United States Environmental Protection Agency EPA 540-R-07-02

Office of Superfund Remediation and Technology Innovation (5202P) OSWER 9240.0-42

January 2007 

Introduction to the 

Analytical Services

Branch (ASB)

Contract 

Laboratory

Program 

Disclaimer: This final version of the document replaces any prior versions of the document in their entirety.
Introduction

This document is designed primarily to educate the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (USEPA’s) 

Superfund staff and managers [e.g., Remedial Project Managers (RPMs), On-Scene Coordinators (OSCs), Site 

Assessment Managers, and Risk Assessors] about how to obtain laboratory analytical services for Superfund 

and Brownfields sites. The Contract Laboratory Program (CLP) is administered by the Office of Superfund 

Remediation and Technology Innovation (OSRTI) Analytical Services Branch (ASB), Regional CLP Project 

Officers (CLP POs), and Regional Sample Control Center (RSCC) Coordinators. Other programs or agencies 

can participate in the CLP. Please refer to the CLP Participants section of Chapter 1, or contact the Sample 

Management Office (SMO) Project Officer for additional information. 

CLP analytical data is used to demonstrate the nature and extent of contamination at hazardous waste sites, 

assess priorities for response based on risks to human health and the environment, establish appropriate cleanup 

actions, and determine when remedial actions are complete. Each CLP sample is properly documented to ensure 

timely, accurate, and complete analysis for all parameters requested, and to support the use of sample data in 

potential enforcement actions against Potentially Responsible Parties (PRPs). Data collected and analyzed 

under the CLP is not available to PRPs since the CLP is Federally funded and use by PRPs would cause a 

conflict of interest. 

Key Information

Text in blueand underlined indicates an external 

link to information outside of this document.

The images below are located throughout the 

document to draw attention to important 

information and each are labeled accordingly:

Information

Note

Additional copies of this document may be downloaded from the CLP Web site at: 

http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/guidance.htm 

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Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Welcome to the Contract Laboratory Program (CLP) 1

Background 1

Benefits of the CLP 1

Analytical Services 1

Quality Assurance (QA) 1

Enhanced Automated Services 2

Support Services 2

Cost Savings 2

Method Flexibility 2

CLP Successes 3

Development of the Data Assessment Tool (DAT) 3

Accommodation of Sample Volume with Fast Turnaround Times 3

Provision of Brownfields Program 3

Products and Services 4

Data Analysis 4

Available Analytical Services 5

Upcoming Analytical Services and Products 5

Staged Electronic Data Deliverable (SEDD) 5

Expert Technical and Administrative Support 5

CLP Participants 6

Program Users 6

Program Providers 6

CLP on the Internet 6

Chapter 2 How to Access the Contract Laboratory Program (CLP) 7

CLP Services and Activities 7

Initiating CLP Analytical Services 7

Requesting Routine CLP Analytical Services for a Superfund Site 7

Requesting CLP Analytical Services for a Non-Superfund Site 8

Determining the Appropriate SOW 8

The Inorganic SOW (ILM05.4) 8

The Organic SOW (SOM01.1) 8

CLP Software Tools and Products 9

Data Assessment Tool (DAT) 9

Field Operations Records Management System (FORMS) II LiteTM 9

Web-based Invoicing System (WIS) 10

Sample Delivery Group (SDG) Tracking System (STS) 10

Enforcement and Cost Recovery Support 10

Requesting Enforcement Support 10

Requesting Cost Recovery Support 10

Appendix A List of Acronyms 11 

Appendix B Glossary 12

Appendix C List of Web References 15

ii
Download EPA Order 5360.1 A2 at

http://www.epa.gov/quality/qs-docs/5360-1.pdf

Chapter 1

Welcome to the Contract Laboratory Program (CLP)

Background

Welcome to the CLP. The CLP is a national 

network of United States Environmental 

Protection Agency (USEPA) personnel, Data of Known and Documented Quality:

commercial laboratories, and support Analytical data that adheres to EPA Order 5360.1 A2,

calls for environmental programs and decisions to be 

supported by data of the type and quality needed and 

expected for their intended use. The type and quality of 

data needed to support CLP data users has been defined 

as analytical data of known and documented quality.

contractors whose fundamental mission 

is to provide customers [e.g., USEPA 

Regions, United States Army Corp of Engineers (USACE), 

and other Federal, State, or Tribal Agencies] with analytical 

data of known and documented quality. Initiated in 1980, 

the CLP supports environmental data users in identifying 

contaminants and determining the level of contamination at 

Superfund hazardous waste sites prior to, during, and after 

site cleanup. 

