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The Effect of Method Flexibility on Efficiency Improvements, Waste Reduction, and Supplies Conservation
Oral Presentation
Prepared by J. Gentry
ESC Lab Sciences, 12065 Lebanon Road, Mt. Juliet, TN, 37122
Contact Information: JGentry@esclabsciences.com; 615-773-9684
ABSTRACT
Performance Based Measurement Systems have been a topic of discussion in the laboratory community for quite some time. Historically, method modification has been a difficult process where EPA approved methods are of concern. The Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery has always allowed for some flexibility as their methods are not promulgated. The Office of Water, until recently, has required the use of the Alternate Testing Protocol procedure to modify existing methods. Technology moves at a faster pace than the method approval process, therefore the EPA has changed and clarified their process to allow the incorporation of new techniques into existing methods on a more timely basis.
The recent Methods Update Rule in May 2012 provided much needed clarification to the use of methods for compliance with the Clean Water Act. The Methods Innovation Rule in June 2005 stated the allowance for method flexibility and removal of some requirements where RCRA related sample and analysis is affected. These changes have given laboratories the ability to improve method efficiency and reduce waste from the process, which equates to an overall reduction in consumables. There are many other benefits when one looks at the entire process from sample collection to disposal. This session will focus on the options and allowances under both rules and identify those methods where ATP is no longer required. In addition, method examples will be addressed to represent newer technologies that have emerged recently.
Oral Presentation
Prepared by J. Gentry
ESC Lab Sciences, 12065 Lebanon Road, Mt. Juliet, TN, 37122
Contact Information: JGentry@esclabsciences.com; 615-773-9684
ABSTRACT
Performance Based Measurement Systems have been a topic of discussion in the laboratory community for quite some time. Historically, method modification has been a difficult process where EPA approved methods are of concern. The Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery has always allowed for some flexibility as their methods are not promulgated. The Office of Water, until recently, has required the use of the Alternate Testing Protocol procedure to modify existing methods. Technology moves at a faster pace than the method approval process, therefore the EPA has changed and clarified their process to allow the incorporation of new techniques into existing methods on a more timely basis.
The recent Methods Update Rule in May 2012 provided much needed clarification to the use of methods for compliance with the Clean Water Act. The Methods Innovation Rule in June 2005 stated the allowance for method flexibility and removal of some requirements where RCRA related sample and analysis is affected. These changes have given laboratories the ability to improve method efficiency and reduce waste from the process, which equates to an overall reduction in consumables. There are many other benefits when one looks at the entire process from sample collection to disposal. This session will focus on the options and allowances under both rules and identify those methods where ATP is no longer required. In addition, method examples will be addressed to represent newer technologies that have emerged recently.