QA Handbook Volume II, Appendix D 

Revision No. 0 

Date:07/14 

Page 1 of 49 

 

Appendix D 

Measurement Quality Objectives and Validation Templates 

AMTIC Version

Table of Contents 

(click on link to go to individual tables) 

Validation Template Page 

O3 5 

CO 8 

NO2 , NOx, NO 10 

SO2 13 

PM2.5 Filter Based Local Conditions 16 

Continuous PM2.5 Local Conditions 21 

PM10c for PM10-2.5 Low –Volume , Filter-Based Local Conditions 25 

PM10 Filter Based Dichot STP Conditions 30 

PM10 Filter Based High Volume (HV) STP Conditions 33 

Continuos PM10 STP Conditions 36 

PM10 Low Volume STP Filter-Based Local Conditions 38 

Pb High Volume (TSP) 43 

Pb Low Volume (PM10 ) 46 

Any changes to the templates since the publication of the May 2013 Handbook publication will 

be identified in red font
QA Handbook Volume II, Appendix D 

Revision No. 0 

Date:07/14 

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In June 1998, a workgroup was formed to develop a procedure that could be used by State and 

locals that would provide for a consistent validation of PM2.5 mass concentrations across the US. 

The workgroup included personnel from the monitoring organizations, EPA Regional Offices, 

and OAQPS who are involved with assuring the quality of PM2.5 mass and was headed by a State 

and local representative. The workgroup developed three tables of criteria where each table has 

a different degree of implication about the quality of the data. The criteria included on the tables 

are from 40 CFR Part 50 Appendices L and N, 40 CFR Part 58 Appendix A, Method 2.12, and a 

few criteria that were neither in CFR nor Method 2.12 but which the workgroup felt should be 

included. Upon completion and use of the table, it was decided that a “validation template” 

should be developed for all the criteria pollutants. 

One of the tables has the criteria that the workgroup felt must be met to ensure the quality of the 

data. An example criterion for PM2.5 is that the average flow rate for the sampling period must 

be maintained to within 5% of 16.67 liters per minute. The second table has the criteria that 

indicate that there might be a problem with the quality of the data and further investigation is 

warranted before making a determination about the validity of the sample or samples. An 

example criterion is that the field filter blanks should not change weight by more than 30 

micrograms between weighings. The third table has criteria that indicate a potentially systematic 

problem with the environmental data collection activity. Such systematic problems may impact 

the ability to make decisions with the data. An example criterion is that at least 75% of the 

scheduled samples for each quarter should be successfully collected and validated. 

To determine the appropriate table for each criterion, the members of the workgroup considered 

how significantly the criterion impacted the resulting concentration. This was based on 

experience from workgroup members, experience from non-workgroup members, and feasibility 

of implementing the criterion. 

Criteria that were deemed critical to maintaining the integrity of a sample or group of samples 

were placed on the first table. Observations that do not meet each and every criterion on the 

Critical Criteria Table should be invalidated unless there are compelling reason and 

justification for not doing so. The sample or group of samples for which one or more of these 

criteria are not met is invalid until proven otherwise. The cause of not operating in the 

acceptable range for each of the violated criteria must be investigated and minimized to reduce 

the likelihood that additional samples will be invalidated. 

Criteria that are important for maintaining and evaluating the quality of the data collection 

system are included on the second table, the Operational Evaluations Table. Violation of a 

criterion or a number of criteria may be cause for invalidation. The decision maker should 

consider other quality control information that may or may not indicate the data are acceptable 

for the parameter being controlled. Therefore, the sample or group of samples for which one or 
QA Handbook Volume II, Appendix D 

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more of these criteria are not met is suspect unless other quality control information 

demonstrates otherwise. The reason for not meeting the criteria MUST be investigated, 

mitigated or justified. 

