NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.

Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information

Designation: D4844 − 16

Standard Guide for

Air Monitoring at Waste Management Facilities for Worker
Protection1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4844; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope D3249 Practice for General Ambient Air Analyzer Proce-

1.1 This guide is intended to provide a standardized ap- dures
proach for establishing and carrying out an air monitoring D3269 Test Methods for Analysis for Fluoride Content of
program to protect workers at waste management facilities. the Atmosphere and Plant Tissues (Manual Procedures)
This guide may apply to routine operations at an active (Withdrawn 2010)3
treatment, storage, or disposal site or the extraordinary condi- D3413 Test Method for Lead (Inorganic) in Workplace
tions that can be encountered in opening and cleaning up a Atmospheres by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (With-
remedial action site. drawn 1989)3
1.2 The user shall understand that it is impossible to predict D3449 Test Method for Sulfur Dioxide in Workplace Atmo-
all the issues that could arise at a waste management facility spheres (Barium Perchlorate Method) (Withdrawn 1989)3
due to hazardous airborne emissions. Although air contaminant D3476 Test Method for bis (Chloromethyl) Ether (bis CME)
measurements obtained in accordance with this guide may in Workplace Atmospheres (Gas Chromatography-Mass
indicate acceptable or tolerable levels of toxic agents are Spectrometry (Withdrawn 1989)3
present, care and judgment must still be exercised before D3614 Guide for Laboratories Engaged in Sampling and
concluding that all atmospheric contaminants at the site are Analysis of Atmospheres and Emissions
under control and that a reasonable safe work environment D3686 Practice for Sampling Atmospheres to Collect Or-
exists. ganic Compound Vapors (Activated Charcoal Tube Ad-
sorption Method)
2. Referenced Documents D3687 Practice for Analysis of Organic Compound Vapors
2.1 ASTM Standards:2 Collected by the Activated Charcoal Tube Adsorption
D1356 Terminology Relating to Sampling and Analysis of Method
Atmospheres D3824 Test Methods for Continuous Measurement of Ox-
D1605 Practices for Sampling Atmospheres for Analysis of ides of Nitrogen in the Ambient or Workplace Atmosphere
Gases and Vapors (Withdrawn 1992)3 by the Chemiluminescent Method
D2820 Test Method for C Through C Hydrocarbons in the D4185 Practice for Measurement of Metals in Workplace
Atmosphere by Gas Chromatography (Withdrawn 1993)3 Atmospheres by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectropho-
D2913 Test Method for Mercaptan Content of the Atmo- tometry
sphere D4240 Test Method for Airborne Asbestos Concentration in
D3162 Test Method for Carbon Monoxide in the Atmo- Workplace Atmosphere (Withdrawn 1995)3
sphere (Continuous Measurement by Nondispersive Infra-
D4323 Test Method for Hydrogen Sulfide in the Atmosphere
red Spectrometry)
by Rate of Change of Reflectance
D4490 Practice for Measuring the Concentration of Toxic
1
Gases or Vapors Using Detector Tubes
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D22 on Air Quality
and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D22.04 on Workplace Air Quality. D4532 Test Method for Respirable Dust in Workplace At-
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2016. Published February 2016. Originally mospheres Using Cyclone Samplers
approved in 1988. Last previous edition approved in 2009 as D4844 – 03(2009). D4599 Practice for Measuring the Concentration of Toxic
DOI: 10.1520/D4844-16.
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or Gases or Vapors Using Length-of-Stain Dosimeters
contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM D4600 Test Method for Determination of Benzene-Soluble
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Particulate Matter in Workplace Atmospheres
the ASTM website.
3
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on D4687 Guide for General Planning of Waste Sampling
www.astm.org. D5681 Terminology for Waste and Waste Management

