ASTM E 3163 : 2024

1.1This is a guide for the selection and application of a range of analytical methods and testing protocols that may be used during sediment corrective action programs; these include physical properties testing, chemical analytical methods, passive sampling procedures, bioassays and toxicity testing, environmental forensics methods and procedures, and laboratory method development procedures for sediment corrective action programs.

1.2Sediment corrective action programs vary greatly in terms of environmental complexity; physical, chemical, and biological characteristics; human health and ecological risk concerns; and geographic and regulatory context. This guide provides information for the selection and application of analytical methods and testing protocols applicable to a wide range of sediment corrective action programs.

1.3Sediment corrective actions are performed under various regulatory programs, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Although many of the references cited in this guide are CERCLA-oriented, the guide is applicable to corrective actions performed under local, state, tribal, federal, and international corrective action programs. This guide describes the selection and application of analytical methods and test procedures, but it does not provide a detailed description of the regulatory requirements or existing guidance for each jurisdiction.

1.4This guide highlights key considerations for designing sediment corrective action program data acquisition plans, including applicability and use limitations of analytical methods and test procedures, as well as data usability considerations. This guide recognizes the challenges inherent in selection and application of analytical methods and test procedures for sediment systems, as well as the challenges inherent in generating analytical data of sufficient sensitivity to meet regulatory criteria applied to sediment corrective action programs.

1.5Test methods, procedures, and guidelines published by ASTM International (ASTM), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), and other U.S. and international agencies are used for sediment corrective action programs—many of which are referenced by this guide. However, these documents do not provide guidance on the selection and application of analytical methods and test procedures for sediment corrective action programs. This guide describes widely accepted considerations and best practices used in the selection and application of analytical procedures used during sediment corrective action programs. This guide supports and complements existing regulations and technical guidance.

1.6Units—The values stated in SI or CGS units are to be regarded as the standard. Units in the appendices are provided in Imperial units when commonly associated with standard materials.

1.7This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.