envp-002 - north wind group · 2018-12-17 · envp-002 sample handling, packaging and shipping...

ENVP-002

Sample Handling, Packaging and Shipping

Revision 2

Approved:

Sylvia Medina for Joe Rothermel per NW-2010-130 12/30/10 Division Manager Date

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-002 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

of 13

VERIFY THAT THIS IS THE CORRECT VERSION BEFORE USE http://portal.northwindgrp.com/corporate/documents

REVISION HISTORY

Revision No.

Effective Date

Sections Affected Description

0 04/07/06 All Baseline Document

1 08/28/06 All Revised document numbers for corporate plans,

policies, procedures, and forms, and corrected

references to these documents, to reflect the number

changes per Letter NW-2006-156. Also made minor

formatting changes (i.e., moved definitions and

acronyms to the front of the document and changed

page numbers) per QAP-061_Rev 2.

2 01/01/11 All Replace references to NWI with NW. Update Logos

and references.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-002 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

of 13


CONTENTS

1. PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................5

2. SCOPE .................................................................................................................................5

3. RESPONSIBILITIES ..........................................................................................................5

3.1 Field Team Leader ...................................................................................................5

3.2 Field Personnel.........................................................................................................5

4. SAMPLE HANDLING, PACKAGING, AND SHIPPING ................................................5

4.1 Documentation .........................................................................................................5

4.2 Sample Handling ......................................................................................................6

4.3 Sample Packaging ....................................................................................................6

4.4 Sample Shipment .....................................................................................................8

5. RECORDS ...........................................................................................................................9

6. REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................9

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-002 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

of 13


DEFINITIONS

Chain of

Custody Form

A form used to record the transfer of sample custody.

Custody A sample is considered in custody if it:

A. is in one’s possession,

B. is in one’s view after being in possession,

C. was in possession and is now locked up,

D. is secured (such as, sealed with tamper-indicating devices) by the

responsible individual so that no tampering can occur,

E. is in a designated secured area.

Sample Any physical evidence collected from an environmental measuring or

monitoring activity. Evidence is anything offered at the time of a legal

proceeding as a means of ascertaining the truth. In investigations involving

hazardous wastes, physical and documentary evidence is collected to

determine if the site poses a potential threat to human health or the

environment and if the site complies with applicable regulations.

ACRONYMS

C Celsius

COC Chain of Custody

DOT Department of Transportation

ENVP Environmental Procedure

FTL Field Team Leader

NW North Wind

QAP Quality Assurance Procedure

QAPjP Quality Assurance Project Plans

SAP Sampling and Analysis Plans

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-002 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

of 13


1. PURPOSE

This procedure establishes methods for proper handling, packaging, and shipping of

samples to ensure sample integrity and validity, personal safety, and compliance with

applicable regulations.

2. SCOPE

This procedure is applicable to North Wind (NW) projects that specifically reference this

procedure in the Project Execution Plan (PEP), Project Work Plan, or Sampling and

Analysis Plan (SAP).

This procedure provides instructions for packaging, handling, and shipping samples

collected, as directed by North Wind project documents (such as sampling and analysis

plans (SAPs), field sampling plans, quality assurance project plans (QAPjP), or other

documents). This procedure applies and remains applicable from the time of sample

collection until custody of the sample is transferred to the appropriate destination.

Guidance for shipping samples that are considered “environmental samples” and

“dangerous goods” is provided in Appendix A and B of this procedure.

3. RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Field Team Leader

Directs and ensures proper sample handling, packaging, and shipping.

Performs duties of field personnel, as applicable.

3.2 Field Personnel

Performs sample handling, packaging, and shipping tasks identified in this procedure.

Identifies and follows appropriate shipping classification (based on DOT regulations).

4. SAMPLE HANDLING, PACKAGING, AND SHIPPING

4.1 Documentation

4.1.1 Follow ENVP-021, Chain of Custody (COC) Documentation, for COC form

documentation instructions during sample handling, packaging, and shipping.

4.1.2 Maintain all COC forms, records, labels, and documents neatly.

4.1.3 Use indelible ink to record all information.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-002 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

of 13


4.2 Sample Handling

4.2.1 Properly store labeled samples in the custody of the assigned field personnel at all times.

4.2.2 Refer to the project-specific health and safety plan for the proper personal protective

equipment required for handling samples.

4.2.3 Inspect sample bottles and associated documentation to ensure the bottles meet the

criteria for quality specified in the project documentation.

4.2.4 If samples are temperature sensitive, ensure storage of sample at appropriate temperature.

4.2.5 Arrange for shipping all samples as soon as required after collection to ensure all holding

times are met.

4.3 Sample Packaging

4.3.1 Gather the following tools and equipment, which may include, but are not limited to,

samples with appropriate labels, field logbook, sample packing and shipping materials

that (as applicable to the sample matrix, container type, and analysis) may include:

hard, plastic-lined metal or plastic cooler or shipping container

sealable, plastic bags

absorbent, cushioning material

tape

bubble wrap

foam vial holders

blue ice packs or double-bagged ice

indelible ink pen

trip blanks

Department of Transportation (DOT) material hazard labels

clear and regular plastic strapping tape

plastic garbage bags

address/return address labels

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-002 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

of 13


“this side up” labels

“fragile” labels

scissors or pocket knife

4.3.2 Remove any existing labels from the cooler or shipping container that are not applicable

for the current shipment.

4.3.3 Inspect sample bottles for cleanliness or damage. Samples can be packaged if the sample

containers are clean, not cracked or broken, and the lids and seals are present and

undamaged. Clear tape may be placed over the sample labels, if necessary, to prevent

damage. If any problems are detected, notify the Field Team Leader (FTL), dispose of the

sample material and container in an appropriate manner, and properly document the

occurrence.

4.3.4 Package samples into a cooler or shipping container. Ensure the samples do not leak,

spill, or vaporize. The following steps provide a guideline of sample packing:

Obtain a hard, plastic-lined metal or plastic cooler.

Tape the inside and outside of the cooler drain with duct/strapping tape.

Line the cooler with a large plastic bag, or place individual samples in sealable,

plastic bags.

Place a layer of absorbent cushioning material in the bottom of the liner bag, if

applicable.

Place the sample container into a plastic sealable bag. The individual containers can

be wrapped with bubble wrap or plastic bags for protection prior to placement in the

cooler for shipment.

Squeeze as much air as possible from the bag before sealing.

Ensure the container is upright and surrounded with an absorbent cushioning material

to prevent contact with other samples, tipping over, breaking, or spilling.

Fill in around the containers with additional absorbent cushioning material.

Ensure the cooler contains enough absorbent material to absorb all the sample

material contained in the cooler in case of an accident.

Pull the ends of the liner bag together and twist.

Tape the top of the liner bag down.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-002 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

of 13


If sample temperature must be maintained at 4C, place blue ice packs or double-

bagged wet ice around the sides and top of the liner bag or inside the bag and in

between samples.

4.3.5 Confirm that all information from the sample labels in the cooler matches the COC forms

(see def.) exactly. Ensure the following information accompanies the sample:

collector's name, mailing address, and telephone number

laboratory's name, mailing address, and telephone number

quantity of sample

date of shipment

description of sample.

4.3.6 Sign and record the current date and time on the completed corresponding COC form

“relinquished by” block.

4.3.7 Remove the back copy of the COC form or make a photocopy of the form for project

files.

4.3.8 Place the remaining forms in a large transparent sealable bag and place inside the cooler

or shipping container.

4.3.9 Close the lid and latch.

4.3.10 Make a few wraps around the cooler using fiberglass or strapping tape to ensure the lid

will remain closed.

4.3.11 Place a complete address label on the lid of the cooler including the name, address, and

phone number of the receiving laboratory and a laboratory contact.

4.4 Sample Shipment

4.4.1 Deliver non-hazardous coolers or shipping containers directly to the selected commercial

air cargo transporter, rail, or truck for delivery to appropriate location.

4.4.2 If shipping hazardous materials, follow appropriate DOT regulations. Make appropriate

arrangements for shipment of hazardous materials.

4.4.3 Notify the laboratory in advance that samples are being shipped to ensure a laboratory

custodian will be available for receipt.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-002 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

of 13


5. RECORDS

The Project Manager shall maintain the following records in accordance with QAP-171,

Records Management:

Case-specific written procedures used during the shipment of dangerous goods as

presented in a controlled document or project logbook;

Chain-of-custody form(s) for the shipped samples; and,

Airbill or other package tracking information provided by the courier.

6. REFERENCES

ENVP-021, Chain of Custody Documentation

QAP-171, Records Management

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-002 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

of 13


APPENDIX A, Guidance for Shipping Environmental Samples

Guidance for the shipment of environmental laboratory samples by personnel is provided

in a memorandum dated March 6, 1981, subject "Final National Guidance Package for

Compliance with Department of Transportation Regulations in the Shipment of

Laboratory Samples.” By this memorandum, the shipment of the following unpreserved

samples is not regulated:

Drinking water

Treated effluent

Biological specimens

Sediment

Water treatment plant sludge

POTW sludge

In addition, the shipment of the following preserved samples is not regulated, provided

the amount of preservative used does not exceed the amounts found in 40 CFR 136.3:

Drinking water

Ambient water

Treated effluent

Biological specimens

Sediment

Wastewater treatment plant sludge

Water treatment plant sludge

It is the shippers' (individual signing the airway bill) responsibility to ensure that proper

amounts of preservative are used. The amounts of preservative used in each container

may be checked using the sampling teams field notes and/or chain-of-custody

information.

Samples determined by the project leader to be in these categories are to be shipped using

the following protocol, which is modified from a procedure developed jointly between

US-EPA, OSHA, and DOT in the "Final National Guidance Package for Compliance

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-002 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

of 13


with Department of Transportation Regulations in the Shipment of Environmental

Laboratory Samples.”

Untreated wastewater and sludge from POTW's are considered to be "diagnostic

specimens" (not environmental laboratory samples). However, because they are not

considered to be etiologic agents (infectious) they are not restricted and may be shipped

using the procedures outlined below.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-002 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

of 13


APPENDIX B, Guidance for Shipping Dangerous Goods

Samples collected during field investigations or in response to a hazardous materials incident

must be classified prior to shipment, as either environmental or hazardous materials samples. In

general, environmental samples include drinking water, most groundwater and ambient surface

water, soil, sediment, treated municipal and industrial wastewater effluent, biological specimens,

or any samples not expected to be contaminated with high levels of hazardous materials.

Samples collected from process wastewater streams, drums, bulk storage tanks, soil, sediment, or

water samples from areas suspected of being highly contaminated may require shipment as

dangerous goods. Regulations for packing, marking, labeling, and shipping of dangerous goods

by air transport are promulgated by the International Air Transport Authority (IATA), which is

equivalent to United Nations International Civil Aviation Organization (UN/ICAO).

Transportation of hazardous materials (dangerous goods) by EPA personnel is covered by EPA

Order 1000. 18.

The Project Leader is responsible for determining if samples collected during a specific field

investigation meet the definitions for dangerous goods. If a sample is collected of a material that

is listed in the Dangerous Goods List, Section 4.2, IATA, then that sample must be identified,

packaged, marked, labeled, and shipped according to the instructions given for that material. If

the composition of the collected sample(s) is unknown, and the project leader knows or suspects

that it is a regulated material (dangerous goods), the sample may not be offered for air transport.

If the composition and properties of the waste sample or highly contaminated soil, sediment, or

water sample are unknown, or only partially known, the sample may not be offered for air

transport.

In addition, the shipment of pre-preserved sample containers or bottles of preservatives (e.g.,

NaOH pellets, HCL, etc.) which are designated as dangerous goods by IATA is regulated.

Shipment of nitric acid is forbidden on all aircraft. Dangerous goods must not be offered for air

transport without contacting the Division dangerous goods shipment designee.

The Project Leader is responsible for the identification of sample packaging and shipping

procedures on a case-by-case basis when dangerous goods must be shipped. If the materials to be

shipped are identified as dangerous goods, then

the Field Team Leader must identify specific shipping requirements and procedures to be

carried out on a case-by-case basis in accordance with applicable shipping regulations.

The Field Personnel must pack dangerous goods according to case-specific procedures

provided by the project leader.

References for Appendix A and B

Dangerous goods Regulations, International Air Transport Authority (IATA). Current Edition

which changes annually.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-002 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

of 13


EPA Order 1000.18, February 16, 1979.

“Final Regulation Package for Compliance with DOT Regulations in the Shipment of

Environmental Laboratory Samples,” Memo from David Weitzman, Work Group Chairman,

Office of Occupational Health and Safety (PM-273), US-EPA, April 13, 1981.

40 CFR 136.3. July 1, 2001. See Table 11, Footnote 3

ENVP-003

Field Logbooks

Revision 1

Approved:


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-003 Rev. 1, 01/01/11

Page 2 of 9


REVISION HISTORY

Revision No.

Effective Date



1 01/01/11 All Updated logos and references.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-003 Rev. 1, 01/01/11

Page 3 of 9


CONTENTS

DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................4

ACRONYMS ...................................................................................................................................4

1. PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................5

2. SCOPE .................................................................................................................................5


3.1 Project Manager .......................................................................................................5

3.2 Field Team Leader/Site Supervisor .........................................................................5

3.3 Quality Assurance Manager .....................................................................................5

3.4 Field Personnel.........................................................................................................6

4. FIELD LOGBOOKS ...........................................................................................................6

4.1 Field Logbook Content ............................................................................................6

5. RECORDS ...........................................................................................................................8

6. REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................8

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-003 Rev. 1, 01/01/11

Page 4 of 9


DEFINITIONS

Field Logbook The field logbook is a bound notebook with consecutively numbered pages

that cannot be removed. Space shall be provided at the bottom of each page

of the field logbook for signatures of those making daily entries and daily

Quality Control (QC) Checks.

ACRONYMS


HSP Health and Safety Procedure


QC Quality Control

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-003 Rev. 1, 01/01/11

Page 5 of 9


1. PURPOSE

This procedure defines directions for use of field logbooks to maintain a record of

activities, references to procedures, and observations necessary to reconstruct or recreate

the activity being recorded.

2. SCOPE

This procedure establishes the format, data entry, and record retention requirements

associated with using field logbooks. Field logbooks provide an official and legal record

of the events that occur during an activity, a documented record that can be used to

reconstruct occurrences, a measure of compliance to requirements that can be audited,

and historical data for long-term review of parameters.

The field logbook is a controlled document that records all major on-site activities. The

use of the field logbook begins at the start of the first on-site activity (e.g., site

reconnaissance). Entries are made throughout each day that on-site activities occur. The

field logbook becomes part of the permanent project file. Since the field logbook contains

information that may be admitted as evidence in legal proceedings, it is imperative that

the document be properly maintained. Activities should be able to be recreated with

entries recorded in the logbook.

3. RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Project Manager

Issues the field logbook to the appropriate personnel responsible for the direction of

on-site activities (i.e., Field Team Leader, Site Supervisor).

Performs inspections on a bi-weekly basis of the field logbook to ensure that it is

being properly maintained.

3.2 Field Team Leader/Site Supervisor

Maintains the site logbook while in his/her possession and returns it to the Project

Manager or turns it over to another field team.

After completion of all field activities, the field logbook is returned to the Project

Manager for inclusion in the permanent project file.

3.3 Quality Assurance Manager

Performs a quality assurance reviews.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-003 Rev. 1, 01/01/11

Page 6 of 9


3.4 Field Personnel

Records information as instructed by the Field Team Leader/Site Supervisor, into the

field logbooks in accordance with this procedure.

4. FIELD LOGBOOKS

Recordable information includes, but is not limited to, field work documentation, safety

meetings, weather conditions, field instrumentation readings, calculations, calibration

records, photograph references, sample identification numbers, meeting information,

relevant times and dates of telephone conferences, correspondence, diagrams of sample

or removal action locations, or deliverables. The following list shall be followed when

recording information in logbooks:

Entries are made in waterproof, permanent, black ink.

Keep logbooks current with clear, concise, and complete entries.

Write legibly and ensure logbook entries can be reproduced on standard photocopy

machines.

No information is written in logbook margins.

Protect logbooks against damage, deterioration, or loss.

If an error is discovered in the logbook, void the entry by drawing a single line

through the erroneous entry. Do not erase or cover up the entry. Write the correct

information next to the error. Initial and date the voided entry.

Check the field logbook daily to verify data is legible, complete, and understandable,

then sign and date each page daily.

4.1 Field Logbook Content

The cover of each field logbook shall contain the following information:

Project name and number

Responsible party’s name

Sequential book number

Start and end dates

During the day, a summary of all site activities shall be recorded in the logbook. The

information need not duplicate anything recorded in other field notebooks (e.g., Site

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-003 Rev. 1, 01/01/11

Page 7 of 9


Health and Safety Officer’s notebook, calibration logbook, etc.), but shall summarize the

contents of the other notebooks and refer to these notebooks for detailed information. At

the completion of entries by any individual, the logbook must be signed.

If measurements are made at any location, the measurements and equipment used must

either be recorded in the site logbook or reference must be made to the notebook and

page number(s) on which they are recorded. It is best practice to include data in this

logbook so information is located in one place. All maintenance and calibration records

for equipment shall be traceable through field records to the person using the instrument

and to the specific piece of instrumentation itself.

At a minimum, the following general activities/events shall be recorded in the site

logbook:

Arrival/departure of site visitors,

Arrival/departure of major site equipment (e.g., drill rigs, excavators, etc.),

Sample and waste shipment information (i.e., shipping manifests, chain-of-custody

form numbers, carrier, air bill numbers, time);

A summary of activities and log sheet numbers, and

Start and completion time of individual activities.

Daily entries into the field logbook may include a variety of information, depending on

the project scope. At the beginning of each day, the following information must be

recorded.

Date,

Start time,

Weather conditions,

All field personnel present, and

Any visitors present.

Projects that include field sample collection shall have the field sample identification

and sampling location recorded in the field logbook include and/or reference

sampling logs that contain the following information:

Depth or depth interval,

Types and numbers of samples collected,

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-003 Rev. 1, 01/01/11

Page 8 of 9


Collection method, time, and date of sample collection,

Type and preparation of sample bottles, preservation of samples,

Field measurement data,

Field instrument calibration checks,

Weather conditions,

Any observations of conditions or incidents affecting sampling activities and/or

sample quality,

Reference to project documentation directing sampling activities (i.e. sample plan),

Any required deviations from the sample plan used for the project,

Other information required by the sample or characterization plan and Health and

Safety Plan (HSP), and

Date each sample is sent to the laboratory with reference to the name of the

laboratory, and chain-of-custody number per ENVP-021, Chain-of-Custody

Documentation.

At the completion of entries by any individual, the logbook must be signed.

5. RECORDS


Records Management:

Field Logbook

6. REFERENCES

ENVP-021, Chain-of-Custody Documentation


APPENDIX A, EXAMPLE OF LOGBOOK ENTRY

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-003 Rev. 1, 01/01/11

Page 9 of 9


ENVP-004

Collection of Quality Control Samples

Revision 3

Approved:

Dana Swift for Joe Rothermel – Original Signature on File 03/27/13 Division Manager Date

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-004 Rev. 3, 03/27/13

Page 2 of 12

VERIFY THAT THIS IS THE CORRECT VERSION BEFORE USE http://portal.northwind.grp/corporate/documents/

REVISION HISTORY

Revision

No.

Effective

Date

Sections

Affected Description









2 01/01/11 All Replace references to NWI with NW. Update logos

and references.

3 03/27/13 Revision

History

Editorial change.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-004 Rev. 3, 03/27/13

Page 3 of 12


CONTENTS

DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................4

ACRONYMS ...................................................................................................................................4

1. PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................5

2. SCOPE .................................................................................................................................5


3.1 Project Manager .......................................................................................................5

3.2 Sampling Technician ...............................................................................................5

4. COLLECTION OF QUALITY CONTROL SAMPLES .....................................................5

4.1 Experience Requirements ........................................................................................5

4.2 Traceability Requirements .......................................................................................6

4.3 Chain of Custody .....................................................................................................6

4.4 Sampling Equipment Construction Material ...........................................................6

4.5 Sample Preservation.................................................................................................6

4.6 Special Precautions for Trace Contamination Sampling .........................................7

4.7 Sample Handling and Mixing ..................................................................................7

4.8 Special Handling of Samples for Volatile Organic Compounds Analysis ..............8

4.9 Estimating Variability ..............................................................................................9

5. SPECIAL QUALITY CONTROL PROCEDURES ..........................................................11

5.1 Special Quality Control Procedures for Extractable Organic Compounds,

Pesticides, or Herbicides Analyses (Matrix Duplicate) .........................................11

5.2 Special Quality Control Procedures for EPA Contract Laboratories .....................12

6. RECORDS .........................................................................................................................12

7. REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................12

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-004 Rev. 3, 03/27/13

Page 4 of 12


DEFINITIONS

Project

Manager

Individual with ultimate responsibility for the success of a sampling project.

ACRONYMS

CLP Contract Laboratory Program


EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

NW North Wind

PWP Project Work Plan

PVC Polyvinyl Chloride

QA Quality Assurance


QC Quality Control

SAP Sampling and Analysis Plan

VOC Volatile Organic Compound

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-004 Rev. 3, 03/27/13

Page 5 of 12


1. PURPOSE

This procedure provides guidelines for establishing quality control (QC) procedures for

sampling activities. Strict adherence to all of the processes outlined in this procedure

form the basis for an acceptable sampling Quality Assurance (QA) program.

2. SCOPE


procedure in the Project Execution Plan (PEP), Project Work Plan, or Sampling and

Analysis Plan (SAP).

3. RESPONSIBILITIES

The Project Manager and Sampling Technician are individuals who have responsibilities

to ensure that QA/QC requirements are met.

3.1 Project Manager

Establishes detailed procedures in a project-specific SAP;

Maintains chain-of-custody documents;

Identifies QA/QC problems issues from field notes and analytical data; and,

Provides corrective action information to the field sampling team during resolution of

QA/QC issues;

3.2 Sampling Technician

Adheres to QA/QC procedures identified in the project-specific SAP;

Prepares QC samples as discussed in this procedure and the SAP; and,

Prepares chain-of-custody forms and sampling field notes.

4. COLLECTION OF QUALITY CONTROL SAMPLES

This section identifies standard QA/QC procedures that are expected to be included in

applicable project-specific SAPs.

4.1 Experience Requirements

There is no substitute for field experience. Therefore, all Sampling Technicians shall

have the equivalent of six months field experience before they are permitted to select

sampling sites on their own initiative. This field experience shall be gained by on-the-job

training using the "buddy" system. Each new Sampling Technician shall accompany an

experienced employee on as many different types of field studies as possible. During this

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-004 Rev. 3, 03/27/13

Page 6 of 12


training period, the new employee will be permitted to perform all facets of field

investigations, including sampling, under the direction and supervision of senior

Sampling Technicians.

4.2 Traceability Requirements

All sample collection activities shall be traceable through field records to the person

collecting the sample and to the specific piece of sampling equipment (where

appropriate) used to collect that sample. All maintenance and calibration records for

sampling equipment shall be maintained in accordance with QAP-121, Control of

Measuring and Test Equipment.

4.3 Chain of Custody

A chain-of-custody (COC) record is used as physical evidence of sample custody. The

Sampling Technician will complete a COC to accompany each sample shipment from the

field to the laboratory. The COC specifies time, date, sample location, unique sample

number, requested analyses, Sampling Technician name, required turnaround time, time

and date of transaction between field and laboratory staff, and name of receiving party at

the laboratory. Upon receipt of the samples, laboratory personnel confirm that the

contents of the shipment are accurately described by the COC. Upon verification, the

laboratory representative signs and dates the COC, indicating receipt of the samples.

Copies of the COCs are included in all reports containing laboratory test data.

