1.1This practice addresses sampling of organic compounds (that is, PCBs, dioxins, many pesticides and similar compounds) from smooth nonporous surfaces using a solvent-wetted wipe sampling method. Samples are collected in a manner that permits the solvent extraction of the organic compound(s) of interest from the wipes and subsequent determination using a laboratory analysis technique such as gas chromatography with a suitable detector. This practice is, however, unsuitable for the collection of volatile organic compounds.

1.2This practice should only be used to collect samples for the determination of organic compound(s) on a loading basis (for example, mass per unit area). It cannot be used to collect samples for the determination of organic compounds on a concentration basis (for example, mass per unit mass).

1.3This wipe sampling practice is not recommended for collecting samples of organic compounds from rough or porous surfaces such as upholstery, carpeting, brick, rough concrete, ceiling tiles, and bare wood. It is also not intended for the collection of dust samples (see Guide E1278) or sampling to estimate human exposure to contaminated surfaces.

1.4To ensure valid conclusions are reached, a sufficient number of samples must be obtained as directed by a sampling design (the number and location of samples including quality control samples) and a quality assurance/quality control plan. This practice does not address the sampling designs used to achieve the data quality objectives (see Practice D5792).

1.5The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.6This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.7This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.