with volumes up to 30 L
Difficult to handle
Depth of sediment must be
approximately 1 m
Relatively heavy, requiring a
winch
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Corer
Tube, piston
Sediment
Large deep lakes
Typically recovers an
undisturbed sample of
most sediments
Sample depth up to 20 m
with volumes up to 40 L
Requires lifting of 200 kg
Piston and piston
positioning at penetration
may fail
Disturbs surface layer (0 to
0.5 m)
Manufacturer's
Instructions
* Full reference citations are provided in Appendix E.
Abbreviations:
cm = centimeters
kg = kilograms
L = liters
m = meters
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Appendix A2
Table A.2 Water Sampling Equipment
Tool
Type
Matrix
Advantages
Disadvantages
References*
Grab
samplers
Cup, bottle or
jar swing
sampler
Water
Easy to use
Adaptable to various sizes
Samples up to 6 feet depth
Cannot collect samples at
discrete depths
Easy to spill sample
Dippers with
extension rod
Water
Sample depth determined
by length of extension rod
Generally HDPE or HDPP
construction
Difficulty in retaining entire
sample volume increases
with depth
Manually-
activated
collection
vessel
Bailer
Water
Shallow water depths of up
to 1 meter (3-4 feet)
Check valves, balls or
mechanically-operated
valves open/close tube
Lowered prior to opening to
collect at-depth sample
Inexpensive
Sample media can coat
exterior
Difficult to decontaminate
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Manually-
activated
collection
vessel
Bacon
"bomb"
Water
Tug line to close valves
Can be lowered prior to
opening to collect an at-
depth sample
Maximum depth 200 feet
Sample volume ranges from
0.12 to 1 liter (L)
Sampler remains open until
at depth
Can be difficult to
decontaminate
Tends to aerate sample
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Manually-
activated
collection
vessel
Coliwasa
Water
Rod opens and closes the
sampler
Sample media can coat
exterior
Can be difficult to
decontaminate
Limited to 1.5 m (5 ft) depth
Suspended solids can
prevent sealing and result in
sample loss
ASTM D5495-03
(2016)
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Manually-
activated
collection
vessel
Kemmerer
Water
Use a line to trigger the
sampler to collect the
sample at depth
Good up to maximum depth
70 meters (200 feet)
Sample media can coat
exterior
Difficult to decontaminate
Difficult to ensure proper
operation at depth
Suspended solids can
prevent sealing and result in
sample loss
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Manually-
activated
collection
vessel
Thieves
Water
Shallow water
Length and diameter vary
Open at both ends; plugged
at the upper end once
submerged to withdraw a
sample
Improper plugging or
capping can result in sample
loss
Manufacturer's
Instructions
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Tool
Type
Matrix
Advantages
Disadvantages
References*
Manually-
activated
collection
vessel
Wheaton
water
Opened and closed with
control rod
Depths up to 3 meters (10
feet)
Primary composition is steel
and plastic
Suspended solids can
prevent sealing and result in
sample loss
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Pumps
Bladder
Ground-
water
Single-well sampling
Samples containing trace
inorganics
Maximum depth of 100 feet
Up to 3 gallons/minute
Needs compressed gas; large
gas volumes and longer
cycles needed with
increased depth
Affected by high levels of
suspended solids
Difficult to decontaminate
ASTM D4448-01
(2007)
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Pumps
Gear
Water
Gear set drives fluid
resulting in positive
displacement
Maximum depth 100 feet
Up to 1.5 gallons/minute
Requires electricity
Flow rates cannot be
controlled
Suspended solids will clog
gears
May stall at low flow rates
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Pumps
Helical
Water
Helical (worm gears) drive
fluid resulting in positive
displacement
Maximum depth 100 feet
Up to 1.5 gallons/minute
Requires electricity
Flow rates cannot be
controlled
Suspended solids will clog
gears
Pumping may alter
chemistry due to sample
turbulence
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Pumps
Piston
Water
Drives fluid resulting in
positive displacement with
pulsing flow
Maximum depth 100 feet
Up to 1.5 gallons/minute
Requires electricity
Requires filtration to
prevent damage to piston
and valve
Expensive
ASTM D4448-01
(2007)
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Pumps
Peristaltic
Water
Shallow water sampling
Lift action creates a suction
resulting in a positive
displacement
Maximum depth 25 feet
Up to 8 gallons/minute
Requires electricity
Small diameter lines
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Pumps
Centrifugal
Water
Shallow water
Requires constant water
volume to avoid cavitation
Maximum depth 25 feet
Up to 60 gallons/minute
Submersible available
Requires electricity
Small diameter
Loss of flow can occur when
air enters sampling line
Difficulty handling viscous
water
Manufacturer's
Instructions
* Full reference citations are provided in Appendix E.