4.4 Sampling Equipment Construction Material

Sampling equipment construction materials can affect sample analytical results.

Materials used must not contaminate the sample being collected and must be easily

decontaminated so that samples are not cross-contaminated.

4.5 Sample Preservation

Samples for some analyses must be preserved in order to maintain their integrity.

Chemical preservatives are typically provided by the analytical laboratory. All samples

requiring preservation shall be preserved immediately upon collection in the field.

Samples that will not be preserved in the field are:

Those collected within a hazardous waste site that are known or thought to be highly

contaminated with toxic materials which may be highly reactive. Barrel, drum,

closed container, spillage, or other source samples from hazardous waste sites are not

to be preserved with any chemical. These samples may be preserved by placing the

sample container on ice, if necessary.

Those that have extremely low or high pH or samples that may generate potentially

dangerous gases when preserved.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-004 Rev. 3, 03/27/13

Page 7 of 12


Those for metals analyses which are shipped by air shall not be preserved with nitric

acid in excess of 0.15 weight percent of the solution.

All samples preserved with chemicals shall be clearly identified by indication on the

sample tag that the sample is preserved. If samples normally requiring preservation were

not preserved, field records shall clearly specify the reason.

4.6 Special Precautions for Trace Contamination Sampling

Some contaminants can be detected in the parts per billion and/or parts per trillion range.

Extreme care must be taken to prevent cross-contamination of these samples. The

following precautions shall be taken when trace contaminants are of concern:

A clean pair of new, non-powdered, disposable latex gloves will be worn each time a

different location is sampled and the gloves shall be donned immediately prior to

sampling. The gloves shall not come into contact with the media being sampled.

Sample containers for source samples or samples suspected of containing high

concentrations of contaminants shall be placed in separate plastic bags immediately

after collecting, tagging, etc.

If possible, ambient samples and source samples shall be collected by different field

teams. If different field teams cannot be used, all ambient samples shall be collected

first and placed in separate ice chests or shipping containers. Samples of waste or

highly contaminated samples shall never be placed in the same ice chest as

environmental samples. Ice chests or shipping containers for source samples or

samples suspected to contain high concentrations of contaminants shall be lined with

new, clean, plastic bags.

If possible, one member of the field sampling team shall take all the notes; fill out

tags, etc., while the other members collect the samples.

When sampling surface waters, the water sample shall always be collected before the

sediment sample is collected.

Sample collection activities shall proceed progressively from the least suspected

contaminated area to the most suspected contaminated area.

Sampling Technicians shall use equipment constructed of Teflon®, stainless steel, or

glass that has been properly pre-cleaned for collection of samples for trace metals or

organic compounds analyses. Teflon® or glass is preferred for collecting samples

where trace metals are of concern. Clean, disposable equipment shall be used where

practical.

4.7 Sample Handling and Mixing

After collection, all sample handling shall be minimized. Sampling Technician shall use

extreme care to ensure that samples are not contaminated. If samples are placed in an ice

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-004 Rev. 3, 03/27/13

Page 8 of 12


chest, Sampling Technicians shall ensure that melted ice cannot cause the sample

containers to become submerged, as this may result in sample cross-contamination.

Plastic bags, such as Zip-Lock® bags or similar plastic bags sealed with tape, shall be

used when small sample containers (e.g., Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) vials or

bacterial samples) are placed in ice chests to prevent cross-contamination.

Once a sample has been collected, it may have to be transferred into separate containers

for different analyses. The best way to transfer liquid samples is to continually stir the

sample contents with a clean pipette or pre-cleaned Teflon® rod and allow the contents to

be alternately siphoned into respective sample containers using Teflon® or Polyvinyl

Chloride (PVC) (Tygon® type) tubing (and a siphon bulb to start the flow). Teflon®

must be used when analyses for organic compounds or trace metals are to be conducted.

Any device used for stirring, or tubing used for siphoning, must be cleaned in the same

manner as other equipment. However, samples collected for volatile organic compound,

oil and grease, bacteria, sulfides, and phenols analyses may not be transferred using this

procedure. For these analyses the sample containers shall be filled directly from the

sampling equipment rather than collected into a single collection vessel and proportioned

to fill the sample containers.

It is extremely important that waste (when appropriate), soil and sediment samples be

mixed thoroughly to ensure that the sample is as representative as possible of the sample

media. The most common method of mixing is referred to as quartering. The quartering

procedure shall be performed as follows:

1. The material in the sample pan shall be divided into quarters and each quarter shall

be mixed individually.

2. Two quarters shall then be mixed to form halves.

3. The two halves shall be mixed to form a homogenous matrix.

This procedure shall be repeated several times until the sample is adequately mixed. If

round bowls are used for sample mixing, adequate mixing is achieved by stirring the

material in a circular fashion, reversing direction, and occasionally turning the material

over.

4.8 Special Handling of Samples for Volatile Organic Compounds Analysis

Water samples to be analyzed for volatile organic compounds shall be stored in 40-ml

septum vials with screw cap and Teflon®-silicone disk in the cap to prevent

contamination of the sample by the cap. The disks shall be placed in the caps (Teflon®

side to be in contact with the sample) in the laboratory prior to the beginning of the

sampling program.

The vials shall be completely filled to prevent volatilization, and extreme caution shall be

exercised when filling a vial to avoid any turbulence which could also produce

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-004 Rev. 3, 03/27/13

Page 9 of 12


volatilization. The sample shall be carefully poured down the side of the vial to minimize

turbulence. As a rule, it is best to gently pour the last few drops into the vial so that

surface tension holds the water in a convex meniscus. The cap is then applied and some

overflow is lost, but the air space in the bottle is eliminated. After capping, turn the

bottle over and tap it to check for bubbles. If any bubbles are present, repeat the

procedure with another clean 40-ml vial. Since the VOC vials are pre-preserved, caution

shall be exercised when the vials are used as the collection device for surface water

samples in order to prevent the loss of the preservative. When collecting water samples

for VOCs, three 40-ml vials containing preservative shall be filled with sample.

Soil samples for VOC analyses shall be collected and handled as appropriate for the

sample container being filled. VOC samples shall not be mixed and shall be collected as

soon as possible after the sample has been removed from its point of origin. The VOC

samples shall be preserved as required by the analytical method as soon as they are

placed in the sample container.

4.9 Estimating Variability

4.9.1 Spatial Variability

The following spatial duplicate sampling procedures shall be used during the collection

of samples as a measure of variability within the area represented by the sample. When

appropriate, spacial duplicate grab and/or composite samples shall be collected during

major investigations and studies. A "major study" would include all investigations where

more than twenty (20) samples were collected or those studies where the study objectives

dictate that additional quality control samples be collected. No more than ten percent of

all samples shall be collected as spatial duplicates. These samples shall be collected at the

same time, using the same procedures, the same type of equipment, and in the same types

of containers as the original samples, but collected from a different location within the

area represented by the original. They shall also be preserved in the same manner and

submitted for the same analyses as the required samples. The collection of spatial

duplicate composite samples requires that the sample aliquots be arrayed in a manner

different from the original sample and spaced within the same area of representativeness.

Data from spatial duplicates will be examined to determine if the samples represent the

areas intended in the project work plan.

4.9.2 Temporal Variability

When required, temporal variability at a given sampling location will be measured by

collecting temporal duplicate samples. These samples will be collected from the same

sampling location, using the same techniques and the same type of equipment, but at a

time different from the original sample. The time selected for the temporal duplicate

sample will be within the same span of time for which the original sample is designed to

be representative in the project work plan. Data from temporal duplicates will be

examined by the Project Manager to determine if samples represent the time span

intended in the project work plan.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-004 Rev. 3, 03/27/13

Page 10 of 12


4.9.3 Sample Handling Variability

The effectiveness of sample handling techniques will be measured by collecting split and

blank samples.

4.9.3.1 Split Samples

Split samples will be collected by initially collecting twice as much material as

is normally collected for a sample. After mixing, the material will be

apportioned into two sets of containers. Both sets of containers will be

submitted for analyses with unique identification codes. Data from split

samples will be examined to determine sample handling variability. On large

studies (more than 20 samples), no more than 10 percent of all samples will be

collected as split samples.

4.9.3.2 Blank Samples

The following blank samples will be prepared by the laboratory and obtained by

the Project Manager prior to traveling to a sample site.

1. Water Sample VOC Trip Blank -- A water sample VOC trip blank is

required for every study where water samples are collected for VOC

analysis. Two sealed preserved (or unpreserved if appropriate) 40-ml VOC

vials will be transported to the field. For routine studies these samples will

be prepared by lab personnel. Sampling Technicians shall request that these

samples be provided at least one week in advance of scheduled field

investigations and inspections and never (except in emergency situations)

less than two days in advance of scheduled field investigations and

inspections. These samples shall not be picked up earlier than the morning

of departure for the scheduled inspection/investigation. These field blanks

will be handled and treated in the same manner as the water samples

collected for volatile organic compounds analysis on that particular study.

2. Soil Sample VOC Trip Blank -- A soil sample VOC trip blank is required

for every study where soil samples are collected for VOC analysis. This trip

blank may consist of a purified water blank in two 40 ml vials, as above, or

may be pure solid material provided by the laboratory (i.e., lab sand).

These samples will be clearly identified on sample tags and COC Records as

trip blanks.

The following blanks may be prepared in the field according to the Sampling

and Analysis Plan for the project:

1. Inorganic Sample Preservative Blanks -- Metals and general inorganic

sample containers filled with analyte-free water will be transported to the

field and preserved and submitted for the same analyses as the other

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-004 Rev. 3, 03/27/13

Page 11 of 12


inorganic samples collected. These samples will be clearly identified as

preservatives blanks on sample tags and the COC Record(s).

2. Equipment Field Blanks -- When field cleaning equipment is required

during a sampling investigation, a piece of the field-cleaned equipment will

be selected for collection of a rinse blank. After the piece of equipment has

been field cleaned and prior to its being used for sample operations, it will

be rinsed with organic/analyte free water. The rinse water will be collected

and submitted for analyses of all constituents for which normal samples

collected with that piece of equipment are being analyzed.

3. Organic/Analyte Free Water System Blanks -- When using a portable

organic-free water generating system in the field, a sample of the raw source

water and water generated will be collected at least once during each week

of operations. The collected water sample will be submitted for analyses of

all constituents for which normal samples are being analyzed.

4. Material Blanks -- When construction materials are being used on a site in

such a way as to have a potential impact on constituent concentrations in the

sample, a sample of the materials will be submitted for analyses. An

example of a situation where construction blanks might be required is

monitoring well construction. In this situation all materials used in well

construction could be submitted for analyses (e.g., grout, sand, tap water,

etc.).

Analytical results from these blank samples are indicators of the quality of the

sampling process. The Project Manager shall provide corrective measures to

the field sampling crew if any of the blank results indicate unacceptable sample

quality.

5. SPECIAL QUALITY CONTROL PROCEDURES

This section identifies QC procedures that may be included in applicable SAPs where

specialized analysis or independent laboratory checks are required.

5.1 Special Quality Control Procedures for Extractable Organic Compounds, Pesticides, or Herbicides Analyses (Matrix Duplicate)

Duplicate water samples may be submitted, as required by the project Sampling and

Analysis Plan, to the laboratory for extractable organic compounds, pesticides, and/or

herbicides analyses from at least one sampling location per project and laboratory used.

These samples shall be collected from a location expected to be relatively free from

contamination, since the samples will be used for laboratory quality control purposes.

The duplicate samples shall be clearly identified as "Duplicate Sample for Matrix Spike"

on the sample tag, COC Record, in the field logbook, and on the Contract Laboratory

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-004 Rev. 3, 03/27/13

Page 12 of 12


Program (CLP) Traffic Report Form (if appropriate). This procedure shall be followed

for all projects where water samples are collected for the indicated analyses.

5.2 Special Quality Control Procedures for EPA Contract Laboratories

On a case-by-case basis, split samples may be required (or duplicate samples if

appropriate) for analyses by both the contract laboratory and an independent laboratory.

The contract laboratory involved shall not be notified that samples were split, i.e., there

shall be no indication on COC Records or CLP Traffic Report Forms submitted to the

contract laboratories that these samples were split with the independent laboratory.

6. RECORDS


Records Management:

Chain-of-Custody forms

Calibration Records

CLP Traffic Report

Field Logbook

Field notes including sample collection forms and logbooks.

7. REFERENCES

QAP-121, Control of Measuring and Test Equipment


ENVP-005

Design, Installation, and Development of Monitoring Wells

Revision 3

Approved:

Sylvia Medina for Joe Rothermel per NW-2010-130 12-30-10 Division Manager Date

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 2 of 21


REVISION HISTORY

Revision No.

Effective Date



1 03/13/06 All Changed title from “ER” to “ENV”








3 01/01/11 All Replaced references to NWI with NW. Updated logos

and references.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 3 of 21


CONTENTS

DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................4

ACRONYMS ...................................................................................................................................4

1. PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................5

2. SCOPE .................................................................................................................................5


3.1 Drilling Subcontractor .............................................................................................5

3.2 Project Manager .......................................................................................................6

3.3 Field Geologist .........................................................................................................6

3.3.1 Equipment 6

4. Procedure/method ................................................................................................................8

4.1 Field Preparation ......................................................................................................8

4.2 Drilling Methods ......................................................................................................9

4.3 Sample Preservation, Container, Handling, and Storage .........................................9

4.4 Monitoring Well Construction ...............................................................................10

4.4.1 Bedrock Wells 10

4.4.2 Overburden Well Construction ..................................................................11

4.5 Well Development .................................................................................................13

5. CALCULATIONS .............................................................................................................14

6. QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL ..........................................................15

7. HEALTH AND SAFETY ..................................................................................................15

8. REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................15

9. RECORDS .........................................................................................................................15

APPENDIX A, Monitor Well Construction Standard ...................................................................17

APPENDIX B, Example, ENVF-005.1, General Well Information Form ....................................19

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 4 of 21


DEFINITIONS

None

ACRONYMS

ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials

CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act

EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

NW North Wind

PID photo-ionization detector

PVC polyvinyl chloride

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 5 of 21


1. PURPOSE

The purpose of this procedure is to provide an overview of the methods used for the

drilling and installation of groundwater monitor wells. These standards are not intended

as a complete manual for monitoring well construction and alteration, maintenance, and

abandonment. These standards may be varied or changed as required, dependent on site

conditions, state regulations, equipment limitations, or limitations imposed by the

procedure themselves.

2. SCOPE

This procedure applies to all North Wind (NW) personnel who are responsible for

installing new groundwater monitoring wells.

Monitor well installations create permanent access for collecting samples to assess

groundwater quality and the hydrogeology properties of the aquifer in which

contaminants may exist. A monitor well is constructed for the purpose of determining

water levels, monitoring chemicals, bacteriological, radiological, or other physical

properties of ground water or vadose zone water. Such wells should not alter the

medium, which is being monitored.

Most monitor well projects are the results of compliance with the U.S. Environmental

Protection Agency (EPA), federal regulations such as the Resource Conservation and

Recovery Act, Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act

(CERCLA or "Superfund"), or specific state solid and hazardous waste requirements.

Guidelines and recommended practices dealing with the installation of monitor wells may

be obtained from these agencies, along with guideline regulations from various state and

local agencies, and state engineers. American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

documents also reference proper procedures and methods used in the drilling and

installation of monitor wells.

The Contracts governing monitor well installation are written containing specific

requirements as to site location, materials used, sampling procedures and overall

objectives. Therefore, specific construction procedures and requirements shall be

governed by applicable contracts and regulations providing they meet or exceed state

requirements and specifications.

3. RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Drilling Subcontractor

Ensures that field personnel comprising the field crew are properly trained in drilling

techniques and construction of ground water monitoring wells.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 6 of 21


3.2 Project Manager

Meets customer's expectations and serves as a primary point of contact with the

customer.

Ensures that field personnel are familiar with the drilling and construction methods of

ground water monitoring wells and are properly trained.

Ensures that support field personnel have access to necessary equipment to complete

the monitor well installation project.

Ensures that the proper protocol and procedures are followed during installation and

documentation.

3.3 Field Geologist

Follows all procedures, plans and protocols to complete the monitor well installation

adequately.

Monitors on-site drilling, including the documentation of drilling activities, problems

encountered, borehole conditions and hazards.

Collects representative samples of drill cuttings, cores or wire line soil samples when

required for geologic logging

Conducts field screening using an appropriate air-monitoring instrument (photo-

ionization detector [PID]) to determine the presence of volatile organic compounds.

Submits water/soil samples to a certified laboratory for analysis as needed, and for

archival purposes.

Generates a geologic log documenting drilling/coring conditions and materials

encountered, as well as well construction, with material used and depth of placement.

Ensure all documentation is complete and legible.

3.3.1 Equipment

The following equipment is necessary for the field geologist/hydrogeologist:

Site map

Clipboard

Appropriate forms

Camera

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 7 of 21


Engineer's tape (weighted wire tag line > 300 ft, graduated-feet in tenths)

Folding rule or engineer's tape measure, graduated-feet in tenths

Portable organic vapor detector (i.e., PID) and calibration equipment

Electronic water level indicator (>300 ft)

All required health and safety gear (personal protective equipment) as specified in

site-specific Health and Safety Plan

Strainer/sieve

Sample collection jars/bags (cooler and ice required when collecting environmental

samples)

Trowels

Description aids (Munsell color chart, ASTM Standard D 2488-00, Modified United

Soil Classification scheme, etc.)

Sand grain size chart

Acid bottle containing dilute hydrochloric acid

Hand lens

Geological Field Book, straight edge, permanent ink pens and markers.

Company approved record of drill/core hole log book

The drilling subcontractor normally provides equipment and tools that are used to install

wells.

The following equipment is optional for the field geologist/hydrogeologist:

Copy of drilling contract

Brunton compass

Pocket penetrometer

Surveyor's flagging tape

Grease pencil/soapstone marker

Cooler and water bottles

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 8 of 21


Flashlight

Rock hammer

Sieves

4. PROCEDURE/METHOD

All drilling and well installation programs must be planned and supervised by a

professional geologist/hydrogeologist. The planning, selection and implementation of any

monitor well installation program should include the following:

Literature Search-review of existing data on site geology and hydrogeology including

publications, water quality data, near by boring logs and existing maps. These may

be obtained from local, state or federal agencies

Initial and Field Reconnaissance-assessment of the site to determine potential access

problems for drill rig, locate water supply source, establish equipment storage are,

and observe outcrops

Perform utilities check, note location of underground utilities and of overhead

electrical wires

Preparation of a Site Health and Safety Plan

Selection of proper drilling, sampling and well development methods

Determination of well construction specifications (i.e., casing and screen materials,

casing and screen diameter, screen length and screen interval, screen slot size, filter

pack, grout and seal)

Determination of the need for containing drill cuttings and fluids and their method of

disposal

Preparation work plan including all of the above

Preparation and execution of the drilling contract

4.1 Field Preparation

Prior to mobilization, the drill rig and all associated equipment should be thoroughly

decontaminated by a steam/pressure washer to remove all oil, grease, mud, etc. Before

drilling each boring, all "down-the-hole" drill equipment should be steam cleaned and

rinsed with potable water to minimize cross-contamination. Special attention should be

given to the threaded section of the casing, and to the drill rods. All drilling equipment

should be steam-cleaned at completion of the project to ensure that no contamination is

transported to or from the sampling site.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 9 of 21


4.2 Drilling Methods

There is no ideal monitor well installation method for all conditions therefore,

hydrogeologic conditions at the site as well as project objectives must be considered

before deciding which drilling and installation method is appropriate.

The type of equipment required to create a stable, open, vertical borehole for installation

of a monitoring well depends upon the site geology, hydrology, and the intended use of

the data. Engineering and geological judgment and some knowledge of subsurface

geological conditions at the site is required for the selection of the appropriate drilling

method(s) utilized for drilling the exploratory soil borings and monitor wells.

Appropriate drilling methods for investigating and installing monitor wells at a site may

include any one or a combination of several of the following methods:

Hollow-stem auger

Direct (mud) rotary

Direct air-rotary

Direct rotary, wire-line casing and rotary drive casing advancement

Dual-wall reverse-circulation, rotary and percussion hammer drive

Cable-tool

Various casing advancement methods.

Whenever feasible, it is advisable to utilize drilling procedures that do not require the

introduction of water or drilling fluids into the borehole, and that optimize cuttings

control at ground surface. Where the use of water or drilling fluid is unavoidable, the

selected fluid should have as little impact as possible on the water samples for the

constituents of interest. The chemistry of the fluid to be used should be evaluated to

determine the potential for water- quality sample alteration. In addition, care should be

taken to remove as much drilling fluid as possible from the well and the surrounding

formation during the well development process. It is recommended that if an air

compressor is used, it should be equipped with an oil air filter or oil trap to minimize the

potential for chemical alteration of ground-water samples collected after the well is

installed.

4.3 Sample Preservation, Container, Handling, and Storage

Often, a primary objective of the drilling program is to obtain representative lithologic or

environmental samples. The most common techniques for retrieving samples are:

In unconsolidated formations:

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 10 of 21


Split soon sampling, carried out continuously or at discrete intervals during drilling

Shelby tube sampling when an undisturbed sample is required from clayey or silty

soils, especially for geotechnical evaluation or chemical analysis

Cutting collection when a general lithologic description and approximate depths are

sufficient

In consolidated formations:

Rock coring at continuous or discrete intervals

Cutting collection when a general description and approximate depths are sufficient

When collecting environmental samples, the amount of sample to be collected and the

proper sample container type (i.e., glass, plastic), chemical preservation, and storage

requirements are dependent on the matrix being sampled and the parameter(s) of interest.

Sample preservation, containers, handling and storage for air and waste samples are

discussed in the specific SOP for the technique selected.

4.4 Monitoring Well Construction

A stable borehole must be constructed prior to attempting the installation of monitoring

well screen and riser. Steps must be taken to stabilize the borehole before attempting

installation if the borehole tends to cave or blow in, or both. Boreholes that are not

straight or are partially obstructed should be corrected prior to attempting the installation

procedures described herein. Prior to well installation the borehole needs to be tagged (or

logged with down-the-hole instrument, or camera) for total depth.

The well casing material should not interact with the groundwater. Well casings for

environmental projects are usually constructed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), Teflon,

fiberglass, or stainless steel.

4.4.1 Bedrock Wells

Wells completed in bedrock will be drilled using the air or mud rotary method.

Crystalline rock wells are usually drilled most efficiently with the air rotary method while

consolidated sedimentary formations are drilled using either the air rotary or mud rotary

method. The compressed air supply will be filtered prior to introduction into the

borehole to remove oil or other contaminants. Bedrock wells may be completed as an

open-hole, providing that borehole cave-in is not a possibility.

Bedrock well will be advanced with air or mud rotary methods until a minimum of 5 ft of

competent rock has been drilled. Minimum borehole diameter will be 8 inches. The drill

string will be pulled from the borehole and 6-inch I.D. Schedule 80 or 40 PVC casing

inserted. Portland cement/bentonite grout will be pumped into the hole and up the

annular space outside the casing. After the grout has set (minimum of 24 hours), the

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 11 of 21


cement will be drilled out and the borehole advanced to the desired depth (Figure 1,

Appendix A shows typical details for an open-hole bedrock well).

The preferred method of well completion for the bedrock wells will be open-hole.

However, if the open borehole is subject to cave-in, the well(s) will be completed as

screened and cased sand-packed wells. For details of completion, see Section 4.4.2.

4.4.2 Overburden Well Construction

Any of the drilling methods discussed in this SOP can be used to drill or set a well in the

overburden. The hollow-stem method is the preferred choice for shallow (<100 ft.)

overburden wells because the well can be constructed inside the augers. Dual wall

reverse circulation drilling using high-pressure air and a percussion action top head pile

drive hammer is best for overburden well deeper than 100 ft. Details of the construction

are provided below (also shown in Figure 2, Appendix A):

1. The screen slot size will be determined by the site geologist/hydrogeologist, based

upon sand-pack size. The length of screen used will be site-dependent. Casing

sections will be flush-threaded. Screw-threaded bottom plugs will be used. To prevent

introduction of contaminants into the well, no glue-connected fittings will be used.