The CLP, Superfund’s preferred data quality solution 

for Routine Analytical Services (RAS) is available to local,

State, Federal, and Tribal agencies (see the Program 

Providers section of Chapter 1).

Benefits of the CLP

Customer satisfaction is a key factor in the design and 

application of all CLP services. The CLP seeks to provide 

its customers with timely, high-quality, high-volume, low-cost 

services and solutions. CLP customers receive the following Potentially Responsible Parties (PRPs) cannot access 

the CLP. benefits: 

Analytical Services

• The CLP provides its customers with a full spectrum of services ranging from environmental 

sample analyses and electronic data review, to computerized invoicing and detailed site analytical 

costs. 

• The CLP provides a variety of analytical services for the most commonly requested organic and 

inorganic analytes. The CLP target compound and analyte lists were originally derived from 

the USEPA Priority Pollutant list, but have been subsequently modified based on advances in 

analytical methods, evaluation of method performance data, and the needs of the Superfund 

program. The CLP has also developed several Quick Reference Fact Sheets that summarize the 

current analytical services provided for the Inorganic, Organic, and Organic Low Concentration 

programs. 

Quality Assurance (QA)

• The CLP provides a comprehensive QA

program through use of Performance 

Evaluation (PE) samples, preparation of The CLP provides customers with total QA.

quarterly performance reports, use of fraud 

detection mechanisms, performance-based scheduling, and continuous inspection of laboratory 

data for contractual compliance. 

• To simplify the laboratory’s Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) development process, the CLP

predefines elements such as: analytical methods; preventive laboratory equipment maintenance 

1
and calibration; sample shipment chain-of-custody procedures and forms; analytical precision 

and accuracy (including quantitation limits for organics and inorganics); laboratory Quality Control 

(QC) requirements; data management; and documentation for laboratory analysis. 

• CLP data is compliant with EPA Order 5360.1 A2 quality requirements for data to withstand 

independent review and confirmation. 

Enhanced Automated Services

• The CLP captures all data produced for CLP

customers and maintains this historical data 

for the client’s future use in enforcement, Automated services streamline sample scheduling 

and analytical data assessment. litigation, and Cost Recovery activities. 

• The CLP offers Automated Data Processing (ADP) support such as automated data assessment 

and rapid electronic transfer of analytical data into users’ databases. 

• The CLP provides automated sample scheduling, and in certain instances, can accommodate 

same day scheduling. 

Support Services

• The CLP provides support services that 

allow managers to focus on site assessment 

activities without distraction from laboratory For more information on CCS, see the Data 

Assessment Tool (DAT) section of Chapter 2. and data management issues.

• CLP systems collect and disseminate financial information to USEPA management for budgetary 

and litigation activities (see Enforcement and Cost Recovery Support section of Chapter 2). 

• The ASB staff has the technical expertise to resolve any questions about sample scheduling and 

funding and to assist USEPA Regions in evaluating data quality and usability. 

Cost Savings

• USEPA Headquarters assumes the CLP

costs for Regional clients in Superfund lead 

projects. USEPA Headquarters assumes the costs for Regional 

clients.

• The CLP offers centralized, high-volume 

purchasing of analytical services, eliminating the duplication of effort for procurement, sample 

tracking, invoice processing, and analytical results compilation. 

• The CLP offers competitive, low market per sample pricing for all projects and analytical 

services. 

Method Flexibility

• Customers can request a variety of data 

turnaround options and detection limits. CLP services are becoming more flexible and 

responsive. • Customers can request new and/or additional 

methods for analysis to meet changing 

requirements and technological advances.

2
CLP Successes

The CLP has several successful products, 

programs, and activities that have helped to 

provide customers with analytical technical The CLP provides high-tech solutions to meet the 

customer’s needs. support services to achieve and maintain 

data of known and documented quality. 

These products, programs, and activities have vastly improved analytical response times and 

expanded the productivity of cleanup activities.

Development of the Data Assessment Tool (DAT)

The Analytical Services Branch (ASB) 

recognized the need for an analytical tool 

that would facilitate the rapid transfer and For more information on the Data Assessment Tools,

see the Data Assessment Tool (DAT) section of Chapter 2. storage of electronic analytical data and 

would streamline the data validation process. To meet this 

challenge, the CLP developed DAT, a software-driven process designed to produce enhanced CLP deliverables 

and more usable reports. 

DAT allows Regional data users to electronically receive data that has already been assessed by this tool. DAT 

rapidly transfers electronic analytical data into any client database, forgoing the need for manual data entry by 

the Regions. Regional data validation has typically required manual data entry of post-review data. 

