Standard Guide for Generation of Environmental Data Related to Waste Management Activities: Selection and Optimization of Sampling Design

1.1 This document provides practical guidance on the selection and optimization of sample designs in waste management sampling activities, within the context of the requirements established by the data quality objectives or other planning process.

1.2 This document (1) provides guidance for selection of sampling designs; (2) outlines techniques to optimize candidate designs; and (3) describes the variables that need to be balanced in choosing the final optimized design.

1.3 The contents of this guide are arranged by section as follows: ; 2. Referenced Documents; 3. Terminology; 4. Significance and Use; 5. Summary of Guide; 6. Factors Affecting Sampling Design Selection; 7. Initial Design Selection; 8. Optimization Criteria; 9. Optimization Process; 10. Final Selection; Annex (Types of Sampling Designs, Commonly Used Sampling Designs, Sampling Design Tools, and Combination Sample Designs); Appendix X1 Additional References; Appenix X2 Choosing Analytical Method Based on Variance and Cost; Appendix X3 Calculating the Number of Samples

1.4 This 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.