Each piece of PVC pipe, screen, and the bottom plug will be steam-cleaned before

lowering into the borehole unless covered in protective plastic. The site

geologist/hydrogeologist is responsible for the supervision of all stream-cleaning

procedures.

2. The annular space between the well screen and the borehole wall will be filled with a

uniform gravel/sand pack to serve as a filter media. For wells deeper than

approximately 50 feet, or when recommended by the site geologist, the sand pack will

be emplaced using tremie pipe. A sand-slurry composed of sand and potable water

will be poured/pumped through the tremie pipe into the annulus, if needed,

throughout the entire screened interval, and over the top of the screen. Allowance

must be made for settlement of the sand pack.

3. The depth of the top of the sand will be determined using a weighted tag line through

the tremie pipe, thus verifying the thickness of the sand pack. Additional sand shall be

added if necessary to bring the top of the sand pack to approximately 2 to 3 feet

above the top of the well screen. Under no circumstances should the sand pack

extend into any aquifer other than the one to be monitored. In most cases, the well

design can be modified to allow for a sufficient sand pack without threat of cross-

flow between producing zones through the sand pack.

4. In materials that will not maintain an open hole using hollow-stem augers or drill rod

annulus with an open-ended bit, the temporary or outer casing/drill rod will be

withdrawn gradually during placement of sand pack/grout. For example, after filling

2 feet with sand pack, the outer casing should be withdrawn 2 feet. This step of

placing more gravel/sand and withdrawing the outer casing should be repeated until

the level of the sand pack is approximately 2 to 3 feet above the top of the well

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 12 of 21


screen. This ensures that there is no locking of the permanent (inner) casing in the

outer casing.

5. A bentonite seal of a minimum 2-feet thick will be placed in the annular space above

the sand pack, to separate the sand pack from the cement/bentonite grout surface seal.

The bentonite will be placed though a tremie pipe or poured directly into the annular

space, depending upon the depth, site conditions and if water is standing in the

interval of the bentonite plug. The bentonite will be pourable pellets. The

geologist/hydrogeologist will record the start and stop times of the bentonite seal, the

amount of bentonite that was used, the tagged top of the bentonite seal, and problems

encountered. The type of bentonite and the supplier will also be recorded.

6. If a slurry of bentonite is used as annular seal, it is prepared by mixing powdered or

granular bentonite with potable waster. The slurry must be of sufficiently high

specific gravity and viscosity to prevent its displacement by the grout to be emplaced

above it. As a precaution (regardless of depth) and depending on fluid viscosity, a

few handfuls of bentonite pellets may be added to solidify the bentonite slurry

surface.

7. Cement and/or bentonite grout is placed from the top of the bentonite seal to the

ground surface. Only Type I or II cement without accelerator additives may be used.

An approved source of potable water must be used for mixing grouting materials.

The following mixes are acceptable:

Neat cement, a maximum of 6 gallons of water per 94 pound bag of cement

Granular bentonite, 1.5 pounds of bentonite per 1 gallon of water

Cement-bentonite, 5 pounds of pure bentonite per 94 pound bag of cement with 7

to 8 gallons of water

Cement-bentonite, 6 to 8 pounds of pure bentonite per 94 pound bag of cement

with 8 to 10 gallons of water, if water mixed

Non-expandable cement, mixed at 7.5 gallons of water to one half (1/2) teaspoon

of Aluminum Hydroxide, 94 pounds of neat cement (Type I) and 4 pounds of

bentonite

Non-expandable cement, mixed at 7 gallons of water to one half (1/2) teaspoon of

Aluminum Hydroxide, 94 pounds of neat cement (Type I and Type II)

8. Grout is pumped through a tremie pipe (normally a 1.25-inch PVC or steel pipe) to

the bottom of the annulus until undiluted grout flows from the annulus at the ground

surface.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 13 of 21


9. In materials that will not maintain an open hole, temporary steel casing should be

withdrawn in a manner that prevents the level of grout from dropping below the

bottom of the casing.

10. Additional grout may be added to compensate for the removal of the temporary

casing and the tremie pipe to ensure that the top of the grout is at or above ground

surface. After the grout has set (24 hours), any depression due to settlement is filled

with a grout mix similar to that originally placed in the well bore.

11. The protective casing should now be set. Casing may be a 5-foot minimum length of

black iron (carbon steel) or galvanized pipe extending about 1.5 to 3 feet above the

ground surface, and set in concrete or cement grout. The protective casing diameter

should be 4 inches greater than the well casing. A 0.5-inch drain hole may be

installed near the ground level. A flush-mount protective casing may also be used in

areas of high traffic or where access to other areas would be limited by a well stick-

up.

12. A protective steel cap, secured to the protective casing by a padlock, should be

installed.

13. Steel guard posts should be installed around the protective casing in areas where

vehicle traffic may be a problem. Posts should have a minimum diameter of 3 inches

and be a minimum of 4 feet high.

14. All monitor wells should be labeled and dated with paint or steel tags.

4.5 Well Development

Well development is the process by which the aquifer's hydraulic conductivity is restored

by removing drilling fluids, and fine-grained formation material from newly installed

wells. Two methods of well development that are commonly used are surging and

bailing, and overpumping. A well is considered developed when the pH and conductivity

of the groundwater stabilizes and the measured turbidity is <50 nephelometric turbidity

units.

Surging and bailing will be preformed as follows:

Measure the total depth of the well and depth to water.

Using an appropriately sized surge block, surge 5-foot sections of well screen, using

10-20 up/down cycles per section. Periodically remove the surge block and bail

accumulated sediment from the well, as required.

For open-hole wells, a 6-inch surge block will be used inside the cased portion of the

well. Sediments will be bailed periodically, as required. Overpumping may be used in

combination with surging and bailing for development of bedrock wells. The

method(s) used will be based on field conditions encountered, and will be determined

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 14 of 21


by the site geologist/hydrogeologist. However, sediment will initially be removed

from the wells by bailing in order to minimize the volume of development water

generated.

The pump used must be rated to achieve the desired yield at a given depth. The pump

system should include the following:

A check valve to prevent water from running back into the well when the pump is

shut off

Flexible discharge hose

Safety cable or rope to remove the pump from the well

Flow meter monitoring system (measuring bucket or inline flow meter)

Generator

Amp meter, to measure electrical current (load)

The amp meter is used to monitor pump performance. If the pump becomes clogged, the

current will increase due to stress on the pump. If the water level drops below the intake

ports, the current will drop due to decreased resistance on the pump.

5. CALCULATIONS

To maintain an open borehole during rotary drilling, the drilling fluid must exert a

pressure greater than the formation pore pressure. Typical pore pressures for unconfined

and confined aquifers are 0.433-psi/ft and 0.465-psi/ft respectively.

The relationship for determining the hydrostatic pressure of the drilling fluid is:

Hydrostatic Pressure (psi) = Fluid Density (lb/gal) x Height of Fluid Column (ft) x 0.052

The minimum grout volume necessary to grout a well can be calculated using:

22

CB rrLV

Where:

L = length of borehole to be grouted (ft)

rв = radius of boring (ft)

rс = radius of casing (ft)

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 15 of 21


6. QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL

The following general QA procedures apply:

All data must be documented on standard well completion forms (ENVF-005.1,

General Well Information Form), field data sheets or within field/site logbooks.

Descriptive logs, pump tests, and well completion date are entered on company

approved geologic log boring/coring log forms. These log forms are used to ensure

data is collected uniformly by all Site Geologist/Hydrogeologist and provide input to

a standardize computer well file. Appendix B contains an example of this form used

to record descriptions of geologic samples of lithology.

All instruments must be operated in accordance with operating instructions as

supplied by the manufacturer, unless otherwise specified in the work plan. Equipment

checkout and calibration activities must occur prior to sampling/operation and must

be documented.

7. HEALTH AND SAFETY

Drilling rigs and equipment present a variety of safety hazards. North Wind personnel

working around drilling rigs should know the position of the emergency "kill" switch.

Wirelines and ropes should be inspected and frayed or damaged sections discarded.

Swivels and blocks should turn freely. Gages should be operational and controls clearly

marked. All underground utilities should be clearly marked, and drillers should be aware

of any overhead hazards such as power lines. Avoid drilling in these areas. Ear protection

should be worn when working around drilling equipment for extended periods of time,

particularly air rotary equipment. Failure to follow safety procedures or to wear the

proper personal protection gear on the part of either the drilling crew of North Wind

personal may result in dismissal from the job.

When working with potentially hazardous materials, follow EPA, OSHA, and corporate

health and safety practices (health and safety and job-safety-analysis documents, Material

Safety Data Sheet listings for on-the-job chemical use, and company policies specific for

the job).

8. RECORDS

The Field Geologist will manage the following records in accordance with QAP-171,

Records Management:

Field Logbooks

Boring Logs

Well Installation Forms

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 16 of 21


9. REFERENCES

American Society for Testing and Materials. 1991. Annual Book of ASTM Standards.

Designation: D5092-90 (D5092-4 updated) Standard Practice for Design and Installation

of Groundwater Monitoring Wells in Aquifers. P. 1081-1092. Philadelphia, PA.

Boateng, K., P.C. Evens, and S.M. Testa. 1984. "Groundwater Contamination of Two

Production Wells: A Case History" Groundwater Monitoring Review, V. 4, No. 2, p. 24-

31.

Keely, J. F. and Kwasi Boateng. 1987. "Monitoring Well Installation, Purging, and

Sampling Techniques-Part 2: Case Histories" Groundwater V. 25, No. 3 p. 300-313.

Keely, J. F. and Kwasi Boateng. 1987. "Monitoring Well Installation, Purging, and

Sampling Techniques-Part 2: Case Histories" Groundwater V. 25, No. 4 p. 427-439.

Driscoll, F.G. 1986. Groundwater and Wells (2nd ed.): Johnson Division, UOP inc., St.

Paul, MN. P.1089.

U.S. EPA. 1987. A Compendium of Superfund Field Operations Methods. EPA/540/p-

87/001 Office of Emergency and Remedial Responses. Washington, D.C. 20460.

U.S. EPA. 1996. Monitor Well Installation. Environmental Protection Agency. SOP #

2048. date: 03/18/96, Rev. # 0.0, Washington, D.C. 20460.


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 17 of 21


APPENDIX A, Monitor Well Construction Standard

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 18 of 21


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 19 of 21


APPENDIX B, Example, ENVF-005.1, General Well Information Form

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 20 of 21


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-005 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 21 of 21


ENVP-006

Groundwater Sampling

Revision 4

Approved:

Sylvia Medina for Joe Rothemel per NW-2010-130 12-30-10 Division Manager Date

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 2 of 25


REVISION HISTORY

Revision No.

Effective Date










2 09/25/06 4, References,

Appendix A

Revised to provide detailed technical direction, add one

reference, and add acronyms.

3 12/08/06 All Revised to clarify technical directions and add

definitions. Add example calculation in appendix.


and references.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 3 of 25


CONTENTS

DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................4

ACRONYMS ...................................................................................................................................4

1. PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................6

2. SCOPE .................................................................................................................................6


3.1 Project Manager .......................................................................................................6

3.2 Sampling Personnel .................................................................................................6

4. GROUNDWATER SAMPLING .........................................................................................7

4.1 Preparation ...............................................................................................................7

4.2 Well Purging ..........................................................................................................10

4.3 Sample Collection ..................................................................................................16

5. RECORDS .........................................................................................................................20

6. REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................20

APPENDIX A, Example Calculation ............................................................................................24

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 4 of 25


DEFINITIONS

High-Yield

Formation

A formation that provides groundwater to a well in sufficient quantity that

the well is not pumped dry at flowrates used during purging and sampling

operations.

Low-Flow

Sampling

Approach

An approach for purging a well and sampling groundwater that utilizes

groundwater extraction rates that are so low that mobilization of colloids

and larger particles in the vicinity of the well is minimized.

Low-Yield

Formation

A formation that provides groundwater to a well in such low quantity that

the well is pumped dry at flowrates used during purging and sampling

operations.

Purge Water Water extracted from a well during purging.

Purging Removal of water from a well prior to sample collection in order that the

sample consists of water recently drawn from the formation.

Standing Water

Volume

Volume of water in well under static conditions.

ACRONYMS

C degrees Celsius

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

DI Distilled or Deionized

DO Dissolved Oxygen

Eh Redox Potential


EPA Environmental Protection Agency

ft foot or feet

gal gallon

HSP Health and Safety Plan

L Liter

m meter

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 5 of 25


mg milligram

min minute

mV millivolt

NW North Wind

ORP Oxidation Reduction Potential

PEP Project Execution Plan

PQP Project Quality Plan



SOW Statement of Work

VOC Volatile Organic Compounds

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 6 of 25


1. PURPOSE

The purpose of this Procedure is to set guidelines for the collection of a sample

representative of groundwater residing in the geologic formation of interest. The purpose

of this procedure is to provide a process to support the reduction of the potential bias

caused by the sampling equipment used to obtain the sample.

2. SCOPE


procedure in the Project Execution Plan (PEP), Project Work Plan, or Project Quality

Plan (PQP).

This procedure is intended to provide general guidance on sampling of groundwater

wells, this guideline is primarily concerned with the collection of water samples from the

saturated zone of the subsurface. Every effort must be made to ensure that the sample is

representative of the particular zone of water being sampled. This procedure is designed

to be used in conjunction with analyses for the most common types of groundwater

contaminants (e.g., volatile and semivolatile organic compounds, pesticides, metals,

biological parameters). This is a standard (i.e., typically applicable) operating procedure

which may be varied or changed as required, dependent upon site conditions, equipment

limitations or limitations imposed by the procedure. In all instances, the ultimate

procedure employed should be documented and associated with the final report.

3. RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Project Manager

Meet customer’s expectations and serve as a primary point of contact with the

customer.

Ensures that the sampler has been trained and that the training has been documented.

Ensure that the sampler has access to necessary equipment to complete groundwater

sampling.

Ensures that the sampler follows protocol and procedures for completing groundwater

sampling task(s).

3.2 Sampling Personnel

Ensures appropriate preparation and planning is completed prior to groundwater

sampling activities to reduce delays in start-up or progress task.

Ensures all materials and equipment are available for sampling task.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 7 of 25


Communicates on a routine basis with the Project Manager on status of task, any

additional needs to complete task, and on any issues related to properly completing

task.

Follows all procedures and project plans to adequately complete groundwater

sampling task.

Ensures all documentation of groundwater sampling activity in logbook is complete

and legible.

4. GROUNDWATER SAMPLING

The following outlines standard groundwater sampling procedures and processes that

should be used for any groundwater sampling task. The approach for acquiring

groundwater samples can vary widely from sampling site to sampling site. This

procedure should be used as a general reference to guide filed personnel when preparing

for and performing groundwater sampling.

Groundwater sampling typically includes three phases: preparation, well purging, and

sample collection. Activities conducted in each phase are described in this section. Three

approaches for purging and sampling are described here: purging and sampling a low-

yielding formation; purging and sampling a high-yielding formation using a high-flow

approach; and purging and sampling a high-yielding formation using a low-flow

approach.

4.1 Preparation

Proper sampling preparation and organization is critical to ensure no delays in starting

sampling operations and to ensure all materials and equipment have been obtained.

Perform the following steps during preparation for groundwater sampling:

4.1.1 Coordinate sampling activities with appropriate NW/subcontractor personnel, the client,

regulatory agency, analytical laboratory, and shipping services.

4.1.2 Obtain the following documentation tools, equipment, and supplies, as appropriate, for

sampling. Verify that all equipment functions properly before deployment to the field.

For example, calibrate equipment per QAP-121, Control of Measuring and Test

Equipment and document calibration in field logbooks per ENVP-003, Field Logbooks.

Work control documents

– Health and Safety Plan (HSP)

– Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP)

Site Map

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 8 of 25


Well completion logs

Keys for gates, buildings, and well caps

Communication equipment that will work at the site, such as a cell-phone, two-way

radio, or satellite phone

Logbook

Pen with waterproof black ink

Field data sheets

Chain of custody records and seals

Calculator

Water level indicator, with space batteries

Oil-water interface probe, if appropriate

Engineer’s rule

Steel brush

Sharp knife (locking blade)

Tool box (to include at least: screwdrivers, pliers, hacksaw, hammer, flashlight,

adjustable wrench)

Plastic trash bags

Appropriate Health and Safety Equipment and personal protective equipment, as

specified in the health and safety plan

Leather work gloves

Fire extinguisher

5-gallon pail

Plastic sheeting

Sample containers and sample labels

Preservatives as specified in the SAP

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 9 of 25


Shipping containers (e.g., ice boxes) for transporting/shipping samples to analytical

laboratory

Packing materials (e.g., absorbent material such as vermiculite)

Ice or gel cold packs (e.g., Blue Ice)

Ziploc plastic bags

Containers for water produced during purging and sampling

Equipment decontamination materials:

– Decontamination solutions identified in project work control documents

– Tap water

– Non phosphate soap

– Several brushes

– Pails or tubs

– Aluminum foil

– Garden sprayer

– Distilled or deionized (DI) water

– Containers for solid and liquid decontamination wastes

Bailers with retrieval line, or other sampler/sampling pump, and ancillary equipment

Control box for sampler/pump (if necessary)

Spare parts and maintenance supplies for field serviceable components of sampling

equipment

Operator’s manual for sampling equipment

If electric power is needed, generator (110, 120, or 240 volt) with fuel, oil, and

extension cord, or 12 volt battery if inaccessible to field vehicle

Absorbent wipes

Nitrile or latex gloves

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 10 of 25


Multi-parameter water quality instrument capable of measuring temperature, pH, and

conductivity as a minimum. Other parameters, such as oxidation/reduction potential

specifications in the work planning documents.

Operator’s manual for water quality instrument

Calibration supplies for the water quality instrument

Spare parts and maintenance supplies for field-serviceable components (batteries,

fuses, electrode components and filling solutions, etc.) for water quality instruments

NOTE: Decontaminate or pre-clean equipment, and ensure that it is in working order.

Starting sampling operations with decontaminated tools is crucial to ensure

quality and reliability of sampling results. Refer to Sample Equipment

Decontamination procedure (ENVP-014).

4.1.3 Final Preparation

4.1.3.1 Ensure that appropriate sample bottles (as described in SAP) have been, labeled

and pre-loaded with preservatives (if required by SAP).

4.1.3.2 Confirm that equipment has been decontaminated prior to use.

4.1.3.3 Perform a general site survey prior to site entry.

4.1.3.4 Mobilize to the appropriate wellhead. (Start at the least contaminated well, if

known).

4.1.3.5 Don personal protective equipment, as required by the Health and Safety Plan.

As a minimum, wear clean, waterproof gloves (e.g., latex or nitrile) to prevent

skin oils, dust particles, or other contaminants from contaminating samples and

to protect personnel. Change gloves between wells or discrete sampling zones.

Leather work gloves can be worn over waterproof gloves at the discretion of

field personnel, and will be worn when required by the HSP. Leather work

gloves will not be worn while filling or handling sample containers.

4.2 Well Purging

Select sampling equipment so that disturbance of the actual concentration of the chemical

constituents of interest is minimized. The collection methods required for individual

investigations will be as defined in the governing data collection plans. Use bailers, low-

volume suction pumps, or submersible pumps to remove water from the well. Manage

purge water in accordance with the Field Sampling Plan or Project Waste Management

Plan.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 11 of 25


Separate approaches are used for wells completed in low-yield and high-yield formations.

A low-yield formation is operationally defined as one in which wells are easily pumped

or bailed dry during routine purging and sampling. A high-yield formation is

operationally defined as one in which wells are not easily pumped or bailed dry during

routine purging and sampling.

The following outlines standard procedures, processes, and considerations for purging

wells prior to groundwater sampling.

4.2.1 Purging Low-Yield Formations

4.2.1.1 Lay plastic sheeting around the well to minimize likelihood of contaminating

equipment by contact with soil adjacent to the well.

4.2.1.2 Measure the depth to water from a reference point (typically a permanent mark

at the top of casing). Record the measured depth and describe the reference

mark in the field notes. If there is a layer of free product (i.e. organic liquid)

floating at the water surface, then the top and bottom of the layer can be

measured with a specialized interface meter, if required by the project field

sampling plan. Operate the interface meter in accordance with manufacturer’s

instructions.

4.2.1.3 When purging a low-yield well (a well that is incapable of yielding three casing

volumes), purge the well dry once. Purging can be performed using a bailer,

pump, or other system as specified in the project specific work plan.

4.2.1.4 Record purge water volume in field log book. The purge volume can be

measured using a 5-gallon bucket.

4.2.1.5 Manage purge water in accordance with applicable work control documents

(e.g. field sampling plan, waste management plan).

4.2.1.6 As soon as the well recovers sufficiently to provide ample water for sample

collection, collect and bottle samples in the order of the parameters’

volatilization sensitivity or per sample collection priority (i.e. collect samples

for volatile organic compound analysis and dissolved gas analysis first, then

dissolved iron, semi-volatile organic compounds, metals, other organics, and

other inorganics; a different sample collection order specified by the SAP would

supersede the general order provided here). Sampling procedures are described

in Section 4.3.

4.2.1.7 Secure the well.

4.2.1.8 Decontaminate equipment.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 12 of 25


4.2.1.9 Manage water produced during sampling, decontamination waste, and any other

waste generated in accordance with work control documents.

4.2.1.10 Demobilize from the well site.

4.2.2 Purging High-Yield Formations Using High-Flow Approach

4.2.2.1 Lay plastic sheeting around the well to minimize likelihood of contaminating

equipment by contact with soil adjacent to the well.

4.2.2.2 Measure the depth to water from a reference point (typically a permanent mark

at the top of casing). Record the measured depth and describe the reference

mark in the field notes. If there is a layer of free product (i.e. organic liquid)

floating at the water surface, then the top and bottom of the layer can be

measured with a specialized interface meter, if required by the project field

sampling plan. Operate the interface meter in accordance with manufacturer’s

instructions.

4.2.2.3 Measure total depth of well (at least twice to confirm measurement) and record

in site logbook or on field data sheet.

4.2.2.4 Calculate the volume of standing water in a well using the following

generalized equation

V = (0.163) r2(h1 - h2)

where

V = volume of standing water in well, in gallons

r = inside radius of well casing, in inches

h1 = depth of the well from the top of the casing, in feet

h2 = depth to water from the top of the casing, in feet

The factor 0.163 includes both units conversion factors and the value of pi.

An example calculation and the derivation of the conversion factor are

presented in Appendix A.

4.2.2.5 If the well is not equipped with a permanent pump, then install a pump such that

the pump intake is at the depth specified in project work control documents. If

project documents do not specify this depth, then place the pump intake at mid-

depth of the screened interval.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 13 of 25


4.2.2.6 Operate the pump to purge standing water in the casing so that formation water

replaces the stagnant water in the well and filter pack. In contrast to the low

flow approach described in Section 4.2.3, the allowable maximum flowrate is

not specified, and any convenient flowrate can be used.

NOTE: Typically three to five times the calculated volume of water in the well is

removed in an effort to obtain a representative sample from the aquifer. The

actual number of volumes to be removed may also be specified in governing

data collection plans. The water standing in a well prior to sampling may not be

representative of in-situ groundwater quality.

4.2.2.7 In some cases, work control documents may specify that purging is

accomplished by removing a specified volume of water, such as 3 times the

volume of water standing in a well. In other cases, work control documents

may require that purging be continued until water quality parameters have

stabilized. In this case, measure water quality parameters using a multi-

parameter water quality instrument according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

The instrument must be maintained and calibrated per manufacturer’s

instructions, and the maintenance and calibration activities must be recorded in

project documents.

