Homeland Security Research Program Analytical Methods and Protocols

EPA has identified several areas to enhance the resiliency of the nation following an intentional, accidental or natural contamination incident involving chemical, biological and/or radiological hazards. The need to improve the nation’s laboratory capacity and capability to analyze environmental samples following such incidents was one of the most important areas identified. To fulfill this need, EPA’s Homeland Security Research Program (HSRP) has been actively engaged in identifying and developing appropriate analytical methods for use by multiple laboratories supporting EPA’s efforts throughout remediation. Samples that might be collected and analyzed to detect and/or measure contaminants during each phase of remediation include air/aerosols, water, soil, vegetation, building materials, debris/waste materials, and surface contamination. The analytical methods used to test these samples play a crucial role in determining whether the objectives and goals for each phase of the response to a contamination incident will be achieved.

• EPA’s Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM) document and query tools - the SAM document compiles analytical methods that have been selected by technical workgroups into a single source document is developed and maintained by a team of methods experts from within EPA, as well as other federal, state and local agencies; and public utilities. Analytes are included based on selection criteria that address the needs and priorities of EPA. The sample types listed are specific to each technical section and have been determined by technical work groups to be a concern during site remediation. Work groups identify a single method or method group for each analyte/sample type to ensure a consistent analytical approach across multiple laboratories. The SAM query tools provide quick identification of and access to the methods included in SAM.
• Several Collaborative Analytical Methods and Protocols developed by HSRP and partnering laboratories and agencies are available for download.