Day 1

Planning an Effective Soil Sampling Program – The Sampling & Analysis Plan

• Components of an Effective Sampling & Analysis Plan
• Common Objectives of Environmental Sampling Plans
• Selecting Appropriate Analytical Parameters and Methods
• Understanding PPM vs. PPB vs. PPT and How that Affects Sampling Practices
• Accuracy vs. Precision vs. Bias in Sampling
• Detailed Media-Specific Standard Operating Procedures

Strategies for Three-Dimensional Sampling of Environmental Media

• Conducting an Effective Site Reconnaissance Program
• Selecting Environmental Media to be Sampled
• Selecting Strategies for Sampling
• Determining Sample Type
   
  • Grab vs. Composite Samples

Strategies for Three-Dimensional Sampling of Environmental Media... continued

• Selecting Strategies for Sampling
• Determining Most Effective Sample Locations
  
  • Haphazard Sampling
  • Judgmental Sampling
  • Statistical Sampling
  • Aerial Search Sampling
  • Hybrid Sampling
  • Multi-Incremental Sampling

The Science Behind Soil Sampling

• Understanding the Complexities of a Soil Sample
• Typical Objectives of Soil Sampling Programs
• Special Planning Considerations for Soil Sampling Programs
• What is a "Representative" Soil Sample
• Soil Sampling as Part of Overall Site Characterization
• Conventional Soil Sampling Methods
• Improved Approaches to Site Characterization
  • Accelerated Site Characterization – The Process, Methods Used, Implementation

Day 2

Selection of Soil Sampling Devices

• Factors that Influence Selection of Sampling Equipment
• Selection and Operation of Available Sampling Devices
  • Hand-Operated Sampling Devices
  • Mechanically Assisted Hand-Operated Devices
  • Direct-Push Methods
  • Drilling-Rig Based Methods

Soil Sample Handling and Processing Using US EPA Method 5035B

• Objectives of Method 5035B
• Volumetric Sample Collection Methods – EnCore Samplers
  • Overview of Field Techniques and Equipment Requirements
  • Limitations of the Method
• Chemical Preservation/Extraction Methods
  • Overview of Field Techniques and Equipment Requirements
  • Limitations of the Method

Utilizing X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Technologies For Field-Based Soil Sample Analysis

• How XRF Instrumentation Works
• Types of Data Generated and Detection Limits
• How XRF Data Can Be Used to Effectively Design a Soil Sampling Program
• Field Factors to Consider Before Collecting Field Measurements
• Limitations of XRF Data

Field Session 1: Soil Sample Collection and Soil Sample Preparation and Analysis

• Station 1: Soil Sample Collection and Soil Sample Description
  • Working with Contractors Effectively
  • Discrete and Continuous Soil Sampling Methods
  • Direct-Push Soil Sampling -- Discrete and Continuous Sampling
  • Soil Sample Description
• Station 2: Field Sample Collection & Preparation Techniques for VOC Analysis
  • Preparation of Soil Samples for VOC Analysis Using Method 5035 Techniques
• Station 3: Using XRF Technologies for Analysis of Metals in Soil
  • Analysis of Soil Samples Using X-Ray Fluorescence Methods
  • Sample Preparation Techniques
  • XRD Methods for Identification of Compounds
    
    

Day 3

Discussion of Practical Problems from Day 2 Field Session

Field Sample Analysis Options for Soil Samples

• Factors to Consider when Designing a Field Sample Analysis Program for Soil Samples
• Direct Analysis vs. Indirect Analysis Methods for Soils
• Benefits and Limitations of Field Sample Analysis
• Field Analytical Methods Available for Volatile Constituents, Semi Volatile Constituents and Non-Volatile Constituents

Soil Sample Handling and Shipment

• Preparation of Samples for Shipment
• Special Considerations for Shelby Tube Samples
• How Sample Handling of Soils Differs from Water Samples
• Using Sample Tamper-Proofing Mechanisms
• Avoiding Common Errors Associated with Using Chain-of-Custody Forms
• Hand Delivery of Samples vs. Lab Couriers vs. Commercial Carriers for Getting Samples to the Lab for Analysis
• Ensuring Compliance with Applicable Shipping Regulations (DOT and IATA)
  • Determining What Hazard Characteristics Samples Have
  • How Hazard Characteristics Affect Sample Shipment Methods
  • What Can Happen If Samples Are Not Shipped in Compliance with Regulations

Sampling Event Documentation

• Written vs. Electronic vs. Audio-Visual Recording of Field Activities
• The Dangers of Using Forms for Field Note Taking
• Some Do's and Don'ts When Documenting Field Observations and Measurements
• How to Make Sure Your Field Records are Admissible in Court
• New Laws Affecting E-Documents You Need to Be Aware Of
• Digital vs. Traditional Cameras