0201_AlexanderCDLF_WQMonitoringPlan_DIN26613_20160812

Water Quality Monitoring Plan
Prepared for
Alexander County Active Construction and Demolition Landfill
over/and
Closed Unlined Municipal Solid Waste Landfill
Taylorsville, North Carolina
Permit 0201-CDLF-1997
Prepared by:
Municipal Engineering Services Company
PO Box 97
Garner, NC 27529 Corporate License Number: C-0281
MESCO Project Number: G16031.0
Submitted: August 11, 2016
This updated plan supersedes the previous approved SAP dated December 20, 2010
DIN 26613
Approved by SWS
August 12, 2016
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE ............................................................................................. 2
2 MONITORING LOCATIONS AND SCHEDULE .......................................................................... 3
2.1 MONITORING NETWORK ........................................................................................................ 3 2.2 MONITORING ANALYSIS ........................................................................................................ 3
2.3 MONITORING SCHEDULE ....................................................................................................... 4
3 SAMPLING METHODOLOGY ....................................................................................................... 4
4 QUALTIY CONTROL AND QUALITY ASSURANCE ................................................................ 4
5 LABORATORY ANALYSIS ............................................................................................................. 5
6 DATA EVALUATION AND REPORTING .................................................................................... 5
7 CONCLUSION ................................................................................................................................... 6
TABLES
Groundwater Monitoring Well Construction Table 1
Water Quality Monitoring Parameters and Schedule Table 2
FIGURES
Topographic Map with Site Location Figure 1
Water Monitoring Locations Site Map Figure 2
APPENDICES
SWS Guidance Document (rev 4-08) Appendix A
Gas Stripping Procedure Appendix B

2

1 INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE
This Water Quality Monitoring Plan (Plan) is designed to be effective in the detection of hazardous
constituents and other monitoring parameters which may be released from the landfill to groundwater or
surface water, as well as to monitor the fate, transport, and degradation of these parameters over time.
This plan applies specifically to Alexander County’s active Construction and Demolition (C&D) Landfill
over/and Closed Unlined Municipal Solid Waste Landfill, which are monitored together. The Alexander
County active C&D and closed MSWLF, is located at 2500 Paynes Dairy Road near Taylorsville North
Carolina. The total waste footprint encompasses approximately 24 acres situated on 283 contiguous
acres. The site location topographic map is depicted on Figure 1.
The facility operates under a Corrective Action Plan to address elevated volatile organic compounds
detected in groundwater. This Plan supersedes all of the previously approved plans including the most
recent contained in the Corrective Action Plan-Addendum (DIN 19362) dated December 20, 2010. This
Plan does not deviate from or propose and changes that have not already been approved by the NCDEQ
Solid Waste Section. This is an updated Plan that simply consolidates modifications that were approved
by the SWS Corrective Action Evaluation Report (CAER) review response (DIN 14150) dated June 16,
2011 and Appendix II Groundwater Monitoring Modification approved by the SWS (DIN 20144) on
November 13, 2013. This Plan was required by the SWS on August 8, 2016 to be updated as part of the
permit renewal process. Following the future planned second Corrective Action Evaluation Report
(CAER) another Plan is expected to be submitted to the SWS which will likely propose modifications.
Therefore, this Plan may be replaced before the next event scheduled for December 2016 is even
performed.

3
2 MONITORING LOCATIONS AND SCHEDULE
2.1 MONITORING NETWORK
The active Construction and Demolition Landfill over closed unlined Municipal Solid Waste Landfill are
referred to collectively in this Plan as the landfill. The landfill is monitored by a network of 33
groundwater monitoring wells (MW-1, MW-1A, MW-1B, MW-2, MW-3, MW-4R, MW-5 through MW-
12, MW-12D, MW-13 through MW-27, MW-31 through MW-34). Contrary to the CAP MW-28 and
MW-29 were determined to be unnecessary thus never installed since the plume extent identified in area
of concern MW-24 had been and remains delineated. MW-30 was attempted to be installed in August
2010 but a well could not be installed since two dry borings were advanced at B-30 (100 feet) and B-30A
(80 feet) indicating the competent rock in this area serves as an aquiclude which minimizes migration
potential in this area. A summary detailing the construction of the water monitoring wells is presented
on Table 1. There are also four surface water monitoring locations (SW-3, SW-4R, SW-5 and SW-6).
All monitoring locations are shown on Figure 2.
The background sampling location for the landfill is hydraulically upgradient monitoring well MW-18.
In the interpretation of landfill monitoring data, data from MW-18 may be compared to data from the
other monitoring wells. However, MW-18 is screened in the upper fractured bedrock so geochemical
comparisons to other wells screened in the regolith should be taken with caution.
Groundwater remediation efforts have been implemented at the four distinct areas of concern (AOCs)
which are identified as MW-1B, MW-16, MW-24 and MW-26. Remediation technologies initiated to
date with reference to their respective AOC include monitored natural attenuation (MNA) (MW-16, MW-
24, MW-26), phytoremediation (MW-24), enhanced bioremediation via substrate injection (MW-26) and
landfill gas (LFG) extraction (MW-1B).
2.2 MONITORING ANALYSIS
The water quality monitoring program includes a combination of detection, assessment and corrective
action monitoring with analysis that is specific to the sample point. Laboratory analysis consists of
targeting contaminants listed in Appendix I and II of 40 CFR Part 258, MNA parameters and field
parameters. All monitoring locations with their specific analysis are presented on Table 2.

4
2.3 MONITORING SCHEDULE
Water quality monitoring will be performed semi-annually (twice per year) at all locations with the
exception of MW-3 and MW-7 which will be monitored annually as previously approved by the SWS.
The schedule and frequency that constituents are to be targeted is specific to each well that varies between
semiannually to once every five years. All monitoring locations with their specific analysis, schedule and
frequency is presented on the Water Quality Monitoring Summary presented as Table 2.
3 SAMPLING METHODOLOGY

Water quality sampling shall be performed in accordance with the most current SWS Guidance
Document. A copy of the NC Solid Waste Section Guidelines for Groundwater, Soil, and Surface Water
Sampling (Rev 4-08) is included in Appendix A. Dissolved gas sampling for hydrogen, methane, ethane
and ethene may be performed using the “bubble-strip” gas stripping procedure described in Appendix B.
Deviation from procedures outlined in this plan may be warranted depending on facility conditions or
unforeseen sampling variables. Any variance from the methodology contained in the current SWS
Guidance Document will be consistent with industry standards and be described in the corresponding
water quality monitoring report.

4 QUALTIY CONTROL AND QUALITY ASSURANCE
Quality Assurance (QA) can be described as an integrated system of activities in the area of quality
planning, assessment, and improvement to provide the project with a measurable assurance that the
established standards of quality are met. Quality Control (QC) checks, including both field and
laboratory, are the specific operational techniques and activities used to fulfill the QA requirements.
Proper sample acquisition and handling procedures are necessary to ensure the integrity of the analytical
results. All procedures will be followed in the field and the laboratory during every event.

Field QC measures will include the use of equipment blanks (EB) and travel blanks (TB). Equipment
blanks will typically consist of collecting samples from laboratory provided water that has been rinsed
within and on bailers and or pumps. Equipment blanks are utilized to determine if field and or laboratory
induced cross-contamination may have affected the accompanying water sample results. Travel blanks
will originate from the laboratory and remain sealed and stored along with other samples. Travel blanks
are used to identify laboratory-induced artifact contamination.

5
A chain-of-custody record will be completed for each set of samples submitted, describing each sample,
the number of containers, sample location, date/time, laboratory analyses to be conducted, temperature of
samples, signature of the sampler and everyone through whom the samples change hands including the
dates and times of the transfers.

After the samples are logged in by the laboratory, the handling and analysis of samples will be performed
in accordance with QA/QC procedures established by a NC-certified laboratory.

5 LABORATORY ANALYSIS
Water quality analysis will be performed by an independent NC-certified analytical laboratory.
Laboratory analytical results will be reported to the laboratory established method detection limits which
are at or below limits required by the SWS.
6 DATA EVALUATION AND REPORTING
All groundwater quality monitoring data shall be compared to the North Carolina Standards 15A NCAC
2L .0200 and or other regulatory compliance Standards adopted by the SWS such as Groundwater
Protection Standards (GWP), where applicable. Current regulatory groundwater compliance Standards
are referenced at SWS Website. All surface water data shall be compared to the North Carolina
Standards 15A NCAC 2B and or other regulatory compliance Standards adopted by the SWS where
applicable. Statistical analysis of the data is not required per Rule 15ANCAC 13B .1632 revised January
1, 2011.
All analytical reports shall be completed and submitted to the NCDEQ SWS and a copy kept by the
facility owner. The report package, as described, shall provide field observations relating to the condition
of the monitoring wells, field data, lab data, tables of detections compared to regulatory Standards,
statistical analysis (if chosen to use), sampling methodologies, quality assurance and quality control data,
a groundwater surface map, information on ground-water flow direction, calculations of ground-water
flow rate for each well any constituents that exceed ground-water standards as defined in Rule .1634(g)
through (h) and any other pertinent information related to the sampling event. Additionally, laboratory
Electronic Data Delivery (EDD) spreadsheets must be submitted to the SWS in the formats specified by
the SWS. Water quality monitoring reports should include the SWS issued Environmental Monitoring
Report Form which includes the notifications and signed certifications as instructed.

6
7 CONCLUSION
This Plan is designed to be effective in the detection of hazardous constituents and other monitoring
parameters which may be released from the landfill to groundwater or surface water, as well as to monitor
the fate, transport, and degradation of these parameters over time. Should it be determined that additional
monitoring is necessary, appropriate recommendations will be made.

