ABSTRACT
The objective of sampling is to collect a portion of material that represents the actual sample composition. The quality of data depends upon six major activities: formulating the particular objectives for a sampling program; collecting representative samples; proper sample handling and preservation; adhering to adequate chain-of-custody and sample identification; participating quality assurance and quality control in the field; and properly analyzing the sample. Well-designed and well-implemented sampling programs are vital to pollution control. The following six phases are essential to smooth project management: planning, permitting, compliance, enforcement, design, research and development. Samples can be divided into four types: grab samples, composite samples, and duplicates and split samples. Preservation is necessary for all samples according to Federal Register. The chapter contains the type of sample containers, preservations, maximum holding time, and amount of sample for each parameter. Sample preservation may be accomplished by ready, prepreserved bottles, obtained from the laboratory.