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 D4844 − 16
D6561 Test Method for Determination of Aerosol Mono- 3.2.2 remedial action site—a remedial action site is a
meric and Oligomeric Hexamethylene Diisocyanate (HDl) location or facility that may pose a threat to human health and
in Air with (Methoxy-2–phenyl-1) Piperazine (MOPIP) in the environment.
the Workplace
D6562 Test Method for Determination of Gaseous Hexam- 4. Summary of Guide
ethylene Diisocyanate (HDI) in Air with 9-(N- 4.1 The procedures described in this guide address safety
methylaminomethyl) Anthracene Method (MAMA) in the considerations, acute health hazards, and chronic health haz-
Workplace ards due to airborne hazardous materials.
D6785 Test Method for Determination of Lead in Workplace
4.2 Monitoring concepts are described for cleanup opera-
Air Using Flame or Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption
tions at remedial action sites as well as routine activities at
Spectrometry
operational waste management sites.
D6832 Test Method for the Determination of Hexavalent
Chromium in Workplace Air by Ion Chromatography and 5. Significance and Use
Spectrophotometric Measurement Using 1,5-
diphenylcarbazide 5.1 The techniques of air monitoring are many and varied.
D7035 Test Method for Determination of Metals and Met- This guide is intended to describe standard approaches that are
alloids in Airborne Particulate Matter by Inductively used in designing an air monitoring program to protect waste
Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP- management site workers.
AES) 5.2 When entering a remedial action site to initiate an
D7036 Practice for Competence of Air Emission Testing investigation or a cleanup operation, operating personnel may
Bodies be faced with fire, explosion, and acute or chronic health
D7539 Practice for Using a Test Chamber for Humidity hazards. A robust safety and health program, including site-
Conditioning of Test Panels of Pavement Marking Paints specific injury and illness prevention program (IIPP) and a
D7773 Test Method for Determination of Volatile Inorganic safety and health plan, must be in place to direct worker
Acids (HCl, HBr, and HNO3 ) Using Filter Sampling and activity. Details for such plans can be found in the OSHA
Suppressed Ion Chromatography Interim Final Rule for Hazardous Waste Operations and
D7948 Test Method for Measurement of Respirable Crystal- Emergency Response and Refs (1, 2).8 Air monitoring is an
line Silica in Workplace Air by Infrared Spectrometry integral part of such a program. This guide describes equip-
E1370 Guide for Air Sampling Strategies for Worker and ment and sampling procedures which can be used to evaluate
Workplace Protection the airborne hazard potential so as to gain and maintain a safe
2.2 ISO Standard: work environment at the site.
ISO 17025 General Requirements for the Competence of 5.3 Upon obtaining air quality measurements at the site, a
Testing and Calibration Laboratories4 decision must be made as to whether conditions are under
2.3 Federal Standards: control and safe or not. That decision will depend on the nature
OSHA Analytical Methods Manual5 and concentrations of the contaminants (toxicity, reactivity,
NIOSH Manual for Analytical Methods6 volatility, etc.), the spatial extent (area affected, number of
OSHA, 29 CFR Part 1910 Hazardous Waste Operations and workers, etc.) of the contaminants, and the level of worker
Emergency Response; Interim Final Rule, December protection available and needed. Since all such parameters are
19867 typically site specific, this guide does not include air quality
measurement based guidance on decision making.
3. Terminology 5.4 This guide does not include monitoring sites containing
3.1 Definitions: radioactive materials, nor does it cover general safety aspects,
3.1.1 General—Terminology commonly used in air moni- such as access to emergency equipment or medical support for
toring can be found in Terminology D1356. Terminology emergency needs. These items should be covered in a work
commonly used in waste and waste management can be found place safety and health plan.
in Terminology D5681. 5.5 Ideally, this guide is used in combination with Guide
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: D4687.
3.2.1 operating site—an operating site is a location or
facility where waste is treated, stored, or disposed as part of an 6. General Considerations
on-going operation. 6.1 The scientific field addressing the assessment of air-
borne hazards to workers is industrial hygiene. Professional
industrial hygienists, besides performing such tasks as measur-
4

5
Adopted by ASTM as an American National Standard. ing the concentration of contaminants in air, recommend the
1985 manual available from Occupational Safety and Health Administration,
OSHA Analytical Laboratory, Salt Lake City, UT.
means for controlling such airborne hazards, protecting
6
Fifth edition manual, January 2015, available from the National Institute of
Occupational Safety and Health, (NIOSH), Cincinnati, OH.
7 8
Available from the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to the list of references at the end of
Washington, DC, 20401. this guide.