Tables
Alexander County Active CDLF and Closed MSWLF Page 1 of 1
Table 1
Groundwater Monitoring Well Construction Table
Latitude Longitude
(inches)(ft)
MW-1 9/14/90 2 40.00 25.00 15 Soil & Rock 1080.54 1077.98 1045.75 34.79 35.8389 -81.1478
MW-1A 9/30/94 2 47.50 32.50 15 Soil & Rock 1085.32 1083.28 <1035.78 Dry (>49.54) 35.8389 -81.1478
MW-1B 5/21/03 2 61.00 46.00 15 Rock 1082.56 1079.56 1041.01 41.55 35.8391 -81.1478
MW-2 9/6/90 2 30.00 15.00 15 Soil 1004.48 1002.28 985.64 18.84 35.8376 -81.1524
MW-3 9/19/90 2 33.00 13.00 20 Soil & Rock 1024.73 1024.23 998.85 25.88 35.8365 -81.1503
MW-4R 9/30/94 2 20.50 5.50 15 Soil & Rock 1012.64 1008.54 998.49 14.15 35.8366 -81.1479
MW-5 9/16/94 2 48.80 33.80 15 Soil & Rock 1051.26 1049.01 1012.30 38.96 35.8373 -81.1465
MW-6 9/29/94 2 41.00 26.00 15 Rock 1010.79 1008.29 989.07 21.72 35.8369 -81.1364
MW-7 9/29/94 2 53.00 38.00 15 Rock 1009.24 1005.84 970.36 38.88 35.8364 -81.1522
MW-9 10/24/00 2 31.50 16.50 15 Rock 996.27 993.76 986.22 10.05 35.8361 -81.1481
MW-10 10/25/00 2 91.00 76.00 15 Rock 1040.80 1037.83 1004.59 36.21 35.8366 -81.1469
MW-11 10/24/00 2 56.00 41.00 15 Rock 1011.96 1008.98 978.93 33.03 35.8359 -81.1505
MW-12 10/23/00 2 66.50 51.50 15 Soil 1007.35 1004.46 955.85 51.50 35.3577 -81.1525
MW-12D 6/9/00 2 100.00 90.00 10 Rock 1008.46 1006.03 949.91 58.55 35.3577 -81.1525
MW-13 10/25/00 2 60.50 45.50 15 Rock 1004.56 1001.63 973.05 31.51 35.8368 -81.1532
MW-14 10/26/00 2 40.50 25.50 15 Soil & Rock 997.44 994.06 965.60 31.84 35.8376 -81.1525
MW-15 10/25/00 2 35.00 20.00 15 Soil & Rock 1023.44 1020.81 1002.29 21.15 35.8385 -81.1508
MW-16 12/20/07 2 40.25 25.25 15 Rock 1037.56 1034.94 1008.88 28.68 35.8371 -81.1465
MW-17 6/10/03 2 22.30 7.30 15 Rock 991.16 988.36 975.96 15.20 35.8386 -81.1511
MW-18 12/19/07 2 56.70 41.70 15 Rock 1084.33 1081.52 1031.89 52.44 35.8392 -81.1467
MW-19 12/20/07 2 63.92 48.92 15 Rock 1071.48 1068.67 1019.33 52.15 35.8391 -81.1487
MW-20 12/20/07 2 63.55 48.55 15 Rock 1046.92 1044.19 1006.54 40.38 35.8391 -81.1502
MW-21 12/19/07 2 41.05 26.05 15 Rock 990.00 987.08 962.29 27.71 35.8386 -81.1514
MW-22 12/19/07 2 18.12 8.12 10 Rock 958.97 956.21 943.94 15.03 35.8381 -81.1524
MW-23 12/19/07 2 21.54 6.54 15 Soil 950.48 947.83 934.76 15.72 35.8376 -81.1529
MW-24 12/20/07 2 35.35 20.35 15 Soil 974.04 971.29 944.65 29.39 35.8356 -81.1533
MW-25 12/19/07 2 44.48 29.48 15 Rock 981.93 979.93 955.74 26.19 35.8353 -81.1528
MW-26 12/20/07 2 49.80 34.80 15 Rock 990.69 988.08 976.55 14.14 35.8354 -81.1504
MW-27 12/20/07 2 49.82 34.82 15 Rock 992.19 989.19 980.37 11.82 35.8356 -81.1493
MW-31 8/16/10 2 32.56 17.56 15 Soil 985.42 982.42 975.07 10.35 35.8348 -81.1506
MW-32 8/16/10 2 42.70 27.7 15 Rock 1025.26 1022.26 994.41 30.85 35.8361 -81.1469
MW-33 4/27/13 2 21.38 6.38 15 PWR 1007.40 1004.40 994.71 12.69 35.8367 -81.1462
MW-34 4/27/13 2 21.19 6.19 15 PWR 1014.60 1011.60 1006.67 7.93 35.8373 -81.1459
IW-1 2/14/11 4 52.44 37.44 15 Rock 990.44 987.44 NR NR 35.8356 -81.1504
NOTE:
Groundwater depth/elevation measured January 5-8, 2016
PWR = partially weathered rock
Monitoring
Well
Date
Installed
Well
Diameter
Total Well
Depth
Top of
Screen
Depth
Screen
Length Geology of
Screened
Interval
Top of
Casing
Elevation
Ground
Elevation
Groundwater
Elevation
Depth to
Water
(ft bgs) (ft bgs)(ft amsl) (ft amsl) (ft amsl) (ft btoc)
bgs = below ground surface
amsl= above mean sea level
btoc = below top of casing (PVC well casing)
Alexander County Active C&D and Closed MSWLF Page 1 of 1
Table 2
Water Quality Monitoring Parameters and Schedule
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MW-1 Y SW SW 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 W SW SW SW SW SW
MW-1A DRY SW SW 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 W SW SW SW SW SW
MW-1B N SW SW 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 W SW SW SW SW SW
MW-2 N SW SW 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 W SW SW SW SW SW
MW-3 Y W W W W W W SW
MW-4R Y SW SW 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 SW SW SW SW SW
MW-5 Y SW SW 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 S S S S S S 5 S S SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-6 N SW SW W 3 3 2 3 3 S S S S S S 5 S S SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-7 Y W W W W W W SW
MW-9 N SW SW 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 SW SW SW SW SW
MW-10 N SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-11 Y SW SW 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 SW SW SW SW SW SW 5 SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-12 Y SW SW 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 SW SW SW SW SW SW 5 SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-12D N SW SW 3 3 2 3 3 SW SW SW SW SW SW 5 SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-13 N SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-14 N SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-15 Y SW SW W SW SW SW SW SW
MW-16 Y SW SW 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 S S S S S S 5 S S SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-17 N SW SW W SW SW SW SW SW
MW-18 N SW SW 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 W SW SW SW SW SW
MW-19 N SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-20 N SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-21 N SW SW W SW SW SW SW SW
MW-22 N SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-23 N SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-24 N SW SW 3 3 2 3 3 SW SW SW SW SW SW 5 SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-25 N SW SW 3 3 2 3 3 S S S S S S 5 S S SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-26 N SW SW 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 SW SW SW SW SW SW 5 SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-27 N SW SW 3 3 2 3 3 S S S S S S 5 S S SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-31 N SW SW 3 3 2 3 3 SW SW SW SW SW SW 5 SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-32 N SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-33 N SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
MW-34 N SW SW SW SW SW SW SW
SW-3 N SW SW SW SW SW SW
SW-4R N SW SW SW SW SW SW
SW-5 N SW SW SW SW SW SW
SW-6 N SW SW SW SW SW SW
App. I & II = Appendix I & II List from current 40 CFR PART 258
* = Regulatory (2L, GWP or 2B) violation attributed to anthropogenic source (January 2016)
Frequency and constituents previously approved by the SWS in DIN:14150 (June 16, 2011) and DIN:20144 (November 13, 2013)
S = SUMMER. Constituent to be analyzed annually during the summer event
W = WINTER. Constituent to be analyzed annually during the winter event
SW = SUMMER & WINTER. Constituent to be analyzed semi-annually during both the summer and winter events
2 = Constituent analyzed on a semiannual basis (both summer & winter events) during every second year of MNA sampling
3 = Constituent analyzed once every three (3) years. Performed Summer of 2016.
5 = Constituent analyzed on a semiannual basis (both sampling summer & winter events) during every fifth year of MNA sampling
App. I App. II
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Figures
Topographic Map with Site Location
FIGURE 1
QUADRANGLE LEGEND
Alexander County Active C&D and Closed MSWLF
1/20 1 MILE
LANDFILL PROPERTY
N
2500 Paynes Dairy Road
Taylorsville, NC 28681
Lat:35-15-18.7246
Long:-81-08-51.51.32
Northing:767009.09
Easting:1363506.43
Appendix A
SWS Guidance Document
(Intended to be most recent version)
Solid Waste Section
Guidelines for Groundwater, Soil, and Surface
Water Sampling

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WASTE MANAGEMENT
SOLID WASTE SECTION

General Sampling Procedures
The following guidance is provided to insure a consistent sampling approach so that sample
collection activities at solid waste management facilities provide reliable data. Sampling must
begin with an evaluation of facility information, historical environmental data and site geologic
and hydrogeologic conditions. General sampling procedures are described in this document.

Planning
Begin sampling activities with planning and coordination. The party contracting with the
laboratory is responsible for effectively communicating reporting requirements and evaluating
data reliability as it relates to specific monitoring activities.

Sample Collection
Contamination Prevention
a.) Take special effort to prevent cross contamination or environmental contamination
when collecting samples.
1. If possible, collect samples from the least contaminated sampling location
(or background sampling location, if applicable) to the most contaminated
sampling location.
2. Collect the ambient or background samples first, and store them in
separate ice chests or separate shipping containers within the same ice
chest (e.g. untreated plastic bags).
3. Collect samples in flowing water at designated locations from upstream to
downstream.
b.) Do not store or ship highly contaminated samples (concentrated wastes, free product,
etc.) or samples suspect of containing high concentrations of contaminants in the
same ice chest or shipping containers with other environmental samples.
1. Isolate these sample containers by sealing them in separate, untreated
plastic bags immediately after collecting, preserving, labeling, etc.
2. Use a clean, untreated plastic bag to line the ice chest or shipping
container.
c.) All sampling equipment should be thoroughly decontaminated and transported in a
manner that does not allow it to become contaminated. Arrangements should be
made ahead of time to decontaminate any sampling or measuring equipment that will
be reused when taking samples from more than one well. Field decontamination of
Rev 4-08 1
sampling equipment will be necessary before sampling each well to minimize the risk
of cross contamination. Decontamination procedures should be included in reports as
necessary. Certified pre-cleaned sampling equipment and containers may be used.
When collecting aqueous samples, rinse the sample collection equipment with a
portion of the sample water before taking the actual sample. Sample containers do not
need to be rinsed. In the case of petroleum hydrocarbons, oil and grease, or
containers with pre-measured preservatives, the sample containers cannot be rinsed.
d.) Place all fuel-powered equipment away from, and downwind of, any site activities
(e.g., purging, sampling, decontamination).
1. If field conditions preclude such placement (i.e., the wind is from the
upstream direction in a boat), place the fuel source(s) as far away as
possible from the sampling activities and describe the conditions in the
field notes.
2. Handle fuel (i.e., filling vehicles and equipment) prior to the sampling
day. If such activities must be performed during sampling, the personnel
must wear disposable gloves.
3. Dispense all fuels downwind. Dispose of gloves well away from the
sampling activities.
Filling Out Sample Labels
Fill out label, adhere to vial and collect sample. Print legibly with indelible ink. At a
minimum, the label or tag should identify the sample with the following information:
1. Sample location and/or well number
2. Sample identification number
3. Date and time of collection
4. Analysis required/requested
5. Sampler’s initials
6. Preservative(s) used, if any [i.e., HCl, Na2S2O3, NO3, ice, etc.]
7. Any other pertinent information for sample identification
Sample Collection Order
Unless field conditions justify other sampling regimens, collect samples in the following
order:
1. Volatile Organics and Volatile Inorganics
2. Extractable Organics, Petroleum Hydrocarbons, Aggregate Organics and
Oil and Grease
3. Total Metals
4. Inorganic Nonmetallics, Physical and Aggregate Properties, and
Biologicals
5. Microbiological
NOTE: If the pump used to collect groundwater samples cannot be used to collect volatile or
extractable organics then collect all other parameters and withdraw the pump and tubing. Then
collect the volatile and extractable organics.

Rev 4-08 2
Health and Safety
Implement all local, state, and federal requirements relating to health and safety. Follow all
local, state and federal requirements pertaining to the storage and disposal of any hazardous or
investigation derived wastes.
a.) The Solid Waste Section recommends wearing protective gloves when conducting all
sampling activities.
1. Gloves serve to protect the sample collector from potential exposure to sample
constituents, minimize accidental contamination of samples by the collector,
and preserve accurate tare weights on preweighed sample containers.
2. Do not let gloves come into contact with the sample or with the interior or lip
of the sample container. Use clean, new, unpowdered and disposable gloves.
Various types of gloves may be used as long as the construction materials do
not contaminate the sample or if internal safety protocols require greater
protection.
3. Note that certain materials that may potentially be present in concentrated
effluent can pass through certain glove types and be absorbed in the skin.
Many vendor catalogs provide information about the permeability of different
gloves and the circumstances under which the glove material might be
applicable. The powder in powdered gloves can contribute significant
contamination. Powdered gloves are not recommended unless it can be
demonstrated that the powder does not interfere with the sample analysis.
4. Change gloves after preliminary activities, after collecting all the samples at a
single sampling point, if torn or used to handle extremely dirty or highly
contaminated surfaces. Properly dispose of all used gloves as investigation
derived wastes.
b.) Properly manage all investigation derived waste (IDW).
5. To prevent contamination into previously uncontaminated areas, properly
manage all IDW. This includes all water, soil, drilling mud, decontamination
wastes, discarded personal protective equipment (PPE), etc. from site
investigations, exploratory borings, piezometer and monitoring well
installation, refurbishment, abandonment, and other investigative activities.
Manage all IDW that is determined to be RCRA-regulated hazardous waste
according to the local, state and federal requirements.
6. Properly dispose of IDW that is not a RCRA-regulated hazardous waste but is
contaminated above the Department’s Soil Cleanup Target Levels or the state
standards and/or minimum criteria for ground water quality. If the drill
cuttings/mud orpurged well water is contaminated with hazardous waste,
contact the DWM Hazardous Waste Section (919-508-8400) for disposal
options. Maintain all containers holding IDW in good condition. Periodically
inspect the containers for damage and ensure that all required labeling (DOT,
RCRA, etc.) are clearly visible.

