Importance of Detection and Reporting Limits
Appropriate, accurate, and precise detection and reporting limits are essential for successful project decision-making. In the final installation of our Deciding Factors series, we explain why careful consideration by the client and their consulting project managers during project setup and execution is crucial to this decision-making process for any project. Without these considerations, project goals such as risk assessment, remediation, or long-term monitoring could be negatively impacted and the best decision(s) may not be made.
Key Questions to Consider
From the start, project managers should consider the following questions:
- What are the constituents of concern?
- What is/are the matrix/matrices to be tested?
- What are the goals of the project?
- Does the project site have historical factors that could impact the samples to be analyzed?
- What are the threshold and action levels of the project?
- Are there any current regulatory or health benchmarks available, such as guidelines, action levels, or reference doses from agencies like the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), World Health Organization (WHO), or local authorities?
- What is/are the most appropriate analytical method(s) available, and what criteria should guide the selection of these methods for the project’s specific matrices and constituents of concern?
- Which laboratories analyze the appropriate analytical method(s), and can they satisfy the objectives of the project goals?
- Can adaptations be made to the chosen laboratory’s procedure for the selected analytical method to meet project needs if it is not currently meeting the requirements?
Reference Resources for Decision-Making
In addition to these critical questions, the Hawaii State Department of Health has developed a Fact Sheet for Project Managers and other decision-makers, which serves as a valuable reference when determining detection and quantitation limits. Finally, adaptations may be necessary after samples have been collected and analyzed to ensure the most reliable outcomes.
Justifying Method Selection
Sometimes, an appropriate analytical method is not available for a given sample matrix, requiring a clear rationale for method selection. For instance, if a client requests the analysis of a sample similar, but not identical, to the matrix for which a method was designed, the selection must be justified. For example, a carbonated beverage may seem suitable for an aqueous method, yet distinct characteristics can make that method inappropriate. Careful justification of method applicability is key, so each project should start with gathering as much matrix-specific and/or project-specific information as possible to inform an appropriate choice.
The Role of Professional Consultants
As this article illustrates, the world of environmental consulting is complex and intricate; therefore, professional judgment is a crucial skill in navigating tasks effectively and obtaining reliable, defensible results. Environmental Standards is equipped to help you navigate these complexities. Reach out for a free consultation today.
