37 / 44
Ref. No. [UMCES] CBL 2017-050
ACT VS17-05
37
-
Analytical procedures, and
-
Documentation.
•
Assessment of Data and Document Control:
-
Chain of custody, and
-
Documentation.
The TSAs’ findings were positive. The field and laboratory tests were implemented
consistent with the Test Protocols, QAPP, and SOPs. Minor deviations were documented in
laboratory records. There were no deviations which may have had an effect on data quality for the
test. All phases of the implementation of the tests reviewed during the audits were acceptable and
performed in a manner consistent with ACT data quality goals. The overall quality assurance
objectives of the test were met.
ACT personnel are well-qualified to implement the evaluation and demonstrated expertise in
pertinent procedures. Communication and coordination among all personnel was frequent and
effective. Internal record keeping and document control was well organized. The ACT staff
understands the need for QC, as shown in the conscientious development and implementation of a
variety of QC procedures.
All samples were collected as described in the Test Protocols and SOPs. Examination of
maintenance and calibration logs provided evidence of recent and suitable calibration of sampling
and analytical equipment.
Data Quality
Data Verification, Validation, and Assessment.
Data review is conducted to ensure that only sound data that are of known and documented
quality and meet technology evaluation quality objectives are used in making decisions about
technology performance. Data review processes are based in part on two EPA guidance documents:
Guidance on Environmental Data Verification and Data Validation
(QA/G-8) [EPA, 2002] and
Guidance on Technical Audits and Related Assessments for Environmental Data Operations
(QA/G-
7) [EPA, 2000].
The data were verified and validated to evaluate whether the data have been generated
according to the Test Protocols and satisfied acceptance criteria. Data verification evaluates the
completeness, correctness, and consistency of the data sets against the requirements specified in the
Test Protocols, measurement quality objectives (MQOs), and any other analytical process
requirements contained in SOPs.
The ACT QA Manager reviewed the reference data sets from all field and laboratory tests.
The number of reference samples collected at each site and the laboratory tests are in Table 10. A
total of 346 reference samples were collected for the field and laboratory tests. The overall reference
data set included 3,666 distinct analyses.