Overall, DAT has dramatically improved data turnaround times, making it possible to transmit electronic data 

to the data validators and the ultimate customers [e.g., Regional Project Managers (RPMs), site assessors, 

and On-Scene Coordinators (OSCs)]. ASB can now provide data assessment reports to CLP customers within 

24 - 48 hours of receipt of data. 

Accommodation of Sample Volume with Fast Turnaround Times 

During Fiscal Year 2006, a total of 86,124 samples were 

analyzed under the CLP. Approximately 16% of these 

samples were analyzed within a 7-day turnaround time, 25% The CLP can accommodate a large volume of 

samples from multiple sites within a short time span.

Turnaround times are available to meet the needs of 

the customer.

were analyzed within a 14-day turnaround time, and 59% 

were analyzed within a 21-day turnaround time. The CLP 

can also provide Preliminary Results within 48 - 72 hours, 

depending on the type of analysis. 

Provision of Brownfields Program

USEPA’s Brownfields Program supports efforts to identify 

and assess potentially contaminated sites across the United 

States and conduct appropriate cleanup and/or release “Brownfields” are abandoned, idle, or under-used 

industrial and commercial facilities where expansion 

or redevelopment is complicated by real or perceived 

environmental contamination.

activities. 

The objective of this program is to quickly make these sites 

safe for reuse by addressing real or perceived risks. In Fiscal 

Year 2006, the CLP laboratories completed 51 separate projects involving the analysis of more than 1,311 field 

samples for 20 Brownfields sites. 

The CLP provides Brownfields customers with certain advantages, such as comprehensive QC procedures, 

data turnaround options, and low market prices for high quality that may not be available through other analytical 

programs. 

3
The CLP successfully supports its customers in its routine activities as well. Please see the figure above for data 

on routine CLP activities during Fiscal Year 2006. 

Products and Services CLP customers can combine analytical parameters 

and turnaround times to satisfy changing needs.

Data Analysis

The CLP provides analytical data that is used to help define the nature and extent of contamination at Superfund 

sites. This allows customers to: 

• Assess priorities for response based on the risk to human health and the environment; 

• Determine appropriate cleanup; and 

• Determine when Remedial Actions (RAs) are complete. 

CLP data is used in all stages of hazardous waste site investigation, including: site inspections; Hazard Ranking 

System (HRS) scoring; Remedial Investigation (RI) and Feasibility Study (FS); Remedial Design (RD); treatability; 

RA; operations and maintenance (O&M); and enforcement and litigation activities. The CLP requires that any 

data produced within the program be of known and documented quality. 

4
Available Analytical Services

Currently, the CLP offers two Routine Analytical Services (RASs): 

• Analysis of organic compounds in soils/sediment and water; and

• Analysis of inorganic compounds (including mercury) and cyanide in soils/sediment and water.

These types of analytical services ensure the CLP is able to meet the changing needs of its clients.

Upcoming Analytical Services and Products

The CLP is currently developing an updated inorganic analysis 

method, ILM06.X. Among other changes, ILM06.X will include 

a method for analyzing soils via Inductively Coupled PlasmaMass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and the addition of wipes and 

air filter matrices for total metals analyses.

Staged Electronic Data Deliverable (SEDD)

SEDD is an inter-agency effort to create 

a generic format for electronic delivery of 

analytical data for environmental programs. 

SEDD allows laboratories to meet current 

and future requirements for multiple 

programs without a complete overhaul 

of the laboratory EDD-producing system. For additional 

information about the advantages of using SEDD, please 

refer to the SEDD Web site.

Expert Technical and Administrative Support

The CLP’s staff is comprised of experts in the fields of 

environmental chemistry, QA, contract management, and ADP 

support. The CLP has numerous resources within USEPA 

Regions, USEPA’s own laboratories, and CLP contractors. 

These resources enable the CLP to address and overcome 

technical or operational issues for the CLP customer.

5

Currently Available Services:

• Analysis of Inorganic Compounds (including 

Mercury) and Cyanide in Soil/Sediment and Water 

(ILM05.4).

Complete Inorganic Data Deliveries 

are available in 7, 14, and 21 days with 

Preliminary Results available within 72 hours.

• Analysis of Organic Compounds including trace 

volatile, low/medium volatile, semivolatile, 

pesticide, and Aroclor target compounds in 

Water, and Soil/Sediment environmental samples 

(SOM01.1).

Complete Organic Data Deliveries 

are available in 7, 14, and 21 days with 

Preliminary Results available in 48 hours for 

volatiles and 72 hours for pesticides/Aroclors.
Information and a variety of guidance and method 

documents are available on the CLP Web site.