Abbreviations:
HDPE = high density polyethylene
HDPP = high density polypropylene
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Appendix A2
Table A.3 Air Sampling Equipment
Tool
Matrix
Advantages
Disadvantages
References
Air pump, battery
operated
Air
Portable
Small units can be used to
take breathing zone air
samples
Low velocity
Power and speed decline with
use; failure possible due to
unknown battery life
Low pump head limits length of
air line
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Air pump, electric
Air
Continuous pre-set air flow
Large volume air samples
Can have longer lines
attached to filter or sampler
Flow rates variable to low
flow and high flow
Requires power source
Can overheat if air drawn
through filter or canister
compromises air flow
Pumps tend to be noisy
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Cartridge,
Charcoal
Air, Vapor
Majority of radionuclides
Good for iodine
Retains noble gases
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Cartridge, Zeolite
Air, Vapor
Majority of radionuclides
Retains noble gases (though
fewer than charcoal
cartridges)
Relatively expensive compared
with charcoal
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Cartridge,
Silica Gel
Air, Vapor
Used to collect tritium
Entrains tritium-containing
moisture
Can dry out if not maintained
properly
Relative humidity is a limiting
factor in sampling duration
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Bubbler
Air, Vapor
Used to collect tritium
Entrains gas in water or other
liquid
Limited by solubility of gases
Can dry out if not maintained
properly; caution needed to
ensure flow rate is sufficient to
pull air without displacing
bubbler liquid
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Filters (glass
fiber, plastic)
Air,
Particulates
Capture particulates down to
0.1 micrometer (nm)
Easily clogged; excessive loading
can attenuate results
No method of determining time
frame of deposition
Glass fiber filters may have
inherent radioactivity
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Filter, chart spool
type
Air,
Particulates
Capture particulates down to
0.1 nm
Allows method of
determining time frame of
deposition
Easily clogged; excessive loading
can attenuate results
Material chosen may have
inherent radioactivity from
naturally occurring isotopes
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Vacuum flask
Air
Grabs a volume of ambient air
for analysis
Provides a reasonably large
sample volume (up to 4 liters
[L])
Vacuum can easily be lost
Loss of vacuum results in
contaminated sample
No clear indication of state of
vacuum or bulb valves
Manufacturer's
Instructions
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix A2
Table A.4 Surface Area Sampling Equipment
Tool
Matrix
Advantages
Disadvantages
References
Dry Swipe
Whatman #41
filter paper
Glass-fiber
filter
Surfaces
Ease of use
Simple collection procedure
Minimal equipment needed
May not work well with dry
material or material stuck on
surface
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Wet Swipe
Whatman #41
filter paper
Glass-fiber
filter
Surfaces
Appropriate for collecting dry
material and sampling porous
surfaces
Requires solvent (methanol,
demineralized water)
Contaminant can be absorbed
into swipe material or covered
by residual moisture, leading to
potential underestimation of
alpha emitters
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Tape Swipe
(Duct tape)
Surfaces
Best for collecting material
stuck on surface
Minimal equipment needed
Appropriate for screening only
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Cotton Swipe
Surfaces
Best for rough surfaces
Wet or dry - finished wood,
tile, linoleum, stainless steel
or painted metal
Wet - concrete and asphalt
One of few swipe media
effective on concrete
Not effective on unfinished
wood or unpainted metal
Requires the use of wetting
solvents for many surfaces
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Glass Fiber Swipe
Surfaces
Best for smooth surfaces
Used dry
Finished wood, tile, linoleum,
asphalt, stainless or painted
metal