Finally, those criteria which are important for the correct interpretation of the data but do not 

usually impact the validity of a sample or group of samples are included on the third table, the 

Systematic Issues Table. For example, the data quality objectives are included in this table. If 

the data quality objectives are not met, this does not invalidate any of the samples but it may 

impact the error rate associated with the attainment/non-attainment decision. 

Please note the designation Operational or Systematic do not imply that these quality 

control checks need not be performed. If an operational or systematic quality control check 

that is required by regulation is not performed that can be a basis for invalidation of all 

associated data. 

Following are the tables for all the criteria pollutants. For each criterion, the tables include: (1) 

the requirement (2) the frequency with which compliance is to be evaluated, (3) acceptance 

criteria, and (4) information where the requirement can be found or additional guidance on the 

requirement. 

The validation templates have been developed based on the current state of knowledge. The 

templates should evolve as new information is discovered about the impact of the various criteria 

on the error in the resulting mass estimate or concentration. Due to the potential misuse of 

invalid data, data that are invalidated will not be uploaded to AQS but should be retained on the 

monitoring organizations local database. This data will be invaluable to the evolution of the 

validation template. 

Use of Bold Italics Font to Identify CFR Requirements. 

The criteria listed in the validation templates are either requirements that can be found in the 

Code of Federal Regulations, guidance found in a variety of guidance documents, or 

recommendations by the QA Workgroup or EPA. Any time a CFR requirement is identified in 

the Requirement, Frequency or Acceptance Criteria column it will be identified by bold and 

italics font. The Information/Action column will provide the appropriate references for CFR or 

guidance documents. 

Hyperlink References 

Where requirements or guidance documents are found on the web, a hyperlink is created which 

will lead the user to the closest URL address. Any links to CFR are directed to the electronic 

CFR document (e-CFR) which is the most up-to-date. E-CFR will not get you to an individual 

section. Therefore e-CFR is only hyperlinked once on each page. 
QA Handbook Volume II, Appendix D 

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PM10 Note of Caution 

The validation templates for PM10 get complicated because PM10 is required to be reported at 

standard temperature and pressure (STP) for comparison to the NAAQS (and follow 40 CFR Part 

50 App J) and at local conditions if using it to monitor for PM10-2.5 (and follow 40 CFR Part 50 

App O). Moreover, PM10 can be measured with filter-based sampling techniques as well as 

with automated methods. The validation templates developed for PM10 try to accommodate 

these differences, but monitoring organizations are cautioned to review the operations manual for 

the monitors/samplers they use and augment the validation template with QC information 

specific to their EPA reference or equivalent method designation and instrument. 

http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/files/ambient/criteria/reference-equivalent-methods-list.pdf
QA Hand

 Ozone Validation Template 

1) Requirement (O3) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptance Criteria Informa

CRITICAL CRITERIA-OZONE 

One Point QC CheckSingle analyzer 1/ 2 weeks < +7% (percent difference) 

1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58 Ap3) Recommendation based App A Sec 2.3.1.2. QC Cherelative to routine concentra

Zero/span check 1/ 2 weeks Zero drift < + 3.0 ppb (24 hr) < + 5.0 ppb (>24hr-14 day) 

Span drift < + 7 % 

1 and 2) QA Handbook Vo3) Recommendation and re

OPERATIONAL CRITERIA -OZONE

Shelter Temperature Range Daily (hourly values) 

20 to 30o C. (Hourly avg) 

or 

per manufacturers specifications if designated 

to a wider temperature range 

1, 2 and 3) QA Handbook Generally the 20-30 o C ranrestrictive operable range omay also be used as guidanAMTIC provides temp. ranFRM/FEM monitor testing per 40 CFR Part 53.32 

Shelter Temperature Control Daily (hourly values) < + 2o C SD over 24 hours 1, 2 and 3) QA Handbook VShelter Temperature Device Check 

1/6 mo + 2o C of standard 1, 2 and 3) QA Handbook V

Annual Performance Evaluation Single analyzer 

Every site 1/year within period of 

monitor operation, 25 % of sites 

quarterly 

Percent difference of audit levels 3-10 < +15% 

Audit levels 1&2 + 1.5 ppb difference or 

+ 15%

1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58 Ap3) Recommendation- 3 audzero. AMTIC guidance 2/http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amt