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 D4844 − 16
workers, and demonstrating compliance with applicable laws 7. Procedures
and regulations. A certified industrial hygienist generally offers 7.1 Operating Site:
the optimum combination of background and credentials for 7.1.1 The procedures described in this section apply to air
recognizing, evaluating, and controlling workplace health haz- monitoring activities at an operational waste treatment, storage,
ards. If industrial hygiene staff support is not available on site, or disposal site. At an operating site, controls (work practices,
coverage can be obtained through the use of consultants and engineering controls, and personal protective equipment) are
possibly through loss prevention insurance carriers. The re- used to minimize the exposure of workers to hazardous
mainder of this guide reflects the general thought process that conditions. These are defined in the site health and safety plan.
an industrial hygiene professional would likely go through in 7.1.2 Knowledge of Materials—Knowledge of the materials
establishing an air monitoring program to protect workers at a arriving at or present at an operating site is critical to the design
waste management site. of a sampling plan. If hazardous wastes are received by a site,
6.2 Establishing a Test Protocol: it is critical that they be listed on a manifest. The results of
6.2.1 Various combinations of equipment and sampling incoming shipment waste sample analyses is also helpful for
techniques are used in work place air monitoring. The best identifying substances of greatest threat to healthy and safety.
monitoring program is one that combines accuracy with timely Information on wastes and their hazards may also be available
response in a cost effective manner. from knowledge that specific disposal site users will tend to
deliver the same types of wastes to the site due to a consistent
6.2.2 The particular test protocol that is selected for an generating process and shipment history. For example, paint
industrial hygiene study depends on the nature of the contami- manufacturers will tend to send mixtures of solvents, resins,
nants and the end purpose of the monitoring effort (that is, and pigments, whereas plating firms will generally send
routine monitoring, searching for worst case exposure, looking alkaline heavy metal waste sludge, and so on. Deviation from
for contaminant leaks in a process, etc.) (See Guide E1370.) established patterns, however, is possible and should not be
6.3 Selecting Specific Methods: discounted in sampling plan design.
6.3.1 The choice of sampling method is generally dependent 7.1.3 Worker Sampling:
on analytical methodology to be employed. There may be no 7.1.3.1 Personal sampling of the worker’s breathing zone is
difference in the analytical work whether it is for a 15-min typically the most critical of workplace sampling that is
ceiling sample or a 7-h integrated sample. If an analytical needed. While some workers may be stationed in an operations
method has poor sensitivity, however, it may be necessary to trailer at a control panel and sedentary, others may be moving
increase the pump flow rate for the short duration sampling to about the work site and very physically active. Addressing
make certain that sufficient sample is collected for a meaning- these different situations requires an assessment capable of
ful analysis. Adjustments such as this are determined by following and appropriate to the activity of the worker.
sampling personnel and laboratory personnel based upon the 7.1.3.2 The first type of personal monitoring to consider is
measurement needs of the study and workplace limitations. long duration time-weighted-average (TWA) sampling. For an
Guidance on air sampling strategies for worker and workplace 8-h work shift, ensure that TWA samples are at a minimum of
protection can be found in Test Method E1370. Extensive 7-h duration either as a single sample or a series of two or more
samples. For any other work hour situation, the procedure is to
guidance on the latest developments in air sampling technology
sample for the duration of the shift less 1 h. For workers
is available in Refs (3, 4).
handling organic wastes (for example, vapor degreaser solvent
6.3.2 Information describing general methodology is avail- waste) the sampling program could include charcoal tube
able from a number of sources. Practice D1605 lists some of sampling followed by analysis for one or two of the solvents
the classic methods that have been used when sampling for most likely to be present in the waste. Such TWA monitoring
gases or vapors. The American Conference of Governmental would be repeated periodically to asses worker exposure and
Industrial Hygienists offers a publication, Ref (5), that provides ensure that exposure is not increasing.
a review of some equipment and methodologies. The combi- 7.1.3.3 Another type of personal monitoring that can be
nation of equipment and procedures selected is based on the carried out is for peak exposures. For example, a 15-min
precision, accuracy, and sensitivity needed to support the test ceiling sample might be taken while a set of containers is being
protocol. opened for inspection or removal of its contents. The same type
6.3.3 Once the goals and protocol for the sampling program of sampling might be done while contents of a truck are
have been defined, specific sampling/analytical methods are pumped into a holding tank. In cases such as these, personal
selected. Within the Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Volume protective equipment (for example, respiratory protection) is
11.03 is dedicated to atmospheric analysis and to occupational often used to minimize worker exposure to vapors. Ceiling
health and safety issues. Some applicable methods from that samples help ensure that workers are using respirators having
reference are listed in Annex A1. Other sources of health and a sufficient filtration and capture efficiency for worker safety.
safety support include the NIOSH Manual of Analytical 7.1.3.4 In some cases, ceiling samples might be the only
Methods and the OSHA Analytical Methods Manual. Specific type of monitoring necessary for certain toxic agents. For
equipment and sampling media for a particular set of airborne example, steel mill waste acid pickling solution received for
contaminants and sampling conditions are selected from these neutralization may only require sampling for and determination
types of sources. of hydrogen chloride. In that instance, only 15-min samples