Not effective on concrete,
unfinished wood or unpainted
metal
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Paper Swipe
Surfaces
Wet or dry - tile, linoleum,
asphalt, stainless or painted
metal
Dry - finished wood
Not effective on concrete,
unfinished wood or unpainted
metal
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Table A.5
Vegetation Sampling Equipment
Tool
Matrix
Advantages
Disadvantages
References
Scissors
Vegetation
Small easy to carry
Ease of use
Easily cuts grass or small
branches
Not efficient for collection of 1
kilogram (kg) of vegetation
Difficult to cut thick branches
Manufacturer's
Instructions
Shears (Cutters)
Vegetation
Best for collection of thick
branches
Best for collection of a large
amount of sample
Heavy
Not efficient for collection of
grass
Manufacturer's
Instructions
December 2020
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix A3
APPENDIX-A3 Sampling Containers
Sample Matrix
Containers
Capacities
Water, Liquids
Bottles (HDPE or glass)* - wide and small
mouth
1 liter (L)
4 L (1 gallon) Cubitainersฎ
Soils and Sediment
Plastic (polypropylene or polyethylene)
jars or bottles - wide mouth with PTFE
lids
500 milliliter (mL)
1 L
Borosilicate glass jars - wide mouth with
PTFE lids
500 mL
1 L
Plastic Bags (zip-locking - Sealable)**
1 quart
2 quarts
Air Samples
Envelopes - Paper
2.5 inches x 5 inches
3 inches x 5 inches
9 inches x12 inches
Plastic Bags (zip-locking - Sealable)
1 quart
Surface Wipes
Plastic Bags (zip-locking - Sealable)
1 quart
Vegetation
Plastic Bags (zip-locking - Sealable)
1 quart
2 quarts
Plastic Bags (Non-sealable)**
15 gallons
30 gallons
55 gallons
Plastic Jars - wide mouth with PTFE lids
500 mL
1 L
Abbreviations:
HDPE = high density polyethylene
PTFE = polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflonฎ)
* 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.
** Durability must be considered to prevent punctures from solid materials - normally used to contain sample
bottles or jars.
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix A4
APPENDIX-A4 Shipping Materials and Packaging
Type
Potential Materials
Styrofoam peanuts and pieces
Cushioning and Packing
Bubble wrap
Vermiculite
Vermiculite
Absorbents
ฎ
Chemsorb (Chemsorb, Wood Dale, IL)
Fiberboard box or drum
Industrial Package Type 1
Plywood or natural wood box or drum
Plastic drum or jerrican
Plastic cooler
Steel box or drum
Industrial package Type 2
Aluminum box or drum
Industrial package Type 2, Type A, or Type B
container
Type A
Steel box or drum
Type B (U) or (M)
Specific steel container
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix A6
APPENDIX-A5 Additional Equipment to Consider for Sampling Operations
Item
Item Description
AC Generator
Gasoline powered - 1500 watts
Bottle
16-ounce squeeze bottle with nozzle
Bowls
Stainless steel mixing - approximately 18-inch diameter, 6-inch depth
(approximately 2 gallons)
Bucket
Plastic with handle - 5 gallons. For carrying tools and materials; can be used
for carrying samples or for equipment decontamination
Chisel
Drill
3/8 inch
Drum Hand Truck
Transport 30- and 55-gallon drums
First Aid Kit
Filter Paper
Quantitative-grade paper with greater than 8 pim particle retention;
e.g., Whatman 40ฎ 12.5 centimeters (5 inches) and 18.5 centimeters (7.4
inches), or equivalent
Flashlight
Forceps
6 inches
Funnels
240 milliliters (mL); 960 mL; plastic
Gas cartridges for air
samplers
Silver zeolite; activated carbon; others as needed based on site conditions and
target radionuclides
Gasoline containers
5 gallon, with spark arrest and safety cap closure
GPS unit
Handheld; preferably able to tie into the radiation detection equipment for
logging sample radiation readings at location
Hammer
12 ounce, 20 ounce, and small sledge
Labels
Labels and markings for required shipping and samples
Ladder
6 feet and 10 feet
Mixing paddle
Attachable to drill with extension 2-3 feet
Pens and markers
Indelible, waterproof, black and red
Petri dishes
30 millimeter (mm) and 50 mm
Plastic bags
(Non-sealable) 15, 30 and 55 gallon, for general wastes
(Non-sealable) 15, 30 and 55 gallon, for contaminated wastes