Rev 4-08 3
Sample Storage and Transport
Store samples for transport carefully. Pack samples to prevent from breaking and to maintain a
temperature of approximately 4 degrees Celsius (°C), adding ice if necessary. Transport samples
to a North Carolina-certified laboratory as soon as possible. Avoid unnecessary handling of
sample containers. Avoid heating (room temperature or above, including exposure to sunlight)
or freezing of the sample containers. Reduce the time between sample collection and delivery to
a laboratory whenever possible and be sure that the analytical holding times of your samples can
be met by the laboratory.
a.) A complete chain-of-custody (COC) form must be maintained to document all
transfers and receipts of the samples. Be sure that the sample containers are labeled
with the sample location and/or well number, sample identification, the date and time
of collection, the analysis to be performed, the preservative added (if any), the
sampler’s initials, and any other pertinent information for sample identification. The
labels should contain a unique identifier (i.e., unique well numbers) that can be traced
to the COC form. The details of sample collection must be documented on the COC.
The COC must include the following:
1. Description of each sample (including QA/QC samples) and the number of
containers (sample location and identification)
2. Signature of the sampler
3. Date and time of sample collection
4. Analytical method to be performed
5. Sample type (i.e., water or soil)
6. Regulatory agency (i.e., NCDENR/DWM – SW Section)
7. Signatures of all persons relinquishing and receiving custody of the
samples
8. Dates and times of custody transfers
b.) Pack samples so that they are segregated by site, sampling location or by sample
analysis type. When COC samples are involved, segregate samples in coolers by site.
If samples from multiple sites will fit in one cooler, they may be packed in the same
cooler with the associated field sheets and a single COC form for all. Coolers should
not exceed a maximum weight of 50 lbs. Use additional coolers as necessary. All
sample containers should be placed in plastic bags (segregated by analysis and
location) and completely surrounded by ice.
1. Prepare and place trip blanks in an ice filled cooler before leaving for the
field.
2. Segregate samples by analysis and place in sealable plastic bags.
3. Pack samples carefully in the cooler placing ice around the samples.
4. Review the COC. The COC form must accompany the samples to the
laboratory. The trip blank(s) must also be recorded on the COC form.
5. Place completed COC form in a waterproof bag, sealed and taped under
the lid of the cooler.
6. Secure shipping containers with strapping tape to avoid accidental
opening.
7. For COC samples, a tamper-proof seal may also be placed over the cooler
lid or over a bag or container containing the samples inside the shipping
cooler.
Rev 4-08 4
8. "COC" or "EMERG" should be written in indelible ink on the cooler seal
to alert sample receipt technicians to priority or special handling samples.
9. The date and sample handler's signature must also be written on the COC
seal.
10. Deliver the samples to the laboratory or ship by commercial courier.
NOTE: If transport time to the laboratory is not long enough to allow
samples to be cooled to 4° C, a temperature reading of the sample source
must be documented as the field temperature on the COC form. A
downward trend in temperature will be adequate even if cooling to 4° C is
not achieved. The field temperature should always be documented if there
is any question as to whether samples will have time to cool to 4° C during
shipment. Thermometers must be calibrated annually against an NIST
traceable thermometer and documentation must be retained.

Rev 4-08 5
Appendix A - Decontamination of Field Equipment
Decontamination of personnel, sampling equipment, and containers - before and after
sampling - must be used to ensure collection of representative samples and to prevent the
potential spread of contamination. Decontamination of personnel prevents ingestion and
absorption of contaminants. It must be done with a soap and water wash and deionized or
distilled water rinse. Certified pre-cleaned sampling equipment and containers may also be used.

All previously used sampling equipment must be properly decontaminated before sampling and
between sampling locations. This prevents the introduction of contamination into
uncontaminated samples and avoids cross-contamination of samples. Cross-contamination can
be a significant problem when attempting to characterize extremely low concentrations of
organic compounds or when working with soils that are highly contaminated.

Clean, solvent-resistant gloves and appropriate protective equipment must be worn by
persons decontaminating tools and equipment.

Cleaning Reagents
Recommendations for the types and grades of various cleaning supplies are outlined below.
The recommended reagent types or grades were selected to ensure that the cleaned equipment is
free from any detectable contamination.
a.) Detergents: Use Liqui-Nox (or a non-phosphate equivalent) or Alconox (or
equivalent). Liqui-Nox (or equivalent) is recommended by EPA, although Alconox
(or equivalent) may be substituted if the sampling equipment will not be used to
collect phosphorus or phosphorus containing compounds.
b.) Solvents: Use pesticide grade isopropanol as the rinse solvent in routine equipment
cleaning procedures. This grade of alcohol must be purchased from a laboratory
supply vendor. Rubbing alcohol or other commonly available sources of isopropanol
are not acceptable. Other solvents, such as acetone or methanol, may be used as the
final rinse solvent if they are pesticide grade. However, methanol is more toxic to the
environment and acetone may be an analyte of interest for volatile organics.

1. Do not use acetone if volatile organics are of interest
2. Containerize all methanol wastes (including rinses) and dispose as a
hazardous waste.

Pre-clean equipment that is heavily contaminated with organic analytes. Use reagent
grade acetone and hexane or other suitable solvents. Use pesticide grade methylene
chloride when cleaning sample containers. Store all solvents away from potential
sources of contamination.
c.) Analyte-Free Water Sources: Analyte-free water is water in which all analytes of
interest and all interferences are below method detection limits. Maintain
documentation (such as results from equipment blanks) to demonstrate the reliability
and purity of analyte-free water source(s). The source of the water must meet the
requirements of the analytical method and must be free from the analytes of interest.
In general, the following water types are associated with specific analyte groups:
1. Milli-Q (or equivalent polished water): suitable for all analyses.
Rev 4-08 6
2. Organic-free: suitable for volatile and extractable organics.
3. Deionized water: may not be suitable for volatile and extractable
organics.
4. Distilled water: not suitable for volatile and extractable organics, metals
or ultratrace metals.
Use analyte-free water for blank preparation and the final decontamination water
rinse. In order to minimize long-term storage and potential leaching problems, obtain
or purchase analyte-free water just prior to the sampling event. If obtained from a
source (such as a laboratory), fill the transport containers and use the contents for a
single sampling event. Empty the transport container(s) at the end of the sampling
event. Discard any analyte-free water that is transferred to a dispensing container
(such as a wash bottle or pump sprayer) at the end of each sampling day.
d.) Acids:
1. Reagent Grade Nitric Acid: 10 - 15% (one volume concentrated nitric acid
and five volumes deionized water). Use for the acid rinse unless nitrogen
components (e.g., nitrate, nitrite, etc.) are to be sampled. If sampling for
ultra-trace levels of metals, use an ultra-pure grade acid.
2. Reagent Grade Hydrochloric Acid: 10% hydrochloric acid (one volume
concentrated hydrochloric and three volumes deionized water). Use when
nitrogen components are to be sampled.
3. If samples for both metals and the nitrogen-containing components are
collected with the equipment, use the hydrochloric acid rinse, or
thoroughly rinse with hydrochloric acid after a nitric acid rinse. If
sampling for ultra trace levels of metals, use an ultra-pure grade acid.
4. Freshly prepared acid solutions may be recycled during the sampling event
or cleaning process. Dispose of any unused acids according to local
ordinances.

Reagent Storage Containers
The contents of all containers must be clearly marked.
a.) Detergents:
1. Store in the original container or in a HDPE or PP container.
b.) Solvents:
1. Store solvents to be used for cleaning or decontamination in the original
container until use in the field. If transferred to another container for field
use, use either a glass or Teflon container.
2. Use dispensing containers constructed of glass, Teflon or stainless steel.
Note: If stainless steel sprayers are used, any gaskets that contact the
solvents must be constructed of inert materials.
c.) Analyte-Free Water:
1. Transport in containers appropriate for the type of water stored. If the
water is commercially purchased (e.g., grocery store), use the original
containers when transporting the water to the field. Containers made of
glass, Teflon, polypropylene or HDPE are acceptable.
2. Use glass or Teflon to transport organic-free sources of water on-site.
Polypropylene or HDPE may be used, but are not recommended.
Rev 4-08 7
3. Dispense water from containers made of glass, Teflon, HDPE or
polypropylene.
4. Do not store water in transport containers for more than three days before
beginning a sampling event.
5. If working on a project that has oversight from EPA Region 4, use glass
containers for the transport and storage of all water.
6. Store and dispense acids using containers made of glass, Teflon or plastic.

General Requirements
a.) Prior to use, clean/decontaminate all sampling equipment (pumps, tubing, lanyards,
split spoons, etc.) that will be exposed to the sample.
b.) Before installing, clean (or obtain as certified pre-cleaned) all equipment that is
dedicated to a single sampling point and remains in contact with the sample medium
(e.g., permanently installed groundwater pump). If you use certified pre-cleaned
equipment no cleaning is necessary.
1. Clean this equipment any time it is removed for maintenance or repair.
2. Replace dedicated tubing if discolored or damaged.
c.) Clean all equipment in a designated area having a controlled environment (house,
laboratory, or base of field operations) and transport it to the field, pre-cleaned and
ready to use, unless otherwise justified.
d.) Rinse all equipment with water after use, even if it is to be field-cleaned for other
sites. Rinse equipment used at contaminated sites or used to collect in-process (e.g.,
untreated or partially treated wastewater) samples immediately with water.
e.) Whenever possible, transport sufficient clean equipment to the field so that an entire
sampling event can be conducted without the need for cleaning equipment in the
field.
f.) Segregate equipment that is only used once (i.e., not cleaned in the field) from clean
equipment and return to the in-house cleaning facility to be cleaned in a controlled
environment.
g.) Protect decontaminated field equipment from environmental contamination by
securely wrapping and sealing with one of the following:
1. Aluminum foil (commercial grade is acceptable)
2. Untreated butcher paper
3. Clean, untreated, disposable plastic bags. Plastic bags may be used for all
analyte groups except volatile and extractable organics. Plastic bags may
be used for volatile and extractable organics, if the equipment is first
wrapped in foil or butcher paper, or if the equipment is completely dry.

Cleaning Sample Collection Equipment
a.) On-Site/In-Field Cleaning – Cleaning equipment on-site is not recommended because
environmental conditions cannot be controlled and wastes (solvents and acids) must
be containerized for proper disposal.
1. Ambient temperature water may be substituted in the hot, sudsy water bath
and hot water rinses.
NOTE: Properly dispose of all solvents and acids.
Rev 4-08 8
2. Rinse all equipment with water after use, even if it is to be field-cleaned
for other sites.
3. Immediately rinse equipment used at contaminated sites or used to collect
in-process (e.g., untreated or partially treated wastewater) samples with
water.
b.) Heavily Contaminated Equipment - In order to avoid contaminating other samples,
isolate heavily contaminated equipment from other equipment and thoroughly
decontaminate the equipment before further use. Equipment is considered heavily
contaminated if it:
1. Has been used to collect samples from a source known to contain
significantly higher levels than background.
2. Has been used to collect free product.
3. Has been used to collect industrial products (e.g., pesticides or solvents) or
their byproducts.
NOTE: Cleaning heavily contaminated equipment in the field is not recommended.
c.) On-Site Procedures:
1. Protect all other equipment, personnel and samples from exposure by
isolating the equipment immediately after use.
2. At a minimum, place the equipment in a tightly sealed, untreated, plastic
bag.
3. Do not store or ship the contaminated equipment next to clean,
decontaminated equipment, unused sample containers, or filled sample
containers.
4. Transport the equipment back to the base of operations for thorough
decontamination.
5. If cleaning must occur in the field, document the effectiveness of the
procedure, collect and analyze blanks on the cleaned equipment.
d.) Cleaning Procedures:
1. If organic contamination cannot be readily removed with scrubbing and a
detergent solution, pre-rinse equipment by thoroughly rinsing or soaking
the equipment in acetone.
2. Use hexane only if preceded and followed by acetone.
3. In extreme cases, it may be necessary to steam clean the field equipment
before proceeding with routine cleaning procedures.
4. After the solvent rinses (and/or steam cleaning), use the appropriate
cleaning procedure. Scrub, rather than soak, all equipment with sudsy
water. If high levels of metals are suspected and the equipment cannot be
cleaned without acid rinsing, soak the equipment in the appropriate acid.
Since stainless steel equipment should not be exposed to acid rinses, do
not use stainless steel equipment when heavy metal contamination is
suspected or present.
5. If the field equipment cannot be cleaned utilizing these procedures,
discard unless further cleaning with stronger solvents and/or oxidizing
solutions is effective as evidenced by visual observation and blanks.
6. Clearly mark or disable all discarded equipment to discourage use.
Rev 4-08 9
e.) General Cleaning - Follow these procedures when cleaning equipment under
controlled conditions. Check manufacturer's instructions for cleaning restrictions
and/or recommendations.
1. Procedure for Teflon, stainless steel and glass sampling equipment: This
procedure must be used when sampling for ALL analyte groups.
(Extractable organics, metals, nutrients, etc. or if a single decontamination
protocol is desired to clean all Teflon, stainless steel and glass equipment.)
Rinse equipment with hot tap water. Soak equipment in a hot, sudsy water
solution (Liqui-Nox or equivalent). If necessary, use a brush to remove
particulate matter or surface film. Rinse thoroughly with hot tap water. If
samples for trace metals or inorganic analytes will be collected with the
equipment that is not stainless steel, thoroughly rinse (wet all surfaces)
with the appropriate acid solution. Rinse thoroughly with analyte-free
water. Make sure that all equipment surfaces are thoroughly flushed with
water. If samples for volatile or extractable organics will be collected,
rinse with isopropanol. Wet equipment surfaces thoroughly with free-
flowing solvent. Rinse thoroughly with analyte-free water. Allow to air
dry. Wrap and seal as soon as the equipment has air-dried. If isopropanol
is used, the equipment may be air-dried without the final analyte-free
water rinse; however, the equipment must be completely dry before
wrapping or use. Wrap clean sampling equipment according to the
procedure described above.
2. General Cleaning Procedure for Plastic Sampling Equipment: Rinse
equipment with hot tap water. Soak equipment in a hot, sudsy water
solution (Liqui-Nox or equivalent). If necessary, use a brush to remove
particulate matter or surface film. Rinse thoroughly with hot tap water.
Thoroughly rinse (wet all surfaces) with the appropriate acid solution.
Check manufacturer's instructions for cleaning restrictions and/or
recommendations. Rinse thoroughly with analyte-free water. Be sure that
all equipment surfaces are thoroughly flushed. Allow to air dry as long as
possible. Wrap clean sampling equipment according to the procedure
described above.