4.2.2.8 Continue well purging until the stagnant water volume has been removed and/or

certain indicator parameters (such as pH, specific conductance, and

temperature) have stabilized.

NOTE: Stabilization of the indicator parameters is satisfied when successive readings

meet the criteria in Table 4-1.

Table 4-1 Purge parameter stabilization criteria

Parameter Stabilization Criterion

(Maximum difference in three values measured

at an interval of 3 to 5 minutes)

pH +/- 0.1 standard units

Conductivity +/- 3%

Redox Potential/Oxidation Reduction

Potential/ORP

+/- 10 mV

Dissolved Oxygen/DO

+/- 10% for DO > 1 mg/L

+/- 0.1 mg/L for DO < 1 mg/L

Turbidity +/- 10%

Temperature +/- 0.5 C

4.2.2.9 Record flowrate and purge water volume in field logbook.

4.2.2.10 Immediately after purging has been completed, collect samples according to

sample collection procedures described in Section 4.3.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 14 of 25




4.2.2.13 Manage water produced during purging and sampling in accordance with work

control documents.

4.2.2.14 Manage decontamination waste and any other wastes generated during purging

and sampling in accordance with work control documents.

4.2.2.15 Demobilize from the well site.

4.2.3 Purging High-Yield Formations Using the Low-Flow Approach

The procedure for purging and sampling using the low-flow approach is based on

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommendations (Puls and Barcelona, 1996).

The overall approach is to extract groundwater at a low flowrate such that water that is

representative of the formation adjacent to the well screen is extracted, while minimizing

mobilization of colloidal particles or other fine-grained soil particles in the formation or

that have accumulated in the bottom of the well. The approach includes a maximum

flowrate limitation that is proportional to well screen length, and a maximum drawdown

limitation that does not depend on well screen length (Table 4-2).

Table 4-2, Low-flow purging and sampling flowrate and drawdown limitations

Well Screen

Length

(ft)

Maximum

Flowrate

(L/min)

Maximum

Flowrate

(gal/min)

Maximum

Drawdown

(m)

Maximum

Drawdown

(ft)

<5 1 0.25 0.1 0.3

5 1 0.25 0.1 0.3

10 2 0.50 0.1 0.3

15 3 0.75 0.1 0.3

20 4 1.0 0.1 0.3

>20 1 per 5 ft length

of screen

0.25 per 5 ft length

of screen

0.1 0.3

4.2.3.1 Based on the well completion log, determine the well screen length. Look up the

maximum allowable flowrate based on well screen length in Table 4-1.

4.2.3.2 Based on the well completion log, calculate the depth from the top of the well to

the center of the well screen.

4.2.3.3 Don personal protective equipment as required by the site-specific health and

safety plan.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 15 of 25


4.2.3.4 Lay plastic sheeting on the ground around the well head to minimize the

potential spread of contamination from soil to purging and sampling equipment.

4.2.3.5 Measure the depth from a permanent reference mark at the top of the well to the

water level in the well, using a water level tape or equivalent. Record the

measured depth and a description of the reference mark in the filed notes. If

floating organic liquids are a concern, their presence can be determined using an

oil/water interface probe, if required by the project field sampling plan. Operate

the interface meter in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

NOTE: To minimize mixing water inside the well and distributing sediment in the

bottom of the well, avoid lowering equipment into the well to the extent

practical. If the total depth of the well must be measured, it is recommended

that this measurement be made after purging and sampling has been completed.

4.2.3.6 Make sure that the purging / sampling pump and tubing has been

decontaminated prior to use at each well. The pump must be capable of

pumping at a flowrate of 0.1 to 1 L/minute, without exposing the water being

pumped to air or to materials that are incompatible with the analytes being

sampled. Lower the purging / sampling pump into the well so that the pump

intake is located at or slightly above the midpoint of the well screen, or at other

depth specified in the SAP. Record the installation details in the field notes.

The pump should be lowered slowly into the well so as to minimize mixing

water in the well and re-suspending sediment that may have accumulated in the

bottom of the well. If possible, install the pump well in advance of when

purging will be performed to allow time for the effects of installation to subside.

For wells that will be sampled repeatedly, it is recommended that purging /

sampling pumps be installed permanently.

4.2.3.7 Calibrate a multi-parameter water quality monitoring instrument according to

the manufacturer’s procedures. Document the calibration in the field notes.

NOTE: Calibration can be performed ahead of time, if the manufacturer’s

recommendations indicate that the interval between calibrations is long enough

to allow it.

4.2.3.8 Install a flow-through cell for the water quality instrument sonde in the effluent

line of the purging/sampling pump.

4.2.3.9 Purge water from the well at a flowrate of approximately not exceeding the

maximum flowrate calculated in Step 4.2.3.1. Periodically measure the depth to

water and calculated drawdown as the difference between the depth to water

under pumping conditions and the depth to water under static conditions (which

was measured in Step 4.2.3.5. If the drawdown is greater than 0.1 m or 0.3 ft.,

then reduce the pumping rate until the drawdown stabilizes at less than 0.1 m or

0.3 ft.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 16 of 25


4.2.3.10 Continue purging until the purge parameters have stabilized. The purge

parameters are, at minimum, pH, conductivity, and either redox potential (also

known as oxidation – reduction potential, or ORP) or dissolved oxygen (DO).

Ideally, the following parameters will be measured: pH, redox potential/ ORP,

conductivity, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and turbidity.

4.2.3.11 At a 3- to 5-minute interval, observe the values of purge parameters and record

them on the purging record lag sheet. Continue purging until all parameters

have stabilized.

4.2.3.12 Purging stabilization has been achieved when all parameters are stable as

defined in Table 4-1.

4.2.3.13 Temperature and pH typically stabilize quickly, turbidity typically stabilizes the

most slowly, and other parameters are in between. Stabilization times can be

minimized by (a) maximizing the time between installing the pump and

beginning purging, and (b) minimizing the amount of disturbance of water in

the well due to installing / removing / moving equipment in the well.

4.2.3.14 Immediately after purge parameters have stabilized, collect groundwater

samples according to the procedure described in Section 4.3.2. The flow-

through cell should be removed, bypassed, or samples collected from a

sampling port upstream of the flow-through cell.

4.3 Sample Collection

Samples are collected either after a well in a low-yielding formation has recovered

enough that it contains sufficient volume to fill the required sample containers, or after

completing purging of a well in a high-yielding formation. Groundwater samples are

typically collected using a bailer or similar device that is lowered into the well, filled, and

retrieved from the well, or using a specialized sampling pump. Wells in low-yielding

formations are typically sampled using a bailer or similar devices, or a specialized

sampling pump that operates at a low flowrate. Wells in high-yielding formations are

typically sampled using a specialized sampling pump. A common practice is to use the

same pump for purging and sampling; this approach is required while using the low-flow

purging and sampling technique.

The Sampling and Analysis Plan provides authoritative information on requirements for

sample containers, filtration, preservation, labeling, and collection of quality assurance

samples. It will also indicate any special requirements for a particular type of sample,

such as that headspace is not allowed in samples to be analyzed for volatile constituents.

NOTE: Sample preservation is required for many of the chemical constituents and

physiochemical parameters that are not chemically stable but are measured or

evaluated in a groundwater sampling program. Methods of sample preservation

are generally intended to retard biological action, retard hydrolysis, and reduce

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 17 of 25


sorption effects. Preservation methods usually include pH control, chemical

addition, refrigeration, and protection from light.

Samples shall be handled in accordance with ENVP-002, Sample Handling, Packaging,

and Shipping.

4.3.1 Sample Collection with a Bailer or Similar Sampler

4.3.1.1 Don personal protective equipment per requirements of the health and safety

plan.



4.3.1.3 Wear clean, waterproof gloves to prevent skin oils, dust particles, or other

contaminants from contaminating the sample and to protect personnel. Change

gloves between wells or discrete sampling zones.

4.3.1.4 Prepare sample bottles and labels in accordance with SAP. Record the following

information both on the sample labels and in the field logbook: date and time of

sample collection, sample number, sampler’s initials. In the logbook, also

record the location from which each sample was collected.

4.3.1.5 Prepare the bailer/sampler for sample collection by installing a sample bottle (if

required), positioning valves or other mechanisms, as appropriate for the device

being used.

4.3.1.6 Attach the bailer/sampler to a cord, rope, or cable. Secure the other end to a

fixed point so that the equipment cannot be lost in the well.

4.3.1.7 Lower the bailer/sampler to the desired sampling depth. Take care to minimize

contact of the bailer/sampler with the casing, to the extent possible, and lower it

gently into the water without splashing. The appropriate sampling depth may be

specified in work control documents. In lieu of specific requirements, lower the

bailer/sampler so that the point where water enters the bailer/sampler is located

at the mid-depth of the screened interval. Consult the well completion log to

determine the depth of the screened interval from the top of casing. Record the

sampling depth in the field logbook.

4.3.1.8 If required by the bailer/sampler being used, perform any operations necessary

to initiate sample collection (per manufacturer’s directions). Note that many

bailer/sampler designs fill automatically without a separate operation being

performed. Allow sufficient time for the bailer/sampler to fill.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 18 of 25


4.3.1.9 Retrieve the bailer/sampler from the well. To the extent practical, avoid contact

with the casing in order to minimize dislodging rust or foreign objects that could

contaminate the sample.

4.3.1.10 After the bailer/sampler has been retrieved from the well, transfer water from it

into sample containers. The method for accomplishing this is specific to the type

of bailer/sampler required. For samples to be analyzed for volatile oganic

compounds (VOCs), dissolved gases), take care to minimize contact between

water and the atmosphere. Refer to the Field Sampling Plan and/or SAP for

direction on the sample container material and volume, preservation

requirements, and requirements for quality assurance samples such as duplicates

and blacks. As soon as a sample container is filled, tightly cap it and place it in

an ice chest or other shipping container.

4.3.1.11 Repeat the process of collecting water samples from the well and transferring it

into sample containers until all required sample containers have been filled.

4.3.1.12 Prepare field blanks, equipment blanks, trip blanks, duplicates, and other quality

assurance samples in accordance with the SAP.

4.3.1.13 Record sample information in the field logbook and chain of custody

documents.



4.3.1.16 Manage solid and liquid decontamination wastes, and any other waste

generated, in accordance with work control documents.

4.3.1.17 Demobilize from the well.

4.3.1.18 Prepare samples for shipment to analytical laboratory.

4.3.2 Sample Collection Using Pumps

Specific details of sampling depend on the type of pump or sampler used. The general

procedure is described here. Operate a pump or sampler in accordance with

manufacturer’s directions. Sampling is typically performed immediately after purging has

been completed. The same general procedure applies to sampling after purging using

either the high-flow or low-flow approach.

4.3.2.1 Don personal protective equipment per requirements of the health and safety

plan.



A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 19 of 25


4.3.2.3 Wear clean, waterproof gloves to prevent skin oils, dust particles, or other

contaminants from contaminating the sample and to protect personnel. Change

gloves between wells or discrete sampling zones.

4.3.2.4 Prepare sample bottles and labels in accordance with the SAP. Record the

following information both on the sample labels and in the field logbook: date

and time of sample collection, sample number, sampler’s initials. In the

logbook, also record the location from which each sample was collected.

4.3.2.5 After completing the prescribed purging, establish an appropriate flow

(typically tens to hundreds of milliliters per minute) of groundwater from the

sample port into a bucket. The bucket is used to contain excess water for

subsequent disposal per the project waste management plan. If purging was

performed using the high-flow approach, then any convenient flowrate can be

used during sampling. It may be beneficial to reduce the flowrate during

sampling to minimize sample aeration, bubble formation, or turbulent filling of

sample containers. Typically a flowrate of about 0.5L/min is convenient.

4.3.2.6 If purging was performed using the low-flow approach, then the flowrate used

during sampling must be the same as or lower than the flowrate used during

purging, with an exception described below. It may be beneficial to reduce the

flowrate during sampling to minimize sample aeration, bubble formation, or

turbulent filling of sample containers. If the purging flowrate was less than

4.3.2.7 Place the sample bottles under the flowing water stream to collect samples.

Ensure that the sample port does not enter or touch the sample bottle.

NOTE: If water flow must be interrupted during sample collection, reestablish flow

before placing the sample bottle under the port for more sample collection.

4.3.2.8 Fill sample containers in accordance with the SAP. Refer to the SAP for

instructions regarding sample containers, sample identifiers, requirements for

filtration, preservation, storage, and shipment.

4.3.2.9 Prepare field blanks, equipment blanks, trip blanks, duplicates, and other quality

assurance samples in accordance with the SAP.

4.3.2.10 Record sample collection details in the field notes. Prepare sample chain-of-

custody forms per the SAP.


4.3.2.12 Unless a dedicated purging/sampling pump is used, remove the pump from the

well, decontaminate the pump, and either decontaminate or replace the tubing.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 20 of 25


4.3.2.13 Manage solid and liquid decontamination wastes, water produced during

purging and sampling, and any other waste generated, in accordance with work

control documents.

4.3.2.14 Demobilize from the well.

4.3.2.15 Prepare samples for shipment to analytical laboratory.

5. RECORDS


Records Management:

All sampling activities shall be recorded in the appropriate sample logbooks and in

the Field Team Leader’s logbook. Chain-of-custody records will be documented in

accordance with ENVP-021, Chain of Custody Documentation for all samples

shipped or transferred to other laboratories for analysis.

All instrumentation must be operated in accordance with operating instructions as


checkout and calibration activities must occur prior to field activities. Equipment

must be decontaminated in accordance with ENVP-014, Sampling Equipment

Decontamination prior to initial use in the field and before each subsequent use at a

different sampling location.

All information that was generated during the course of the groundwater sampling are

to be recorded in the project file. At a minimum, the project file for groundwater

sampling projects shall contain:

– Project authorization form and supporting documentation (e.g., contract releases,

Statement of Work (SOW), schedule, etc.)

– Correspondence

– Quality Assurance documentation including Sampling and Analysis Plans,

laboratory results, calculations and methodology of interpreting results.

– Project deliverables and supporting notes, calculations, logbooks, and work plans,

etc.

6. REFERENCES

ENVP-002, Sample Handling, Packaging, and Shipping

ENVP-014, Sample Equipment Decontamination

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 21 of 25


ENVP-021, Chain of Custody


This section provides a list of references that can be consulted for additional information

related to groundwater sampling:

Barcelona, M.J., Helfrich, J.A., Garske, E.E., and J.P Gibb, Spring 1984. “A

Laboratory Evaluation of Groundwater Sampling Mechanisms,” Groundwater

Monitoring Review, 1984 pp. 32-41.

Barcelona, M.J., Helfrich, J.A., and Garske, E.E., "Sampling Tubing Effects on

Groundwater Samples", Analy. Chem., Vol. 57, 1985 pp. 460-463.

Driscoll, F.G., Groundwater and Wells (2nd ed.) Johnson Division, UOP Inc., St.

Paul, Minnesota, 1986, 1089 pp.

Gibb, J.P., R.M. Schuller, and R.A. Griffin, Monitoring Well Sampling and

Preservation Techniques, EPA-600/9-80-010, 1980. March, 1980.

Instrument Specialties Company, (January). Instruction Manual, Model 2100

Wastewater Sampler, Lincoln, Nebraska, 1980.

Keely, J.F. and Kwasi Boateng, Monitoring Well Installation, Purging and Sampling

Techniques - Part I: Conceptualizations, Groundwater V25, No. 3, 1987 pp. 300-313.

Keith, Lawrence H., Principles of Environmental Sampling, American Chemical

Society, 1988.

Korte, Nic, and Dennis Ealey,. Procedures for Field Chemical Analyses of Water

Samples, U.S. Department of Energy, GJ/TMC-07, Technical Measurements Center,

Grand Junction Project Office, 1983.

Korte, Nic, and Peter Kearl,. Procedures for the Collection and Preservation of

Groundwater and Surface Water Samples and for the Installation of Monitoring

Wells: Second Edition, U.S. Department of Energy, GJ/TMC-08, Technical

Measurements Center, Grand Junction Projects Office, 1985.

National Council of the Paper Industry for Air and Stream Improvement, Inc., A

Guide to Groundwater Sampling, Technical Bulletin No. 362, Madison, New York.

January, 1982.

Nielsen, David M. and Yeates, Gillian L., Spring. "A Comparison of Sampling

Mechanisms Available for Small-Diameter Groundwater Monitoring Wells,"

Groundwater Monitoring Review, 1985 pp. 83-99.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 22 of 25


Puls, Robert W., and Michael J. Barcelona, 1996. “Low-Flow (Minimal Drawdown)

Ground-Water Sampling Procedures”, United States Environmental Protection

Agency, office of Research and Development and Office of Solid Waste and

Emergency Response, EPA/540/S-95/504.

Scalf, et al. (M.J. Scalf, McNabb, W. Dunlap, R. Crosby, and J. Fryberger),. Manual

for Groundwater Sampling Procedures. R.S. Kerr Environmental Research

Laboratory, Office of Research and Development. 1980, Ada, OK.

Sisk, S.W. NEIC Manual for Ground/Surface Investigations at Hazardous Waste

Sites, EPA-330/9-81-002, 1981.

U.S. Department of the Interior, National Handbook of Recommended Methods for

Water-Data Acquisition, Reston, Virginia.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1977. Procedures Manual for Groundwater

Monitoring at Solid Waste Disposal Facilities. EPA-530/SW-611.August 1977.

U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, 49 CFR Parts 100 to 177, Transportation revised

November 1, 1985.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1982. Handbook for Chemical and Sample

Preservation of Water and Wastewater, EPA-600/4-82-029, Washington, D.C.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1983. Methods for Chemical Analysis of

Water and Waste, EPA-600/4-79-020, Washington, D.C.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1984. Test Methods for Evaluation of Solid

Waste, EPA-SW-846, Second Edition, Washington, D.C.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1981. Manual of Groundwater Quality

Sampling Procedures, EPA-600/2-81-160, Washington, D.C.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1985. Practical Guide for Groundwater

Sampling, EPA-600/2-85/104, September, 1985.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1986. RCRA Groundwater Monitoring

Technical Enforcement Guidance Document, OSWER-9950-1, September, 1986.

Weston, 1987. Standard Operations Procedures for Monitor Well Installation.

MOUND IGMP/RIP.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1982. Handbook for Sampling and Sample

Preservation of Water and Wastewater, EPA-600/4-82-029, Washington, D.C.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 23 of 25


--- 1981. Manual of Groundwater Quality Sampling Procedures, EPA-600/2-81-160,

Washington, D.C.

--- 1985. Practice Guide for Groundwater Sampling, EPA-600/2/85-104, September

1985.

Nielsen, David M. and Yeates, Gillian L., Spring 1985. "A Comparison of Sampling

Mechanisms Available for Small-Diameter Groundwater Monitoring Wells,"

Groundwater Monitoring Review, pp. 83-99.

WESTON, 1987. Standard Operating Procedures for Monitor Well Installation.

MOUND IGMP/RIP

Barcelona, M.J. Helfrich, J.A., and Garske, E.E., "Sampling Tubing Effects on

Groundwater Samples". 1985, Analy. Chem., Vol. 57, pp. 460-463

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 24 of 25


APPENDIX A, Example Calculation

This appendix provides an example of the calculation of the volume of standing water in

a well (Step 4.2.2.4).

Calculate the volume of standing water in a well using the following generalized

equation:

V = (0.163) r2 (h1 - h2)

where

V = volume of standing water in well, in gallons

r = inside radius of well casing in inches

(note that the radius is half of the inside diameter of the well

casing)

h1 = depth of the well from the top of the casing, in feet

h2 = depth to water from the top of the casing in feet

The dimensions are illustrated on Figure A-1.

Figure A-1 Dimensions used in calculation of standing water volume

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-006 Rev. 4, 01/01/11

Page 25 of 25


In this example, assume that the dimensions have the following values:

Depth from top of casing to bottom of well h1 22.4 ft

Depth from top of casing to water surface h2 10.8 ft

Inside diameter of casing 3.94 in

Inside radius of casing = diameter/2, r 1.97 in

V = (0.163) r2 (h1 - h2)

= (0.163) (1.97 in)2 (22.4 – 10.8 ft)

= 7.3 gallons

For background information, the conversion factor 0.163 was calculated as follows:

V = π r2 Length of water column

= π (r in)2 (h1 – h2) ft

= π [r2in

2 x (1 ft/12 in)

2] [(h1-h2)ft] 7.48 gallons / ft

3

= r2in

2 (h1-h2)ft x

(π x 1 ft/144 in

2 x 7.48 gallons / ft

3)

= r2 in

2 (h1-h2) ft x 0.163

gallons/in

2 ft

Substituting values from above yields

V = π (1.97 in)2 (22.4-10.8ft) (1 ft/12 in)

2 (7.48 gallons / ft

3)

= 7.3 gallons

ENVP-007

Water Level Measurements

Revision 3

Approved:

Sylvia Medina for Joe Rothermel per NW-2010-130 12/30/10 Division Manager

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-007 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 2 of 12


REVISION HISTORY

Revision No.

Effective Date



1 03/13/06 All Changed title from “ER” to “ENV”








3 01/01/11 All Replace references to NWI with NW. Update logos

and references.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-007 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 3 of 12


CONTENTS

DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................4

ACRONYMS ...................................................................................................................................4

1. PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................5

2. SCOPE .................................................................................................................................5


3.1 Project Manager .......................................................................................................5

3.2 Hydrogeologist/Geologist(s) ....................................................................................5

4. PROCEDURE/PROCESS ...................................................................................................6

4.1 General Considerations ............................................................................................6

4.2 Preparation ...............................................................................................................8

4.3 Procedures ................................................................................................................8

4.4 Calculations..............................................................................................................9

4.5 Quality Assurance/Quality Control..........................................................................9

5. RECORDS .........................................................................................................................10

6. REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................10

APPENDIX A, Example, ENVF-007.1, Groundwater Level Data Form .....................................12

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-007 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 4 of 12


DEFINITIONS

None

ACRONYMS


HSP Heath and Safety Plan

NW North Wind

QA/QC Quality Assurance/Quality Control

RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act

SOW Statement of Work

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-007 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 5 of 12


1. PURPOSE

The purpose of this procedure is to set guidelines for the determination of the depth to

water and/or separate phase chemical product (i.e., gasoline, oil, perchloroethylene,

trichloroethylene) in an open borehole, cased borehole, monitor well, or piezometer.

These standard operating procedures may be varied or changed as required, dependent on

site conditions, and equipment limitations

2. SCOPE

This procedure applies to all North Wind (NW) personnel conducting water level

measurements. If individual contracts require the use of client supplied procedures, the

client procedures shall be used.

3. RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Project Manager


customer.

Ensures hydrogeologist/geologist(s) have access to necessary equipment to complete

water level measurements.

Ensures hydrogeologist/geologist(s) follow protocol and procedures for completing

water level measurement task(s).

3.2 Hydrogeologist/Geologist(s)

Ensures appropriate preparation and planning is completed prior to water level

measurement activities to reduce delays in start-up or progress of task.

Ensures all materials and equipment are available for measurement task.

Communicates on a routine basis with project manager on status of task, any

additional needs to complete task, and on any issues related to properly completing

task.

Follows all procedures, plans and protocols to adequately complete water level

measurement task.

Ensures all documentation of water level measurement activity is complete and

legible.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-007 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 6 of 12


4. PROCEDURE/PROCESS

Generally, water-level measurements taken in boreholes, piezometers, or monitor wells

are used to construct water table or potentiometric surface maps and to determine flow

direction as well as other aquifer characteristics. Therefore, all water level measurements

at a given site should preferably be collected within a 24-hour period. However, certain

situations may produce rapidly changing groundwater levels that necessitate taking

measurements as close in time as possible. Large changes in water levels among wells

may be indicative of such a condition. Rapid groundwater level changes may occur due

to:

Atmospheric pressure changes

Tidal influences

Changes in river stage, impoundments levels, or flow in unlined ditches

Pumping of nearby wells

Precipitation.