Plastic sheeting
Preferably in a large roll (20 feet x 33.3 feet)
Rope - nylon
White - 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch; nylon or weatherproof cotton
Rope - nylon
Yellow and magenta; 3/8 inch
Salvage and over
pack drums
Saw
Electric circular, manual hand, and hack saws
Screw drivers
Flat and Philips head; Small and large
Shielding material
Sheet steel, plywood, lead blankets and bricks
December 2020
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix A6
Item
Item Description
Sieves
Stainless steel No. 4 (100 mm mesh)
Signs
Yellow and magenta for radiation work
Signs
Red, white, and black for safety concerns
Sign
Blue and white for entry and other instruction
Soap and cleansers
Spill kit
Stakes
Wooden construction
Stakes with flag
Wire with flag for marking
Step-off pads
Yellow and magenta for radiation work
Tape
Yellow and magenta for radiation work
Tape
Duct tape; packing tape; 2 inches and 3 inches wide
Tape measure
50-200 feet preferably with metric scale as well
Tripod
For mounting air samplers
Tripod
For retrieving material from pits or excavations
Utility carts
Weigh scale
Hanging pull type; kg with gram divisions capable of weighing up to 5
kilograms
December 2020
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix A6
APPENDIX-A6 Personal Protective Equipment
Item
Description
Boot / shoe covers
Plastic
Boots
Rubber
Coveralls
Paper - Tyvekฎ (Dupont, Wilmington, DE)
Coveralls - cotton
Coveralls - water-resistant/proof
Ear protection
Eyewear
May require sunshades for outdoor work in bright conditions
Face shields
Gloves - exam
Latex or nitrile; powder free
Gloves - work
Heavy cotton
Hard hats
Respirators
Full face air purifying
Full face powered air
Airline full face
Self-contained air supplied
Monitoring devices
Radiation dosimeter
Lapel sampler
Personal floatation device
December 2020
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix B
Appendix B
Forms
December 2020
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix B1
APPENDIX-B1 Example Field 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
Page X of Yi
. Number Matrix
Sample Collection: T ,
Taken
Date
Time:
Sample
Collectors
(Print Names)
Observed
by Initials
Location of Sample Collection:
Landmark Description
Compass Point
Sample Identification
Code (SIC)
GPS Coordinates
Contact
Gamma mR/hr
Remarks
1-
2-
3-
4-
5-
6-
7-
8-
9-
10-
11-
12-
13-
14-
15-
16-
17-
18-
19-
20-
Comments: Note sample number and describe problem or information. Add pictures or illustrations on
separate page.
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Draft Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix B2
APPENDIX-B2 Example Field Sample Tracking Form
Field Sample Tracking Form
Site Name
Date
Page X ofY
No.
Sample Identification
Code
Matrix1
Sample Location / Description2
Volume (mL) /
Mass (g)
Area Sampled
(cm2)
Depth
(m/ft)
Sample
Type3
Number of
Containers
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
Remarks:
Notes: 1 - Matrix codes: SO - Soil; GW - Water; AF - Air Filter; GV - Gas/Vapor: B - Bubbler (Tritium); SG - Silica Gel
Reviewed by Initials
Date
(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
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Draft Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix B3
APPENDIX-B3 Example Chain of Custody Form
0
EPA
USE PA
Radionuclide Analysis Traffic Report & Chain of Custody Record
Case No.:
DAS No.:
SDG No.:
Date Shipped
Chain of Custody Record:
Sample Collector Signature:
For Lab Use Only
Carrier Name
Relinquished By: (Date/Time)
Received By: (Date / Time)
Lab Contract No.:
Air bill:
1)
Unit Price:
Shipped To:
2)
Transfer To:
3)
Lab Contract No.:
4)
Unit Price:
Sample Identification
Code
Sample
Collector
Matrix / Type
Volume / Mass
Analysis
Required
Sampling
Location /
Sample Depth
Date /
Time
Laboratory
Sample No.
FOR LAB USE ONLY
Sample Condition on
Receipt
1
2
3
4
5
6
Additional Sample Collector Signature(s):
Sample(s) to be used for
laboratory QC?
Cooler
temperatur
e Upon
Receipt:
Chain of Custody Seal Number:
Shipment
Iced?
(Yes/No)
Custody Seal Intact?