CLP Participants

Program Users

CLP customers currently include 10 USEPA Regions, State 

and Tribal governments, the United States Army Corps of 

Engineers (USACE), the United States Bureau of Reclamation The CLP is available to Federal, State, Territorial,

and Tribal agencies [see Chapter 2 How to Access the 

Contract Laboratory Program (CLP)]. (USBR), the United States Geological Survey (USGS), and 

various United States Territories. The CLP is available to any 

governmental party (except a PRP) who needs fast, reliable, 

environmental data of known and documented quality at reasonable prices.

Program Providers

The CLP is operated by a team of government offices, support 

contractors, and environmental laboratories. The following 

offices comprise the CLP: USEPA provides oversight of all program 

management and QA activities.

• ASB provides government oversight of all 

CLP activities to ensure that clients receive data of known and documented quality. 

• USEPA Regional CLP Project Officers (CLP POs) and Regional Sample Control Center (RSCC) 

Coordinators provide program support and oversight activities on a day-to-day basis. 

• The Sample Management Office (SMO) contractor provides program management 

(e.g., scheduling, contract compliance tools, and invoice tracking) under the direction of ASB. 

• The Quality Assurance Technical Support (QATS) contractor provides QA/QC of CLP data 

[e.g., PE samples, and data tape audits] under the direction of ASB. 

• CLP-contracted laboratories conduct sample analysis and provide data of known and documented 

quality. 

CLP on the Internet

CLP customers can use the Internet to access information 

and reference documents such as: 

• Analytical Methods; 

• Quick Reference Fact Sheets for the organic, inorganic, and organic low concentration analytical 

methods; 

• Guidance Documents including National Functional Guidelines (NFGs) for data assessment and 

CLP Guidance for Field Samplers; and 

• CLP & ASB Contacts. 

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Chapter 2

How to Access the Contract Laboratory Program (CLP)

CLP Services and Activities

This chapter provides guidance for initiating and 

using CLP services. It also provides information 

on several CLP-related software products 

available to CLP customers. The CLP offers 

numerous advantages to its CLP and non-CLP

site customers (see the Benefits of the CLP

section of Chapter 1) that may not be available in other programs. 

You can begin using CLP services by contacting the Analytical 

Services Branch (ASB). 

Initiating CLP Analytical Services

The first step in accessing CLP services is determining if the CLP 

is the right program for your purposes. You must also determine 

if the site you wish to sample from is a Superfund site. If the site 

is part of Superfund, follow the steps listed below. If the site is not 

a Superfund site, proceed to Requesting CLP Analytical Services 

for a Non-Superfund Site in this chapter. 

Requesting Routine CLP Analytical Services 

for a Superfund Site

Once you have decided to use the CLP, the next step is 

requesting analytical services. Current and new CLP customers 

may request Routine Analytical Services (RAS) through a USEPA 

Regional Sample Control Center (RSCC) Coordinator. The RSCC 

Coordinator schedules all CLP analysis requests through the Sample Management Office (SMO). SMO and the 

RSCC Coordinator work together during sampling events to ensure that all samples arrive at the laboratories 

as scheduled, and to resolve any issues that may arise during sample analysis. Each RSCC Coordinator is 

responsible for maintaining a working knowledge of current CLP Statements of Work (SOWs) to assist the 

customer in choosing the proper analytical method. 

You must supply the RSCC Coordinator with the following 

information: Each Region may have different steps for initiating 

analytical services. This document contains only a 

general description.

Site name; •

• Site location; 

• Operable unit of the site where you want the sampling to take place (the operable unit is a specific 

portion of a whole site); 

• Type(s) of analysis you require and any specific analytical requirements;

• Purpose of your sampling event [e.g., Site Assessment (SA), Remedial Design (RD), Remedial 

Action (RA)]; 

• Period of time during which the sampling will take place; 

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• Site identification numbers (e.g., CERCLIS 

ID, Site Spill ID);

• Data turnaround time(s) required for your 

project;

• Fax number for submission of Preliminary 

Results, if required; and

• Site-specific Quality Assurance Project Plan 

(QAPP).

Requesting CLP Analytical Services for a 

Non-Superfund Site

The CLP also provides analytical and support activities to 

non-Superfund analyses customers through the transfer 

of funds from a non-Superfund program [e.g., Resource 

Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Office of Water 

(OW), Brownfields]. Please contact the SMO Project Officer 

at ASB for additional information or to request CLP services 

for your non-Superfund site.

Determining the Appropriate SOW

The next step in accessing analytical services through the CLP is deciding which analytical service(s) best meets 

your needs. The CLP currently offers two SOWs for CLP inorganic and organic.

