Each sample must be accurately and completely identified. At the time a sample is collected, a waterproof, gummed label or a waterproof tag that is able to withstand field conditions should be attached to the sample container. This label and/or tag is necessary to prevent any misidentification of samples, since it provides the laboratory with relevant information for analysis, such as the name of the sample collector, the sample identification number, the date and time of sample collection, the location of the sample collection, the preservatives used, the type of sample (grab or composite), and the identification of the parameters to be analyzed. Sample identification, therefore, is a crucial part of COC. Sample tags should be used as part of the COC process because they can be removed after the sample has been transported to the laboratory and placed in the evidence file for that sample, while labels are usually discarded with the sample. The tags can then be used as evidence in an enforcement proceeding. The sample identification procedures should be incorporated into the facility’s/POTW’s Sampling and Quality Assurance Plan.
Sample seals or cooler seals (i.e. seals placed around a cooler with similar samples inside) should be used to protect the sample’s integrity from the time it is collected to the time it is opened in the laboratory. The seal should contain the collector’s name, the date and time of sample collection, and the sample identification number. Information on the seal must be identical to the information on the label and tag. In addition, the seal must be attached so it must be broken to open the sample container or cooler. Caution should be observed to assure that glue on the sample seals and tag wires does not contaminate samples, particularly those containing volatile organics and metals.
Sample Packaging and Shipping
After the samples are properly labeled, they should be placed in a transportation case along with the COC form, pertinent field records, and analysis request forms. Glass bottles should be wrapped in foam rubber, plastic bubble wrap, or other material to prevent breakage during shipment. The wrapping can be secured around the bottle with tape. Samples should be placed in ice or a synthetic ice substitute that will maintain sample temperature at 6 °C or below throughout shipment. Ice should be placed in double‐wrapped watertight bags to ensure the water will not drip out of the shipping case. Metal or heavy plastic chests make good sample transportation cases. Filament tape wrapped around each end of the ice chest ensures that it will not open during transport. Sampling records should be placed in a waterproof bag, envelope, or airtight sample bottle and taped to the inside lid or other appropriate place inside the transported container to prevent tampering or breach of custody. Shipping containers should also be sealed to prevent tampering. Sample packaging and shipping considerations should be included in the POTW’s Sampling and Quality Assurance Plan (discussed in Section 4.5.13).
Most samples will not require any special transportation precautions except careful packaging to prevent breakage and/or spillage. If the sample is shipped by common carrier or sent through the US mail, it must comply with Department of Transportation (DOT) Hazardous Waste Materials Regulations (49 CFR parts 171–177) (CFR, Title 40, Part 51, 1977) (CWA 1972). Air shipment of hazardous waste materials may also be covered by requirements of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Before shipping a sample, the inspector should be aware of, and follow, any special shipping requirements. Special packaging and shipping rules apply to substances considered hazardous as defined by IATA rules. Typical wastewater samples are not generally considered hazardous materials.
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