At least a dozen different kinds of soil sampling devices are available for you to use for the collection of soil samples – some can be manually deployed (simple and cost-effective, but limited to shallow depths), and others must be mechanically deployed (more complex and expensive, but with greater depth capability). Some devices can be used to collect depth-discrete samples, while others can be used for continuous sampling. Not all devices are suited to all field conditions, and some devices are better than others for collecting soil samples that are destined for either physical or chemical analysis. This series of two modules discusses the factors that affect the selection of an appropriate soil sampling device or method for prevailing site conditions and site-specific sampling objectives. These modules discuss in detail, using a comprehensive series of classroom and field videos, the options for hand-operated devices such as push tubes and hand augers, through mechanically deployed devices used in conjunction with portable drive sources, direct-push rigs and several different types of drilling rigs. The use of supplemental accessories such as sample retainers and liners is also discussed in detail. While you may opt to take just one of these modules, it is strongly recommended that you take both modules in the prescribed order if you want comprehensive coverage of the subject.

Module ES–11 (Total Length: 62 minutes) Price: $159.00 Register Using Your E-School Account

Selection and Use of Soil Sampling Equipment – Part 1

• Factors Affecting the Selection of an Appropriate Soil Sampling Method
• Selecting a Sampling Device to Suit Site-Specific Field Conditions
• Overview, Applications & Limitations of Hand-Operated Devices (Push Tubes and Hand Augers)
• Overview, Applications and Limitations of Devices Used with Direct-Push Rigs for Discrete and Continuous Soil Sampling

Module ES–12 (Total Length: 85 minutes) Price: $159.00  Register Using Your E-School Account

Selection and Use of Soil Sampling Equipment – Part 2

• Overview, Applications and Limitations of Mechanically Assisted Devices (Split-Spoon Samplers, Thin-Wall Tube Samplers, Continuous Tube Samplers) Used with Drilling Rigs
  • Solid Stem Augers
  • Mud-Rotary Drilling
  • Sonic Drilling
  • Hollow-Stem Augers

• Pros and Cons of Using Soil Sample Liners and Sample Retainers

Total CEUs for Module ES-11: 1 CEU

Total CEUs for Module ES-12: 1.4 CEUs

Traditional methods of soil sample collection and handling for volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis are fraught with error and result in negative bias associated with data generated by laboratory analysis of these soil samples. This series of two modules explains why collecting soil samples for VOCs using “zero headspace” techniques is not valid and may, in fact, introduce significant bias and error; how conventional bulk matrix sampling practices can result in biased samples; and why laboratory subsampling of soil samples introduces error. Learn how proper implementation of U.S. EPA Method 5035B will result in collection and analysis of samples that much more accurately reflect in-situ field conditions and will result in much more accurate data. While Method 5035B is not a “new” method in the U.S., it is being increasingly adopted in countries other than the U.S. Unfortunately, both in the U.S. and Internationally the method is widely misunderstood and is often poorly implemented in the field. This series of two modules uses a comprehensive series of classroom and field videos to provide definitive guidance on what the intent of Method 5035B is, how to correctly implement both volumetric sampling methods and chemical preservation/extraction methods in the field, and how to avoid common field errors when implementing Method 5035B that can result in either negative or positive biases (or both) during sampling. Correct field procedures are illustrated through the use of “how-to” field videos. While you may opt to take just one of these modules, it is strongly recommended that you take both modules in the prescribed order if you want comprehensive coverage of the subject.

Module ES–13 (Total Length: 50 minutes) Price: $159.00 Register via Your E-School Account

Soil Sample Handling and Processing Using U.S. EPA Method 5035B – Introduction; Use of Volumetric Sample Collection Methods

• How Volatiles are Lost From Soil Samples
• Problems With Traditional Soil Sampling Methods for VOCs
• Limitations of Using Liners for VOC Sample Collection
• Objectives of Method 5035B
• Volumetric Sample Collection – How it Works, Equipment Options, Common Errors
• ASTM Standard Practice D 6418 for Using EnCore Samplers
• Advantages and Limitations of Volumetric Sample Collection Methods

Module ES–14 (Total Length: 52 minutes) Price: $159.00 Register via Your E-School Account

Soil Sample Handling and Processing Using U.S. EPA Method 5035B – Use of Chemical Preservation/Extraction Methods

• Chemical Preservation/Extraction Techniques for Low-Level Sample Preparation and Preservation
• Chemical Preservation/Extraction Techniques for High-Level Sample Preparation and Preservation
• Overview of U.S. EPA Method 3815 to Select High-Level or Low-Level Preservation Methods
• Advantages and Limitations of Chemical Preservation/Extraction Methods

Total CEUs for Module ES-13: 1 CEU

Total CEUs for Module ES-14: 1 CEU