Both of the SOWs provide the technical and contractual conditions for laboratories to apply USEPA/CLP analytical 

methods for the isolation, detection, and quantitative measurement of the most common environmental pollutants. 

Contact the specified ASB Program Manager for further information. 

The Inorganic SOW (ILM05.4)

The Inorganic SOW sets the requirements for the analysis of 23 metals (including mercury) and cyanide in water 

and soil/sediment samples. Inorganic analysis is conducted using ICP-MS, Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic 

Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES), Atomic Absorption (AA), and colorimetric methods. Data is delivered in 7, 

14, or 21 days. The customer may specify any of the three turnaround times when requesting CLP inorganic 

analytical services. Preliminary Results are available within 72 hours for all turnaround times. Requests can be 

made for all, some, or individual Metal analyses.

For a complete list of the inorganic target analytes and more information about the inorganic analytical service, 

including the upcoming ILM06.X, see the Multi-Media, Multi-Concentration, Inorganic Analytical Service for 

Superfund Fact Sheet.

The Organic SOW (SOM01.1) 

The Organic SOW sets the requirements for the analysis of 52 volatile, 67 semivolatile, and 21 pesticide, and 

9 Aroclor target compounds in water and soil/sediment samples. Organic compounds are analyzed using Gas 

Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) or with Electron Capture Detection (GC/ECD). Data 

delivery is available in 7, 14, or 21 days, any of which may be specified when requesting CLP organic analytical 

services. Preliminary Results are available within 48 hours for volatiles and 72 hours for semivolatiles, pesticides, 

and Aroclors for all turnaround times after receipt of each sample at the laboratory.

8

The CLP requires “lead time” in order to secure 

laboratory space for sampling projects. You must 

contact your RSCC Coordinator to request RAS so that 

they will have ample time to contact SMO and set up 

scheduling by 3:00 PM Eastern Time Monday–Friday 

prior to the week of a sampling event.

There may be additional information required for 

your particular Region.

Non-Superfund Support

If you wish to utilize CLP services for non-Superfund 

activities, please contact the SMO Project Officer (PO) at 

ASB. ASB will facilitate the funds transfer process and 

direct the sample analysis request to the appropriate 

USEPA Regional office.
For a complete list of the organic volatile, semivolatile, pesticide, and Aroclor target compounds and more 

information about the organic analytical service, see the Multi-Media, Multi-Concentration, Organic Analytical 

(SOM01.1) Fact Sheet. 

CLP Software Tools and Products

The CLP’s commitment to quality does not end with data. In an effort to bring faster and more efficient services 

to our customers, the CLP has developed a number of software solutions that streamline data review and Quality 

Control (QC), Contract Compliance Screening (CCS), and administrative tasks, while promoting the sharing of 

analytical information. 

Data Assessment Tool (DAT)

DAT is a software-driven process designed 

to produce enhanced CLP deliverables and 

more usable reports in a standard format. DAT integrates CLP data review software and 

DA processes. T incorporates CCS and data evaluation 

based on National Functional Guideline (NFG) to provide 

USEPA customers with PC-compatible reports and electronic files that can be transferred into client databases 

and programs for end-users, and to provide a complete CLP data assessment package. The electronic reports 

reduce the need for manual data entry and duplicate entry of information. All CLP customers receive data 

that has been processed through CLP data assessment tools within 24 - 48 hours after the laboratory data is 

received. The resultant spreadsheets are electronically delivered directly via email to the Region that requested 

the data. 

DAT does not include determination of data usability, qualification of data based on professional judgment, 

evaluation of data based on its intended use, or compliance with a site’s Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) 

or Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP). 

Field Operations Records Management System (FORMS) II LiteTM

FORMS II Lite is designed to assist samplers 

with generating sample documentation and 

tracking samples during a sampling event. FORMS II Lite automates routine tasks for the 

sampler and streamlines data collection. FORMS II Lite automates the creation and 

printing of labels and Traffic Report/Chain of 

Custody Records, thereby improving field time management and decreasing documentation 

errors. FORMS II Lite captures critical collection information in an electronic format early in the field sampling 

process. 

FORMS II Lite enables field personnel to easily document, track, and transmit field sample information. In 

addition, by electronically capturing this information early in the tracking and reporting process, field sampling 

data is readily accessible for transmittal to RSCC Coordinators and other data users. 

During Fiscal Year 2006, 64 sampling organizations used the FORMS II Lite software for sampling efforts with the 

10 USEPA Regions for the CLP. The organizations include 20 States/territories and Tribes and the United States 

Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), United States Bureau of Reclamation, and United States Fish and Wildlife. 

In Fiscal Year 2006, FORMS II Lite was used to process 1,031 CLP Cases comprised of 5,516 shipments that 

contained a total of 69,947 samples. 