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 D4844 − 16
would be of interest, since exposure to HCl is controlled on a closed site. Fugitive emission (see Ref 7) monitoring shall
15 min exposure basis by health/regulatory agencies. include these and perhaps other compounds; and
7.1.3.5 Personal dosimeters, worn by the employees, have (4) where a range of similar compounds are present, such
come into general use. These devices give an overall average as in some organic wastes and landfill gas. In this case, the
exposure assessment and also record the instantaneous expo- cumulative effect shall be estimated rather than the potential
sures of the worker during the day. These units, which are read effect of individual contaminants.
out on a smartphone, laptop, or notebook computer, are 7.1.6 Data Storage and Analysis:
generally good for only one specific contaminant, although the 7.1.6.1 The various forms of air monitoring described in
same electronic system can be used for other specific contami- 7.1.3, 7.1.4, and 7.1.5 will result in the accumulation of a large
nants. These might be very useful in monitoring a heavy amount of data by the site operator. The data need to be
equipment operator for exposure to carbon monoxide or a recorded and catalogued in a manner that provides for ready
waste treatment plant attendant for exposure to sulfur dioxide. retrieval and comparison.
7.1.3.6 Another consideration in monitoring, safety, and 7.1.6.2 Store and retrieve data so that the level of airborne
health plans is the additive effect of certain substances. contamination can be reviewed over time. In this way annual,
Paragraph 7.1.3.2 presented the concept of screening for only seasonal, or diurnal trends as well as source specific contami-
one or two solvents. When this is done, the eventual compari- nation may be identified.
son with permissible exposure limits must be done using a 7.1.6.3 The site operator may want to determine if certain
safety factor. This safety factor is intended to account for the shipments or customers are sending waste material that is
possible effects of other similar compounds that may be particularly hazardous and difficult to handle.
present, but are not measured routinely. 7.1.7 Quantitative Considerations—Even the best run waste
7.1.4 Area Monitoring: site may have to analyze for unknowns in the work atmo-
7.1.4.1 A good complement to personal monitoring is fixed sphere. Following are situations that can arise and will require
location area monitoring. This can be done with either sample appropriate monitoring and mitigative action to ensure worker
collecting-type equipment, direct measurement instruments, or safety.
specialized fixed-parameter monitors such as those described 7.1.7.1 The premise of most of the discussion of Section 7
in 7.1.3.5. Area monitoring offers the advantage of potentially is that the site operator has at least some working knowledge of
providing an early warning for area worker exposure. the materials being handled. This may not always be the case.
7.1.4.2 A combustible vapor meter in a solvent storage area 7.1.7.2 An unexpected odor or phase separation may indi-
can give a warning before an employee enters the area. cate an unknown or unexpected substance is present in the
7.1.4.3 A carbon monoxide monitoring system around a waste material.
pyrolyzer or incinerator can warn both the operator in the 7.1.7.3 An abnormal reaction in a neutralization process
control room and workers in the loading area of a hazard due may be a sign that an unexpected volatile is being emitted.
to a system upset or other unexpected event. 7.2 Remedial Action Site:
7.1.4.4 An oxygen meter permanently mounted in a below 7.2.1 The level of hazard that is found by air monitoring at
ground pit can warn an employee of an oxygen-deficient a remedial action waste site can vary from relatively innocuous
atmosphere before they enter the confined space. to very dangerous. The uncertainty associated with the types
7.1.4.5 Direct reading colorimetric tubes Ref (6), offer a and composition of wastes present at these sites complicates
convenient means for obtaining a quick reading. Besides their virtually every aspect of site cleanup and monitoring. For these
suitability for qualitative checks (see Annex A2), they also reasons a thorough site characterization must be made before
provide reasonable quantitative estimates. work is started to provide data for development of a site-
7.1.5 Complex Exposure Potential: specific health and safety plan, including subsequent air
7.1.5.1 Although much of the sampling effort may involve monitoring needs.
monitoring for one or two particular contaminants, there will 7.2.2 Qualitative Assessment:
be other times when the exposure potential is more complex. 7.2.2.1 From an operational viewpoint, a prime difference
Examples of more complex monitoring might include: between a remedial action site and an operating site is the need
(1) where a sludge is handled on site, and there is a chance for qualitative assessment. The unknowns at an abandoned site
of spillage and eventual spreading of the debris around the site require a qualitative analysis of the work environment prior to
by vehicular traffic and wind—monitoring will include peri- any quantitative measurements.
odic collection of dust samples requiring analysis for heavy 7.2.2.2 Before starting cleanup activity, check available
metals; records to gain knowledge of the materials that were or might
(2) where waste from a polymer plant (such as one pro- have been treated, stored, or buried on the site. Be sure that
cessing nitrile rubber, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or (ABS) labels on drums also are checked to see if there is some
plastic, or a combinations thereof) is handled on site. This may information on the hazardous nature of the material contained
require a sampling protocol that looks for trace quantities of inside the drums.
acrylonitrile in an atmosphere dominated by one or two less 7.2.2.3 Qualitative assessment must be conducted in a
harmful organic vapors; systematic fashion. Be sure that the operating areas are mapped
(3) where polychlorinated biphenyl, (PCB) vapor can be and perhaps gridded so that the assessment can be done with
carried into the atmosphere by methane gas evolving from a minimal chance of overlooking zones.

