Guide Definitions

 

Analyte

This is the common name of the chemical being sampled.

Sampling Media

This number cross-references (via hyperlink) to a table giving the recommended sampling device and a description of that device including color code of cassette or solid sorbent tube catalogue number.

Analytical Method

Analytical methods with OSHA or NIOSH designations are fully validated. Methods with the “in-house” designation are developed, tested and intended for use by the OSHA SLTC and/or WOHL, but do not have the same level of validation as those with the OSHA and NIOSH designations. In the application of some of these methods, some adjustments or further development may be required that may result in extended turnaround times.

Min Vol (liters)

This is the minimum sample volume required to achieve reasonable detection limits.

Max Vol (liters)

This is the maximum number of liters of air that should be sampled to avoid breakthrough or sample overload. This value is usually determined for expected exposures near the Permissible Exposure Limit. Therefore, in some cases, longer sampling times are allowable if the expected air concentration is low. Contact the lab if you want to sample larger air volumes.

Flow Rate (LPM)

This is the recommended flow rate for collection in liters per minute. In many cases, a lower flow rate can be used to extend sampling time without exceeding max volume. Call the lab if you have questions on the effect of lower flow rates on collection efficiency.

Comments

This column contains any special instructions that apply to the sampling method.

Compat Code

This compatibility code identifies analytes that can be collected together on a single sample. The codes are:

  • A – Solvents (VOCs) that can be collected on a single charcoal tube.
  • B – Solvents (the glycol ethers) that cannot be collected with A group compounds but are compatible with each other.
  • D – Acids that can be collected together on an ORBO-53 tube.
  • E1 – Compatible pesticides group 1*
  • E2 – Compatible pesticides group 2*

*Some pesticides call for collection on glass fiber filter only and some for glass fiber filter plus XAD-2 tube backup. Those calling for glass fiber filter only can be collected on glass fiber filter plus XAD-2 with no loss of reliability.

CAS#

This is the Chemical Abstract Service number for the chemical being sampled. Each chemical has a unique CAS number. This information can be useful in determining if two chemical names refer to the same compound, e.g., 2-ethoxy-ethanol and ethyl cellosolve have the same CAS number, both terms refer to the same compound.

IMIS#

The integrated management information system number is the number OSHA has assigned to the chemical being sampled. This is often referred to as the substance code.