This following general guidance is provided in this procedure to perform routine water

level measurements. Deviations from this procedure should be noted in field logbooks

and placed in the project files.

4.1 General Considerations

A survey mark should be placed on the top of the riser pipe or casing as a reference point

for groundwater level measurements. If a permanent survey mark is not available and the

top of the riser bar or casing is level (flat), then the measurements can be taken from

anytime on the top of the riser pipe. If the lip of the riser pipe is not flat, the reference

point may be located on the grout apron or the top of the outer protective casing (if

present). The measurement reference point must be documented in the site logbook and

on ENVF-007.1, Groundwater Level Data Form (example provided in Appendix A), if

used. All field personnel must be made aware of the measurement reference point being

used in order to ensure the collection of comparable data.

Before measurements are made, water levels in piezometers and monitor wells should be

allowed to stabilize for a minimum of 24 hours after well construction and development.

In low yield situations, recovery of water levels to equilibrium may take longer. All

measurements should be made to an accuracy of 0.01 feet. Water level measuring

equipment must be decontaminated and, in general, measurements should proceed from

the least to the most contaminated wells. Open the well and monitor the headspace with

the appropriate air-monitoring instrument to determine the presence of volatile organic

compounds.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-007 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 7 of 12


For electrical sounders lower the device into the well until the water surface is reached as

indicated by a tone or meter deflection. Record the distance from the water surface to the

reference point. Measurement with a chalked tape will necessitate lowering the tape

below the water level and holding a convenient foot marker at the reference point. Record

both the water level as indicated on the chalked tape section and the depth mark held at

the reference point. The depth to water is the difference between the two readings.

Remove measuring device, replace riser pipe cap, and decontaminate equipment as

necessary. Note that if a separate phase is present, an oil/water indicator probe is required

for measurement of product thickness and water level.

The following include potential problems that are commonly encountered during

recording of water level measurements:

Cascading water, particularly in open-hole or rock wells, may interfere with the

measurement.

Some older types of electric sounders are only marked at five-foot intervals. A

surveyor’s tape is necessary to extrapolate between the 5-foot marks.

Oil or other product floating on the water column can insulate the contacts of the

probe on an electric sounder and give false readings. For accurate level measurements

in wells containing floating product, a special oil/water level indicator is required.

Tapes (electrical or surveyor’s) may have damaged or missing sections, or may be

spliced inaccurately.

An airline may be the only available means to make measurements in sealed

production wells but the method is generally accurate only to approximately 0.2 foot.

When using a steel tape, it is necessary to lower the tape below the water level in

order to make a measurement. This assumes knowledge of the approximate

groundwater level.

The electric water level indicator and the chalked steel tape are the devices commonly

used to measure water levels. Both have an accuracy of 0.01 feet. Other field equipment

may include:

Air monitoring instrumentation

Well depth measurement device

Chalk

Ruler

Site logbook

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-007 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 8 of 12


Paper towels and trash bags

Decontamination supplies as outlined in current approved site-specific work plan

Groundwater level data forms

4.2 Preparation

The following should be used as a general reference to guide field personnel when

preparing for water level measurements:

1. Determine the number of measurements needed the methods to be employed, and the

equipment and supplies needed.

2. Decontaminate or pre-clean equipment, and ensure that it is in working order.

3. Coordinate schedule with staff, clients, and regulatory agency, if appropriate.

4. If this is an initial visit, perform a general site survey prior to site entry in accordance

with the current approved site specific Health and Safety Plan (HSP).

5. Identify sampling locations.

4.3 Procedures

Procedures for determining water levels are as follows:

1. If possible, and when applicable, start at those wells that are least contaminated and

proceed to those wells that are most contaminated.

2. Clean all the equipment entering the well(s) by the following decontamination

procedure:

Triple rinse equipment with deionized water.

Wash equipment with an Alconox solution, which is followed by a deionized

water rinse.

Rinse with an approved solvent (e.g., methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone) as per

the work plan, if organic contamination is suspected.

Place equipment on clean surface such as a Teflon or polyethylene sheet to air

dry.

3. Remove locking well cap, note well ID, time of day, and date in site logbook or an

appropriate groundwater level data form.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-007 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 9 of 12


4. Remove well cap.

5. If required by site-specific condition, monitor headspace of well with a

photoionization detector or flame ionization detector to determine presence of volatile

organic compounds, and record results in site logbook.

6. Lower water-level measuring device into the well. Electrical tapes are lowered to the

water surface whereas chalked steel tapes are lowered generally a foot or more below

the water surface. Steel tapes are generally chalked so that a 1-to 5-foot long section

will fall below the expected water level.

7. For electrical tapes record the distance from the water surface, as determined by the

audio signal or meter, to the reference measuring point on the top of the well casing

and record in the site logbook. For chalked tapes, an even foot mark is held at the

reference point, once the chalked section of the tape is below the water level. Both the

water level on the tape and the foot mark held at the reference point is recorded. The

depth to the water is then the difference between the two readings. In addition, note

the reference point used (top of the outer casing, top of the riser pipe, ground surface,

or some other reproducible position on the wellhead). Repeat the measurement.

8. Remove all downhole equipment, replace well cap and locking steel caps.

9. Rinse all downhole equipment and store for transport to the next well. Decontaminate

all equipment as outlined in Step 2 above.

10. Note any physical changes, such as erosion or cracks in protective concrete pad or

variation in total depth of well, in field logbook or on groundwater level data form.

4.4 Calculations

To determine groundwater elevation above mean sea level, use the following equation:

EW = E - D

where:

EW = Elevation of water above mean sea level (feet) or local datum

E = Elevation above sea level or local datum at point of measurement (feet)

D = Depth to water (feet)

4.5 Quality Assurance/Quality Control

The following general quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures apply:

1. All data must be documented on field data sheets, groundwater level data forms, or

within personal or site logbooks.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-007 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 10 of 12


2. All instrumentation must be operated in accordance with operating instructions as

supplied by the manufacturer, unless otherwise specified in the work plan.

3. Each well should be tested at least twice in order to compare results. If results do not

agree to within 0.02 feet, a third measurement should be taken and the readings

averaged. Consistent failure of consecutive readings to agree suggests that levels are

changing because of one or more conditions as indicated in Section 2.

5. RECORDS


Records Management:

All data must be documented on field data sheets or within site logbooks.



checkout and calibration activities must occur prior to field activities, and they must be

documented.

All information that was generated during the course of the water level measurement task

is to be recorded in the project file. At a minimum, the project file for water level

measurement projects shall contain:

Project authorization form and supporting documentation (e.g., contract release,


Correspondence

Quality Assurance documentation

Project deliverables and supporting notes, calculations, logbooks, work plans, etc.

6. REFERENCES

Driscoll, F.G. 1986. Groundwater and Wells. Second Edition. Chapter 16. Collection and

Analysis of Pumping Test Data. pp 534-579. Johnson Filtration Systems Inc. St. Paul,

Minnesota.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1986. RCRA Groundwater Monitoring Technical

Enforcement Guidance Document, pp. 207.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1987, A Compendium of Superfund Field

Operations Methods.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-007 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 11 of 12


EPA/540/p-87/001 Office of Emergency and Remedial Response Washington, D.C.

20460.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-007 Rev. 3, 01/01/11

Page 12 of 12


APPENDIX A, Example, ENVF-007.1, Groundwater Level Data Form

ENVP-011

Field Physical Measurements

Revision 2

Approved:


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-011 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

Page 2 of 14


REVISION HISTORY

Revision No.

Effective Date











and corrected references.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-011 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

Page 3 of 14


CONTENTS

DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................4

ACRONYMS ...................................................................................................................................4

1. PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................5

2. SCOPE .................................................................................................................................5


3.1 Project Manager .......................................................................................................5

3.2 Geologist/Sampling Technician(s)...........................................................................5

4. FIELD PHYSICAL MEASUREMENTS ............................................................................6

4.1 Introduction ..............................................................................................................6

4.2 Horizontal Location Surveys ...................................................................................6

4.3 Equipment ................................................................................................................8

4.4 Specific Quality Control Procedures .......................................................................8

4.5 Procedures for Differential GPS ..............................................................................9

4.6 Accuracy ................................................................................................................11

5. RECORDS .........................................................................................................................12

6. REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................13

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-011 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

Page 4 of 14


DEFINITIONS

None

ACRONYMS

GPS Global Positioning System

NAD27 North American Datum 1927

NAD83 North American Datum 1983

NGS National Geodetic Survey

NOAA National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration

NW North Wind

PDOP Point Dilution of Precision

UTC Coordinated Universal Time

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-011 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

Page 5 of 14


1. PURPOSE

The purpose of this procedure is to set guidelines for the determination of location for

samples taken in the field. These standard operating procedures may be varied or

changed as required, dependent on site conditions, and equipment limitations.

2. SCOPE

This procedure applies to all North Wind (NW) personnel conducting sample

measurements. If individual contracts require the use of client supplied procedures, the

client procedures shall be used.

3. RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Project Manager


customer.

Ensures geologist/sampling technician(s) have access to necessary equipment to

complete measurements.

Ensures geologist/sampling technician(s) follow protocol and procedures for

completing measurement task(s).

Determine sampling location accuracy level based on project needs or Government

agency standards.

3.2 Geologist/Sampling Technician(s)

Ensures appropriate preparation and planning is completed prior to measurement

activities to reduce delays in start-up or progress of task.

Ensures all materials and equipment are available for the measurement task(s).

Communicates on a routine basis with the project manager on the status of task(s),

any additional needs to complete task(s), and on any issues related to properly

completing task(s).

Follows all procedures, plans and protocols to adequately complete field location

measurement task(s).

Ensures all documentation of location measurement activities is complete and legible.

Develop a site sketch in the log book with approximate locations and with appropriate

ID’s.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-011 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

Page 6 of 14


4. FIELD PHYSICAL MEASUREMENTS

4.1 Introduction

Field measurements of topographic features and physical dimensions are frequently

required during field investigations. The purpose of the investigation will determine the

scope and method of these measurements.

All sampling locations used during field investigations should be depicted on an accurate

drawing, topographic or other standard map, or be referenced in such a manner that the

location(s) can be firmly established.

Each field measurement made should be traceable to the person(s) making the

measurement and to the field equipment used to make that measurement. Equipment

maintenance and calibration records shall be kept in log books and field records so that

the procedures are traceable. Time records shall be kept in local time using the hour

format, with the time recorded to the nearest five minutes or less.

New or inexperienced employees should perform each of the physical field

measurements described in this section under the supervision of a senior technical staff

member at least once before being permitted to make these measurements on their own.

Surveying is described as the art and science of determining the area and configuration of

portions of the earth's surface, and representing them on maps. Generally, surveying can

be divided into two categories or classes: horizontal control surveying and vertical

control surveying. Horizontal control surveying pertains to the measurement of the

relative difference in the horizontal location of two or more control points. Vertical

control surveying involves the measurement of the relative difference in vertical location,

or elevation, of two or more control points. These following Sections discuss the

standard procedures, techniques, and methods used to survey, or locate sample points or

site features horizontally. Basic surveying and field geology textbooks should be

consulted for more detailed information on this topic (See References 1, 2, and 3). In this

procedure we will only be talking about horizontal location surveys. Vertical control will

be specific to the project and will be addressed in a future NW procedure.

4.2 Horizontal Location Surveys

Several field methods, from traditional or classical methods to Global Positioning System

(GPS) techniques, may be used to horizontally locate sample points or various site

features during site investigations. Traditional traverse methods utilize horizontal angle

or direction (azimuth/bearing) measurements and calculate horizontal distances from a

starting point to a second point and from the second to the third, and so forth to the last

point. The last point in a traverse is usually a return to the starting point, thus making a

closed loop. During a traverse for site control, sample points or site features may be

located by employing various techniques at the traverse control points including:

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-011 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

Page 7 of 14


by angle (azimuth or bearing) and distance measurements from a control point,

by angular intersection from two control points,

by perpendicular offset from a line between two control points, and

by angle from one control point and distance from another control point.

The majority of projects will use GPS methods to derive sample locations. GPS methods

utilize radio frequency measurements with multichannel receivers of the signals from the

global network of satellites that the US Department of Defense has established.

Measurements of the horizontal sample locations or site features by GPS technology is

actually based on the same principles used in traditional surveying methods. However,

with space-based GPS, hand held receivers and data loggers measure the distances to

three or more noncoincident points or satellites of known positions and triangulate the

position of the sample location, site feature or point on earth.

Regardless of the method(s) used, horizontal location surveys should be based on

established control points. A network of horizontally (and vertically) located control

points has been established and is continually maintained by the National Oceanic and

Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) through its National Geodetic Survey (NGS)

(formerly U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey and National Ocean Survey). The old

horizontal datum, called the North American Datum of 1927 (NAD27), is currently being

replaced with the newer datum of 1983 (NAD83). The NAD27 system of horizontal

control points, have established geographic latitude and longitude positions, and provided

the basis for the State Plane coordinate grid systems used by many States.

When measuring horizontal angles, compensation should be made for the angle between

true north and magnetic north. This angle is called the magnetic declination. Field

surveying methods should be referenced to true north. Sources of existing information on

horizontal control stations or coordinate grid data and their “exact” locations may be

obtained from local, state or federal departments or agencies. However, the best place to

obtain a horizontal control point data is from the website www.ngs.noaa.gov. Typically,

the engineering or public works departments of counties, cities or towns may have data

on file that is near the particular site being investigated.

Before conducting a field survey you must first determine the required accuracy or any

special requests identified by the client or applicable government standards. If locations

need to be collected and stamped by a professional land surveyor then collection will

need to be subcontracted to a licensed professional or until North Wind hires a registered

PLSS. Different states have different standards for data collection. Project managers

need to determine what the requirements are applicable to each project.

../../../../nmonroe/Local%20Settings/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/OLK59/www.ngs.noaa.gov

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-011 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

Page 8 of 14


4.3 Equipment

North Wind has several pieces of equipment available for collecting location information.

Each piece of equipment has a different accuracy and should be matched up with the

project requirements. For the purposes of this procedure we won’t be discussing survey

grade GPS units as it requires special training. A survey grade GPS has a horizontal

accuracy of 2.5 cm.

North Wind has several mapping grade GPS units available, including:

a backpack style Trimble Pro XRS which comes with a data logger and makes

collecting many points easier because of the full alpha numeric button set. Accuracy

is submeter after differential correction (<1m.).

A Trimble XT, which provides 2 ft. accuracy after differential correction.

Several older GPS units called Trimble Geo Explorer III’s. The majority of projects

use this style of GPS unit. Accuracy is 1 meter after differential correction.

Although recommended as a last resort, there are several recreational grade GPS units

throughout the company. Accuracy is 8-10 m and the data can’t be differentially

corrected. Recreational grade is mostly for hikers and campers and are bought in

typical shopping centers. Because data can’t be corrected, accuracy can’t be

validated so keep this in mind when you are collecting your field data.

Sometimes there won’t be any satellite availability to use a GPS unit. If that happens you

can use a survey tape and compass to generate swing ties from known permanent

locations (building corners, fence corners, other surveyed wells, etc.) to the sample

collection point. You will need at least 3 swings ties to tie the sample location onto a

map.

4.4 Specific Quality Control Procedures

All field surveying methods using the above equipment shall be made only by personnel

who have been trained on its use. All professional staff and field technicians must be

trained in surveying procedures by qualified staff before using this equipment.

Each piece of field equipment (as appropriate) shall be numbered, and a log book shall be

kept containing all maintenance and calibrations made on the equipment. The following

specific maintenance and calibration procedures shall be used for all GPS surveying

equipment:

GPS Receivers -- This equipment shall:

_ be serviced and calibrated by the manufacturer if damaged or suspected to be in error;

(See References 4 and 5).

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-011 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

Page 9 of 14


_ be checked out using procedures outlined in the appropriate users manuals before use;

(See References 4 and 5); and,

_ be cleaned and maintained using procedures outlined in the appropriate users manuals

during field use and before being returned to storage (See References 4 and 5).

4.5 Procedures for Differential GPS

Differential GPS involves the use of two or more multichannel receivers. One or more

are used as the rover receiver(s) and one is used as the base station. The base station and

the rover(s) should be within 200 to 300 miles of each other in order to increase the

accuracy of the measurements (accuracy increases as separation between base and rover

decreases) and have a clear view of the sky. The base is set up on a control point of

known horizontal location (usually expressed in terms of latitude, longitude and

elevation).

Trilaterated coordinate positions from the satellites are recorded at the base, which will

be compared to the actual horizontal control point coordinates for the development of a

correction factor to be applied to other roving GPS units. Since the base station receiver

and the rover receiver(s) synchronize with the satellite’s clocks, data must be recorded or

logged by both receivers at the exact same time in order for the correction factor to be

applicable. Often times, base station data will be obtained via modem, disk or internet

after the field data collection by the rovers. It is therefore extremely important to

coordinate the logistics and planning for using GPS techniques before leaving for the

field (See Reference 4).

The procedures to follow when using GPS to locate horizontal positions of site features

are quite simple and relatively easy to conduct. The GPS receiver/data logger is turned

on and a predefined point, line or area feature to be mapped is selected from a data

dictionary within the data logger. Once the feature is logged, the receiver/data logger

user closes the feature, moves to the next feature for logging and so forth until all site

features are logged. The data files are then downloaded, differentially corrected, if

necessary, and exported to GIS applications for mapping and display of the features

logged. Navigation to predefined points (called waypoints) is accomplished by selecting

the waypoint from within the data logger, and proceeding in the direction displayed in the

data logger until you arrive at the waypoint desired.

However, depending on which GPS receiver/data logger is used (Pathfinder Pro XRS,

Geo XT or Geoxplorer III), different types of GPS processing measurements can be

made: Code Pseudorange or Carrier Phase. With these different processing

measurements comes different accuracy. When code pseudorange is employed, the

autonomous position measurements (without differential correction) will be within about

10 meters using either receiver/data logger listed above. When code pseudorange is used

with differential GPS (this is either real time or post processed), the position

measurements will be less than 1 meter for the Pathfinder Pro XRS, Geo XT or

Geoexplorer III. When carrier phase is employed, both receiver/data loggers can obtain

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-011 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

Page 10 of 14


submeter accuracy for points to be logged only (not waypoint navigation), and it is

necessary to occupy each point feature a minimum of 5 minutes. So, although the basic

procedures are simple and easy, some thought must be put into the planning of the data

collection effort in order to define the features to be logged, capitalize on the accuracy

and to meet the objectives of the project.

All professional staff and field technicians must be trained in the use of the GPS

equipment by qualified staff before using this equipment. Specific procedures on the

operation and setup of the GPS equipment are described in detail in the operations

manuals for each of the instruments. All instruments will be used consistent with the

instructions contained within these manuals. A copy of each of the manuals will be

maintained by a designated person within the company. The following templates list the

methods and procedures to be considered and performed if differential GPS procedures

will be used to data log GPS positions or horizontally locate sampling points or other site

features.

TEMPLATE 1. Planning To Capture GPS Data.

Training in the use of GPS equipment is critical to the success of a field project.

The objectives and accuracy requirements should be established and factors that

might limit the use of the GPS equipment should be assessed.

Check the availability of the GPS equipment and test it prior to going in the field in

order to ensure that it works properly and meets the requirements of the field project.

Decide what features (points, lines, or areas) and their attributes at a site will be

captured with GPS equipment and create a Data Dictionary on the PC with Pathfinder

Office software. Transfer the Data Dictionary to Data logger.

Check the availability of horizontal control point data at or near the site for GPS

equipment precision and accuracy check. If none exists, remember to log at least four

points that surround the site and that can be seen in aerial photographs or topographic

maps for checking and GIS geo-referencing.

Check the availability of base station coverage if the project is not dependant on

collecting real time data.

Template 2. Differential Correction.

If a real time GPS unit was used for data capture, the data file(s) must be checked to

see if all positions were differential corrected through the real time broadcast signal.

If any portion of a data file was not corrected with the real time broadcast signal, a

base station file must be obtained in order for all positions in the file to be

differentially corrected.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-011 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

Page 11 of 14


In Pathfinder Office software on the PC, select File then Open. Select the data file(s)

to look at then Ok. After a brief scan of the features, one by one, identify the features

and file name(s) that need a base station file for differential correction then Close the

file(s).

Obtain base station file(s) from a base station as close to the site as possible and that

match the month, date and Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) hour of the data file(s)

exactly and place in the Base subdirectory of the Project directory in Pathfinder

Office software on the PC (C:\Pfdata\(Project)\Base). These can be obtained through

modem, internet, email, or disk via regular mail. The data files and the base station

files use a similar file naming convention and will identify the month, date, and UTC

hour that the base station file was collected. The following is the base station file

naming convention.

CITY YEAR MONTH DATE HOUR (UTC) A 9 02 15 14

These websites are good starting points for base station files and covers the United

States:

http://www.ngs.noaa.gov/CORS/cors-data.html

http://www.fs.fed.us/database/gps/clickmap/cbsmap.htm

Once base station files are obtained that match the month, date, and UTC hour, in the

data files as indicated above (and also in the same year), in Pathfinder Office software

on the PC, select Utilities then Differential Correction.

Select the rover file(s) (more than one may be selected) to be differentially corrected.

If the base station files were placed in the Base subdirectory as mentioned above,

select Local Search and the base station files that match the data files will be

highlighted. Select Ok.

The differentially corrected files will be placed in the Project directory with a “.cor”

extension and the processing should be set to Smart Code and Carrier Phase

Processing. After all of the above procedures are followed, select Ok to start the

differential correction process.

To view the corrected files, select File then Open and the corrected files should be

highlighted. Select Ok to view then scan through the features to make sure all

positions were differentially corrected.

4.6 Accuracy

Accuracy in a GPS is dependent upon atmospheric distortion, the number of connected

satellites, how the satellites are arranged in space, the amount of time spent collecting the

http://www.ngs.noaa.gov/CORS/cors-data.html

http://www.fs.fed.us/database/gps/clickmap/cbsmap.htm

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-011 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

Page 12 of 14


specific point, the type of receiver and antenna, and the experience of the person

collecting the features.

Atmospheric distortion can be corrected after the data is collected when you get back into

the office. The distortion can be corrected by using a base station within range (<300

miles) that has been surveyed in by a professional land surveyor. Each data file on the

receiver is time stamped and the time stamp value is compared to the base information

file at the same time to attain a correction value. The process is semi-automated in the

Pathfinder Office software. Atmospheric distortion is approximately 90% of the error

associated with GPS. This is the reason we do not recommend using recreational grade

GPS units. They don’t have a way to correct for the atmospheric distortion.

Another contributor to poor accuracy is the number of satellites and how they are

arranged in space. You need a minimum of 3 satellites to pick up horizontal values and 4

satellites to pick up elevation. The more satellites you have the better. If the satellites

are poorly arranged (like in a line), the accuracy goes down since it doesn’t triangulate as

well. The best arrangement is satellites spread throughout the sky. All GPS’s have a

screen that shows what satellites they are tracking and where they are located in space.

Point dilution of precision (PDOP) is a numeric assessment of these errors. For most

survey’s you want to be less than a 6 PDOP. The PDOP value is displayed on all GPS

units.

The Pathfinder Office software uses an averaging algorithm when locating positions.

The longer you are collecting over a point the better the accuracy of that point. Time can

range anywhere from 1 minute a point to 5 minutes. Some of the super high accuracy

GPS units require 60 minutes a point.

The type of receiver and antenna play a role in the quality of data collected. Typically

the more expensive units have better antennas and receivers.