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Web-based Invoicing System (WIS)

WIS enables authorized CLP laboratories to electronically generate and submit invoices via the 

Internet. WIS provides access to a CLP database containing analytical data that the laboratory has 

previously submitted. Laboratories can access this submitted information and create an invoice 

based on the original analytical results. 

Sample Delivery Group (SDG) Tracking System (STS)

The laboratory can use STS to track the status of analytical 

data from the delivery date to the invoice payment date. WIS automates laboratory submission of invoices.

The laboratory uses their assigned Lab Code, name, and 

Password (as assigned by SMO) to access STS.

Enforcement and Cost Recovery Support

The CLP has established detailed procedures and documentation to ensure that the sample data is tracked 

from the time of sample collection to introduction as evidence in legal proceedings. The CLP also provides 

documentation for program analytical costs to support Superfund Cost Recovery efforts. Cost Recovery is 

designed to assist CLP customers in recouping the CLP analytical and cleanup costs they have spent on a 

hazardous waste site. 

Requesting Enforcement Support

Litigation procedures often necessitate the use of CLP data generated from the analysis of samples collected. 

The CLP offers a variety of services to support enforcement activities that include: 

• Arranging for the delivery of all laboratory and evidence documentation relating to specific sample 

analyses; 

• Augmenting customer resources for analytical data review; and 

• Assisting in arranging for expert testimony by 

laboratory or CLP personnel. The CLP provides litigation support and assists 

customers in recouping analytical and site cleanup 

costs.

Customer requests for enforcement support are initially 

coordinated through the SMO Project Officer at ASB. ASB 

will review the request and determine the appropriate 

CLP response, including the provision of USEPA Regional or contractor resources needed to respond to the 

request. 

Requesting Cost Recovery Support

The CLP’s Cost Recovery support normally consists of financial and analytical documentation. The following 

forms of documentation are available to support Cost Recovery requests: 

• Reports that detail all CLP analytical and management costs associated with a site; 

• Lists of CLP projects associated with a site;

• Sample analysis results; and

• Lists of each invoice associated with a particular site.

Non-standard ad-hoc reports also may be prepared if necessary. If necessary, the Cost Recovery personnel 

will coordinate efforts with the other USEPA offices or contractor resources in order to produce or acquire Cost 

Recovery documentation. 

10
Appendix A

List of Acronyms

AA Atomic Absorption 

ADP Automated Data Processing 

ASB Analytical Services Branch 

ASF Agency Standard Format 

CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act 

CERCLIS Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information System 

CCS Contract Compliance Screening 

CLP Contract Laboratory Program 

CLP PO Contract Laboratory Program Project Officer 

DART Data Assessment Rapid Transmittal 

DAT Data Assessment Tool 

FORMS II Lite Field Operations Records Management System II Lite 

GC/ECD Gas Chromatography/Electron Capture Detection 

GC/MS Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry 

HRGC High Resolution Gas Chromatography 

ICP-AES Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectroscopy 

ICP-MS Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry 

NFG National Functional Guidelines 

NPL National Priorities List 

O&M Operations & Maintenance 

OSC On-Scene Coordinator 

OW Office of Water 

OSRTI Office of Superfund Remediation and Technology Innovation 

PE Performance Evaluation 

PO Project Officer 

PRP Potentially Responsible Party 

QA Quality Assurance 

QAPP Quality Assurance Project Plan 

QATS Quality Assurance Technical Support 

QC Quality Control 

RA Remedial Action 

RAS Routine Analytical Service 

RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act 

RD Remedial Design 

RI Remedial Investigation 

RPM Remedial Project Manager 

RSCC Regional Sample Control Center (USEPA Region) 

SA Site Assessment 

SAP Sampling and Analysis Plan 

SDG Sample Delivery Group 

SEDD Staged Electronic Data Deliverable 

SMO Sample Management Office 

SOW Statement of Work 

STS SDG Tracking System 

USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers 

USBR United States Bureau of Reclamation 

USEPA United States Environmental Protection Agency 

USGS United States Geological Survey 

WebCCS Web Contract Compliance Screening 

WIS Web-based Invoicing System 

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Appendix B

Glossary

Analyte: The element, ion, or parameter an analysis seeks to determine; the element of interest. 

Analytical Services Branch (ASB): The USEPA center that directs the national Contract Laboratory Program (CLP). 

Atomic Absorption (AA): A procedure for inorganic analysis based on the absorption of radiation by mercury vapor (Cold 

Vapor), flame, or graphite furnace. 