Federal Audits (NPAP) 1/year at selected sites 20% of sites audited Audit levels 1&2 + 1.5 ppb difference all other levels percent difference + 10% 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App A s

2) NPAP adequacy require3) NPAP QAPP/SOP 

Verification/Calibration

Upon receipt/adjustment/repair/ 

installation/moving and repair and 

recalibration of standard of higher 

level 

1/6 months if manual zero/span 

performed biweekly 

1/year if continuous zero/span 

performed daily 

All points within + 2 % of calibration range of 

best-fit straight line 

Linearity error <5% 

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App D 2) Recommendation 3) Recommendation- LineaD Multi-point calibration (0 aPart 50 App D sec 5.2.3 

Zero Air/Zero Air Check 1/year Concentrations below LDL 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App D S

2 and 3) Recommendation 

Ozone Level 2 Standard 

Certification/recertification to 

 Standard Reference  Photometer (Level 1)

1/year single point difference < + 3% 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App D S

2 and 3) Transfer Standard 
QA Hand

1) Requirement (O3) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptance Criteria Informa

Level 2 standard (formerly usually transported to EPA 

Level 2 and Greater Transfer Standard Precision 1/year Standard Deviation less than 0.005 ppm or 3% whichever is greater 1) 40 CFR Part 50 Appendi

2) Recommendation, part o3) 40 CFR Part 50 Appendi

 (if recertified via a transfer  standard) 1/year Regression slopes = 1.00 + 0.03 and two intercepts are 0 + 3 ppb 1, 2 and 3) Transfer Standa

001 

Ozone Transfer standard (Level 3 and greater) Qualification Upon receipt of transfer standard +4% or +4 ppb (whichever greater) 1, 2 and 3) Transfer Standa

001 

 Certification After qualification and upon receipt/adjustment/repair RSD of six slopes < 3.7% Std. Dev. of 6 intercepts 1.5 1, 2 and 3) Transfer Standa

001 1 

 Recertification to higher level  standard 

Beginning and end of O3 season or 

1/6 months whichever less 

New slope = + 0.05 of previous and 

RSD of six slopes <3.7% 

Std. Dev. of 6 intercepts 1.5 

1, 2 and 3) Transfer Standa001 recertification test that 5 tests. If does not meet acc

Detection (FEM/FRMs) Noise 

Upon receipt/adjustment/repair/ 

installation/moving and repair and 

recalibration or 1/year 

 < 0.005 ppm 

1) 40 CFR Part 53.23 (b) (d2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53.20 Table 

Lower detectable level 1/year 0.01 ppm 

1) 40 CFR Part 53.23 (b) (d2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 53.20 Table 

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA-OZONE 

Sampler/Monitor/ Transfer and Calibration Standard NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM designation 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App C S

2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53 & FRM/

Standard Reporting Units All data ppm (final units in AQS) 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 Rounding convention for data reported to AQS All data 3 places after decimal with digits to right truncated 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 Completeness (seasonal) 

3-Year Comparison > 90% (avg) daily max available in ozone season with min of 75% in any one year. 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App I 2) 40 CFR Part 50 App I Se

3) 40 CFR Part 50 App I Se

8- hour average >75% of hourly averages for the 8-hour 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App I 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 Ap

Valid Daily Max > 75% of the 24, 8 hour averages (18 of 24 8- hour averages 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App I 2) 40 CFR Part 50 App I Se

3) 40 CFR Part 50 App I Se

Sample Residence Time Verification 1/year < 20 seconds 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, s2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, s

Sample Probe, Inlet, Sampling All sites Borosilicate glass (e.g., Pyrex®) or Teflon® 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, s
QA Hand