Rev 4-08 10

Appendix B - Collecting Soil Samples
Soil samples are collected for a variety of purposes. A methodical sampling approach must be
used to assure that sample collection activities provide reliable data. Sampling must begin with
an evaluation of background information, historical data and site conditions.

Soil Field Screening Procedures
Field screening is the use of portable devices capable of detecting petroleum contaminants on
a real-time basis or by a rapid field analytical technique. Field screening should be used to help
assess locations where contamination is most likely to be present.

When possible, field-screening samples should be collected directly from the excavation or
from the excavation equipment's bucket. If field screening is conducted only from the
equipment's bucket, then a minimum of one field screening sample should be collected from
each 10 cubic yards of excavated soil. If instruments or other observations indicate
contamination, soil should be separated into stockpiles based on apparent degrees of
contamination. At a minimum, soil suspected of contamination must be segregated from soil
observed to be free of contamination.

a.) Field screening devices – Many field screen instruments are available for detecting
contaminants in the field on a rapid or real-time basis. Acceptable field screening
instruments must be suitable for the contaminant being screened. The procdedure for
field screening using photoionization detectors (PIDs) and flame ionization detectors
(FIDs) is described below. If other instruments are used, a description of the
instrument or method and its intended use must be provided to the Solid Waste
Section. Whichever field screening method is chosen, its accuracy must be verified
throughout the sampling process. Use appropriate standards that match the use
intended for the data. Unless the Solid Waste Section indicates otherwise, wherever
field screening is recommended in this document, instrumental or analytical methods
of detection must be used, not olfactory or visual screening methods.

b.) Headspace analytical screening procedure for filed screening (semi-quantitative field
screening) - The most commonly used field instruments for Solid Waste Section site
assessments are FIDs and PIDs. When using FIDs and PIDs, use the following
headspace screening procedure to obtain and analyze field-screening samples:
1. Partially fill (one-third to one-half) a clean jar or clean ziplock bag with
the sample to be analyzed. The total capacity of the jar or bag may not be
less than eight ounces (app. 250 ml), but the container should not be so
large as to allow vapor diffusion and stratification effects to significantly
affect the sample.
2. If the sample is collected from a spilt-spoon, it must be transferred to the
jar or bag for headspace analysis immediately after opening the split-
spoon. If the sample is collected from an excavation or soil pile, it must
be collected from freshly uncovered soil.
Rev 4-08 11
3. If a jar is used, it must be quickly covered with clean aluminum foil or a
jar lid; screw tops or thick rubber bands must be used to tightly seal the
jar. If a zip lock bag is used, it must be quickly sealed shut.
4. Headspace vapors must be allowed to develop in the container for at least
10 minutes but no longer than one hour. Containers must be shaken or
agitated for 15 seconds at the beginning and the end of the headspace
development period to assist volatilization. Temperatures of the
headspace must be warmed to at least 5° C (approximately 40° F) with
instruments calibrated for the temperature used.
5. After headspace development, the instrument sampling probe must be
inserted to a point about one-half the headspace depth. The container
opening must be minimized and care must be taken to avoid the uptake of
water droplets and soil particulates.
6. After probe insertion, the highest meter reading must be taken and
recorded. This will normally occur between two and five seconds after
probe insertion. If erratic meter response occurs at high organic vapor
concentrations or conditions of elevated headspace moisture, a note to that
effect must accompany the headspace data.
7. All field screening results must be documented in the field record or log
book.

Soil Sample Collection Procedures for Laboratory Samples
The number and type of laboratory samples collected depends on the purpose of the sampling
activity. Samples analyzed with field screening devices may not be substituted for required
laboratory samples.

a.) General Sample Collection - When collecting samples from potentially contaminated
soil, care should be taken to reduce contact with skin or other parts of the body.
Disposable gloves should be worn by the sample collector and should be changed
between samples to avoid cross-contamination. Soil samples should be collected in a
manner that causes the least disturbance to the internal structure of the sample and
reduces its exposure to heat, sunlight and open air. Likewise, care should be taken to
keep the samples from being contaminated by other materials or other samples
collected at the site. When sampling is to occur over an extended period of time, it is
necessary to insure that the samples are collected in a comparable manner. All
samples must be collected with disposable or clean tools that have been
decontaminated. Disposable gloves must be worn and changed between sample
collections. Sample containers must be filled quickly. Soil samples must be placed
in containers in the order of volatility, for example, volatile organic aromatic samples
must be taken first, organics next, then heavier range organics, and finally soil
classification samples. Containers must be quickly and adequately sealed, and rims
must be cleaned before tightening lids. Tape may be used only if known not to affect
sample analysis. Sample containers must be clearly labeled. Containers must
immediately be preserved according to procedures in this Section. Unless specified
Rev 4-08 12
otherwise, at a minimum, the samples must be immediately cooled to 4 ± 2°C and this
temperature must be maintained throughout delivery to the laboratory.
b.) Surface Soil Sampling - Surface soil is generally classified as soil between the ground
surface and 6-12 inches below ground surface. Remove leaves, grass and surface
debris from the area to be sampled. Select an appropriate, pre-cleaned sampling
device and collect the sample. Transfer the sample to the appropriate sample
container. Clean the outside of the sample container to remove excess soil. Label the
sample container, place on wet ice to preserve at 4°C, and complete the field notes.
c.) Subsurface Soil Sampling – The interval begins at approximately 12 inches below
ground surface. Collect samples for volatile organic analyses. For other analyses,
select an appropriate, pre-cleaned sampling device and collect the sample. Transfer
the sample to the appropriate sample container. Clean the outside of the sample
container to remove excess soil. Label the sample container, place on wet ice to
preserve at 4°C, and complete field notes.
d.) Equipment for Reaching the Appropriate Soil Sampling Depth - Samples may be
collected using a hollow stem soil auger, direct push, Shelby tube, split-spoon
sampler, or core barrel. These sampling devices may be used as long as an effort is
made to reduce the loss of contaminants through volatilization. In these situations,
obtain a sufficient volume of so the samples can be collected without volatilization
and disturbance to the internal structure of the samples. Samples should be collected
from cores of the soil. Non-disposable sampling equipment must be decontaminated
between each sample location. NOTE: If a confining layer has been breached during
sampling, grout the hole to land.
e.) Equipment to Collect Soil Samples - Equipment and materials that may be used to
collect soil samples include disposable plastic syringes and other “industry-standard”
equipment and materials that are contaminant-free. Non-disposable sampling
equipment must be decontaminated between each sample location.

Rev 4-08 13
Appendix C - Collecting Groundwater Samples
Groundwater samples are collected to identify, investigate, assess and monitor the concentration
of dissolved contaminant constituents. To properly assess groundwater contamination, first
install sampling points (monitoring wells, etc.) to collect groundwater samples and then perform
specific laboratory analyses. All monitoring wells should be constructed in accordance with 15A
NCAC 2C .0100 and sampled as outlined in this section. Groundwater monitoring is conducted
using one of two methods:

1. Portable Monitoring: Monitoring that is conducted using sampling equipment that is
discarded between sampling locations. Equipment used to collect a groundwater sample
from a well such as bailers, tubing, gloves, and etc. are disposed of after sample
collection. A new set of sampling equipment is used to collect a groundwater sample at
the next monitor well.

2. Dedicated Monitoring: Monitoring that utilizes permanently affixed down-well and well
head components that are capped after initial set-up. Most dedicated monitoring systems
are comprised of an in-well submersible bladder pump, with air supply and sample
discharge tubing, and an above-ground driver/controller for regulation of flow rates and
volumes. The pump and all tubing housed within the well should be composed of Teflon
or stainless steel components. This includes seals inside the pump, the pump body, and
fittings used to connect tubing to the pump. Because ground water will not be in contact
with incompatible constituents and because the well is sealed from the surface, virtually
no contamination is possible from intrinsic sources during sampling and between
sampling intervals. All dedicated monitoring systems must be approved by the Solid
Waste Section before installation.

Groundwater samples may be collected from a number of different configurations. Each
configuration is associated with a unique set of sampling equipment requirements and
techniques:

1. Wells without Plumbing: These wells require equipment to be brought to the well to
purge and sample unless dedicated equipment is placed in the well.

2. Wells with In-Place Plumbing: Wells with in-place plumbing do not require equipment
to be brought to the well to purge and sample. In-place plumbing is generally considered
permanent equipment routinely used for purposes other than purging and sampling, such
as for water supply.

3. Air Strippers or Remedial Systems: These types of systems are installed as remediation
devices.

Rev 4-08 14
Groundwater Sample Preparation
The type of sample containers used depends on the type of analysis performed. First,
determine the type(s) of contaminants expected and the proper analytical method(s). Be sure to
consult your selected laboratory for its specific needs and requirements prior to sampling.

Next, prepare the storage and transport containers (ice chest, etc.) before taking any samples so
that each sample can be placed in a chilled environment immediately after collection.

Use groundwater purging and sampling equipment constructed of only non-reactive, non-
leachable materials that are compatible with the environment and the selected analytes. In
selecting groundwater purging and sampling equipment, give consideration to the depth of the
well, the depth to groundwater, the volume of water to be evacuated, the sampling and purging
technique, and the analytes of interest. Additional supplies, such as reagents and preservatives,
may be necessary.