Brownfields: Abandoned, idle, or under-used industrial and commercial facilities where expansion or redevelopment is 

complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination. 

Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA): First authorized by Congress 

in December 1980, and amended in 1986, CERCLA provided broad Federal authority to respond directly to the release or 

possible release or hazardous substances that may endanger human health or the environment. CERCLA also established 

a Trust Fund to provide for cleanup when no responsible party could be identified; hence, CERCLA is commonly referred 

to as “Superfund”. 

Contract Compliance Screening (CCS): The screening of electronic and hardcopy data deliverables for completeness 

and compliance with the contract. This screening is done under USEPA direction by the Sample Management Office (SMO) 

contractor. 

Contract Laboratory Program (CLP): Supports the USEPA’s Superfund effort by providing a range of chemical analytical 

services to produce environmental data of known and documented quality. This program is directed by the USEPAAnalytical 

Services Branch (ASB). 

Contract Required Quantitation Limit (CRQL): Minimum level of quantitation acceptable under the contract Statement of 

Work (SOW). 

Cost Recovery: A legal process by which Potentially Responsible Parties (PRPs) that contributed to contamination at a 

Superfund site can be required to reimburse the Trust Fund for money spent during any aspect of cleanup actions by the 

Federal government. 

Cost Recovery Request: A request issued by an Authorized Cost Recovery Requestor for detailed cost and sample 

documentation associated with a Superfund site. 

Cyanide (Total): Cyanide ion and complex cyanide converted to hydrocyanic acid (HCN) by reaction in a reflux system of 

a mineral acid in the presence of magnesium ion. 

Data Assessment Rapid Transmittal (DART): DART is an active notification system providing up-to-the-minute transmittal 

of the Contract Compliance Screening (CCS) and Computer Aided Data Review and Evaluation (CADRE) evaluation report 

data to Contract Laboratory Program (CLP) customers. 

Data Assessment Tool (DAT): A software driven process that incorporates CCS, CADRE, and DART designed to produce 

enhanced CLP deliverables and more usable reports in a standard format. 

Data Turnaround Time: The maximum length of time allowed for laboratories to submit analytical data to USEPA in order 

to avoid financial penalties (i.e., disincentives). Data turnaround time begins at the validated time of sample receipt (VTSR) 

at the laboratory. 

Data Validation: Data validation is based on Region-defined criteria and limits, professional judgement of the data validator, 

and (if available) the Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) and Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP). 

Feasibility Study (FS): A description and analysis of potential cleanup alternatives for a site such as one on the National 

Priorities List (NPL). The FS usually recommends selection of a cost-effective alternative. It usually starts as soon as the 

Remedial Investigation (RI) is underway. Together, they are commonly referred to as the “RI/FS”. 

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Gas Chromatography (GC): The method used to separate analytes on a stationary phase within a chromatographic 

column. GC is frequently used with other instruments for analyzing organic compounds: 

• Mass Spectrometry: In volatile and semivolatile analysis, the compounds are detected by a Mass 

Spectrometer (MS). 

• Electron Capture: In pesticide and Aroclor analysis, the compounds are detected by an Electron Capture 

Detector (ECD). 

Hazard Ranking System (HRS): A numerically-based screening system that uses information from initial, limited 

investigations to assess the relative potential of sites to pose a threat to human health or the environment. The HRS is the 

principal mechanism USEPA uses to place uncontrolled waste sites on the National Priorities List (NPL). 

Hazardous Waste Site: A site contaminated with substances that can pose a substantial or potential hazard to human 

health or the environment. 

Inductively Coupled Plasma - Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES): A technique for the simultaneous or sequential 

multi-element determination of elements in solution. The basis of the method is the measurement of atomic emission by an 

optical spectroscopic technique. Characteristic atomic line emission spectra are produced by excitation of the sample in a 

radio frequency ICP. 

Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS): A technique for the multi-element determination of elements 

in solution. The basis of the technique is the detection of atomic ions produced by an ICP and sorted by mass/charge 

ratio. 

National Functional Guidelines (NFG): A document designed to offer guidance on inorganic, organic, and organic low 

concentration Contract Laboratory Program (CLP) analytical data evaluation and review. 

National Priorities List (NPL): A list of sites for hazardous waste cleanup under the Superfund program. 

Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response (OSWER): The USEPA office that provides policy, guidance, and 

direction for the USEPA’s OSWER programs, including Superfund. 

Performance Evaluation (PE) Sample: A sample of known composition provided by USEPA for contractor analysis. Used 

by USEPA to evaluate contractor performance. 