Experience in using GPS units in the field for data collection cannot be stressed enough.

Things to think about in the field include:

Making sure the antenna is over the spot you want to collect,

Confirming that the antenna is level, and

Making sure you have a good field of view to the sky. (Areas of high vegetation or in

a canyon will narrow the number of satellites the GPS receiver can see. In some

cases you may have to do an offset in order to get good GPS signals.)

5. RECORDS


Records Management:

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-011 Rev. 2, 01/01/11

Page 13 of 14


All data must be documented on field data sheets or within site logbooks.



checkout and calibration activities must occur prior to field activities, and they must be

documented.

All information generated during the measurement task is to be recorded in the project

file. At a minimum, the project file shall contain:

Project authorization form and supporting documentation (e.g., contract release,


Correspondence specific to locations or standards set by project

Quality Assurance documentation-calibration data if applicable

Project deliverables and supporting notes, calculations, logbooks, site sketch, etc.

6. REFERENCES


Breed, C. B. and G. L. Hosmer, The Principles and Practices of Surveying Volume I,

Elementary Surveying, Eleventh Edition, John Wiley and Sons, Inc.: New York, New

York.

Breed, C. B., and G. L. Hosmer, The Principles and Practices of Surveying Volume II,

Higher Surveying, Eighth Edition, John Wiley and Sons, Inc.: New York, New York.

Compton, R. R., Manual of Field Geology, John Wiley and Sons, Inc.: New York, New

York.1.

United States Environmental Protection Agency, 1992. GIS Technical Memorandum 3:

Global Positioning Systems Technology And Its Application In Environmental Programs.

US EPA Document # EPA/600/R-92/036.

Trimble Navigation Limited - Operations Manuals for the following: Geoexplorer II

(1996), P/N 28801-00, Revision B, Ver 2.11 Pathfinder Pro XR (1996), P/N 31172-00,

Revision A TSC1 Asset Surveyor Operation Manual and Software Users Guide (1998),

P/N 34182-00-ENG, Revision A, Ver 4.02 Pathfinder Office Getting Started Guide

(1999), P/N 34231-25-ENG, Revision A, Ver 2.50 Mapping Systems General Reference

(2000), P/N 24177-01, Revision C

ENVP-014

Sampling Equipment Decontamination

Revision 3

Approved:

Joe Rothermel – Original Signature on File 01/30/2012 Division Manager Date

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-014 Rev. 3, 01/30/12

Page 2 of 10


REVISION HISTORY

Revision No.

Effective Date



1 08/28/06 All Revised document numbers for corporate plans, policies, procedures, and forms, and corrected references to these documents, to reflect the number changes per Letter NW-2006-156. Also made minor formatting changes (i.e., moved definitions and acronyms to the front of the document and changed page numbers) per QAP-061_Rev 2.

2 01/01/11 All Replace references to NWI with NW. Update logos and correct references.

3 01/30/12 All Revised to make instructions applicable to routine sampling activities.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-014 Rev. 3, 01/30/12

Page 3 of 10


CONTENTS

DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................4

ACRONYMS ...................................................................................................................................4

1. PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................5

2. SCOPE .................................................................................................................................5


3.1 Project Manager/Task Lead .....................................................................................5


4. HEALTH AND SAFETY ....................................................................................................5

5. DECONTAMINATION PROCEDURE .............................................................................6

6. QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL ............................................................7

7. RECORDS ...........................................................................................................................7

APPENDIX A Optional Methods for Decontamination of Sampling Equipment ..........................8

APPENDIX B Options for Decontamination Solutions and Rinse Agents .....................................9

APPENDIX C Options for Decontamination Equipment ..............................................................10

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-014 Rev. 3, 01/30/12

Page 4 of 10


DEFINITIONS

None

ACRONYMS

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

DOT Department of Transportation


MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet

NW North Wind

OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-014 Rev. 3, 01/30/12

Page 5 of 10


1. PURPOSE

To control cross-contamination of samples by proper decontamination of sampling equipment.

2. SCOPE

This procedure is applicable to all North Wind Group (NWG or Corporate) and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (referred to herein either individually or collectively as NW) employees who are tasked to collect environmental samples.

If other client specific or project specific procedures exist (e.g. in a project specific Work Plan or Sampling and Analysis Plan), then those procedures may be followed instead.

3. RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Project Manager/Task Lead

Ensure data quality through adequate planning and preparatory activities for sample collection.


Follow this procedure to ensure sampling equipment has been adequately decontaminated

Document the decontamination event in sampling log book, field forms or other project specific records to help demonstrate sample quality.

4. HEALTH AND SAFETY

1. Verify a job hazard analysis has been completed for this activity as required by North Wind Health and Safety Procedure HSP 001, Project Hazard Analysis.

2. Verify Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS’s) are available and containers are properly labeled.

3. Don Personal Protective Equipment and implement any work controls identified in the Project Hazard Analysis (nitrile gloves and safety glasses at a minimum).

NOTE:

Decontamination work can be hazardous. Consider the following during the project hazard analysis process:

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-014 Rev. 3, 01/30/12

Page 6 of 10


Exposure hazard: exposure of skin, eyes and mouth due to splashing contaminants and rinsate. Vapors from contaminants or decontamination solutions may cause inhalation hazard, especially when steam cleaning.

Explosion/fire hazard: potential ignition of propane gas with steam cleaners. Vapors from site contaminants or decontamination solutions may be flammable.

Impact hazard: Pressurized water, steam, or air, brushes, etc. all generate flying debris.

Incompatibility hazard: The decontamination solution may react with contaminants to produce heat, explosion, or toxic products.

Chemical degradation. Cleaning agents may degrade protective clothing; some solvents can permeate gloves or other protective clothing.

Waste generation. Material generated from decontamination activities requires proper handling, storage, and disposal.

5. DECONTAMINATION PROCEDURE

1. Use one-time-use (disposable) sampling equipment when it is practical to avoid the need for equipment decontamination.

2. Select an appropriate decontamination method considering the type of equipment, type of contamination, data quality objectives, weather, and other site specific conditions. Appendix A describes commonly used methods.

3. Select an appropriate decontamination solution to remove potential contaminants and interfering compounds. Appendix B provides a list of optional solutions.

4. Set up a decontamination station to collect and properly dispose of contaminated media and used decontamination solutions. Appendix C provides a list of optional equipment.

5. Implement any hazard controls that were identified in the hazard analysis; don skin and eye protection at a minimum.

6. Disassemble sampling equipment, as necessary.

7. Remove gross contamination by brushing, scraping, wiping, and high pressure, low pressure water spray, etc..

8. Wash equipment using the selected decontamination solution; remove all visible soil, oils, grease, etc.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-014 Rev. 3, 01/30/12

Page 7 of 10


9. Rinse equipment with tap water.

10. Rinse equipment with distilled, deionized, or purified water.

11. Additional rinses using specialized rinse agents may be performed if required to meet project objectives. See Appendix B.

NOTE:

Use caution to not damage sensitive or electronic equipment during the decontamination process.

If air drying is impractical due to environmental conditions, use kim wipes or similar. Alternatively, isopropyl alcohol may be used as a final rinse instead of water if it will not interfere with the intended analyses.

Decontamination activities typically generate waste as defined by federal regulations (40 CFR 261). All waste generation activities require some degree of regulatory analysis and hazardous waste determination. Get help if you are unsure of this process.

Investigation derived wastes generated as part of environmental remediation activities are often considered to be hazardous waste regardless of contaminant concentration.

Ensure that wastes that have the potential to meet the definitions of hazardous waste are properly containerized, labeled, stored, shipped, and disposed of.

Acidic or flammable wastes may require special handling precautions and waste containers.

6. QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL

1. If deviations from this procedure are necessary, then document the changes in project specific documents and/or field records.

2. If required by project requirements (Sampling and Analysis Plan, Quality Assurance Project Plan, etc.), collect a rinsate blank daily or after each decontamination event.

7. RECORDS

The sampling technician(s) will document each event in the project sampling documentation (e.g. sample log book or field forms). The project manager/task lead will maintain these records in accordance with QAP-171 Records Management.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-014 Rev. 3, 01/30/12

Page 8 of 10


APPENDIX A Optional Methods for Decontamination of Sampling Equipment

Large pieces of equipment, such as drilling equipment may be moved to a large secondary containment berm or in-the-ground plastic lined pad. There they can be cleaned by steam or pressurized water. Drilling equipment that has low potential to cross contaminate samples are not typically cleaned to the same degree as sample containers and other sample collection equipment.

Equipment that is small enough to handle (split spoons, sleeves, shovels, bailers, flow cells, etc.) may be washed by hand in a tub or basin using cloth wipes, brushes, and gloved hands.

Small equipment (spoons, trowels, flow cells, etc.) may be washed by hand over a bucket or absorbent rags using a hand sprayer with decon solution and a second hand sprayer with deionized or distilled water.

Low pressure sprayers (e.g. garden sprayers or concrete sprayers) work well for many applications. Use one for decontamination solution and a second one for tap water rinse.

High pressure washers or steam cleaners work well for many applications. These methods typically produce very little wash water and are very effective at removing contaminants, especially if the water is heated.

In some instances, due to sensitive, non-waterproof equipment or due to the unlikelihood of equipment being contaminated, it is not necessary to conduct an extensive decontamination procedure. For example, air sampling pumps hooked on a fence, placed on a drum, or wrapped in plastic bags are not likely to become heavily contaminated. A damp cloth should be used to wipe off contaminants which may have adhered to equipment through airborne contaminants or from surfaces upon which the equipment was set.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-014 Rev. 3, 01/30/12

Page 9 of 10


APPENDIX B Options for Decontamination Solutions and Rinse Agents

Tap water with a phosphate free detergent (Liquinox, Alconox, or similar) is the most commonly used solution for decontamination of sample equipment.

The use of an untreated or non-potable water supply is not an acceptable substitute for tap water.

Distilled or deionized water commonly available from grocery stores is an acceptable rinse agent for most environmental sampling activities.

Prior to using food-grade distilled/deionized water, verify that project specific sampling plans do not require special rinse agents (high purity liquid chromatography water, laboratory certified deionized water, etc.). High purity water is available from most chemical suppliers.

Dilute acids (10% or less of nitric acid, acetic acid, or boric acid) may be used as a rinse agent in cases where basic (caustic) compounds, or metal contamination is a concern. Acid rinses should not be used on metallic sampling equipment.

Dilute bases (10% or less sodium bicarbonate) may be used as a rinse agent in cases where cross contamination from acidic compounds, phenol thiols, and some nitro and sulfonic compounds is a concern.

Organic solvents such as isopropyl alcohol or methanol may be used as rinse agents in cases where organic contamination is a concern. Similarly Hexane may be applicable for polychlorinated biphenyl contamination.

Commercial degreasing products (citrosolve, simple green, etc.) are not recommended for cleaning sample equipment.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-014 Rev. 3, 01/30/12

Page 10 of 10


APPENDIX C Options for Decontamination Equipment

Assorted brushes (long handle, short handle, nylon bristle, steel bristle, etc.)

Kim wipes (if air drying is not an option)

Hand pump sprayer

Pressure washer

HDPE squeeze bottles for acids (with Right to Know Chemical Labels)

HDPE spray bottles (with Right to Know Chemical Labels)

Spill containment berms, liners, sumps, trays, etc. (see UltraTech International or Uline products)

Plastic sheeting

Plastic kiddie pools

Plastic Buckets

Stainless steel or HDPE funnels

Steam cleaner

Zip lock bags

Aluminum foil

Trash bags

DOT approved close top polyethylene drums for waste water/decon solution; various sizes

DOT approved open to polyethylene or steel drums for waste debris, soil, mud; various sizes

DOT approved Supersacks or similar for waste debris, soil; various sizes

Waste container labels

Decontamination solution with applicable MSDS

ENVP-020

Groundwater Monitoring Well Sampling Using the Passive Diffusion Bag Sampling Method

Revision 4

Approved:

Dana Swift for Joe Rothermel – Original Signature on File 03/27/13 Division Manager Date

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 2 of 32


REVISION HISTORY

Revision No.

Effective Date


0 02/06/06 All Baseline document.

1 03/13/06 Title Change Title from “ER” to “ENV”

2 08/28/06 All Revised document numbers for corporate plans, policies,

procedures, and forms, and corrected references to these

documents, to reflect the number changes per Letter NW-

2006-156. Also made minor formatting changes (i.e., moved

definitions and acronyms to the front of the document and

changed page numbers) per QAP-061_Rev 2.

3 01/01/11 All Replace references to NWI with NW. Update logos, correct

references.

4 03/26/13 Section 5.4 Editorial change.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 3 of 32


CONTENTS

DEFINITIONS .............................................................................................................................................. 5

ACRONYMS ................................................................................................................................................ 5

1. PURPOSE .......................................................................................................................................... 6

2. SCOPE ................................................................................................................................................ 6

3. BACKGROUND ................................................................................................................................ 6

4. RESPONSIBILITIES ......................................................................................................................... 7

4.1. Project Manager..................................................................................................................... 7

4.2. Field Geologist ...................................................................................................................... 7

5. REQUIRED EQUIPMENT ................................................................................................................ 8

5.1. Equipment Required for All Sampling Phases ...................................................................... 8

5.2. Additional Equipment Required During Preparation of Sampler Assembly and Sampler

Installation ............................................................................................................................. 9

5.3. Additional Equipment Required During Sampler Recovery and Sub-Sampling ................ 10

5.4. Sources ................................................................................................................................ 10

6. PROCEDURE .................................................................................................................................. 10

6.1. Preliminary Activities .......................................................................................................... 11

6.2. Measuring Well Dimensions and Calculating PDB Assembly Dimensions ....................... 11

6.3. Construction of PDB Sampler Assembly ............................................................................ 14

6.4. Preparation of PDB Samplers for Deployment ................................................................... 15

6.5. Sampler Deployment ........................................................................................................... 16

6.6. Equilibration ........................................................................................................................ 17

6.7. Sampler Recovery and Collection of Samples for Laboratory Analysis ............................. 17

APPENDIX A, Suitability of the Permeable Diffusion Bag Sampler Approach for Various Analytes ..... 19

APPENDIX B, Calculation of Passive Diffusion Bag Sampler Positions in Monitoring Wells ................ 20

APPENDIX C, Example ENVF-020.1, Passive Diffusion Bag Sampler Calculation Form ...................... 23

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 4 of 32


APPENDIX D, Example ENVF-020.2, Passive Diffusion Bag Sampler Calculation Form 2 ................... 27

APPENDIX E, Example ENVF-020.3, Permeable Diffusion Bag Sampler Deployment Form ................ 31

APPENDIX F, Example ENVF-020.4, Permeable Diffusion Bag Sampler Recovery Form ..................... 32

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 5 of 32


DEFINITIONS

Field Operations Manager Responsible for ensuring that field personnel are trained in

the use of this procedure and for verifying that groundwater

samples are collected in accordance with this procedure.

Field Geologist Responsible for complying with this procedure, including

sampler preparation, deployment, recovery, and sample

collection, packaging, and documentation.

ACRONYMS

HSP Health and Safety Plan

IDW investigation-derived waste

LDPE low-density polyethylene

NW North Wind

OVA organic vapor analyzer

PDB passive diffusion bag

PPE personal protective equipment


VOC volatile organic compound

WMP Waste Management Plan

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 6 of 32


1. PURPOSE

The purpose of this procedure is to provide direction for the collection and

documentation of groundwater samples for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using

passive diffusion bag (PDB) samplers. Proper collection procedures are necessary to

assure the quality and integrity of all volatile organic samples.

2. SCOPE

This procedure applies to all North Wind. (NW) personnel conducting sampling using

PDB samplers. If individual contracts require the use of client-supplied procedures, then

the client-supplied procedures shall be used in lieu of this document.

3. BACKGROUND

PDB samplers are used for collecting groundwater samples for VOC analysis. In contrast

to conventional sampling methods, the use of PDB samplers does not require that wells

be purged prior to sampling or pumped during sampling, which reduces the labor and

equipment requirements associated with sampling and alleviates the need to manage

purge water.

A PDB sampler is a polyethylene bag filled with analyte-free deionized water or analyte-

free distilled water. To collect a sample, a PDB is placed into the screened interval or

open interval of a monitoring well. If the concentration of VOCs in the water inside the

sampler is different than the concentration in the surrounding groundwater, molecular

diffusion will transport VOCs across the polyethylene bag until the VOC concentrations

inside the sampler equilibrate with the concentrations outside the sampler. After placing

a PDB sampler into a well screen, it is allowed to remain there long enough that VOC

concentrations inside the bag equilibrate with concentrations in the adjacent groundwater.

After the equilibration period, a PDB sampler is removed from a monitoring well and

water is transferred from the sampler into sample containers, preserved as necessary, and

shipped to a laboratory for analysis. The measured concentration of VOCs in water

collected from the diffusion bag sampler is assumed to be the same as the concentration

in groundwater adjacent to the sampler.

The PDB sampling approach is limited to certain VOCs since the physical and chemical

characteristics of the polyethylene bag restrict or prevent rapid diffusion of other types of

compounds (semi-volatile organic compounds, inorganic compounds, and some VOCs),

and because some constituents (e.g., pthalates) can leach from the polyethylene into the

water inside the bag. Compounds for which the PDB approach is suitable, and those for

which it is unsuitable, are listed in Appendix A.

The use of PDB samplers has two major advantages relative to conventional groundwater

sampling methods. First, the need for purging the well prior to sampling is eliminated.

This reduces the requirements for equipment, labor, and disposal of potentially large

quantities of purge water and therefore typically reduces the cost of a sampling program.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 7 of 32


Second, vertical concentration profiles can be easily determined by positioning multiple

PDB samplers at different depths in the screened interval of a monitoring well.

The effectiveness of the use of a single PDB sampler in a well is dependent upon

groundwater flowing horizontally through the screened interval of a well and the quality

of the water inside the screened interval being representative of the groundwater in the

aquifer directly adjacent to the screen. If there are vertical components of intra-borehole

flow, multiple intervals of the formation contributing to flow, or varying concentrations

of VOCs vertically within the screened or open interval, then deployment of multiple

PDB samplers (as opposed to a single PDB sample) within a well may be more

appropriate for sampling the well. A typical approach is to deploy multiple PDB

samplers in a well the first time it is sampled using the PDB approach in order to

determine the vertical variation in VOC concentrations. In subsequent deployments, a

single PDB sampler can be deployed at the depth where VOC concentrations were

highest.

Although samplers from different vendors vary in specific construction details, a typical

PDB sampler consists of a 1- to 2-ft-long low-density polyethylene (LDPE) tube that is

closed at both ends and filled with deionized or distilled water. A low-density

polyethylene-mesh can be placed around the LPDE tube to protect it against abrasion

during installation and retrieval. This is especially important in open boreholes and in

deep cased holes. One or more PDB samplers filled with water are attached to a tether,

which is weighted at the bottom, and lowered into a well to the desired depth. After an

equilibration period (typically 2 weeks or longer), the samplers are removed from the

well and aliquots of water are collected from each PDB sampler for laboratory analysis.

The PDB sampling approach is covered by one or more United States patents. Sampler

components must be purchased from approved suppliers in order to avoid patent

infringement. Contact information for these suppliers is provided in Section 5.4.

Additional information on the development, testing, and use of PDB samplers can be

found at the Interstate Technology Research Regulatory Council Diffusion Sampler web

site, http://difusionsampler.itrcweb.org/homepage.asp.

4. RESPONSIBILITIES

4.1. Project Manager

The North Wind Project Manager is responsible for ensuring that field personnel are

trained in the use of this procedure and for verifying that groundwater samples are

collected in accordance with this procedure.

4.2. Field Geologist

The Field Geologist is responsible for complying with this procedure, including sampler

preparation, deployment, recovery, and sample collection, packaging, and documentation.

http://difusionsampler.itrcweb.org/homepage.asp

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 8 of 32


5. REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

PDB samplers are deployed, allowed to equilibrate, and then recovered, and samples of

equilibrated water are transferred into sample containers and shipped to a laboratory for

analysis. During initial deployment of PDB samplers, two trips will be required: the first

trip to deploy the samplers, and a second trip to recover them. The same schedule can be

followed for subsequent sampling events. Alternatively, if PDB samplers are being used

in a long-term monitoring program, new samplers can be installed during the same trip

that equilibrated samplers are recovered. The equipment requirements are listed

separately for sampler installation and sampler recovery. If both recovery and

reinstallation are performed during the same trip, then both sets of equipment will be

required.

5.1. Equipment Required for All Sampling Phases

Project Documentation:

o Project Health and Safety Plan (HSP),

o Project Waste Management Plan (WMP),

o Project Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) or other work control document that

specifies the locations where PDB samplers are to be placed,

o Project field logbook,

o Well completion logs for every well in which PDB samplers will be deployed,

and

o PDB Sampler Calculation Forms (blank forms for deployment, completed forms

for recovery).

Health and Safety, and Waste Management Equipment and Supplies:

o Clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE), as required by the HSP,

o Organic vapor analyzer (OVA) and calibration standards, if required by project

HSP,

o Supplies and equipment for decontaminating non-disposable equipment

(e.g., water level tape), and

o Waste containers and labels, as required by the WMP, for managing

decontamination waste and excess sample volume.

Electric water level tape, with spare batteries. The length of the tape should be

sufficient to reach the total depth of each well.

Plastic tub, approximately 24 in. long 18 in. wide 12 in. deep, or larger. This tub

will be used to temporarily store the tether and water-filled PDB samplers during the

preparation and installation stage and during the recovery and sub-sampling stage.

The tub should be large enough that the maximum number of PDB samplers that will

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 9 of 32


be installed in a single well can easily lie flat in it. If samplers are prepared

beforehand and transported to the field for installation (which is the recommended

approach in cold or inclement weather), then a separate tub is needed for each well.

Plastic sheeting for covering the ground at each well. Assume one 8 ft 8 ft piece for

each well.

Hard plastic or metal cooler, with blue ice packs.

Bubble wrap for cushioning sample vials.

Adsorbent material (e.g., vermiculite) for cooler interior.

Strapping tape (for securing cooler lid).

Labels for cooler: “Fragile, This End Up”.

Chain of custody forms.

Custody seals.

Shipping labels (i.e., courier forms).

Shipping address for analytical laboratory.

Optional – equipment (i.e., pulley that attaches to the well head or a tripod) for

assisting with installing and retrieving the sampler assembly. This is more important

as the installation depth increases.

5.2. Additional Equipment Required During Preparation of Sampler Assembly and Sampler Installation

PDB Sampler Calculation Forms 1 and 2 and directions (see Appendix B).

Tape measure, graduated in decimal feet (feet, tenths of feet, and hundredths of feet).

The length of the tape should be sufficient to reach the total depth of each well. An

open reel, fiberglass tape is recommended.

PDB sampler components. Note – all materials (including deionized water) can be

obtained from the suppliers listed in Section 5.4.

o One PDB bag assembly for each sample location. It is recommended that

approximately 10% extra bags be available in case bags are damaged during

preparation or installation.

o One polyethylene mesh protective cover for each sample location (i.e., the

number of wells sampled X number of depths sampled per well).

o Two nylon cable ties per sample location.

o Two stainless steel split rings per sample location. Note – if repetitive sampling

is performed at a location, the split rings can be reused.

o One tether per sampled well. A tether is constructed of 3/16-in. diameter to 1/4-

in. diameter braided (not twisted) polypropylene rope.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 10 of 32


o One stainless steel weight per sampled well.

o One well cap per sampled well. Each cap shall be equipped with a tether

attachment hook or eye in the underside.

o Laboratory grade deionized or distilled water. The volume shall be sufficient to

fill all of the PDB samplers that will be deployed. The volume of each PDB

sampler is typically about 300 mL. Deionized water can be obtained from the

PDB component supplier or from a chemical laboratory supplier).

o PDB filling apparatus (provided by the PDB supplier).