(Yes/No)
Analysis
Key:
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
December 2020
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix B4
APPENDIX-B4 Example Air Sample Tracking Form
Site Name
Sample Date
Paee of
Location Sampled
Sample
Type
Cartridge/Sampler
Type
Air Sampler
Identification
Number
Air Sampler
Flow Rate
(mL/min)
Time
Started
Tech
Initials
Time
Stopped
Tech
Initials
Total
Volume
(mL)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Key Sample Type: BZ - breathing zone, G - grab, WA - work area, VAC - vacuum, Other (must be described in Comments)
Cartridge Type: PT - particulate, 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
December 2020
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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.
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:
Industrial Package 1
Industrial Package 2
Industrial Package 3
Type A
Type B(U)
Type B (M)
Markings found on approved containers:
UN Code:
Volume:
ft3/gallon / L
Container to have less than 5% void space after filling.
Waste Type
UN ID No.
Soil
Aqueous Liquid
Flammable
Solids
Non-Aqueous Liquid
Other (identify below)
PPE
Hazardous Material
Hazard Level
(state known internal levels or assumptions/calculated values)
Chemical
% or ppm
Radioactive Material
dpm / 100cm2
Chemical
% or ppm LSA-1 / LS-II / LSA-I
Ai/A2
External Radiation and Contamination Levels
Surface
dpm / 100cm2
Attach Copy of Survey Map
Radiation on Contact
mR/hr 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
Gas - Flammable
Radioactive LSA-I
Radioactive I
Corrosive
Gas Non-Flammable
Radioactive LSA-I
Radioactive I
Solid - Flammable
Gas -Toxic
Radioactive LSA-I
Radioactive I
Liquid - Flammable
SCO-I
SCO-1
Fissile
Date Closed:
Signature:
| Overpacking Required/Completed"
Disposal Approval Code:
Transportation Company: Name, Contact Name and information
Disposal Company: Name, Contact Name and information
Date Disposed:
Date Disposal Certificate Received:
December 2020
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix C
Appendix C
Filtration and Preservation of Aqueous Samples
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix C
APPENDIX-C Filtration and Preservation of Aqueous Samples
1.0 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 pim filter. In some cases (e.g., for samples with high
percent solids content), additional filters and/or larger pore size filters might be
needed. The filter(s), 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.
NOTE: According to EPA's Manual for the Certification of Laboratories
Analyzing Drinking Water (U.S. EPA 2005), 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.
2.0 Sample Filtration
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 pim 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.
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.
2.4. Set up a filtration funnel or filtration apparatus (see Figure CI).
2.5. Rinse the filter using a squeeze bottle containing demineralized water (ASTM grade Type
I or II) and discard the rinse water.
December 2020
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix C
2.6. Slowly filter the sample until a sufficient amount of sample volume (e.g., 2-4 liters) 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 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, decant water from the sample, without clogging the filter with sediment.
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
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix C
Initials of technician performing filtration
3.0 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 (U.S. EPA 2005), sample preservatives should be
screened for radioactive content by lot number prior to their use, 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.
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.l 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) 2017 (U.S. EPA 2017).
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.
3.1.1. Ensure the area is set up for the addition of acid by performing the following:
a. Clear the work area.
b. Place a sufficient amount of absorbent material to cover the area and secure
it with duct tape.
c. 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 4 mL of concentrated HCI or
2 mL of concentrated HN03 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.
a. DO NOT add more than 5 additional mL of concentrated acid.
b. If the sample pH cannot 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.
December 2020
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix C
Table C.l: Acids for Preservation of Samples Collected for Measurement of Radioisotopes included in
EPA's Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM) 2017 (U.S. EPA
2017).
Analyte
Preservative
Note: Preservation requirements taken from EPA's Manual for the Certification of
Laboratories Analyzing Drinking Water (U.S. EPA 2005).
Gross Alpha
HN03 to pH <2
Gross Beta
HN03 to pH <2
Cesium-137
Cone. HCI to pH <2
lodine-131
Do not acidify
Radium-226
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Strontium-89
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Strontium-90
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Tritium (Hydrogen-3)
Do not acidify
Uranium-238
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Note: The following analvtes
Laboratories Analyzing Drink
these analytes are based on
are not included in EPA's Manual for Certification of
ing Water (U.S. EPA 2005). Preservation recommendations for
Dest professional judgment.