1) Requirement (O3) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptance Criteria Informa

train 2) Recommendation 

 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, FEP and PFA have been acto Teflon. Replacement or cand more frequent if pollutadictate 

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, s2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, s

EPA Standard Ozone Reference Photometer (SRP) Recertification (Level 1) 

1/year Regression slope = 1.00 + 0.01 and intercept < 3 ppb 

1,2 and 3) ) Transfer Standa001 This is usually at a Regionaagainst the traveling SRP 

Precision(using 1-point QC checks) 

Calculated annually and as 

appropriate for design value 

estimates 

90% CL CV < 7% 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 22) 40 CFR Part 58 App A s3) 40 CFR Part 58 App A s

Bias (using 1-point QC checks) 

Calculated annually and as 

appropriate for design value 

estimates 

95% CL < + 7% 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 22) 40 CFR Part 58 App A s3) 40 CFR Part 58 App A s

Annual PE Primary QA Organization (PQAO) Evaluation 

1/year 

95% of audit percent differences fall within 

the one point QC check 95% probability 

intervals at PQAO level of aggregation 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App A S2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App A s
QA Hand

CO Validation Template

1) Requirement (CO) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptance Criteria Informa

CRITICAL CRITERIA-CO

One Point QC CheckSingle analyzer 1/ 2 weeks < +10% (percent difference) 

1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58 3) Recommendation baseApp A Sec 2.3.1. QC Chrelative to routine concen

Zero/span check 1/ 2 weeks Zero drift < + 0.4 ppm (24 hr) < + 0.6 ppm (>24hr-14 day) 

Span drift < + 10 % 

1 and 2) QA Handbook V3) Recommendation 

OPERATIONAL CRITERIA-CO

Shelter Temperature range Daily (hourly values) 

20 to 30o C. (Hourly avg) 

or 

per manufacturers specifications if designated to 

a wider temperature range 

1, 2 and 3) QA HandbooGenerally the 20-30 o C rrestrictive operable range shelter may also be used found on AMTIC providinstrument. FRM/FEM m20-30 o C range per 40 C

Shelter Temperature Control Daily (hourly values) < + 2o C SD over 24 hours 1, 2 and 3) QA HandbooShelter Temperature Device Check 1/6 mo + 2o C of standard 1, 2 and 3) QA Handboo

Annual Performance 

Evaluation Single Analyzer 

Every site 1/year 25 % of sites 

quarterly Percent difference of audit levels 3-10 < +15% Audit levels 1&2 + 0.03 ppm difference or +15% 

1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58 3) Recommendation- 3 aincluding zero. AMTIC http://www.epa.gov/ttn/a

Federal Audits (NPAP) 1/year at selected sites 20% of sites audited Audit levels 1&2 + 0.03 ppm difference all other levels percent difference + 15% 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 

2) NPAP adequacy requ3) NPAP QAPP/SOP 

Verification/Calibration

Upon receipt/adjustment/repair/ 

installation/moving 

1/6 months if manual zero/span 

performed biweekly 

1/year if continuous zero/span 

performed daily 

All points within + 2 % of calibration range of 

best-fit straight line 

1) 40 CFR Part 50 Appen2 and 3) RecommendatioSee details about CO2 secalibration (0 and 4 upsc

Gaseous Standards All gas cylinders 

NIST Traceable

(e.g., EPA Protocol Gas) 

1) 40 CFR Part 50 Appen2) NA Green book3) 40 CFR Part 50 Appenabout CO2 sensitive instrGas producer used must Protocol Gas Verification 40 CFR Part 58 App A s

Zero Air/Zero Air Check 1/year < 0.1 ppm CO 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App C 
QA Hand

1) Requirement (CO) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptance Criteria Informa

2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App C 

Gas Dilution Systems 1/year or after failure of 1 point QC check or performance evaluation Accuracy + 2 % 1,2 and 3) Recommenda

in 40 CFR Part 50 App A

Detection (FEM/FRMs)  Noise 1/year 0.2 ppm (standard range) 0.1 ppm (lower range) 1) 40 CFR Part 53.23 (b