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 D4844 − 16
7.2.3 Safety Monitoring: rials in a manifold system or collecting a canister sample, it is
7.2.3.1 Identify life threatening situations due to fire, possible to sample and determine a wide range of organics
explosion, and toxic exposure hazards as the first air monitor- concurrently.
ing concerns for personnel starting a cleanup action. 7.2.5.5 A popular combination of packings is charcoal,
7.2.3.2 Enclosed spaces bring the danger of suffocation by magnesium silicate,9 phenylene oxide porous polymer,10 and
excessive chemical vapors causing an oxygen deficiency. silica gel. These sample tubes would be desorbed either
7.2.3.3 For these reasons make sure that the first pieces of thermally or using an appropriate mix of solvents for eventual
equipment on site, Ref (8) are organic and combustible vapor analysis via a combination gas chromatograph/mass spectrom-
meters and oxygen meters. These would be used to scan the eter or other appropriate analytical method. Alternatively,
area and map out any potentially high hazard areas. canister samples can be interfaced to a gas chromatograph with
7.2.3.4 Personal monitoring devices are also available to a mass spectrometer, flame ionization detector, or other detec-
warn workers of unsafe conditions immediately. This type of tion system. Note that decomposition can be a problem using
unit, which has a preset alarm, is worn by workers on their thermal desorption. Where this may be an issue, canister
belts as they go about the site performing their work. samples may be the better option
7.2.3.5 When a new area of the site is entered or another 7.2.5.6 Additional techniques, more specific in nature, can
level is unearthed, the mapping routine for potential imminent be used for other agents. If acid gases are suspected, air can be
danger situation is repeated. The routine monitoring of the bubbled through a buffer solution which is then checked by pH
site-specific health and safety plan is then followed. meter, specific ion electrode, or analyzed by ion chromatogra-
7.2.4 Direct Reading Meters and Dosimeters: phy. For pesticides and PCBs even more specific sampling/
7.2.4.1 Once the initial safety survey has been completed, a analysis combinations are available.
more comprehensive screening is needed to determine the 7.2.5.7 A direct reading meter is unavailable for asbestos, so
presence of acute and chronic health hazards. It may be care is required if suspicious deposits are encountered or
necessary to use the air data to define potentially contaminated anticipated. Bulk samples require qualitative identification
zones where specific personal protective equipment and decon- using a technique such as polarizing light microscopy. Any
tamination procedures are required. attempt to use an air sample for qualitative identification of
7.2.4.2 A wide array of direct reading instruments and asbestos fibers will likely result in use of an extremely
personal dosimeters can be used to search for classes of, or demanding analytical procedure, such as a scanning electron
specific, chemical agents. microscope with X-ray diffraction analysis. Once asbestos has
been positively identified, conventional fiber counting tech-
7.2.4.3 Most direct reading instruments either lack specific-
niques are used for quantitation in air samples.
ity or are susceptible to interferences. The technology used for
7.2.6 Select Toxic Agents for Monitoring:
the basic design, the relative price of the instrument within a
7.2.6.1 Previous procedures described in 7.2.1 through 7.2.5
given design, and the skill of the operator will determine the
should provide site operating or survey personnel with an
suitability of an instrument in terms of freedom from such bias.
appreciable amount of qualitative information from instrumen-
7.2.4.4 The complexity of the chemical matrix at the site
tal and laboratory analysis of collected air samples. In addition,
will determine the level of sophistication of instrument array
data should be available from site documentation and from
that will be needed to obtain a reliable identification of the
laboratory results on the analysis of bulk samples taken from
hazardous agents that are present.
waste drums, lagoons, tanks, other equipment, and perhaps
7.2.4.5 A listing of such equipment along with a discussion contaminated soil.
of capabilities and limitations is presented in Annex A1. 7.2.6.2 Select key parameters to be monitored quantitatively
Additional information on the useful application of such based on:
equipment is available in Refs (4, 5, and 9). (a) Those which must be monitored due to applicable air
7.2.5 Qualitative Sample Collection: regulatory controls (for example, lead, benzene).
7.2.5.1 Just as with quantitative determination, the most (b) Those offering the most severe risk to health and safety,
reliable technique in qualitative sampling is concentration of even in trace quantities (for example, methyl isocyanate).
airborne contaminants using a collection device followed by (c) Those that are dominant in the site environment due to
appropriate laboratory analysis. quantity and volatility or dispersion (for example, chlorinated
7.2.5.2 For metal dusts (or dust containing heavy metal solvents).
contaminants) a series of 37-mm diameter membrane samples 7.2.7 Quantitative Assessment:
or high volume filter samples are taken at various locations 7.2.7.1 Once the hazardous agents have been identified, air
around the site. sampling routines are established to determine the concentra-
7.2.5.3 These would then be submitted for analysis via some tion of those substances in the site atmosphere. This informa-
general analytical technique such as inductively-coupled tion is needed to ensure that site workers are adequately
plasma spectrometry, which can determine a large number of protected and for regulatory requirements.
metals per sample. Certain volatile materials, such as arsenic
compounds or mercury, require separate sampling.
9
Magnesium silicate available from various sources under the tradename
7.2.5.4 Organic vapors can be sampled by drawing site air
Florisil, has been found suitable for this purpose.
through an array of absorbent packed tubes or can be collected 10
Phenylene oxide porous polymer available from various sources under the
in passivated canisters. By using different tube packing mate- tradename Tenax, has been found suitable for this purpose.