Gamma
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Americium-241
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Californium-252
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Cobalt-60
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Curium-244
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Europium-154
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Indium-Ill
Cone. HN03 to pH <2
lodine-125
Do not acidify
lridium-192
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Molybdenum-99
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Neptunium-237
Cone. HN03 to pH <2
Neptunium-239
Cone. HN03 to pH <2
Phosphorus-32
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Plutonium-238
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Plutonium-239
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Polonium-210
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Radium-223
Cone. HN03 to pH <2
Rhenium-188
Cone. HN03 to pH <2
Rubidium-82
Cone. HN03 to pH <2
Ruthenium-103
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Ruthenium-106
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Selenium-75
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Technetium-99
Do not acidify
Technetium-99m
Do not acidify
Thorium-227
Cone. HN03 to pH <2
Thorium-228
Cone. HN03 to pH <2
Thorium-230
Cone. HN03 to pH <2
Thorium-232
Cone. HN03 to pH <2
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix C
Analyte
Preservative
Total Activity Screening
Do not acidify
Uranium-234
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
Uranium-235
Cone. HCI or HN03 to pH <2
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 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 per the 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.
December 2020
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix C
Figure CI: Example Filtration Apparatus
December 2020
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix D
Appendix D
Framework for Waste Management Plan Development for Waste Generated
During Radiological Sampling of Environmental Samples
December 2020
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Sample Collection Procedures for Radiochemical Analytes in Environmental Matrices
Appendix D
APPENDIX D- Framework for Waste Management Plan Development for Waste Generated During
Collection of Radiological Environmental Samples
The purpose of this appendix is to provide a framework to assist incident commanders, project
managers, state and local authorities, contractors, and enforcement divisions in developing and
implementing an approach for the management of waste generated during environmental sampling
activities after a contamination event; management of waste that is generated from remediation or
other activities not resulting from sample collection are outside its scope. Approaches to management
of sampling wastes should be included in an incident-specific Waste Management Plan (WMP), along
with a systematic and integrated methodology for the management of waste generated from as part of
the overall radiological response. This appendix presents the key waste management considerations
associated with sampling activities that should be addressed, prior to an incident if possible, and
documented within a WMP.
1.0 Background
During a radiological/nuclear incident, the waste generator is responsible for characterizing on-site
waste, including waste that has been treated on-site. Most of the waste generated during the sample
collection process, depending on the activity level of the radiological release, would likely be
characterized as low-level radioactive waste, and a smaller subset of the generated sampling process
waste would be characterized as hazardous, non-hazardous or mixed waste. The characterization of
sampling activity waste is often driven by state requirements, both in the state of the incident as well as
the state(s) where the waste management facilities exist. It should be noted that states may have more
restrictive requirements than the federal government for some of the waste streams, which is why it is
so important to identify these within a WMP.
Coordinating the characterization of sampling activity waste with the overall response sampling
activities for environmental samples will save time, effort and analytical costs; and reduces the burden
on the radioanalytical laboratories. Laboratory capacity is expected to be exceeded in a wide-area
release scenario, and laboratories are likely to prioritize analysis of samples for use in determining the
extent of contamination and re-occupancy decisions over analysis of samples to characterize sampling
activity waste. Coordinating sampling activity waste characterization with other sampling needs in the
overall radiological response sampling and analysis plan (SAP) will help to address capacity issues.
At the time of publication of this document, there are only four commercial facilities in the United States
that accept Low Level Radioactive Waste (LLRW). complicating the waste management decision making
process. While there are some additional Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) Subtitle C
(Hazardous Waste Facilities) that can handle mixed waste and potentially could handle some LLRW, it
would require state, facility, and public acceptance as well as permit modifications to do so. Liquid LLRW
is especially difficult and expensive to manage and therefore may require some solidification/
evaporation treatment prior to acceptance by a LLRW disposal facility. Finally, because of the limited
waste management facilities for LLRW, and extensive transportation requirements associated with
LLRW, transportation costs can become quite high and multiple methods of transportation may need to
be considered (e.g., trucks, railways).