2) Recommendation- inf3) 40 CFR Part 53.20 Ta

 Lower detectable level 1/year 0.4 ppm(standard range) 0.2 ppm (lower range) 1) 40 CFR Part 53.23 (c

2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 53.20 Ta

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA-CO

Sampler/Monitor NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM designation 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App C 

2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53 & FRM

Standard Reporting Units All data ppm (final units in AQS) 1, 2 and 3) ) 40 CFR Part Rounding convention for data reported to AQS All data 1 decimal place 

1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5for comparison to NAAQhourly values.) 

Completeness 8-hour standard 75% of hourly averages for the 8-hour period 

1) 40 CFR Part 50.8(c) 2) 40 CFR Part 50.8(a-2) 3) 40 CFR Part 50.8(c) 

Sample Residence Time Verification 1/year < 20 seconds 

1,2, and 3) Recommendasuggest following same mpollutants. 

Sample Probe, Inlet, Sampling train 

All Sites Borosilicate glass (e.g., Pyrex®) or Teflon®

1,2, and 3) Recommendasuggest following same mpollutants. FEP and PFA equivalent material to Tesuggested as 1/year and mdictate. 

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E

Precision(using 1-point QC checks) 

Calculated annually and as 

appropriate for design value 

estimates 

90% CL CV < 10% 

1) 40 CFR part 58 App A 2) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 

Bias (using 1-point QC checks) 

Calculated annually and as 

appropriate for design value 

estimates 

95% CL < + 10% 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 2) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 

Annual PE Primary QA Organization (PQAO) Evaluation 

1/year 

95% of audit percent differences fall within the 

one point QC check 95% probability intervals at 

PQAO level of aggregation 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 
QA Hand

NO2 , NOx, NO Validation Template

1) Requirement (NO2) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptance Criteria Inform

CRITICAL CRITERIA- NO2

One Point QC Check Single analyzer 1/ 2 weeks < +15% (percent difference) 

1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58 3) Recommendation baApp A Sec 2.3.1.5 QC Check Conc range 0Relative to routine conc

Zero/span check 1/ 2 weeks Zero drift < + 3.0 ppb (24 hr) < + 5.0 ppb (>24hr-14 day) 

Span drift < + 10 % 

1 and 2) QA Handbook 3) Recommendation an

Converter Efficiency

During multi-point calibrations, span and 

audit 

1/ 2 weeks 

(>96%) 

96% – 104% 

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App 2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App Regulation states > 96%recommendation. 

OPERATIONAL CRITERIA- NO2

Shelter Temperature Range Daily (hourly values) 

20 to 30o C. (Hourly avg) 

or 

per manufacturers specifications if designated 

to a wider temperature range 

1, 2 and 3) QA HandboGenerally the 20-30 o C restrictive operable rangshelter may also be used found on AMTIC proviinstrument. FRM/FEM 20-30 o C range per 40 C

Shelter Temperature Control Daily (hourly values) < + 2o C SD over 24 hours 1, 2 and 3) QA HandboShelter Temperature Device Check 1/6 mo + 2o C of standard 1, 2 and 3) QA Handbo

Annual Performance 

Evaluation Single Analyzer

Every site 1/year 25 % of sites quarterly Percent difference of audit levels 3-10 < +15% 

Audit levels 1&2 + 1.5 ppb difference or +15% 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App 2) 40 CFR Part 58 App 3) Recommendation - 3 including zero. AMTIC http://www.epa.gov/ttn/

Federal Audits (NPAP) 1/year at selected sites 20% of sites audited Audit levels 1&2 + 1.5 ppb difference all other levels percent difference + 15% 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App 

