RT |
Routine |
Routine samples are typically collected for compliance
with monitoring rules and used in maximum contaminant level (MCL) compliance
calculations.
|
RP |
Repeat |
Repeat samples are collected when a routine sample exceeds
trigger, action, or maximum contaminant levels. Additional sampling is
required to further identify and define potential water quality problems.
|
CO |
Confirmation |
Confirmation samples are taken at the same location
as a previous sample analytical result for confirmation purposes. These
samples are sometimes referred to as check samples.
|
MR |
Maximum Residence Time |
Maximum Residence Time samples measure trihalomethanes
and haloacetic acids present in a water system's distribution system.
These samples are collected at a point representing the longest time between
treatment, storage, and use. Formation of trihalomethanes and haloacetic
acids over time results from disinfectant residual, organic content, and
residence time. |
BB |
Batch Blanks |
Several types of blank samples are used for quality
control of laboratory processes.
|
DU |
Duplicate |
Duplicate samples are used for quality control of the
sample collection or laboratory analysis processes. They are often collected
to document an enforcement case.
Samples are collected simultaneously by the regulatory agency and the water
system in separate bottles. Results are compared to determine if any potential
problems exist with the sample collection or analysis procedures.
|
FB |
Field Blanks |
Several types of blank samples are used for quality
control of laboratory processes.
|
PE |
Performance Evaluation |
Performance evaluation samples are used for quality
control of laboratory processes. The labs receive samples for analysis
from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or other certifying agency.
Results are compared against standards to determine if labs follow accurate
and consistent analysis procedures.
|
SB |
Shipping Blanks |
Several types of blank samples are used for quality
control of laboratory processes.
|
SL |
Split |
Split samples are used for quality control of the sample
collection or laboratory analysis processes. They are often collected
to document an enforcement case.
A sample is collected by the regulatory agency or the water system and
split in two bottles. Results are compared to determine if any potential
problems exist with the laboratory analysis procedures.
|
SP |
Special |
Special samples are usually collected for reasons other
than compliance determination and are typically used for process control
or quality checks following maintenance or new construction in the treatment
or distribution system.
|
ST |
Split Blanks |
Several types of blank samples are used for quality
control of laboratory processes. |