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 D4844 − 16
7.2.7.2 Operating Site Similarity—Once potentially signifi- 7.2.7.5 Periodic Qualitative—To detect residual unknown
cant unknown contaminants are identified, establishment of a emissions at a site, it is prudent to conduct qualitative deter-
testing program similar to that for an operating disposal site is minations periodically. Note that the results of these tests may
accomplished. Refer then to 7.1 for guidance except for the require additional quantitative monitoring. As a minimum, the
following modifications: results for the analysis of bulk samples should be reviewed
7.2.7.3 Increased Sampling Frequency—Conditions at a periodically to identify any new compounds which may
cleanup site are much more unstable than at an operating become airborne hazards.
disposal site. The control of airborne emissions can be greatly 8. Quality Assurance
reduced and difficult in a cleanup operation as compared to an 8.1 The sampling and analysis of workplace air shall be
operating disposal site. As a result, much wider inter-day and conducted with a firm awareness of and adherence to quality
intra-day fluctuations in the concentrations of airborne con- control procedures that will provide scientifically sound results
taminants can be expected. To account for such variations, of a known quality. Procedures must be in place to control the
increase frequency of sampling and analysis for air contami- calibration of direct reading meters and sampling equipment,
nation. In a cleanup operation, daily quantitative monitoring sample handling, analytical precision and bias, and data
may be required. handling.
7.2.7.4 Timely Analytical Support—Considering the wide 8.2 A comprehensive quality assurance program can be
range of environmental and working conditions that are pos- developed using Practice D3614.
sible at remedial action sites, it is most important that timely 8.3 If a certain segment of the surveillance effort, such as
analytical support be available. If an intense sampling program analytical support, is to be handled by an outside organization,
has been designed in attempting to correct an out-of-control then the quality program must be extended to cover the outside
condition, a 2 to 4 week wait for analytical results is unrea- organization. One approach is to restrict analytical support to a
sonable. Since some samples in the sampling program may be professionally accredited industrial hygiene laboratory. Such
of less significance than others, waiting for analytic results may an organization will generally have a quality control program
be unnecessary. For this reason, it is prudent to establish a satisfying the requirements to maintain certification, but it is
priority system to identify those samples that are critical to still incumbent on users of the service to review the organiza-
worker safety and samples that can provide useful information tion’s quality control program. Practice D7036 provides guide-
but are not critical to worker safety. lines for performing this assessment.