Sample containers, labels, and markers, for preparing equipment blank and trip blank.

5.3. Additional Equipment Required During Sampler Recovery and Sub-Sampling

PDB sampling apparatus (provided by the PDB supplier).

Sample containers, labels, and markers for preparing trip blank.

Sample containers, labels, and markers for samples collected from each PDB.

5.4. Sources

Materials and supplies for PDB samplers, including deionized water, can be obtained

from the following vendors:

Columbia Analytical Services (CAS)

Web Site: http://www.caslab.com

Telephone: 800-695-7222 ext 01 or 585-288-5380

EON Products

Web Site: http://eonpro.com

Telephone: 800-474-2490

6. PROCEDURE

Ground water sampling using water-filled PDB samplers consists of the following

activities:

Measuring well dimensions,

Calculating the dimensions to be used in preparing a PDB sampler assembly,

Constructing a PDB assembly,

Preparing PDB assembly for deployment,

http://www.caslab.com/

http://eonpro.com/

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 11 of 32


Deploying PDB assembly,

Allowing time for PDB equilibration with ambient groundwater,

Recovering PDB assembly, and

Collecting samples from PDB for laboratory analysis.

These activities are described in the following sections.

6.1. Preliminary Activities

1. Don PPE as specified in the project HSP.

2. Prepare materials for decontaminating equipment that is placed into a well and

non-disposable equipment that may contact potentially contaminated groundwater.

3. If the project HSP requires that an OVA be used to assay airborne VOC

concentrations, then calibrate the OVA according to manufacturer’s procedure.

Document the calibration in the field log book.

4. If required by the HSP, use the OVA to screen VOC concentrations in the air inside

the well as soon as it is uncapped. If OVA readings exceed limits specified in the

HSP, then take actions as described in the HSP. Document the OVA readings in the

field logbook.

5. Confirm the well identification. Inspect the well for signs of damage or tampering. If

the well appears to be undamaged and has not been tampered with, then proceed to

the next step. If damage or tampering is apparent, then document it by taking

photographs and writing a verbal description in the field logbook. Determine if the

well can be sampled by measuring the total depth of the well using a decontaminated

water level indicator or a decontaminated tape and weight. Compare the measured

total well depth to the depth indicated on the well completion log, taking into account

that the depths on well completion logs are typically measured from ground surface,

while the total depth was probably measured from the top of casing. If the well is

open to the full depth and does not appear to be obstructed, then proceed to the next

step. Notify the project manager within 24 hours regarding the damage or vandalism.

If the well is obstructed, then contact the project manager as soon as practical for

further instructions.

6.2. Measuring Well Dimensions and Calculating PDB Assembly Dimensions

Follow the detailed procedure for this activity (provided in Appendix B), which also

includes log forms and instructions for their use.

The general procedure consists of transcribing information from the well completion log

to the calculation form and measuring and recording the current depth to water, total

depth, and stickup (height of the top of casing above ground surface). Using this

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 12 of 32


information, the effective length of the well screen (total length reduced by the amount

obstructed by sediment and any amount above the water surface) is calculated. Next, the

position of the midpoint, top, and bottom of the number (n) of samplers to be deployed in

the well screen is calculated for each sampler relative to the bottom of the well screen and

relative to the measured bottom of the well. The distances relative to the measured bottom

of the well are then used for locating the hardware that attaches PDB samplers to a tether

used for lowering the sampler assembly into a well and subsequently recovering it.

PDB samplers are positioned on the tether relative to the bottom of a weight attached to

the end of the tether below the samplers, as opposed to referencing distances to the top of

casing. Referencing dimensions to the bottom of the well and bottom of the tether

typically results in shorter distances that have to be measured during sampler preparation.

This approach allows samplers to be easily positioned in the field by lowering the

sampler assembly into a well until the weight reaches the bottom of the well.

The number of samplers to be placed in a given well is specified in project-specific

documents, typically a SAP. A general approach is to deploy multiple samplers at

different depths in a well screen during initial deployment of PDB samplers (if the well

screen is longer than 5 ft) to determine if there are substantial vertical differences in

concentration. Individual PDB samplers are typically located every 3 to 5 ft in a well

screen. In subsequent deployments, samplers are typically placed only at the depth where

maximum concentrations were determined in the initial deployment.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 13 of 32


Multiple samplers are typically deployed at the following locations in screened intervals.

Well Screen Length

(ft)

Sampler Midpoint Location

(feet above bottom of well screen)

5 2.5

10 2.5 and 7.5 or

1.7, 5.0, and 8.3

15 2.5, 7.5, and 12.5, or

1.9, 5.6, 9.4, and 13.1

20 2.5, 7.5, 12.5, and 17.5

The general formula for evenly spacing PDB samplers in a well is:

n

Lx

iL ws

i2

12

where:

Lws = length of well screen

Li = distance from bottom of well screen to middle of sampler i

n = number of samplers

i = counter for sampler (1 for the first sampler above the bottom, 2 for

the second, and so on).

PDB sampler spacing is illustrated on Figure 1.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 14 of 32


Figure 1. Schematic showing approach for equally spacing n samplers in a well screen with

length Lws.

Spacing of samplers within a well screen must be adjusted if sediment accumulation

obstructs part of a well screen or if part of the screen is exposed above the water surface.

These circumstances cause the length of well screen available for sampling – the

effective screen length – to be less than the total screen length. Sampler locations relative

to the bottom of the well are determined based on the distance between the bottom of the

well screen and the bottom of the well (the bottom of the casing if no sediment has

accumulated or the top of the sediment layer). These calculations are described in

Appendix B.

6.3. Construction of PDB Sampler Assembly

1. Confirm that the PDB Sampler Calculation Forms 1 and 2 (see Appendix B) have

been completed for each monitoring well for which a PDB sampler assembly is being

prepared.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 15 of 32


2. Prepare a tether for each well in which PDB samplers will be deployed. A tether is a

length of rope to which the PDB samplers are attached.

a. The tether must be at least as long as the well is deep, including the amount that

the casing sticks up above ground surface, plus at least an additional 3 ft to allow

for securing the tether at the well head.

b. Attach a stainless steel weight at the bottom end of the tether. The purpose of the

weight is to counteract the buoyancy of samplers if they contain any air, to

facilitate downward movement of samplers through the water column, and to

facilitate being able to determine when the tether has been lowered to the bottom

of the well.

c. Measure all distances in this section from the bottom of the weight.

d. Refer to PDB Sampler Calculation Form 2, prepared for the subject monitoring

well. The last two columns contain the distances relative to the bottom of the well

and bottom of the weight where the top and bottom of each PDB is to be attached

to the tether.

e. Working from the bottom of the tether toward the top, attach a stainless steel split

ring to the tether at the distances calculated for the top and bottom of each PDB.

Record calculations in the field log book or PDB sampler installation form. To

attach a split ring, make a small slip knot in the tether at the desired location,

attach the split ring to the loop of the knot, and pull the rope to tighten the loop.

f. Attach a label to the tether that identifies which well it was prepared for. Measure

and mark on the tether a distance equal to the depth from top of casing to the

bottom of the well.

6.4. Preparation of PDB Samplers for Deployment

1. PDB samplers can be prepared for installation in a comfortable, clean environment

and transported to the field for deployment in monitoring wells. Samplers should be

prepared as soon as practical before deployment, preferably within 2 days of

deployment. However, storage times of a few days between preparation and

deployment are acceptable as long as the samplers are not exposed to VOC-

contaminated air and are accompanied by a deployment trip blank (described below).

Alternatively, samplers can be prepared for deployment at the well.

This is certainly appropriate during routine sampling when an equilibrated PDB

sampler is recovered and replaced with a fresh PDB sampler. However, it is

recommended that sampler preparation for initial deployment be performed in a lab,

shop, or other staging area before deployment at the well.

2. Every day that PDB samplers are prepared for deployment (i.e., polyethylene bags are

filled with water), prepare an equipment blank and submit equipment blank and

deployment phase trip blanks (see below) for analysis. An equipment blank is

prepared by using the same water and apparatus (i.e., a funnel and/or tubing) used to

fill PDBs to fill sample containers. The filled sample container is then labeled,

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 16 of 32


preserved in accordance with the analytical procedure, and recorded on the chain of

custody forms, as described in the project SAP. The purpose of the equipment blank

is to detect any contaminants that may be introduced into the samplers, either directly

from the water used for filling them, from the apparatus used for filling samples, or

due to transfer from VOCs in the air.

3. Prepare two blanks (trip and deployment) by filling sample containers with the same

water used to fill the PDBs by pouring directly from the water container to a sample

container, without using the PDB filling apparatus. The filled sample containers are

then labeled, preserved, and recorded on the chain of custody forms, as described in

the project SAP. The trip blank shall be placed in a cooler with the equipment blank;

this trip blank is used to detect contamination that may be acquired during transport to

the analytical laboratory. The deployment blank shall accompany samplers during

the preparation, short term storage, and installation phases and shall then be shipped

to the laboratory for analysis. All of these blank samples should be shipped together

after sampler installation. In order to avoid exceeding allowable holding times,

samplers should be installed within a few days of preparation.

4. Following the manufacturer’s procedure, fill each PDB with deionized water, install a

protective mesh cover, and attach to a tether. Each PDB sampler is attached to a

tether by using cable ties to secure the top and bottom to the split rings that were

installed in Section 5.3, Step 2.f. Clip off the excess cable tie. Take care that sharp

edges of the cable tie will not damage the polyethylene bag.

5. As PDB samplers are attached to a tether, place the tether and samplers into a clean

plastic tub. The tub is intended to prevent contamination or damage to the sampler

assembly and to provide a convenient means of transporting samplers to the field.

6.5. Sampler Deployment

Document this activity on the PDB Sampler Deployment Form (Appendix C).

1. Confirm the well identification.

2. Confirm that the sampler assembly selected for deployment was prepared for this

well.




5. Place plastic sheeting on the ground next to the well to prevent contamination of

equipment.


concentrations, then calibrate the OVA according to the manufacturer’s procedure.


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 17 of 32


7. If required by the HSP, use the OVA to screen VOC concentrations in the air within


HSP, then take actions as described in the HSP.

8. Measure the depth to water and record in the field logbook / PDB Deployment Form.

9. Install pulley or other devices used for facilitating placement of samplers into the

well. Note – this step is optional.

10. Select the tub that contains the tether and sampler assembly prepared for this well.

Place the tub that the sampler assembly prepared for that well near the well.

11. Tie the upper end of the tether to a fixed object (i.e., the protective casing) to

eliminate any chance that the entire sampler assembly will be lost down the well.

12. Lower the sampler assembly into the well until the weight reaches the bottom of the

well. Pull the tether to move the weight slightly (< 1 cm) above the bottom of the

well.

13. Secure the tether so that the sampler assembly will remain at that depth. One way of

accomplishing this is to tie the tether to the underside of a well cap that is equipped

with a hook or eye in the underside for this purpose, and then install the cap. Take

care to not drop the entire tether down the well!

14. Record the time and date of sampler deployment in the field logbook.

15. Close and lock well.

16. Decontaminate the water level tape and contain the spent decontamination materials

for disposal in accordance with the WMP. Manage other investigation-derived waste

(IDW) in accordance with the WMP.

17. Repeat for each well at which samplers are to be deployed.

18. At the end of installation, ship the equipment blank, trip blank, and deployment blank

samples to an analytical laboratory.

6.6. Equilibration

1. Allow the PDB samplers to equilibrate with the surrounding groundwater. The

minimum equilibration time is 2 weeks. There is no maximum time limit.

6.7. Sampler Recovery and Collection of Samples for Laboratory Analysis

1. Document this activity using PDB Sampler Recovery Form (Appendix D).

2. Prepare a trip blank by filling a sample container with deionized water. Transport

this blank sample with samples collected from PDB samplers.

3. Confirm the well identification.

4. Prepare materials for decontaminating water level tape.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 18 of 32





7. Place plastic sheeting on the ground next to the well to prevent contamination of

equipment.


concentrations, then calibrate the OVA according to manufacturer’s procedure.


9. If required by the HSP, use the OVA to screen VOC concentrations in the air within


HSP, then take actions as described in the HSP.

10. Measure the depth to water and record in the field logbook.

11. Install pulley or other device to facilitate placement and recovery of samplers at the

well. Note – this step is optional.

12. Place a clean plastic tub near the well.

13. Recover the sampler assembly from the well. Store the tether on a spool or coil it in

the tub. Without removing the PDB samplers from the tether, place them into the tub

to prevent damage or cross contamination. Record the date and time of sampler

recovery in the field logbook.

14. Collect samples for laboratory analysis from each PDB sampler in accordance with

manufacturer’s instructions. Collect the number and type of samples (i.e., single

sample, duplicate, matrix spike, matrix spike duplicate) specified in the project SAP.

Preserve and store samples in accordance with the project SAP.

15. Record in the field logbook or PDB Sampler Recovery Form the sample identifier,

date and time collected, and the PDB sampler from which the sample was collected

for each sample collected.

16. If samplers are to be redeployed at this time, then install new water-filled PDB

samplers on the tether and deploy the sampler assembly into the well, as described in

Sections 5.3 through 5.5. If samplers are not to be redeployed at this time, then make

sure that the tether is clearly labeled with the well identifier and store it such that it

will not become tangled or contaminated, and store for future reuse at this well only.

Tethers are not to be used at other wells due to the potential for cross contamination.

17. Close and lock the well.

18. Decontaminate the water level indicator.

19. Clean up the area. Manage used decontamination materials, used PDB sampler bags,

and any other IDW generated in accordance with the project WMP.

20. Repeat at each location where PDB samplers are to be recovered.

21. Ship trip blank and samples to a laboratory for analysis.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 19 of 32


APPENDIX A, Suitability of the Permeable Diffusion Bag Sampler Approach for Various Analytes

Table B-1. Compounds tested in the laboratorya.

Table B-2. Field experience sampling VOCs with PDBs

b.

a. Vroblesky, D.A., 2001. User’s Guide for Polyethylene-Based Passive Diffusion Bag Samplers

to Obtain Volatile Organic Compound Concentrations in Wells: Part 1. Deployment,

Recovery, Data Interpretation, and Quality Control and Assurance. U.S. Geological Survey

Water Resources Investigations Report 01-4060.

b. Parsons, 2003. Final Comprehensive Results Report for the Passive Diffusion Bag Sampler

Demonstration.

Note: Both documents can be downloaded from

http://diffusionsampler.itrcweb.org/keydocuments.asp

http://diffusionsampler.itrcweb.org/keydocuments.asp

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 20 of 32


APPENDIX B, Calculation of Passive Diffusion Bag Sampler Positions in Monitoring Wells

Passive diffusion bag (PDB) samplers can be used to collect samples for volatile organic

compound (VOC) analysis without pumping water from the well prior to or during sample

collection. A PDB sampler is a polyethylene bag filled with water, which is placed in the

screened interval or open interval of a monitoring well. VOC concentrations in the water inside

the bag equilibrate via diffusion with those in groundwater that flows through the well. After

allowing enough time for VOC concentrations in the PDB sampler to equilibrate, the samplers

are recovered and aliquots of the equilibrated water are transferred into appropriate sample

containers and analyzed.

An important aspect of using PDB samplers is positioning them within the screened or open

interval of a well. Three approaches are typically used: 1) placement of a single sampler at the

vertical midpoint of a screen or open interval; 2) placement of a single sampler at a depth

selected based on previous sampling, such as the depth at which the maximum concentration

occurs; and 3) uniform spacing throughout a screened interval or open interval. Directions are

provided here for calculating distances relevant to uniformly spaced samplers. This approach

can be simplified by the user for the other two cases.

PDB samplers are deployed by attaching one or more to a rope, referred to as a tether, and

lowering them to the appropriate depth in a well. A small metal weight attached to the rope

below the lowermost PDB facilitates emplacement. The approach described here uses the

bottom of the weight and the bottom of the well for referencing the position of each PDB

sampler, i.e., when the weight is lowered to the bottom of the well, then the samplers are

positioned at the desired vertical location in the well. This appendix describes the steps needed

to calculate the position of each sampler along the tether. Three potentially complicating factors

are addressed: 1) well completion logs are typically referenced to ground surface, while depths

measured after well construction are generally referenced to the top of casing (Figure C-1);

2) sediment may fill the lower portion of the well and potentially obstruct part of the well screen;

and 3) the water surface may be below the top of the well screen. The distance between the top

of the sediment layer (if any sediment is present) and the bottom of the well screen must be

determined in order to use the sediment layer to reference sampler positioning. Both obstruction

of part of the well screen by sediment and the static water level falling below the top of the well

screen reduce the length of well screen available for placing samplers.

The following steps describe the approach for calculating PDB sampler spacing and related

dimensions and documenting these calculations on a PDB Deployment Calculation Forms 1 and

2 (attached).

Dimensions are illustrated on Figures C-1 and C-2. Letters near each dimension label

correspond to boxes on Form 1. Dimensions for locating PDB samplers on a tether are

determined by filling out Forms 1 and 2 according to the directions that follow each form.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 21 of 32


Figure C-1. Generalized well completion log.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 22 of 32


Figure C-2. Dimensions pertaining to placement of PDB samplers in a monitoring well.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 23 of 32


APPENDIX C, Example ENVF-020.1, Passive Diffusion Bag Sampler Calculation Form

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 24 of 32


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 25 of 32


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 26 of 32


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 27 of 32


APPENDIX D, Example ENVF-020.2, Passive Diffusion Bag Sampler Calculation Form 2

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 28 of 32


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 29 of 32


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 30 of 32


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 31 of 32 Page 31 of 32


APPENDIX E, Example ENVF-020.3, Permeable Diffusion Bag Sampler Deployment Form

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-020 Rev. 4, 03/27/13

Page 32 of 32 Page 32 of 32


APPENDIX F, Example ENVF-020.4, Permeable Diffusion Bag Sampler Recovery Form

ENVP-021

Chain of Custody Documentation

Revision 6

Approved:

Joe Rothermel – Original Signature on File 07/05/12 Environmental Restoration Division Manager Date

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-021 Rev. 6, 07/05/12

Page 2 of 10


REVISION HISTORY

Revision No.

Effective Date



1 03/13/06 Title Changed Title from “ER” to “ENV”

2 07/10/06 4.1 Added information to bullets in section 4.1. Replaced

last paragraph in section 4.1.








4 05/18/07 4.1, App. A Added language for use of the COC form. Added

Appendix A which includes a North Wind chain of

custody.


and corrected references.

6 6/29/12 4.1, 4.2.2, 4.3 Modified the list of information to be included on the

chain of custody. Added information for proper

documentation of changes to a chain of custody.

Changed laboratory sample hold time to reference the

analytical contract.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-021 Rev. 6, 07/05/12

Page 3 of 10


CONTENTS

DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................4

ACRONYMS ...................................................................................................................................4

1. PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................5

2. SCOPE .................................................................................................................................5


3.1 Project Manager .......................................................................................................5

3.2 Quality Assurance Manager .....................................................................................5

3.3 Field Team Leader ...................................................................................................5


3.5 Laboratory Personnel ...............................................................................................6

4. PROCEDURE/PROCESS ...................................................................................................6

4.1 Sample Custody Form..............................................................................................6

4.2 Transfer of Custody .................................................................................................7

4.2.1 No Common Carrier ....................................................................................8

4.2.2 Common Carrier ..........................................................................................8

4.3 Analytical Laboratory Custody ................................................................................9

5. RECORDS ...........................................................................................................................9

6. REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................9

APPENDIX A, Example of ENVF-021.1, North Wind Chain of Custody Record.......................10

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-021 Rev. 6, 07/05/12

Page 4 of 10


DEFINITIONS

custody A sample is considered to be under a person's custody if the sample is in the

person's physical possession or direct view, if the sample is secured so that

no one can tamper with the sample, or if the sample is secured in an area

restricted to authorized personnel only.

Chain of

custody

The Chain of Custody (COC) document is the written record that traces the

sample possession from the time each sample is collected until its final

disposition, sometimes called the “cradle to grave” record, or in the EPA

Contract Laboratory Program, a “Traffic Report.”

Common

carrier

For the purpose of this procedure, the common carrier is any commercial

carrier utilized for the

transportation of the sample(s) from the field to the laboratory.

Forms-2-Lite EPA developed software, available at no charge for use on government

sponsored projects, that can be used to track all sample information,

automating sample labels, COC forms, and SAP tables.

ACRONYMS




NW North Wind

QA quality assurance

QC quality control

QA/QC Quality Assurance/Quality Control

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-021 Rev. 6, 07/05/12

Page 5 of 10


1. PURPOSE

This procedure establishes the method and responsibilities associated with the

maintenance and custody of samples which are to be used to provide data which form a

basis for making project related decisions. It outlines the general procedures for

maintaining and documenting sample chain of custody from the time of sample collection

through sample disposition.

2. SCOPE

This procedure applies to all North Wind Group (NWG or Corporate) and its wholly-

owned subsidiaries (referred herein either individually or collectively as NW)

personnel who are responsible for collecting and handling environmental samples.

Should specific contracts require use of client-provided chain of custody procedures, then

the client-provided procedures shall be used.

3. RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Project Manager

Responsible for ensuring that all sample collection activities are conducted in

accordance with this procedure and any other appropriate procedures. This will be

accomplished through staff training and by maintaining quality assurance/quality

control (QA/QC).

Responsible for assuring proper Chain of Custody (COC) is initiated at the time the

sample(s) are collected and maintained throughout the handling and subsequent

transportation of the sample(s) to the designated laboratory. Additionally, he/she is

the project authority for determining the disposition and fate of sample(s) which

have identified deficiencies (e.g., missed holding times, elevated temperature at

receipt, etc.).

3.2 Quality Assurance Manager

Responsible for periodic review of Chain of Custody records are generated

documentation associated with this procedure.

Responsible for implementation of corrective action (i.e., retraining personnel,

additional review of work plans and procedures, variances to Quality Control (QC)

sampling requirements, issuing nonconformances, etc.) if problems occur.

3.3 Field Team Leader

Responsible for maintaining sample custody from the time of sample collection

until the sample is delivered to the lab.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-021 Rev. 6, 07/05/12

Page 6 of 10


Responsible to ensure that custody documentation is accurate and complete.


Responsible for proper completion of the Chain of Custody documentation,

ensuring that all sample information is accurately recorded on the sample label, in

the field logbook, and on the chain of custody form.

3.5 Laboratory Personnel

Responsible for receipt and entry of samples into the laboratory.

Responsible to properly document and maintain COC from the moment that they

take custody of the sample at the laboratory until the sample material is disposed of

or is returned to the client.

4. PROCEDURE/PROCESS

To preserve the integrity of environmental samples, the sampler must maintain and

document the custody of the samples from the time of sample collection to completion of

the analyses. The primary objective of sample custody is to create an accurate, verifiable

written record that may be used to trace the possession and handling of the samples from

the moment of collection until receipt by the laboratory. A sample is considered to be

under a person's custody if the sample is in the person's physical possession or direct

view, if the sample is secured so that no one can tamper with the sample, or if the sample

is secured in an area restricted to authorized personnel only.

An overriding consideration for data resulting from laboratory analyses is the ability to

demonstrate that the samples were obtained from the locations stated and that they

reached the laboratory without alteration. Evidence of collection, shipment, laboratory

receipt, and laboratory custody until disposal must be documented to accomplish this.

Documentation will be accomplished through a COC form that lists each sample and the

individuals performing the sample collection, shipment, and receipt.

4.1 Sample Custody Form

The transfer of samples from one person’s custody to another (e.g. from the sampler to

the laboratory) will be documented on a ENVF-021.1, Chain of Custody Record (COC).

If a COC is not provided by the analytical laboratory or if samples are being sent to North

Wind for analysis, the COC included in Appendix A will be used. It is preferred that this

COC be printed as a 2-layer carbon copy form, but it can be used in short notice by

printing on regular paper.

