Field Sampling Methods for Remedial Investigations

This book is a guide to the development of an effective field sampling program as well as to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and technical information for many of the most effective remedial investigation methods. The book focuses on intrusive investigation techniques, but non-intrusive techniques such as aerial photography, surface geophysics, and surface radiological surveying are also addressed. SOPs have been provided for those sampling techniques that do not require specialized academic training, such as soil, sediment, surface water, groundwater, and drum sampling. For more specialized investigative techniques, such as underground drainage surveying and some types of soil-gas surveying, information is provided to help you understand how the technique works and under what conditions it can be used most effectively. The book also addresses: equipment decontamination; sample preparation, documentation, and shipment; health and safety; and management of investigation-derived waste. Emphasis is placed on those methods and procedures that have both proved themselves to be effective and are acknowledged by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as reputable techniques.