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 D4844 − 16

ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE TEST METHODS AND PRACTICES

TABLE A1.1 ASTM StandardsA

Test Requirements
Asbestos D4240 Test Method for Airborne Asbestos Concentration in Workplace Atmosphere (Withdrawn 1995)
bis (Chloromethyl) Ether D3476 Test Method for bis (Chloromethyl) Ether (bis CME) in Workplace Atmospheres (Gas Chromatography—
Mass Spectrometry) (Withdrawn 1989)
Carbon Monoxide D3162 Test Method for Carbon Monoxide in the Atmosphere (Continuous Measurement by Nondispersive Infrared
Spectrometry)
Detector Tubes D4490 Practice for Measuring the Concentration of Toxic Gases or Vapors Using Detector Tubes
Fluoride D3269 Test Methods for Analysis for Fluoride Content of the Atmosphere and Plant Tissues (Manual Procedures)
(Withdrawn 2010)
General Air Analyzer D3249 Practice for General Ambient Air Analyzer Procedures
Hexamethylene Diisocyanate D6561 Test Method for Determination of Aerosol Monomeric and Oligomeric Hexamethylene Diisocyanate (HDl) in
Air with (Methoxy-2-phenyl-1) Piperazine (MOPIP) in the Workplace
Hexamethylene Diisocyanate D6562 Test Method for Determination of Gaseous Hexamethylene Diisocyanate (HDI) in Air with 9-(N-
methylaminomethyl) Anthracene Method (MAMA) in the Workplace
Hexavalent Chromium D6832 Test Method for the Determination of Hexavalent Chromium in Workplace Air by Ion Chromatography and
Spectrophotometric Measurement Using 1,5-diphenylcarbazide
Hydrocarbon Gases D2820 Test Method for C1 through C5 Hydrocarbons in the Atmosphere by Gas Chromatography (Withdrawn
1993)
Hydrogen Sulfide D4323 Test Method for Hydrogen Sulfide in the Atmosphere by Rate of Change of Reflectance
Inorganic Acids D7773 Test Method for Determination of Volatile Inorganic Acids (HCl, HBr, and HNO3 ) Using Filter Sampling
and Suppressed Ion Chromatography
Inorganic Lead D3413 Test Method for Lead (Inorganic) in Workplace Atmospheres by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (With-
drawn 1989)
Lead D6785 Test Method for Determination of Lead in Workplace Air Using Flame or Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorp-
tion Spectrometry
Length-of-Stain Dosimeters D4599 Practice for Measuring the Concentration of Toxic Gases or Vapors Using Length-of-Stain Dosimeters
Mercaptans D2913 Test Method for Mercaptan Content of the Atmosphere
Metals D4185 Practice for Measurement of Metals in Workplace Atmosphere by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectropho-
tometry
Organic Vapors D3687 Practice for Analysis of Organic Compound Vapors Collected by the Activated Charcoal Tube Adsorption
Method
Organic Vapors D3686 Practice for Sampling Atmospheres to Collect Organic Compound Vapors (Activated Charcoal Tube Ad-
sorption Method)
Oxides of Nitrogen D3824 Test Methods for Continuous Measurement of Oxides of Nitrogen in the Ambient or Workplace Atmo-
sphere by the Chemiluminescent Method
Particulate (Coke Ovens) D4600 Test Method for Benzene-Soluble Particulate Matter in Workplace Atmospheres, Determination of
Particulates D7035 Test Method for Determination of Metals and Metalloids in Airborne Particulate Matter by Inductively
Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES)
Particulates D7539 Test Method for Determination of Elements in Airborne Particulate Matter by Inductively Coupled Plasma-
Mass Spectrometry
Respirable Dust D4532 Test Method for Respirable Dust in Workplace Atmospheres Using Cyclone Samplers
Sampling E1370 Guide for Air Sampling Strategies for Worker and Workplace Protection
Silica D7948 Test Method For Determination of Moisture Content of Bituminous Mixtures
Sulfur Dioxide D3449 Test Method for Sulfur Dioxide in Workplace Atmospheres (Barium Perchorate Method) (Withdrawn 1989)
Asbestos D4240 Test Method for Airborne Asbestos Concentration in Workplace Atmosphere (Withdrawn 1995)
A
This table may not be all inclusive. The user is encouraged to review test methods under ASTM Subcommittees D22.03, D22.04, and D22.05.