When the samples are transferred from one party to another, the individuals will sign,

date, and note the time on the form. A separate form will accompany each delivery of

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-021 Rev. 6, 07/05/12

Page 7 of 10


samples to the laboratory. The chain-of-custody form will be included in the cooler used

for transport of the samples. The sampling technician will retain a copy of the form. The

COC form will be completed by the sampler to include the following information:

Receiving laboratory name, address and phone number

Sampler’s name, company, address and phone number

Project name and project number

Unique identification number assigned to each sample

Sample date/time (must match the time recorded on the sample label)

Sample matrix description

Analyses requested for each sample

Preservation method

Number and type of containers used

Any special handling or analysis requirements (e.g. MS/MSD identification)

Signature of person collecting the samples

Signature of persons involved in the chain of possession.

For small sampling events, carbon copy COC forms are available from the analytical

laboratories or the North Wind specific COC is available in Appendix A, which can be

filled out by hand. For larger sampling events, electronic COCs are preferred as their

proper use minimizes potential for error. Software such as EPA’s Forms-2-Lite is

recommended for generating sample documentation including bottle labels and COC

forms.

If an error is discovered or a change/correction needs to be made on the COC, void the

entry by drawing a single line through the erroneous entry. Do not erase or cover up the

entry. Write the correct information next to the error or use a new sample entry line if

space is limited. Initial and date the voided entry.

4.2 Transfer of Custody

The COC document will be initiated in the field by the person collecting the sample and

signed by each individual who has the samples in their possession. Each time that sample

custody is transferred, the former custodian must sign over the COC as Relinquished By,

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-021 Rev. 6, 07/05/12

Page 8 of 10


and the new custodian must sign on to the COC as Received By. Each signature must be

accompanied by the date, time, and the name of their project or company affiliation.

4.2.1 No Common Carrier

If the sampling technician delivers the samples to the laboratory, transfer of COC occurs

as follows:

The sample collector delivers the samples to the laboratory and relinquishes the

sample directly to a laboratory representative.

The collector signs the COC listing his/her name, affiliation, the date, and time. Any

person involved in the collection of the sample may act as the sample custodian.

The laboratory representative must receive the samples by signing his/her name,

affiliation, the date, and time on the COC. The laboratory representative may decline

to take receipt of the samples if the COC is not properly completed or if the samples

are not properly packaged. All designated laboratory personnel may act as the sample

custodian.

One copy of the COC is given to the sample collector to be returned to the project

files and one copy is maintained with the samples at the laboratory.

4.2.2 Common Carrier

If the sampling technician transfer sample(s) to the laboratory utilizing a commercial

carrier (e.g. Fed Ex), the sampling technician will retain COC responsibility and the

common carrier is not responsible for maintaining sample custody. The sample collectors

are responsible for packaging and sealing the samples to prevent tampering. When

transferring samples to the courier for transport, COC procedures are maintained as

follows:

The sample collector relinquishes custody by signing his name, affiliation, date, and

time. The collector keeps a copy of the relinquished COC for the project file.

The relinquished original COC is sealed in a watertight plastic bag and taped to the

inside of the lid of the container used for transportation.

The transportation container is sealed to prevent tampering and given to the courier

for delivery to the laboratory.

The sample collector obtains a copy of the waybill from the courier for the project

file.

A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-021 Rev. 6, 07/05/12

Page 9 of 10


The laboratory representative will receive the samples by signing his/her name,

affiliation, the date, and time on the COC. This copy is maintained with the samples

at the laboratory.

4.3 Analytical Laboratory Custody

Upon receipt at the analytical laboratory, the field generated COC document will be

signed, dated, time marked, temperature marked, and laboratory identification will be

provided in the appropriate spaces. A cooler receipt form will be completed documenting

the condition of the samples upon receipt.

Laboratory receipt personnel will enter the samples into the laboratory by implementing

the sample custody procedures addressed within their approved Quality Program Plan.

After completion of analytical testing, sample remnants not consumed during testing may

be kept for a specificed time period beyond the completion of analysis, as documented in

the analytical contract. Once this time period has elapsed, the samples will be disposed of

and the disposal record number will be recorded on the laboratory record copy of the

COC.

5. RECORDS

The Project Manager will maintain the following records in accordance with QAP-171,

Records Management:

Chain of Custody Form

Cooler Receipt Form

6. REFERENCES

USEPA, Test Methods for Evaluating Hazardous Waste, (SW-846) Rev.0, Sept. 1994


A CIRI COMPANY

ENVP-021 Rev. 6, 07/05/12

Page 10 of 10


APPENDIX A, Example of ENVF-021.1, Example North Wind Chain of Custody Record

Standard Operating Procedure: Sampling Ground Water with a HydraSleeve

US Patent No. 6,481,300; No. 6,837,120 others pending

Table of Contents Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 1

Applications of the HydraSleeve .................................................................................................... 1

Description of the HydraSleeve ...................................................................................................... 3

Selecting the HydraSleeve Size to Meet Site-Specific Sampling Objectives ................................. 4

HydraSleeve Deployment ............................................................................................................... 5

Information Required Before Deploying a HydraSleeve ............................................................ 5

HydraSleeve Placement .............................................................................................................. 6

Procedures for Sampling with the HydraSleeve ............................................................................. 8

Measurement of Field Indicator Parameters ............................................................................. 11

Alternate Deployment Strategies .............................................................................................. 11

Post-Sampling Activities .............................................................................................................. 14

References ..................................................................................................................................... 15

This Guide should be used in addition to field manuals appropriate to sampling device (i.e., HydraSleeve or Super Sleeve). Find the appropriate field manual on the HydraSleeve website at http://www.hydrasleeve.com. For more information about the HydraSleeve, or if you have questions, contact: GeoInsight, 2007 Glass Road, Las Cruces, NM 88005, 1-800-996-2225, [email protected]. Copyright, GeoInsight.

Standard Operating Procedure: Sampling Groundwater with the HydraSleeve (patents: 6,481,300; 6,837,120)

Copyright 2010 GeoInsight 1

Introduction The HydraSleeve is classified as a no-purge (passive) grab sampling device, meaning that it is used to collect ground-water samples directly from the screened interval of a well without having to purge the well prior to sample collection. When it is used as described in this Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), the HydraSleeve causes no drawdown in the well (until the sample is withdrawn from the water column) and only minimal disturbance of the water column, because it has a very thin cross section and it displaces very little water (<100 ml) during deployment in the well. The HydraSleeve collects a sample from within the screen only, and it excludes water from any other part of the water column in the well through the use of a self-sealing check valve at the top of the sampler. It is a single-use (disposable) sampler that is not intended for reuse, so there are no decontamination requirements for the sampler itself. The use of no-purge sampling as a means of collecting representative ground-water samples depends on the natural movement of ground water (under ambient hydraulic head) from the formation adjacent to the well screen through the screen. Robin and Gillham (1987) demonstrated the existence of a dynamic equilibrium between the water in a formation and the water in a well screen installed in that formation, which results in formation-quality water being available in the well screen for sampling at all times. No-purge sampling devices like the HydraSleeve collect this formation-quality water as the sample, under undisturbed (non-pumping) natural flow conditions. Samples collected in this manner generally provide more conservative (i.e., higher concentration) values than samples collected using well-volume purging, and values equivalent to samples collected using low-flow purging and sampling (Parsons, 2005).

Applications of the HydraSleeve The HydraSleeve can be used to collect representative samples of ground water for all analytes (volatile organic compounds [VOCs], semi-volatile organic compounds [SVOCs], common metals, trace metals, major cations and anions, dissolved gases, total dissolved solids, radionuclides, pesticides, PCBs, explosive compounds, and all other analytical parameters). Designs are available to collect samples from wells from 1” inside diameter and larger. The HydraSleeve can collect samples from wells of any yield, but it is especially well-suited to collecting samples from low-yield wells, where other sampling methods can’t be used reliably because their use results in dewatering of the well screen and alteration of sample chemistry (McAlary and Barker, 1987). The HydraSleeve can collect samples from wells of any depth, and it can be used for single-event sampling or long-term ground-water monitoring programs. Because of its thin cross section and flexible construction, it can be used in narrow, constricted or damaged wells where rigid sampling devices may not fit. Using multiple HydraSleeves deployed in series along a single suspension line or tether, it is also possible to conduct in-well vertical profiling in wells in which contaminant concentrations are thought to be stratified.



As with all groundwater sampling devices, HydraSleeves should not be used to collect ground-water samples from wells in which separate (non-aqueous) phase hydrocarbons (i.e., gasoline, diesel fuel or jet fuel) are present because of the possibility of incorporating some of the separate-phase hydrocarbon into the sample.



Description of the HydraSleeve The HydraSleeve (Figure 1) consists of the following basic components:

• A suspension line or tether (A.), attached to the spring clip or directly to the top of the sleeve to deploy the device into and recover the device from the well. Tethers with depth indicators marked in 1-foot intervals are available from the manufacturer.

• A long, flexible, 4-mil thick lay-flat polyethylene sample sleeve (C.) sealed at the bottom (this is the sample chamber), which comes in different sizes, as discussed below with a self-sealing reed-type flexible polyethylene check valve built into the top of the sleeve (B.) to prevent water from entering or exiting the sampler except during sample acquisition.

• A reusable stainless-steel weight with clip (D.), which is attached to the bottom of the sleeve to carry it down the well to its intended depth in the water column. Bottom weights available from the manufacturer are 0.75” OD and are available in three sizes: 5 oz. (2.5” long); 8 oz. (4” long); and 16 oz. (8” long). In lieu of a bottom weight, an optional top weight may be attached to the top of the HydraSleeve to carry it to depth and to compress it at the bottom of the well (not shown in Figure 1);

• A discharge tube that is used to puncture the HydraSleeve after it is recovered from the well so the sample can be decanted into sample bottles (not shown).

• Just above the self-sealing check valve at the top of the sleeve are two holes which provide attachment points for the spring clip and/or suspension line or tether. At the bottom of the sample sleeve are two holes which provide attachment points for the weight clip and weight.

Figure 1. HydraSleeve components.

Note: The sample sleeve and the discharge tube are designed for one-time use and are disposable. The spring clip, weight and weight clip may be reused after thorough cleaning. Suspension cord is generally disposed after one use although, if it is dedicated to the well, it may be reused at the discretion of the sampling personnel.



Selecting the HydraSleeve Size to Meet Site-Specific Sampling Objectives It is important to understand that each HydraSleeve is able to collect a finite volume of sample because, after the HydraSleeve is deployed, you only get one chance to collect an undisturbed sample. Thus, the volume of sample required to meet your site-specific sampling and analytical requirements will dictate the size of HydraSleeve you need to meet these requirements. The volume of sample collected by the HydraSleeve varies with the diameter and length of the HydraSleeve. Dimensions and volumes of available HydraSleeve models are detailed in Table 1. Table 1. Dimensions and volumes of HydraSleeve models.

Diameter Volume Length Lay-Flat Width Filled Dia.

2-Inch HydraSleeves

Standard 625-ml HydraSleeve

Standard 1-Liter HydraSleeve

1-Liter HydraSleeve SS

2-Liter HydraSleeve SS

625 ml < 30” 2.5” 1.4”

1 Liter 38” 3” 1.9”

1 Liter 36” 3” 1.9”

2 Liters 60” 3” 1.9”

4-Inch HydraSleeves

Standard 1.6-Liter HydraSleeve

Custom 2-Liter HydraSleeve

1.6 Liters 30” 3.8” 2.3”

2 Liters 36” 4” 2.7”

HydraSleeves can be custom-fabricated by the manufacturer in varying diameters and lengths to meet specific volume requirements. HydraSleeves can also be deployed in series (i.e., multiple HydraSleeves attached to one tether) to collect additional sample to meet specific volume requirements, as described below. If you have questions regarding the availability of sufficient volume of sample to satisfy laboratory requirements for analysis, it is recommended that you contact the laboratory to discuss the minimum volumes needed for each suite of analytes. Laboratories often require only 10% to 25% of the volume they specify to complete analysis for specific suites of analytes, so they can often work with much smaller sample volumes that can easily be supplied by a HydraSleeve.



HydraSleeve Deployment

Information Required Before Deploying a HydraSleeve Before installing a HydraSleeve in any well, you will need to know the following:

• The inside diameter of the well

• The length of the well screen

• The water level in the well

• The position of the well screen in the well

• The total depth of the well

The inside diameter of the well is used to determine the appropriate HydraSleeve diameter for use in the well. The other information is used to determine the proper placement of the HydraSleeve in the well to collect a representative sample from the screen (see HydraSleeve Placement, below), and to determine the appropriate length of tether to attach to the HydraSleeve to deploy it at the appropriate position in the well. Most of this information (with the exception of the water level) should be available from the well log; if not, it will have to be collected by some other means. The inside diameter of the well can be measured at the top of the well casing, and the total depth of the well can be measured by sounding the bottom of the well with a weighted tape. The position and length of the well screen may have to be determined using a down-hole camera if a well log is not available. The water level in the well can be measured using any commonly available water-level gauge.



HydraSleeve Placement The HydraSleeve is designed to collect a sample directly from the well screen, and it fills by pulling it up through the screen a distance equivalent to 1 to 1.5 times its length. This upward motion causes the top check valve to open, which allows the device to fill. To optimize sample recovery, it is recommended that the HydraSleeve be placed in the well so that the bottom weight rests on the bottom of the well and the top of the HydraSleeve is as close to the bottom of the well screen as possible. This should allow the sampler to fill before the top of the device reaches the top of the screen as it is pulled up through the water column, and ensure that only water from the screen is collected as the sample. In short-screen wells, or wells with a short water column, it may be necessary to use a top-weight on the HydraSleeve to compress it in the bottom of the well so that, when it is recovered, it has room to fill before it reaches the top of the screen.

Example 2” ID PVC well, 50’ total depth, 10’ screen at the bottom of the well, with water level above the screen (the entire screen contains water). Correct Placement (figure 2): Using a standard HydraSleeve for a 2” well (2.6” flat width/1.5” filled OD x 30” long, 650 ml volume), deploy the sampler so the weight (an 8 oz., 4”-long weight with a 2”-long clip) rests at the bottom of the well. The top of the sleeve is thus set at about 36” above the bottom of the well. When the sampler is recovered, it will be pulled upward approximately 30” to 45” before it is filled; therefore, it is full (and the top check valve closes) at approximately 66” (5 ½ feet) to 81” (6 ¾ feet) above the bottom of the well, which is well before the sampler reaches the top of the screen. In this example, only water from the screen is collected as a sample.

Figure 2. Correct placement of HydraSleeve.



This example illustrates one of many types of HydraSleeve placements. More complex placements are discussed in a later section.

Incorrect Placement (figure 3): If the well screen in this example was only 5’ long, and the HydraSleeve was placed as above, it would not fill before the top of the device reached the top of the well screen, so the sample would include water from above the screen, which may not have the same chemistry. The solution? Deploy the HydraSleeve with a top weight, so that it is collapsed to within 6” to 9” of the bottom of the well. When the HydraSleeve is recovered, it will fill within 39” (3 ¼ feet) to 54” (4 ½ feet) above the bottom of the well, or just before the sampler reaches the top of the screen, so it collects only water from the screen as the sample.

Figure 3. Incorrect placement of HydraSleeve.



Procedures for Sampling with the HydraSleeve Collecting a ground-water sample with a HydraSleeve is a simple one-person operation.

I. Assembling the HydraSleeve

1. Remove the HydraSleeve from its packaging, unfold it, and hold it by its top.

2. Crimp the top of the HydraSleeve by folding the hard polyethylene reinforcing strips at the holes.

3. Attach the spring clip to the holes to ensure that the top will remain open until the

sampler is retrieved.

4. Attach the tether to the spring clip by tying a knot in the tether.

5. Fold the flaps with the two holes at the bottom of the HydraSleeve together and slide the weight clip through the holes.

6. Attach a weight to the bottom of the weight clip to ensure that the HydraSleeve will

descend to the bottom of the well.

Note: Before deploying the HydraSleeve in the well, collect the depth-to-water measurement that you will use to determine the preferred position of the HydraSleeve in the well. This measurement may also be used with measurements from other wells to create a ground-water contour map. If necessary, also measure the depth to the bottom of the well to verify actual well depth to confirm your decision on placement of the HydraSleeve in the water column.

Measure the correct amount of tether needed to suspend the HydraSleeve in the well so that the weight will rest on the bottom of the well (or at your preferred position in the well). Make sure to account for the need to leave a few feet of tether at the top of the well to allow recovery of the sleeve Note: Always wear sterile gloves when handling and discharging the HydraSleeve.

Note: Alternatively, attach the tether to one (NOT both) of the holes at the top of the Hydrasleeve by tying a knot in the tether.



II. Deploying the HydraSleeve

1. Using the tether, carefully lower the HydraSleeve to the bottom of the well, or to your preferred depth in the water column

During installation, hydrostatic pressure in the water column will keep the self-sealing check valve at the top of the HydraSleeve closed, and ensure that it retains its flat, empty profile for an indefinite period prior to recovery.

2. Secure the tether at the top of the well by placing the well cap on the top of the well casing and over the tether.

III. Equilibrating the Well The equilibration time is the time it takes for conditions in the water column (primarily flow dynamics and contaminant distribution) to restabilize after vertical mixing occurs (caused by installation of a sampling device in the well).

• Situation: The HydraSleeve is deployed for the first time or for only one time in a well The HydraSleeve is very thin in cross section and displaces very little water (<100 ml) during deployment so, unlike most other sampling devices, it does not disturb the water column to the point at which long equilibration times are necessary to ensure recovery of a representative sample. In most cases, the HydraSleeve can be recovered immediately (with no equilibration time) or within a few hours. In regulatory jurisdictions that impose specific requirements for equilibration times prior to recovery of no-purge sampling devices, these requirements should be followed.

• Situation: The HydraSleeve is being deployed for recovery during a future sampling event

In periodic (i.e., quarterly or semi-annual) sampling programs, the sampler for the current sampling event can be recovered and a new sampler (for the next sampling event)

Note: Make sure that it is not pulled upward at any time during its descent. If the HydraSleeve is pulled upward at a rate greater than 0.5’/second at any time prior to recovery, the top check valve will open and water will enter the HydraSleeve prematurely.

Note: Alternatively, you can tie the tether to a hook on the bottom of the well cap (you will need to leave a few inches of slack in the line to avoid pulling the sampler up as the cap is removed at the next sampling event).



deployed immediately thereafter, so the new sampler remains in the well until the next sampling event. Thus, a long equilibration time is ensured and, at the next sampling event, the sampler can be recovered immediately. This means that separate mobilizations, to deploy and then to recover the sampler, are not required. HydraSleeves can be left in a well for an indefinite period of time without concern. IV. HydraSleeve Recovery and Sample Collection

1. Hold on to the tether while removing the well cap.

2. Secure the tether at the top of the well while maintaining tension on the tether (but without pulling the tether upwards)

3. Measure the water level in the well.

4. In one smooth motion, pull the tether up between 30” to 45” (36” to 54” for the longer HydraSleeve) at a rate of about 1’ per second (or faster).

The motion will open the top check valve and allow the HydraSleeve to fill (it should fill in about 1 to 1.5 times the length of the HydraSleeve). This is analogous to coring the water column in the well from the bottom up. When the HydraSleeve is full, the top check valve will close. You should begin to feel the weight of the HydraSleeve on the tether and it will begin to displace water. The closed check valve prevents loss of sample and entry of water from zones above the well screen as the HydraSleeve is recovered.

5. Continue pulling the tether upward until the HydraSleeve is at the top of the well.

6. Decant and discard the small volume of water trapped in the Hydrasleeve above the check valve by turning the sleeve over.

V. Sample Collection

1. Remove the discharge tube from its sleeve.

2. Hold the HydraSleeve at the check valve.

3. Puncture the HydraSleeve just below the check valve with the pointed end of the discharge tube

4. Discharge water from the HydraSleeve into your sample containers.

Note: Sample collection should be done immediately after the HydraSleeve has been brought to the surface to preserve sample integrity.



Control the discharge from the HydraSleeve by either raising the bottom of the sleeve, by squeezing it like a tube of toothpaste, or both.

5. Continue filling sample containers until all are full.

Measurement of Field Indicator Parameters Field indicator parameter measurement is generally done during well purging and sampling to confirm when parameters are stable and sampling can begin. Because no-purge sampling does not require purging, field indicator parameter measurement is not necessary for the purpose of confirming when purging is complete. If field indicator parameter measurement is required to meet a specific non-purging regulatory requirement, it can be done by taking measurements from water within a HydraSleeve that is not used for collecting a sample to submit for laboratory analysis (i.e., a second HydraSleeve installed in conjunction with the primary sample collection HydraSleeve [see Multiple Sampler Deployment below]).

Alternate Deployment Strategies Deployment in Wells with Limited Water Columns For wells in which only a limited water column exists to be sampled, the HydraSleeve can be deployed with an optional top weight instead of a bottom weight, which collapses the HydraSleeve to a very short (approximately 6” to 9”) length, and allows the HydraSleeve to fill in a water column only 36” to 45” in height. Multiple Sampler Deployment Multiple sampler deployment in a single well screen can accomplish two purposes:

• It can collect additional sample volume to satisfy site or laboratory-specific sample volume requirements.

• It can accommodate the need for collecting field indicator parameter measurements.

• It can be used to collect samples from multiple intervals in the screen to allow identification of possible contaminant stratification.



It is possible to use up to 3 standard 30” HydraSleeves deployed in series along a single tether to collect samples from a 10’ long well screen without collecting water from the interval above the screen. The samplers must be attached to the tether at both the top and bottom of the sleeve. Attach the tether at the top with a stainless-steel clip (available from the manufacturer). Attach the tether at the bottom using a cable tie. The samplers must be attached as follows (figure 4):

• The first (attached to the tether as described above, with the weight at the bottom) at the bottom of the screen

• The second attached immediately above the first

• The third (attached the same as the second) immediately above the second

Figure 4. Multiple HydraSleeve deployment.



Alternately, the first sampler can be attached to the tether as described above, a second attached to the bottom of the first using a short length of tether (in place of the weight), and the third attached to the bottom of the second in the same manner, with the weight attached to the bottom of the third sampler (figure 5).

Figure 5. Alternative method for deploying multiple HydraSleeves.

In either case, when attaching multiple HydraSleeves in series, more weight may be required to hold the samplers in place in the well than would be required with a single sampler. Recovery of multiple samplers and collection of samples is done in the same manner as for single sampler deployments.



Post-Sampling Activities The recovered HydraSleeve and the sample discharge tubing should be disposed as per the solid waste management plan for the site. To prepare for the next sampling event, a new HydraSleeve can be deployed in the well (as described previously) and left in the well until the next sampling event, at which time it can be recovered. The weight and weight clip can be reused on this sampler after they have been thoroughly cleaned as per the site equipment decontamination plan. The tether may be dedicated to the well and reused or discarded at the discretion of sampling personnel.



References McAlary, T. A. and J. F. Barker, 1987, Volatilization Losses of Organics During Ground-Water Sampling From Low-Permeability Materials, Ground-Water Monitoring Review, Vol. 7, No. 4, pp. 63-68 Parsons, 2005, Results Report for the Demonstration of No-Purge Ground-Water Sampling Devices at Former McClellan Air Force Base, California; Contract F44650-99-D-0005, Delivery Order DKO1, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Omaha District), U.S. Air Force Center for Environmental Excellence, and U.S. Air Force Real Property Agency Robin, M. J. L. and R. W. Gillham, 1987, Field Evaluation of Well Purging Procedures, Ground-Water Monitoring Review, Vol. 7, No. 4, pp. 85-93

envp-002 - north wind group · 2018-12-17 · envp-002 sample handling, packaging and shipping...

Documents