All sampling equipment (bailers, tubing, containers, etc.) must be selected based on its
chemical compatibility with the source being sampled (e.g., water supply well, monitoring well)
and the contaminants potentially present.

a.) Pumps - All pumps or pump tubing must be lowered and retrieved from the well
slowly and carefully to minimize disturbance to the formation water. This is
especially critical at the air/water interface.
1. Above-Ground Pumps
• Variable Speed Peristaltic Pump: Use a variable speed peristaltic
pump to purge groundwater from wells when the static water level
in the well is no greater than 20- 25 feet below land surface (BLS).
If the water levels are deeper than 18-20 feet BLS, the pumping
velocity will decrease. A variable speed peristaltic pump can be
used for normal purging and sampling, and sampling low
permeability aquifers or formations. Most analyte groups can be
sampled with a peristaltic pump if the tubing and pump
configurations are appropriate.
• Variable Speed Centrifugal Pump: A variable speed centrifugal
pump can be used to purge groundwater from 2-inch and larger
internal diameter wells. Do not use this type of pump to collect
groundwater samples. When purging is complete, do not allow the
water that remains in the tubing to fall back into the well. Install a
check valve at the end of the purge tubing.
2. Submersible Pumps
• Variable Speed Electric Submersible Pump: A variable speed
submersible pump can be used to purge and sample groundwater
from 2-inch and larger internal diameter wells. A variable speed
submersible pump can be used for normal purging and sampling,
and sampling low permeability aquifers or formations. The pump
housing, fittings, check valves and associated hardware must be
constructed of stainless steel. All other materials must be
Rev 4-08 15
compatible with the analytes of interest. Install a check valve at
the output side of the pump to prevent backflow. If purging and
sampling for organics, the entire length of the delivery tube must
be Teflon, polyethylene or polypropylene (PP) tubing; the
electrical cord must be sealed in Teflon, polyethylene or PP and
any cabling must be sealed in Teflon, polyethylene or PP, or be
constructed of stainless steel; and all interior components that
contact the sample water (impeller, seals, gaskets, etc.) must be
constructed of stainless steel or Teflon.
3. Variable Speed Bladder Pump: A variable speed, positive displacement,
bladder pump can be used to purge and sample groundwater from 3/4-inch
and larger internal diameter wells.
• A variable speed bladder pump can be used for normal purging and
sampling, and sampling low permeability aquifers or formations.
• The bladder pump system is composed of the pump, the
compressed air tubing, the water discharge tubing, the controller
and a compressor, or a compressed gas supply.
• The pump consists of a bladder and an exterior casing or pump
body that surrounds the bladder and two (2) check valves. These
parts can be composed of various materials, usually combinations
of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), Teflon, polyethylene, PP and
stainless steel. Other materials must be compatible with the
analytes of interest.
• If purging and sampling for organics, the pump body must be
constructed of stainless steel. The valves and bladder must be
Teflon, polyethylene or PP; the entire length of the delivery tube
must be Teflon, polyethylene or PP; and any cabling must be
sealed in Teflon, polyethylene or PP, or be constructed of stainless
steel.
• Permanently installed pumps may have a PVC pump body as long
as the pump remains in contact with the water in the well.
b.) Bailers
1. Purging: Bailers must be used with caution because improper bailing can
cause changes in the chemistry of the water due to aeration and loosening
particulate matter in the space around the well screen. Use a bailer if there
is non-aqueous phase liquid (free product) in the well or if non-aqueous
phase liquid is suspected to be in the well.
2. Sampling: Bailers must be used with caution.
3. Construction and Type: Bailers must be constructed of materials
compatible with the analytes of interest. Stainless steel, Teflon, rigid
medical grade PVC, polyethylene and PP bailers may be used to sample
all analytes. Use disposable bailers when sampling grossly contaminated
sample sources. NCDENR recommends using dual check valve bailers
when collecting samples. Use bailers with a controlled flow bottom to
collect volatile organic samples.
Rev 4-08 16
4. Contamination Prevention: Keep the bailer wrapped (foil, butcher paper,
etc.) until just before use. Use protective gloves to handle the bailer once
it is removed from its wrapping. Handle the bailer by the lanyard to
minimize contact with the bailer surface.
c.) Lanyards
1. Lanyards must be made of non-reactive, non-leachable material. They
may be cotton twine, nylon, stainless steel, or may be coated with Teflon,
polyethylene or PP.
2. Discard cotton twine, nylon, and non-stainless steel braided lanyards after
sampling each monitoring well.
3. Decontaminate stainless steel, coated Teflon, polyethylene and PP
lanyards between monitoring wells. They do not need to be
decontaminated between purging and sampling operations.

Water Level and Purge Volume Determination
The amount of water that must be purged from a well is determined by the volume of water
and/or field parameter stabilization.

a.) General Equipment Considerations - Selection of appropriate purging equipment
depends on the analytes of interest, the well diameter, transmissivity of the aquifer,
the depth to groundwater, and other site conditions.
1. Use of a pump to purge the well is recommended unless no other
equipment can be used or there is non-aqueous phase liquid in the well, or
non-aqueous phase liquid is suspected to be in the well.
2. Bailers must be used with caution because improper bailing:
• Introduces atmospheric oxygen, which may precipitate metals
(i.e., iron) or cause other changes in the chemistry of the water
in the sample (i.e., pH).
• Agitates groundwater, which may bias volatile and semi-
volatile organic analyses due to volatilization.
• Agitates the water in the aquifer and resuspends fine particulate
matter.
• Surges the well, loosening particulate matter in the annular
space around the well screen.
• May introduce dirt into the water column if the sides of the
casing wall are scraped.
NOTE: It is critical for bailers to be slowly and gently immersed into the top of the water
column, particularly during the final stages of purging. This minimizes turbidity and
disturbance of volatile organic constituents.
b.) Initial Inspection
1. Remove the well cover and remove all standing water around the top of
the well casing (manhole) before opening the well.
2. Inspect the exterior protective casing of the monitoring well for damage.
Document the results of the inspection if there is a problem.
3. It is recommended that you place a protective covering around the well
head. Replace the covering if it becomes soiled or ripped.
Rev 4-08 17
4. Inspect the well lock and determine whether the cap fits tightly. Replace
the cap if necessary.
c.) Water Level Measurements - Use an electronic probe or chalked tape to determine the
water level. Decontaminate all equipment before use. Measure the depth to
groundwater from the top of the well casing to the nearest 0.01 foot. Always measure
from the same reference point or survey mark on the well casing. Record the
measurement.
1. Electronic Probe: Decontaminate all equipment before use. Follow the
manufacturer’s instructions for use. Record the measurement.
2. Chalked Line Method: Decontaminate all equipment before use. Lower
chalked tape into the well until the lower end is in the water. This is
usually determined by the sound of the weight hitting the water. Record
the length of the tape relative to the reference point. Remove the tape and
note the length of the wetted portion. Record the length. Determine the
depth to water by subtracting the length of the wetted portion from the
total length. Record the result.
d.) Water Column Determination - To determine the length of the water column, subtract
the depth to the top of the water column from the total well depth (or gauged well
depth if silting has occurred). The total well depth depends on the well construction.
If gauged well depth is used due to silting, report total well depth also. Some wells
may be drilled in areas of sinkhole, karst formations or rock leaving an open
borehole. Attempt to find the total borehole depth in cases where there is an open
borehole below the cased portion.
e.) Well Water Volume - Calculate the total volume of water, in gallons, in the well
using the following equation:
V = (0.041)d x d x h
Where:
V = volume in gallons
d = well diameter in inches
h = height of the water column in feet
The total volume of water in the well may also be determined with the following
equation by using a casing volume per foot factor (Gallons per Foot of Water) for the
appropriate diameter well:
V = [Gallons per Foot of Water] x h
Where:
V = volume in gallons
h = height of the water column in feet
Record all measurements and calculations in the field records.
f.) Purging Equipment Volume - Calculate the total volume of the pump, associated
tubing and flow cell (if used), using the following equation:
V = p + ((0.041)d x d x l) + fc
Where:
V = volume in gallons
p = volume of pump in gallons
d = tubing diameter in inches
l = length of tubing in feet
Rev 4-08 18
fc = volume of flow cell in gallons
g.) If the groundwater elevation data are to be used to construct groundwater elevation
contour maps, all water level measurements must be taken within the same 24 hour
time interval when collecting samples from multiple wells on a site, unless a shorter
time period is required. If the site is tidally influenced, complete the water level
measurements within the time frame of an incoming or outgoing tide.

Well Purging Techniques
The selection of the purging technique and equipment is dependent on the hydrogeologic
properties of the aquifer, especially depth to groundwater and hydraulic conductivity.

a.) Measuring the Purge Volume - The volume of water that is removed during purging
must be recorded. Therefore, you must measure the volume during the purging
operation.
1. Collect the water in a graduated container and multiply the number of
times the container was emptied by the volume of the container, OR
2. Estimate the volume based on pumping rate. This technique may be used
only if the pumping rate is constant. Determine the pumping rate by
measuring the amount of water that is pumped for a fixed period of time,
or use a flow meter.
• Calculate the amount of water that is discharged per
minute: D = Measured Amount/Total Time In Minutes
• Calculate the time needed to purge one (1) well volume or
one (1) purging equipment volume: Time = V/D
Where: V = well volume or purging equipment volume
D = discharge rate
• Make new measurements each time the pumping rate is
changed.
3. Use a totalizing flow meter.
• Record the reading on the totalizer prior to purging.
• Record the reading on the totalizer at the end of purging.
• To obtain the volume purged, subtract the reading on the
totalizer prior to purging from the reading on the totalizer at
the end of purging.
• Record the times that purging begins and ends in the field
records.
b.) Purging Measurement Frequency - When purging a well that has the well screen fully
submerged and the pump or intake tubing is placed within the well casing above the
well screen or open hole, purge a minimum of one (1) well volume prior to collecting
measurements of the field parameters. Allow at least one quarter (1/4) well volume
to purge between subsequent measurements. When purging a well that has the pump
or intake tubing placed within a fully submerged well screen or open hole, purge until
the water level has stabilized (well recovery rate equals the purge rate), then purge a
minimum of one (1) volume of the pump, associated tubing and flow cell (if used)
prior to collecting measurements of the field parameters. Take measurements of the
field parameters no sooner than two (2) to three (3) minutes apart. Purge at least
Rev 4-08 19
three (3) volumes of the pump, associated tubing and flow cell, if used, prior to
collecting a sample. When purging a well that has a partially submerged well screen,
purge a minimum of one (1) well volume prior to collecting measurements of the
field parameters. Take measurements of the field parameters no sooner than two (2)
to three (3) minutes apart.
c.) Purging Completion - Wells must be adequately purged prior to sample collection to
ensure representation of the aquifer formation water, rather than stagnant well water.
This may be achieved by purging three volumes from the well or by satisfying any
one of the following three purge completion criteria:
1.) Three (3) consecutive measurements in which the three (3) parameters listed
below are within the stated limits, dissolved oxygen is no greater than 20
percent of saturation at the field measured temperature, and turbidity is no
greater than 20 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTUs).
• Temperature: + 0.2° C
• pH: + 0.2 Standard Units
• Specific Conductance: + 5.0% of reading
Document and report the following, as applicable. The last four items only
need to be submitted once:
• Purging rate.
• Drawdown in the well, if any.
• A description of the process and the data used to design the
well.
• The equipment and procedure used to install the well.
• The well development procedure.
• Pertinent lithologic or hydrogeologic information.
2.) If it is impossible to get dissolved oxygen at or below 20 percent of saturation
at the field measured temperature or turbidity at or below 20 NTUs, then three
(3) consecutive measurements of temperature, pH, specific conductance and
the parameter(s) dissolved oxygen and/or turbidity that do not meet the
requirements above must be within the limits below. The measurements are:
• Temperature: + 0.2° C
• pH: + 0.2 Standard Units
• Specific Conductance: + 5.0% of reading
• Dissolved Oxygen: + 0.2 mg/L or 10%, whichever is
greater
• Turbidity: + 5 NTUs or 10%, whichever is greater
Additionally, document and report the following, as applicable, except that
the last four(4) items only need to be submitted once:
• Purging rate.
• Drawdown in the well, if any.
• A description of conditions at the site that may cause the
dissolved oxygen to be high and/or dissolved oxygen
measurements made within the screened or open hole
portion of the well with a downhole dissolved oxygen
probe.
Rev 4-08 20
• A description of conditions at the site that may cause the
turbidity to be high and any procedures that will be used to
minimize turbidity in the future.
• A description of the process and the data used to design the
well.
• The equipment and procedure used to install the well.
• The well development procedure.
• Pertinent lithologic or hydrogeologic information.
3.) If after five (5) well volumes, three (3) consecutive measurements of the field
parameters temperature, pH, specific conductance, dissolved oxygen, and
turbidity are not within the limits stated above, check the instrument condition
and calibration, purging flow rate and all tubing connections to determine if
they might be affecting the ability to achieve stable measurements. It is at the
discretion of the consultant/contractor whether or not to collect a sample or to
continue purging. Further, the report in which the data are submitted must
include the following, as applicable. The last four (4) items only need to be
submitted once.
• Purging rate.
• Drawdown in the well, if any.
• A description of conditions at the site that may cause the
Dissolved Oxygen to be high and/or Dissolved Oxygen
measurements made within the screened or open hole
portion of the well with a downhole dissolved oxygen
probe.
• A description of conditions at the site that may cause the
turbidity to be high and any procedures that will be used to
minimize turbidity in the future.
• A description of the process and the data used to design the
well.
• The equipment and procedure used to install the well.
• The well development procedure.
• Pertinent lithologic or hydrogeologic information.
If wells have previously and consistently purged dry, and the current depth to
groundwater indicates that the well will purge dry during the current sampling
event, minimize the amount of water removed from the well by using the same
pump to purge and collect the sample:
• Place the pump or tubing intake within the well screened
interval.
• Use very small diameter Teflon, polyethylene or PP tubing
and the smallest possible pump chamber volume. This will
minimize the total volume of water pumped from the well
and reduce drawdown.
• Select tubing that is thick enough to minimize oxygen
transfer through the tubing walls while pumping.
Rev 4-08 21
• Pump at the lowest possible rate (100 mL/minute or less) to
reduce drawdown to a minimum.
• Purge at least two (2) volumes of the pumping system
(pump, tubing and flow cell, if used).
• Measure pH, specific conductance, temperature, dissolved
oxygen and turbidity, then begin to collect the samples.
Collect samples immediately after purging is complete. The time period between
completing the purge and sampling cannot exceed six hours. If sample collection
does not occur within one hour of purging completion, re-measure the five field
parameters: temperature, pH, specific conductance, dissolved oxygen and turbidity,
just prior to collecting the sample. If the measured values are not within 10 percent
of the previous measurements, re-purge the well. The exception is “dry” wells.
d.) Lanyards
1. Securely fasten lanyards, if used, to any downhole equipment (bailers,
pumps, etc.).
2. Use bailer lanyards in such a way that they do not touch the ground
surface.

