1. Deviating Samples UKAS TPS 63 Tim Platt Technical Manager

2. Introduction EA LC identified ISO/IEC 17025 REQUIREMENTS not being met Clause 5.8 and 5.10 Integrity of test samples maintained Results reported – Accurately – Clearly – Unambiguously – Objectively – Include comments on sample quality or adequacy that may have compromised the result

3. Terminology Deviating – an abnormality or departure from what is expected Deviating samples – Those not correctly cared for or sampled inappropriately.

4. Deviating Samples Exceeded their holding time Lack pertinent information – Date – Time – Location – Identity of sampler/contact Not retained at appropriate temperature

5. Deviating Samples Presented in inappropriate containers /packaging Inappropriate headspace Insufficient quantity Denatured through heat/ light/ humidity Suffered microbiologically

6. UKAS TPS 63 4.1 Policies and procedures in place – Sample integrity maintained – Ensure results reported accurately – Include comments on quality /adequacy where this may have impacted on results

7. UKAS TPS 63 4.2 Laboratory to define “deviating sample” – Holding time (stability) – Storage /transit conditions – Pertinent sample information (date/time/identity) – Use of appropriate containers – Use of preservatives – Sample type as defined in accreditation schedule

8. Holding times Parameter Sample Size (ml) Holding time (days)BS/ISO 5667-3 Holding time (days) USEPA Metals10028180 BOD25012 Total and free Cyanide 100714 Sulphide10077 PAHs5007 7 pre 40 post extraction VOCs2x60114 pH506HoursImmediate

9. Sample Containers Waters – Volatiles,BTX, GRO – 60ml amber glass containers* – Other organics 1x 1 litre amber glass container* – Inorganics 1x1 litre plastic container – Sulphide, Phenols, Cyanide, Metals, individual plastic containers with preservative – * no headspace

10. Preservatives Analyte - Preservative Cyanide - Sodium hydroxide Phenol - Sodium hydroxide Metals - Nitric acid Mercury - Potassium dichromate BOD - Unpreserved, no headspace Sulphide - Zinc acetate

11. Temperature control Volatile and Organic samples or those affected by biological activity should be stored at 5°C Samples should be stored in the dark MCERTS for waters “the sample storage environment shall maintain a temperature of 5 ± 3°C” Cool transportation – cool boxes, ice packs, fill box, pre-chill, min/max thermometer.

12. UKAS TPS 63 4.3 On identifying a deviating sample. – Consistent application/actions taken – Consult with customer and record – Initiate investigation into non- conforming work procedures if allowed to deviate in laboratory – Report results in appropriate manner.

13. UKAS TPS 63 4.4 Laboratory required to demonstrate – Sample assessed upon receipt – If found to be deviating – contact customer for instructions – If customer requests to proceed, report will include a disclaimer indicating deviating sample and results may be invalid – If deviation occurred after receipt – investigation required

14. Deviating Samples UKAS TPS 63 Tim Platt Technical Manager