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2.0 Waste Management Plans
Waste generation and management begin as soon as the response to a radiological or nuclear
contamination incident is initiated. Since this waste is considered a potential source of contamination,
proper sampling of waste generated during the sampling process, to characterize the waste for
management and disposal, is essential. Personal protective equipment (PPE) and clothing, materials
from sampling activities, and liquids from personnel and equipment decontamination activities
associated with sampling collection activities could potentially be generated by first responders, crime
scene investigators, and environmental sampling personnel. Generation of these waste streams will
continue throughout response and recovery. Planning for waste management is critical to an effective
response and can help eliminate double-handling of sampling activity waste and facilitate a smooth,
timely, safe and efficient response. A WMP for waste generated due to environmental sampling should
be developed, either prior to or early in an event, that outlines the waste management requirements,
procedures, strategies, and processes from the point of generating sampling waste to final deposition.
NOTE: Experience has shown that the development of a pre-incident WMP can improve waste
management activities during an incident by addressing many of waste management decisions
outside of the time-sensitive activities and decisions that have to be made during the incident. An
incident-specific WMP can be developed using the pre-incident WMP to tailor the elements of
that plan with the site and incident specific considerations as well as to integrate it with the other
overall radiological response plans.
The WMP should address:
Waste Management Strategies: Information regarding waste management strategies should focus on:
Relevant federal, state and local waste management regulations
Identification of waste management facilities to support disposal of waste generated from
sampling activities
Projections of the magnitude and types of potential wastes expected to be generated from
sampling activities during the different phases of the incident
Potential types of waste
Inorganic (solids: used PPE, sampling equipment, supplies)
Organic (sampling supplies that are petroleum based)
Liquids (decontamination water, wastewaters from sampling activities)
Low Level Radioactive Waste (LLRW) (any radioactive waste that does not belong in one of
the following categories: [1] high-level waste, [2] spent nuclear fuel, [3] uranium and
thorium mill tailings, and [4] transuranics)
Hazardous Materials (PCBs, or other toxic industrial chemicals that may be combined with
sampled environmental materials)
Mixed Waste (hazardous waste combined with LLRW that is generated during sampling
activities)
Waste Management oversight: Activities including health and safety, radiological exposure reduction,
contamination control, and quality control/assurance should be discussed in general terms as they
relate to the generation of sampling activity waste handling. On-site waste management discussions
should focus on:
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Waste segregation (e.g., liquids, solids, clean, contaminated, mixed) and optimization strategies
Minimization of sampling activity waste
Waste characterization to meet the waste acceptance criteria associated with disposal of
sampling activity waste at disposal facilities identified to support the overall response
Physical and/or chemical assessment of the waste generated during sampling activities to
determine whether the waste was successfully solidified or requires further treatment to
facilitate packaging decisions, to identify handling and processing requirements, and to provide
additional information related to the particular waste generated
Reducing potential hazards that could be encountered during waste management activities,
such as waste treatment, characterization, packaging and labeling
Off-Site Waste Management: Discussions of the disposal of potential sampling activity waste generated
at off-site facilities that could be used to treat solid, liquid, or mixed radiological waste and disposal of
laboratory sample waste after analysis.
Waste Transportation: Discussion of logistics related to moving waste generated from sampling
activities from the contaminated site to an interim location or final facility for treatment and/or
disposal. Since transportation of radiological waste is tightly regulated, the WMP should address:
Coordination with state radiation protection and waste management officials involving the
states in which the waste is generated, the states which the waste will be transported through,
and the states in which the facilities reside that will be accepting this waste
Coordination with multiple federal agencies
Coordination with the facilities that will be accepting the sampling activity waste
Tracking, Reporting, and Data/Records Management for Waste Management: Discussion of process to
ensure proper and complete tracking of all sampling activity waste including:
Sampling logs
Chain of custody forms
Disposal packages (including accumulation data, waste composition, volumes, weight, DOT or
IATA hauler information)
Worker training
Audits and reviews of waste disposal activities
WMP and associated procedures
Additional Resources: EPA's Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery
(SAM) Companion Laboratory Analytical Waste Management and Disposal Information Document (Hall
et al. 2019) provides additional information regarding management and disposal of waste resulting from
sample collection and analysis. This document includes information regarding:
Waste minimization, categorization and segregation
Waste containment, storage and treatment
Waste management and disposal regulations
EPA provides additional information regarding management of waste generated during site remediation
in EPA's Waste Management Options for Homeland Security Incidents website and EPA's Incident Waste
Decision Support Tool (l-WASTE DST).
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Appendix E
Appendix E
References and Supplemental Information
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Appendix E
APPENDIX-E References and Supplemental Information
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