Wells Without Plumbing
a.) Tubing/Pump Placement
1. If attempting to minimize the volume of purge water, position the intake
hose or pump at the midpoint of the screened or open hole interval.
2. If monitoring well conditions do not allow minimizing of the purge water
volume, position the pump or intake hose near the top of the water
column. This will ensure that all stagnant water in the casing is removed.
3. If the well screen or borehole is partially submerged, and the pump will be
used for both purging and sampling, position the pump midway between
the measured water level and the bottom of the screen. Otherwise,
position the pump or intake hose near the top of the water column.
b.) Non-dedicated (portable) pumps
1. Variable Speed Peristaltic Pump
• Wear sampling gloves to position the decontaminated
pump and tubing.
• Attach a short section of tubing to the discharge side of the
pump and into a graduated container.
• Attach one end of a length of new or precleaned tubing to
the pump head flexible hose.
• Place the tubing as described in one of the options listed
above.
• Change gloves before beginning to purge.
• Measure the depth to groundwater at frequent intervals.
• Record these measurements.
• Adjust the purging rate so that it is equivalent to the well
recovery rate to minimize drawdown.
Rev 4-08 22
• If the purging rate exceeds the well recovery rate, reduce
the pumping rate to balance the withdrawal rate with the
recharge rate.
• If the water table continues to drop during pumping, lower
the tubing at the approximate rate of drawdown so that
water is removed from the top of the water column.
• Record the purging rate each time the rate changes.
• Measure the purge volume.
• Record this measurement.
• Decontaminate the pump and tubing between wells (see
Appendix C) or if precleaned tubing is used for each well,
only the pump.
2. Variable Speed Centrifugal Pump
• Position fuel powered equipment downwind and at least 10
feet from the well head. Make sure that the exhaust faces
downwind.
• Wear sampling gloves to position the decontaminated
pump and tubing.
• Place the decontaminated suction hose so that water is
always pumped from the top of the water column.
• Change gloves before beginning to purge.
• Equip the suction hose with a foot valve to prevent purge
water from re-entering the well.
• Measure the depth to groundwater at frequent intervals.
• Record these measurements.
• To minimize drawdown, adjust the purging rate so that it is
equivalent to the well recovery rate.
• If the purging rate exceeds the well recovery rate, reduce
the pumping rate to balance the withdrawal rate with the
recharge rate.
• If the water table continues to drop during pumping, lower
the tubing at the approximate rate of drawdown so that the
water is removed from the top of the water column.
• Record the purging rate each time the rate changes.
• Measure the purge volume.
• Record this measurement.
• Decontaminate the pump and tubing between wells or if
precleaned tubing is used for each well, only the pump.
3. Variable Speed Electric Submersible Pump
• Position fuel powered equipment downwind and at least 10
feet from the well head. Make sure that the exhaust faces
downwind.
• Wear sampling gloves to position the decontaminated
pump and tubing.
• Carefully position the decontaminated pump.
Rev 4-08 23
• Change gloves before beginning to purge.
• Measure the depth to groundwater at frequent intervals.
• Record these measurements.
• To minimize drawdown, adjust the purging rate so that it is
equivalent to the well recovery rate.
• If the purging rate exceeds the well recovery rate, reduce
the pumping rate to balance the withdrawal rate with the
recharge rate.
• If the water table continues to drop during pumping, lower
the tubing or pump at the approximate rate of drawdown so
that water is removed from the top of the water column.
• Record the purging rate each time the rate changes.
• Measure the purge volume.
• Record this measurement.
• Decontaminate the pump and tubing between wells or only
the pump if precleaned tubing is used for each well.
4. Variable Speed Bladder Pump
• Position fuel powered equipment downwind and at least 10
feet from the well head. Make sure that the exhaust faces
downwind.
• Wear sampling gloves to position the decontaminated
pump and tubing.
• Attach the tubing and carefully position the pump.
• Change gloves before beginning purging.
• Measure the depth to groundwater at frequent intervals.
• Record these measurements.
• To minimize drawdown, adjust the purging rate so that it is
equivalent to the well recovery rate.
• If the purging rate exceeds the well recovery rate, reduce
the pumping rate to balance the withdrawal rate with the
recharge rate.
• If the water table continues to drop during pumping, lower
the tubing or pump at the approximate rate of drawdown so
that water is removed from the top of the water column.
• Record the purging rate each time the rate changes.
• Measure the purge volume.
• Record this measurement.
• Decontaminate the pump and tubing between wells or if
precleaned tubing is used for each well, only the pump.
c.) Dedicated Portable Pumps
1. Variable Speed Electric Submersible Pump
• Position fuel powered equipment downwind and at least 10
feet from the well head. Make sure that the exhaust faces
downwind.
• Wear sampling gloves.
Rev 4-08 24
• Measure the depth to groundwater at frequent intervals.
• Record these measurements.
• Adjust the purging rate so that it is equivalent to the well
recovery rate to minimize drawdown.
• If the purging rate exceeds the well recovery rate, reduce
the pumping rate to balance the withdraw with the recharge
rate.
• Record the purging rate each time the rate changes.
• Measure the purge volume.
• Record this measurement.
2. Variable Speed Bladder Pump
• Position fuel powered equipment downwind and at least 10
feet from the well head. Make sure that the exhaust faces
downwind.
• Wear sampling gloves.
• Measure the depth to groundwater at frequent intervals.
• Record these measurements.
• Adjust the purging rate so that it is equivalent to the well
recovery rate to minimize drawdown.
• If the purging rate exceeds the well recovery rate, reduce
the pumping rate to balance the withdraw with the recharge
rate.
• Record the purging rate each time the rate changes.
• Measure the purge volume.
• Record this measurement.
3. Bailers - Using bailers for purging is not recommended unless care is
taken to use proper bailing technique, or if free product is present in the
well or suspected to be in the well.
• Minimize handling the bailer as much as possible.
• Wear sampling gloves.
• Remove the bailer from its protective wrapping just before
use.
• Attach a lanyard of appropriate material.
• Use the lanyard to move and position the bailer.
• Lower and retrieve the bailer slowly and smoothly.
• Lower the bailer carefully into the well to a depth
approximately a foot above the water column.
• When the bailer is in position, lower the bailer into the
water column at a rate of 2 cm/sec until the desired depth is
reached.
• Do not lower the top of the bailer more than one (1) foot
below the top of the water table so that water is removed
from the top of the water column.
• Allow time for the bailer to fill with aquifer water as it
descends into the water column.
Rev 4-08 25
• Carefully raise the bailer. Retrieve the bailer at the same
rate of 2 cm/sec until the bottom of the bailer has cleared to
top of the water column.
• Measure the purge volume.
• Record the volume of the bailer.
• Continue to carefully lower and retrieve the bailer as
described above until the purging is considered complete,
based on either the removal of 3 well volumes.
• Remove at least one (1) well volume before collecting
measurements of the field parameters. Take each
subsequent set of measurements after removing at least one
quarter (1/4) well volume between measurements.

Groundwater Sampling Techniques
a.) Purge wells.
b.) Replace protective covering around the well if it is soiled or torn after completing
purging operations.
c.) Equipment Considerations
1. The following pumps are approved to collect volatile organic samples:
• Stainless steel and Teflon variable speed submersible
pumps
• Stainless steel and Teflon or polyethylene variable speed
bladder pumps
• Permanently installed PVC bodied pumps (As long as the
pump remains in contact with the water in the well at all
times)
2. Collect sample from the sampling device and store in sample container.
Do not use intermediate containers.
3. To avoid contamination or loss of analytes from the sample, handle
sampling equipment as little as possible and minimize equipment exposure
to the sample.
4. To reduce chances of cross-contamination, use dedicated equipment
whenever possible. “Dedicated” is defined as equipment that is to be used
solely for one location for the life of that equipment (e.g., permanently
mounted pump). Purchase dedicated equipment with the most sensitive
analyte of interest in mind.
• Clean or make sure dedicated pumps are clean before
installation. They do not need to be cleaned prior to each
use, but must be cleaned if they are withdrawn for repair or
servicing.
• Clean or make sure any permanently mounted tubing is
clean before installation.
• Change or clean tubing when the pump is withdrawn for
servicing.
• Clean any replaceable or temporary parts.
Rev 4-08 26
• Collect equipment blanks on dedicated pumping systems
when the tubing is cleaned or replaced.
• Clean or make sure dedicated bailers are clean before
placing them into the well.
• Collect an equipment blank on dedicated bailers before
introducing them into the water column.
• Suspend dedicated bailers above the water column if they
are stored in the well.

