1.1This guide covers procedures that may be used for obtaining soil samples from the vadose zone (unsaturated zone). Samples can be collected for a variety of reasons including the following:

1.2Guides D6169 on Selection of Soil and Rock Sampling Devices and D6282 on Drilling methods for Environmental Site Characterization provide subsequent supplemental information to the contents of this standard.

1.3This guide focuses on methods that provide soil samples for chemical analyses of the soil or contained liquids or contaminants. However, comments on how methods may be modified for other objectives are included.

1.4This guide does not describe sampling methods for lithified deposits and rocks (for example, sandstone, shale, tuff, granite).

1.5In general, it is prudent to perform all field work with at least two people present. This increases safety and facilitates efficient data collection.

1.6The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.7This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project's many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.