The application of traditional data quality objectives (DQOs) to the measurement of stack gas unspeciated mass: techniques and observations

Since the issuance of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)ʹs Guidance for Total Organics (Draft guidance for total organics. 2nd ed. EPA National Exposure Research Laboratory, September, 1996) a great deal of variance has been observed regarding the measured results of unspeciated mass organic determinations. Starting primarily at the end of 1997, the EPA Regions implemented requirements to facilities for conducting stack emissions tests that included unspeciated mass quantitations as part of their demonstration of acceptable risk. After several months of data collection experience, experimental observations have been made that allow refinements in the laboratory methods, and future structuring of the procedures of the methods in a format similar to traditional SW-846 [Test methods for evaluating solid waste, physical/chemical methods (SW-846). 3rd ed. September 1986] methods. Examples of procedural techniques will be presented with attendant data quality objectives (DQOs) that are used to observe the relative control of these measurements. Laboratory techniques will also be discussed that represent one laboratoryʹs good laboratory practices for these measurements, including internal quality control indicators and practical sample handling practices.