Sampling Wells Without Plumbing
a.) Sampling with Pumps – The following pumps may be used to sample for organics:
• Peristaltic pumps
• Stainless steel, Teflon or polyethylene bladder pumps
• Variable speed stainless steel and Teflon submersible
pumps
1. Peristaltic Pump
• Volatile Organics: One of three methods may be used.
ƒ Remove the drop tubing from the inlet side
of the pump; submerge the drop tubing into
the water column; prevent the water in the
tubing from flowing back into the well;
remove the drop tubing from the well;
carefully allow the groundwater to drain into
the sample vials; avoid turbulence; do not
aerate the sample; repeat steps until enough
vials are filled. OR
ƒ Use the pump to fill the drop tubing; quickly
remove the tubing from the pump; prevent
the water in the tubing from flowing back
into the well; remove the drop tubing from
the well; carefully allow the groundwater to
drain into the sample vials; avoid
turbulence; do not aerate the sample; repeat
steps until enough vials are filled. OR
ƒ Use the pump to fill the drop tubing;
withdraw the tubing from the well; reverse
the flow on the peristaltic pumps to deliver
the sample into the vials at a slow, steady
rate; repeat steps until enough vials are
filled.
• Extractable Organics: If delivery tubing is not
polyethylene or PP, or is not Teflon lined, use pump and
vacuum trap method. Connect the outflow tubing from the
container to the influent side of the peristaltic pump. Turn
pump on and reduce flow until smooth and even. Discard a
Rev 4-08 27
small portion of the sample to allow for air space. Preserve
(if required), label, and complete field notes.
• Inorganic samples: These samples may be collected from
the effluent tubing. If samples are collected from the
pump, decontaminate all tubing (including the tubing in the
head) or change it between wells. Preserve (if required),
label, and complete field notes.
2. Variable Speed Bladder Pump
• If sampling for organics, the pump body must be
constructed of stainless steel and the valves and bladder
must be Teflon. All tubing must be Teflon, polyethylene,
or PP and any cabling must be sealed in Teflon,
polyethylene or PP, or made of stainless steel.
• After purging to a smooth even flow, reduce the flow rate.
• When sampling for volatile organic compounds, reduce the
flow rate to 100-200mL/minute, if possible.
3. Variable Speed Submersible Pump
• The housing must be stainless steel.
• If sampling for organics, the internal impellers, seals and
gaskets must be constructed of stainless steel, Teflon,
polyethylene or PP. The delivery tubing must be Teflon,
polyethylene or PP; the electrical cord must be sealed in
Teflon; any cabling must be sealed in Teflon or constructed
of stainless steel.
• After purging to a smooth even flow, reduce the flow rate.
• When sampling for volatile organic compounds, reduce the
flow rate to 100-200mL/minute, if possible.
b.) Sampling with Bailers - A high degree of skill and coordination are necessary to
collect representative samples with a bailer.
1. General Considerations
• Minimize handling of bailer as much as possible.
• Wear sampling gloves.
• Remove bailer from protective wrapping just before use.
• Attach a lanyard of appropriate material.
• Use the lanyard to move and position the bailers.
• Do not allow bailer or lanyard to touch the ground.
• If bailer is certified precleaned, no rinsing is necessary.
• If both a pump and a bailer are to be used to collect
samples, rinse the exterior and interior of the bailer with
sample water from the pump before removing the pump.
• If the purge pump is not appropriate for collecting samples
(e.g., non-inert components), rinse the bailer by collecting a
single bailer of the groundwater to be sampled.
• Discard the water appropriately.
Rev 4-08 28
• Do not rinse the bailer if Oil and Grease samples are to be
collected.
2. Bailing Technique
• Collect all samples that are required to be collected with a
pump before collecting samples with the bailer.
• Raise and lower the bailer gently to minimize stirring up
particulate matter in the well and the water column, which
can increase sample turbidity.
• Lower the bailer carefully into the well to a depth
approximately a foot above the water column. When the
bailer is in position, lower the bailer into the water column
at a rate of 2 cm/sec until the desired depth is reached.
• Do not lower the top of the bailer more than one foot below
the top of the water table, so that water is removed from the
top of the water column.
• Allow time for the bailer to fill with aquifer water as it
descends into the water column.
• Do not allow the bailer to touch the bottom of the well or
particulate matter will be incorporated into the sample.
Carefully raise the bailer. Retrieve the bailer at the
same rate of 2 cm/sec until the bottom of the bailer has
cleared to top of the water column.
• Lower the bailer to approximately the same depth each
time.
• Collect the sample. Install a device to control the flow
from the bottom of the bailer and discard the first few
inches of water. Fill the appropriate sample containers by
allowing the sample to slowly flow down the side of the
container. Discard the last few inches of water in the
bailer.
• Repeat steps for additional samples.
• As a final step measure the DO, pH, temperature, turbidity
and specific conductance after the final sample has been
collected. Record all measurements and note the time
that sampling was completed.
c.) Sampling Low Permeability Aquifers or Wells that have Purged Dry
1. Collect the sample(s) after the well has been purged. Minimize the amount
of water removed from the well by using the same pump to purge and
collect the sample. If the well has purged dry, collect samples as soon as
sufficient sample water is available.
2. Measure the five field parameters temperature, pH, specific conductance,
dissolved oxygen and turbidity at the time of sample collection.
3. Advise the analytical laboratory and the client that the usual amount of
sample for analysis may not be available.

Rev 4-08 29
Appendix D - Collecting Samples from Wells with
Plumbing in Place
In-place plumbing is generally considered permanent equipment routinely used for purposes
other than purging and sampling, such as for water supply.

a.) Air Strippers or Remedial Systems - These types of systems are installed as
remediation devices. Collect influent and effluent samples from air stripping units as
described below.
1. Remove any tubing from the sampling port and flush for one to two
minutes.
2. Remove all hoses, aerators and filters (if possible).
3. Open the spigot and purge sufficient volume to flush the spigot and lines
and until the purging completion criteria have been met.
4. Reduce the flow rate to approximately 500 mL/minute (a 1/8” stream) or
approximately 0.1 gal/minute before collecting samples.
5. Follow procedures for collecting samples from water supply wells as
outlined below.
b.) Water Supply Wells – Water supply wells with in-place plumbing do not require
equipment to be brought to the well to purge and sample. Water supply wells at UST
facilities must be sampled for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semivolatile
compounds (SVOCs).
1. Procedures for Sampling Water Supply Wells
• Label sample containers prior to sample collection.
• Prepare the storage and transport containers (ice chest, etc.)
before taking any samples so each collected sample can be
placed in a chilled environment immediately after
collection.
• You must choose the tap closest to the well, preferably at
the wellhead. The tap must be before any holding or
pressurization tank, water softener, ion exchange,
disinfection process or before the water line enters the
residence, office or building. If no tap fits the above
conditions, a new tap that does must be installed.
• The well pump must not be lubricated with oil, as that may
contaminate the samples.
• The sampling tap must be protected from exterior
contamination associated with being too close to a sink
bottom or to the ground. If the tap is too close to the
ground for direct collection into the appropriate container,
it is acceptable to use a smaller (clean) container to transfer
the sample to a larger container.
• Leaking taps that allow water to discharge from around the
valve stem handle and down the outside of the faucet, or
taps in which water tends to run up on the outside of the lip,
are to be avoided as sampling locations.
Rev 4-08 30
• Disconnect any hoses, filters, or aerators attached to the tap
before sampling.
• Do not sample from a tap close to a gas pump. The gas
fumes could contaminate the sample.
2. Collecting Volatile Organic Samples
• Equipment Needed: VOC sample vials [40 milliliters,
glass, may contain 3 to 4 drops of hydrochloric acid (HCl)
as preservative]; Disposable gloves and protective goggles;
Ice chest/cooler; Ice; Packing materials (sealable plastic
bags, bubble wrap, etc.); and Lab forms.
• Sampling Procedure: Run water from the well for at least
15 minutes. If the well is deep, run water longer (purging
three well volumes is best). If tap or spigot is located
directly before a holding tank, open a tap after the holding
tank to prevent any backflow into the tap where you will
take your sample. This will ensure that the water you
collect is “fresh” from the well and not from the holding
tank. After running the water for at least 15 minutes,
reduce the flow of water. The flow should be reduced to a
trickle but not so slow that it begins to drip. A smooth flow
of water will make collection easier and more accurate.
Remove the cap of a VOC vial and hold the vial under the
stream of water to fill it. Be careful not to spill any acid
that is in the vial. For best results use a low flow of water
and angle the vial slightly so that the water runs down the
inside of the vial. This will help keep the sample from
being agitated, aerated or splashed out of the vial. It will
also increase the accuracy of the sample. As the vial fills
and is almost full, turn the vial until it is straight up and
down so the water won’t spill out. Fill the vial until the
water is just about to spill over the lip of the vial. The
surface of the water sample should become mounded. It is
a good idea not to overfill the vial, especially if an acid
preservative is present in the vial. Carefully replace and
screw the cap onto the vial. Some water may overflow as
the cap is put on. After the cap is secure, turn the vial
upside down and gently tap the vial to see if any bubbles
are present. If bubbles are present in the vial, remove the
cap, add more water and check again to see if bubbles are
present. Repeat as necessary. After two samples without
bubbles have been collected, the samples should be labeled
and prepared for shipment. Store samples at 4° C.

Rev 4-08 31
3. Collecting Extractable Organic and/or Metals Samples
• Equipment Needed: SVOC sample bottle [1 liter, amber
glass] and/or Metals sample bottle [0.5 liter, polyethylene
or glass, 5 milliliters of nitric acid (HNO3) preservative];
Disposable gloves and protective goggles; Ice
Chest/Cooler; Ice; Packing materials (sealable plastic bags,
bubble wrap, etc.); and Lab forms.
• Sampling Procedure: Run water from the well for at least
15 minutes. If the well is deep, run the water longer
(purging three well volumes is best). If tap or spigot is
located directly before a holding tank, open a tap after the
holding tank to prevent any backflow into the tap where
you will take your sample. This will ensure that the water
you collect is “fresh” from the well and not from the
holding tank. After running the water for at least 15
minutes, reduce the flow. Low water flow makes
collection easier and more accurate. Remove the cap of a
SVOC or metals bottle and hold it under the stream of
water to fill it. The bottle does not have to be completely
filled (i.e., you can leave an inch or so of headspace in the
bottle). After filling, screw on the cap, label the bottle and
prepare for shipment. Store samples at 4° C.

Rev 4-08 32
Appendix E - Collecting Surface Water Samples
The following topics include 1.) acceptable equipment selection and equipment construction
materials and 2.) standard grab, depth-specific and depth-composited surface water sampling
techniques.

Facilities which contain or border small rivers, streams or branches should include surface water
sampling as part of the monitoring program for each sampling event. A simple procedure for
selecting surface water monitoring sites is to locate a point on a stream where drainage leaves the
site. This provides detection of contamination through, and possibly downstream of, site via
discharge of surface waters. The sampling points selected should be downstream from any waste
areas. An upstream sample should be obtained in order to determine water quality upstream of
the influence of the site.