Pesticides: A pesticide is any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or 

mitigating any pest. Pests can be insects, mice, and other animals, unwanted plants (weeds), fungi, or microorganisms like 

bacteria and viruses. Though often misunderstood to refer only to insecticides, the term pesticide also applies to herbicides, 

fungicides, and various other substances used to control pests. Under United States law, a pesticide is also any substance 

or mixture of substances intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant. 

Quality Assurance (QA): An integrated system of management activities involving planning, implementation, assessment, 

reporting, and quality improvement to ensure that a process, item, or service is of the type and quality needed and expected 

by the customer. 

Quality Control (QC): The overall system of technical activities that measures the attributes and performance of a process, 

item, or service against defined standards to verify that they meet the stated requirements established by the customer; 

operational techniques and activities that are used to fulfill requirements for quality. 

Quality Assurance Technical Support (QATS) Laboratory: A contractor-operated facility that provides Quality Assurance 

(QA) services operated under the QATS contract, awarded and administered by USEPA. 

Remedial Action (RA): The construction or clean-up phase of a Superfund site cleanup. 

Remedial Design: A phase of Remedial Action (RA) that follows the Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS) and 

includes development of engineering drawings and specifications for a site cleanup. 

Remedial Investigation (RI): An in-depth study designed to gather data needed to determine the nature and extent of 

contamination at a Superfund site, establish site cleanup criteria, identify preliminary alternatives for Remedial Action (RA), 

and support technical and cost analyses of alternatives. The RI is usually performed with the Feasibility Study (FS). 

Together they are usually referred to as the “RI/FS”. 

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Remedial Project Manager (RPM): The USEPA or State official responsible for overseeing on-site studies and remediation 

activities. 

Remedial Response: Long-term action that stops or substantially reduces a release or threat of a release of hazardous 

substances that is serious but not an immediate threat to public health. 

Remediation: Cleanup or other methods used to remove or contain a toxic spill or hazardous materials from a Superfund 

site. 

Routine Analytical Service (RAS): The standard inorganic, organic, and organic low concentration high volume, multicomponent analyses available through the Contract Laboratory Program (CLP). 

Regional Sample Control Center (RSCC) Coordinator: The RSCC Coordinator coordinates Regional sampling efforts. 

Sample: A single, discrete portion of material to be analyzed, which is contained in single or multiple containers and 

identified by a unique sample number. 

Sample Management Office (SMO): A contractor-operated facility that is awarded and administered by the USEPA. SMO 

provides management, operations, and administrative support to the Contract Laboratory Program (CLP). 

Statement of Work (SOW): A document which specifies how laboratories analyze samples under a particular Contract 

Laboratory Program (CLP) analytical program. 

Superfund: The program operated under the legislative authority of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, 

Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) that fund and 

carry out USEPA removal and remedial activities at hazardous waste sites. These activities include establishing the National 

Priorities List (NPL), investigating sites for inclusion on the list, determining their priority, and conducting and/or supervising 

cleanup and other remedial actions. 

Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA): The 1986 amendment to the Comprehensive Environmental 

Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). 

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Appendix C

List of Web References

Analysis of Metals (including Mercury) and 

Cyanide in Soil/Sediment and Water http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/inorg.htm 

Analysis of Organic Compounds in Soil/ 

Sediment and Water http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/organic.htm 

Analysis of Organic Compounds (to 

include trace volatile, low/medium volatile, 

semivolatile, pesticide, and Aroclor target http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/som1.htm 

compounds) in Water, and Soil/Sediment 

environmental samples 

Analytical Methods http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/methods.htm 

Brownfields Program http://www.epa.gov/swerosps/bf/ 

CLP Web site http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/ 

CLP & ASB Contacts http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/contacts.htm 

DAT http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/dat.htm 

EPA Order 5360.1 A2 http://www.epa.gov/quality/qs-docs/5360-1.pdf 

FORMS II Lite http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/f2lite.htm 

Guidance Documents http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/guidance.htm 

Introduction to the ASB CLP http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/guidance.htm 

Low Concentration Organic Analytical 

Service for Superfund (Water matrix) Fact http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/facts.htm#lowcon 

Sheet 

Multi-Media, Multi-Concentration, Organic 

Analytical Service for Superfund Fact Sheet http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/facts.htm#organic 

Multi-Media, Multi-Concentration Inorganic 

Analytical Service for Superfund Fact Sheet http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/facts.htm#inorganic 

Per Sample Pricing http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/prices.htm 

Quick Reference Fact Sheets http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/facts.htm 

RSCC Coordinator Contacts http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/rscclist.htm 

SEDD http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/sedd.htm 

STS http://epasmoweb.dyncorp.com/sts/index.html 

Target Compounds and Analyte List http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/target.htm 

WIS http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/clp/wis.htm 

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