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 D4844 − 16

A2. DIRECT READING AIR MONITORING EQUIPMENT AND DOSIMETERS

A2.1 Photo-Ionization Meter-Battery Operated Device: A2.4 Portable Gas Chromatograph:

A2.1.1 Basic Design—Draws in air and ionizes organic A2.4.1 Basic Design—Truly portable GC equipment with
compounds using ultra-violet radiation; charged plates measure choice of Flame Ionization Detector (FID), Electron Capture
proportional current flow due to ionized field Ref (2). Detector, (ECD), or Photo Ionization Detector, (PID) and with
A2.1.2 Limits—Sensitivity down to the ppm range, but choices of standard packed columns; though not a direct
non-specific except for very broad categories (for example, reading instrument, it is used in the field.
aromatic versus non-aromatic) by selection of lamp with
appropriate UV output. A2.4.2 Limits—Relatively good sensitivity and can separate
mixtures in a gas sample, but as with GC, requires calibration
A2.2 Colorimetric Indicator Tubes: with analytes of interest at time of use.
A2.2.1 Basic Design—Single use glass tubes containing A2.5 Portable Combustible Gas Meter:
chemical reactants which change color in presence of the
pertinent analyte; length of stain is proportional to concentra- A2.5.1 Basic Design—Battery operated catalytic combus-
tion Ref (3). tion changes electrical conductivity of detector; for H2, CO,
A2.2.2 Limits—Convenient apparatus with poor precision and any combustible organic.
but good sensitivity. Response is generally for an entire class of A2.5.2 Limits—Used for higher concentrations, particularly
compounds (for example, chlorinated hydrocarbon) and some- in low percent range to check for explosive atmospheres.
times susceptible to interferences (oxidizer may bleach out Non-specific and can be a source of ignition.
color).
A2.6 Portable Infrared Analyzer:
A2.3 Electrolytic Cell Detectors:
A2.3.1 Basic Design—Battery operated monitors using A2.6.1 Basic Design—Sometimes battery operated, senses
solid state electrolytic cell in which conductivity of cell organic or inorganic gases capable of IR absorption.
material changes in proportion to concentration of H2S, CO, A2.6.2 Limits—If a non-dispersive instrument, it is not
CH4, SO2, or O2. specific. Dispersive instruments not battery powered, but are
A2.3.2 Limits—Good sensitivity and freedom from selective. Requires experienced analyst when dealing with a
interferences, but each cell is for a specific gas resulting in five mixture of compounds.
different instruments to cover all five gases.

REFERENCES

(1) Occupational Safety and Health Guidance Manual for Hazardous Hygienists, latest edition.
Waste Site Activities, NIOSH/OSHA/USCG/EPA, DHHS, NIOSH (6) Direct Reading Colorimetric Indicator Tubes Manual, American
Publication No. 85-115, NIOSH, 1014 Broadway, Cincinnati, Industrial Hygiene Association, AIHA, latest edition.
OH 45202, October 1985 . (7) Lewis, R. G., Martin, B. E., Sgontz, D. L., and Howes, Jr., J. E.,
(2) Standard Operating Safety Guides, U.S. Environmental Protection “Measurement of Fugitive Atmospheric Emissions of Polychlorinated
Agency, Environmental Response Branch, November 1984. Biphenyls from Hazardous Waste Landfills,” Environmental Science
(3) Instrumentation for Monitoring Air Quality, ASTM STP 555, ASTM, & Technology, October 1985.
1973. (8) Manual of Recommended Practice for Combustible Gas Indicators
(4) Sampling and Analysis of Toxic Organics in the Atmosphere, ASTM and Portable, Direct Reading Hydrocarbon Detectors, AIHA, latest
STP 721, ASTM, 1979 . edition.
(5) Air Sampling Instruments for Evaluation of Atmospheric (9) Toxic Materials in the Atmosphere: Sampling and Analysis, ASTM
Contaminants, American Conference of Governmental Industrial STP786, ASTM International, 1982.

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 D4844 − 16
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