a.) General Cautions
1. When using watercraft take samples near the bow away and upwind from
any gasoline outboard engine. Orient watercraft so that bow is positioned
in the upstream direction.
2. When wading, collect samples upstream from the body. Avoid disturbing
sediments in the immediate area of sample collection.
3. Collect water samples prior to taking sediment samples when obtaining
both from the same area (site).
4. Unless dictated by permit, program or order, sampling at or near man-
made structures (e.g., dams, weirs or bridges) may not provide
representative data because of unnatural flow patterns.
5. Collect surface water samples from downstream towards upstream.
b.) Equipment and Supplies - Select equipment based on the analytes of interest, specific
use, and availability.
c.) Surface Water Sampling Techniques - Adhere to all general protocols applicable to
aqueous sampling when following the surface water sampling procedures addressed
below.
1. Manual Sampling: Use manual sampling for collecting grab samples for
immediate in-situ field analyses. Use manual sampling in lieu of
automatic equipment over extended periods of time for composite
sampling, especially when it is necessary to observe and/or note unusual
conditions.
• Surface Grab Samples - Do not use sample containers containing
premeasured amounts of preservatives to collect grab samples. If
the sample matrix is homogeneous, then the grab method is a
simple and effective technique for collection purposes. If
homogeneity is not apparent, based on flow or vertical variations
(and should never be assumed), then use other collection protocols.
Where practical, use the actual sample container submitted to the
laboratory for collecting samples to be analyzed for oil and grease,
volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and microbiological samples.
This procedure eliminates the possibility of contaminating the
sample with an intermediate collection container. The use of
Rev 4-08 33
unpreserved sample containers as direct grab samplers is
encouraged since the same container can be submitted for
laboratory analysis after appropriate preservation. This procedure
reduces sample handling and eliminates potential contamination
from other sources (e.g., additional sampling equipment,
environment, etc.).
1. Grab directly into sample container.
2. Slowly submerge the container, opening neck first, into the
water.
3. Invert the bottle so the neck is upright and pointing towards
the direction of water flow (if applicable). Allow water to
run slowly into the container until filled.
4. Return the filled container quickly to the surface.
5. Pour out a few mL of sample away from and downstream
of the sampling location. This procedure allows for the
addition of preservatives and sample expansion. Do not
use this step for volatile organics or other analytes where
headspace is not allowed in the sample container.
6. Add preservatives, securely cap container, label, and
complete field notes. If sample containers are attached to a
pole via a clamp, submerge the container and follow steps 3
– 5 but omit steps 1 and 2.
• Sampling with an Intermediate Vessel or Container: If the sample
cannot be collected directly into the sample container to be
submitted to the laboratory, or if the laboratory provides
prepreserved sample containers, use an unpreserved sample
container or an intermediate vessel (e.g., beakers, buckets or
dippers) to obtain the sample. These vessels must be constructed
appropriately, including any poles or extension arms used to access
the sample location.
1. Rinse the intermediate vessel with ample amounts of site
water prior to collecting the first sample.
2. Collect the sample as outlined above using the intermediate
vessel.
3. Use pole mounted containers of appropriate construction to
sample at distances away from shore, boat, etc. Follow the
protocols above to collect samples.
• Peristaltic Pump and Tubing: The most portable pump for this
technique is a 12 volt peristaltic pump. Use appropriately
precleaned, silastic tubing in the pump head and attach
polyethylene, Tygon, etc. tubing to the pump. This technique is
not acceptable for Oil and Grease, EPH, VPH or VOCs.
Extractable organics can be collected through the pump if flexible
interior-wall Teflon, polyethylene or PP tubing is used in the pump
head or if used with the organic trap setup.
Rev 4-08 34
1. Lower appropriately precleaned tubing to a depth of 6 – 12
inches below water surface, where possible.
2. Pump 3 – 5 tube volumes through the system to acclimate
the tubing before collecting the first sample.
3. Fill individual sample bottles via the discharge tubing. Be
careful not to remove the inlet tubing from the water.
4. Add preservatives, securely cap container, label, and
complete field notes.
• Mid-Depth Grab Samples: Mid-depth samples or samples taken at
a specific depth can approximate the conditions throughout the
entire water column. The equipment that may be used for this type
of sampling consists of the following depth-specific sampling
devices: Kemmerer, Niskin, Van Dorn type, etc. You may also
use pumps with tubing or double check-valve bailers. Certain
construction material details may preclude its use for certain
analytes. Many Kemmerer samplers are constructed of plastic and
rubber that preclude their use for all volatile and extractable
organic sampling. Some newer devices are constructed of stainless
steel or are all Teflon or Teflon-coated. These are acceptable for
all analyte groups without restriction.
1. Measure the water column to determine maximum depth
and sampling depth prior to lowering the sampling device.
2. Mark the line attached to the sampler with depth
increments so that the sampling depth can be accurately
recorded.
3. Lower the sampler slowly to the appropriate sampling
depth, taking care not to disturb the sediments.
4. At the desired depth, send the messenger weight down to
trip the closure mechanism.
5. Retrieve the sampler slowly.
6. Rinse the sampling device with ample amounts of site
water prior to collecting the first sample. Discard rinsate
away from and downstream of the sampling location.
7. Fill the individual sample bottles via the discharge tube.
• Double Check-Valve Bailers: Collect samples using double check-
valve bailers if the data requirements do not necessitate a sample
from a strictly discrete interval of the water column. Bailers with
an upper and lower check-valve can be lowered through the water
column. Water will continually be displaced through the bailer
until the desired depth is reached, at which point the bailer is
retrieved. Sampling with this type of bailer must follow the same
protocols outlined above, except that a messenger weight is not
applicable. Although not designed specifically for this kind of
sampling, a bailer is acceptable when a mid-depth sample is
required
Rev 4-08 35
1. As the bailer is dropped through the water column, water is
displaced through the body of the bailer. The degree of
displacement depends upon the check-valve ball movement
to allow water to flow freely through the bailer body.
2. Slowly lower the bailer to the appropriate depth. Upon
retrieval, the two check valves seat, preventing water from
escaping or entering the bailer.
3. Rinse the sampling device with ample amounts of site
water prior to collecting the first sample.
4. Fill the individual sample bottles via the discharge tube.
Sample bottles must be handled as described above.
• Peristaltic Pump and Tubing: The most portable pump for this
technique is a 12 volt peristaltic pump. Use appropriately
precleaned, silastic tubing in the pump head and attach HDPE,
Tygon, etc. tubing to the pump. This technique is not acceptable
for Oil and Grease, EPH, VPH or VOCs. Extractable organics can
be collected through the pump if flexible interior-wall Teflon,
polyethylene or PP tubing is used in the pump head, or if used with
an organic trap setup.
1. Measure the water column to determine the maximum
depth and the sampling depth.
2. Tubing will need to be tied to a stiff pole or be weighted
down so the tubing placement will be secure. Do not use a
lead weight. Any dense, non-contaminating, non-
interfering material will work (brick, stainless steel weight,
etc.). Tie the weight with a lanyard (braided or
monofilament nylon, etc.) so that it is located below the
inlet of the tubing.
3. Turn the pump on and allow several tubing volumes of
water to be discharged before collecting the first sample.
4. Fill the individual sample bottles via the discharge tube.
Sample bottles must be handled as described above.

Rev 4-08 36
Appendix B
Gas Stripping Cell Instructions
(Intended to be most recent version)
www.microseeps.com
There is no known preservation technique to halt micro-
bial degradation of dissolved hydrogen in a water sam-
ple. Microseeps developed a bubble strip sampler to
overcome this problem and allow field personnel to
sample for hydrogen in as little as twenty minutes while
maintaining the integrity of the sample.

If the bubble stripping procedure is used for dissolved
hydrogen, both the permanent gas suite and the light
hydrocarbon suite partition into the bubble and may be
determined from the same sample from which the dis-
solved hydrogen is determined.

It is always desirable to minimize the number of sam-
ples from which individual analyses are made to reduce
the potential for sampling bias between samples.

Microseeps’ bubble strip sampler has been evaluated
by USEPA.
Taking samples of groundwater for dissolved gas analy-
sis requires special equipment and techniques which are
available from and have been developed by Microseeps.

Before any dissolved gas sample is taken, the well must
be micropurged. This procedure calls for the use of a
flow thru cell equipped with four probes which measure
DO, temperature, conductivity and ORP. When these
parameters have stabilized (+/- 10%) for a period of 10
minutes, the well is ready for sampling.

Water samples may then be collected directly into sup-
plied 40 ml VOA’s or bubble strip sampling may be used
to collect samples for dissolved hydrogen. If the bubble
strip procedure is used, both permanent gases and light
hydrocarbons may be determined from the same sam-
ple that is used for dissolved hydrogen.

If the sample is taken for the purpose of dissolved hydro-
gen analysis, the well should have been in place for at
[phone] 220 William Pitt Way Pittsburgh, PA 15238
least 90 days and should not have a
black iron screen. PVC screens are
preferable. Stainless steel screens,
particularly those that have been in
place for long periods of time, are usually acceptable.

The analysis of the light hydrocarbon suite and the per-
manent gas suite may also be made from a water sam-
ple collected in a 40 ml VOA vial. These light gases,
however, easily diffuse through the standard septa which
are used for VOA samples.

A particularly egregious example is the diffusion of oxy-
gen from the atmosphere into VOA vials equipped with
standard teflon lined silicone septa. Microseeps has
found that the rate of this diffusion is such that the sam-
pled groundwater in such a VOA increases approximately
1mg/l dissolved oxygen per day following sampling. This
means that a substantially anaerobic water sample be-
comes saturated with dissolved oxygen over the course
of the 14 day holding time normally associated with
analysis of these samples.

Microseeps septa are impermeable to the diffusion into
the sample of dissolved oxygen and the diffusion out of
the sample of the dissolved light hydrocarbons and car-
bon dioxide. Microseeps provides such septa with VOA
vials to prevent diffusion from affecting the data derived
from these samples.
Dissolved Gas Sampling
Technical Guidance from Microseeps
Microseeps “Bubble Strip” Sampler
From
Pump To
Waste
Microseeps
septa are
impermeable
to diffusion
www.microseeps.com
Installation and Operation

To place the gas stripping cell into service:

1. Remove one of the cell assemblies from the packing car-
ton. Refer to Figure 1 (following pages) to become famil-
iar with the parts of the cell.

2. Connect the inlet tube of the cell to the outlet of your
pump. The inlet tube is designed to connect to ¼ inch
O.D. hard tubing. Secure the connection (nylon wire ties
are recommended).

3. Insert the drain tube of the cell into a waste container,
keeping the end of the tube at the bottom of the con-
tainer. Any waste container of suitable size may be used.
A 2-liter soda pop bottle may be placed in the waste con-
tainer to determine pumping flow rate.

4. Secure the cell assembly so that the housing cover is
above the glass housing (i.e. upright). A ring stand and
clamp are recommended for this purpose.

5. Turn the pump on and check for leaks. If any leaks are
found seal them before proceeding. Measure, in ml per
minute, the flow rate of the pump. If a 2-liter soda pop
bottle was used, the flow rate can be determined by
measuring how many minutes it takes to fill the bottle,
then substituting the measured time into the following
equation.

Flow = 2000 ml/time to fill
in minutes

Consult table to determine
the equilibrium time
needed to gas strip at this
flow rate.

NOTE: Use a flow rate between 100 ml/min and 350 ml/
min. Do not turn off the pump.

[phone] 220 William Pitt Way Pittsburgh, PA 15238
6. Unclamp the cell assembly, invert it
and re-secure the assembly in the
inverted position. Make sure the
drain tube is still in the waste con-
tainer and the end of the drain tube
is near the bottom of the bottle.

7. Connect the (supplied) stopcock to the syringe and the
(supplied) needle to the stopcock. Place the stopcock in
the open position (i.e. so that the stopcock handle is in-
line with the syringe). Draw the plunger back on the sy-
ringe to the 20.0-mL mark. Keeping the cell in the in-
verted position, insert the needle into the needle guide.
Pierce the septum and inject the air into the cell. Then
remove the needle and syringe from the assembly and
carefully cover the needle. Do not discard the syringe ap-
paratus.

8. Start timing and let the ground water pump through the
cell for the time specified in Table 1 for your particular
pumping speed. Meanwhile, be sure that the sample vial
is properly labeled and that the flow rate and any other
relevant field data are recorded in the field log.

NOTE: Be sure to keep the end of the drain tube at the
bottom of the waste container. This will insure that out-
side air is not drawn into the cell. Failure to do this will
invalidate the sample.

9. When the equilibration time is up, turn off the pump,
unclamp the cell and re-clamp it in its upright position.
Verify that the plunger of the syringe is pushed all the way
in and that the stopcock is in the open position, then in-
sert the needle into the needle guide and pierce the sep-
tum. Withdraw 1-mL of gas by pulling back on the syringe
plunger while holding the syringe body in place, remove
the syringe from the cell and expel the sample. Immedi-
ately re-insert the needle into the needle guide and pierce
the septum. Withdraw a 15-mL sample of gas and, with
the needle still through the septum, close the stopcock.
Rapidly withdraw the needle from the septum and place
it through septum on the sample vial (see Figure 2, next
page). Open the stopcock and completely depress the
syringe barrel. With the syringe barrel completely de-
pressed, separate the sample vial and the syringe with a
quick pull. Discard the syringe apparatus according to
Local, State and Federal regulations.
Gas Stripping Cell Instructions
Technical Guidance from Microseeps Page 1 of 2
Flow rate
(ml/min)
Sampling time
(min)
100-120 30
130-150 25
160-200 20
210-300 15
>300 10
Sampling
Questions?

Call
800-659-2887
Mon. - Fri.
9 -5 EST
www.microseeps.com
Decontamination/Cleaning

Pump at least 1 liter of potable water through the cell.
The cell assembly is now ready for re-use.

The only expendable part of the cell is the sampling
septum (part 7). Normally, each septum may be used
for the collection of 5-10 samples. If bubbles are seen
rising up from the septum when the cell is inverted the
septum MUST be replaced.

Figure 1.
Cross section of Microseeps Gas Stripping Cell

1. Housing Cover
2. Jet Spray Nozzle
3. Nylon Tie
4. Inlet Tube
5. Needle Guide Port
6. Drain Tube
7. Replaceable Septum
8. Glass Housing

Figure 2.
Cross section of septum bottle

1. Septum
2. Metal Closure
3. Glass vial

[phone] 220 William Pitt Way Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Replacing the Sampling
Port Septum
All part numbers refer to Figure 1.

1. Remove the housing cover (part 1) from the glass
housing (part 8).

2. Use a handy, blunt tipped object to push the
replaceable septum (part 7) out of the housing
cover. The cover to a needle works well for this
purpose, but be sure that the needle is NOT in the
cover. Discard the old septum.

3. Take a new septum and wet both the new septum
and the housing cover with potable water.

4. Carefully using the same blunt instrument used in
step three above, slide the new septum into the hole
from which the old septum was removed. The
bottom of the new septum must be flush with the
narrow end of the housing cover.

5. If the housing cover is not still wet, wet it again with
potable water. Place the bottom end of the housing
cover into the glass housing and push it in until less
than 3/8” are above the rim of the glass housing.
This may require some force.

6. Follow the cleaning procedures described above to
prepare the cell for a return to service.
Gas Stripping Cell Instructions
Technical Guidance from Microseeps Page 2 of 2
Sampling
Questions?

Call
800-659-2887
Mon. - Fri.
9 -5 EST
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8