2) NPAP adequacy req3) NPAP QAPP/SOP 

Verification/Calibration

Upon receipt/adjustment/repair/ 

installation/moving 

1/6 months if manual zero/span 

performed biweekly 

1/year if continuous zero/span performed 

Instrument residence time < 2 min 

Dynamic parameter > 2.75 ppm-min 

All points within +2 % of calibration range of 

best-fit straight line 

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App 2 and 3) RecommendatiMulti-point calibration 
QA Hand

1) Requirement (NO2) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptance Criteria Inform

daily 

Gaseous Standards All gas cylinders 

NIST Traceable

(e.g., EPA Protocol Gas) 

50-100 ppm of NO in Nitrogen with < 1 ppm 

NO2

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App 2) NA Green book3) 40 CFR Part 50 App Gas producer used musAir Protocol Gas Verifi58 App A sec 2.6.1 

Zero Air/ Zero Air Check 1/year Concentrations below LDL 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App 

2 and 3) Recommendati

Gas Dilution Systems 1/year or after failure of 1 point QC check or performance evaluation Accuracy + 2 % 1,2 and 3) Recommend

requirement in 40 CFR 

Detection (FEM/FRMs) Noise NA 0.005 ppm 

1) 40 CFR Part 53.23 (2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53.20 T

Lower detectable level 1/year 0.01 ppm 

1) 40 CFR Part 53.23 (2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 53.20 T

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA- NO2

Sampler/Monitor NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM designation 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App 

2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53 & FR

Standard Reporting Units All data ppb (final units in AQS) 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part Rounding convention for data reported to AQ S All data 1 place after decimal with digits to right truncated 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part Completeness 

Annual Standard ≥ 75% hours in year 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App 

2) 40 CFR Part 50 App 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App 

1-hour standard 

1) 3consecutive calendars years of complete 

data 

2) 4 quarters complete in each year 

3) ≥75% sampling days in quarter 

4) ≥ 75% of hours in a day 

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App 2) 40 CFR Part 50 App 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App More details in 40 CFR 

Sample Residence Time Verification 1/year < 20 seconds

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App 2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App 

Sample Probe, Inlet, Sampling train 

All sites Borosilicate glass (e.g., Pyrex®) or Teflon®

1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part FEP and PFA have been material to Teflon. Replsuggested as 1/year and 
QA Hand

1) Requirement (NO2) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptance Criteria Inform

load or contamination d

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App 2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App 

Precision(using 1-point QC checks)

Calculated annually and as appropriate 

for design value estimates 90% CL CV < 15%

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App 2) 40 CFR Part 58 App 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App 

Bias (using 1-point QC checks) Calculated annually and as appropriate for design value estimates 95% CL < + 15% 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App 

2) 40 CFR Part 58 App 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App 

Annual PE Primary QA Organization (PQAO) Evaluation 

1/year 

95% of audit percent differences fall within 

the one point QC check 95% probability 

intervals at PQAO level of aggregation

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App 2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App 
QA Hand

SO2 Validation Template 

1) Requirement (SO2) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptance Criteria Inform

CRITICAL CRITERIA- SO2

One Point QC CheckSingle analyzer 1/ 2 weeks < +10% (percent difference) 

1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58 3) Recommendation baseApp A Sec 2.3.1.2 QC Check Conc range 0.Relative to routine conce

Zero/span check 1/ 2 weeks Zero drift < + 3.0 ppb (24 hr) < + 5.0 ppb (>24hr-14 day) 

Span drift < + 10 % 

1 and 2) QA Handbook V3) Recommendation and 

OPERATIONAL CRITERIA- SO2

Shelter Temperature Range Daily (hourly values) 

20 to 30o C. (Hourly avg) 

or 

per manufacturers specifications if designated 

to a wider temperature range 

1, 2 and 3) QA HandbooGenerally the 20-30 o C rrestrictive operable range shelter may also be used found on AMTIC provideinstrument.FRM/FEM m30 o C range per 40 CFR 

Shelter Temperature Control Daily (hourly values) < + 2o C SD over 24 hours 1, 2 and 3) QA Handbook Shelter Temperature Device Check 1/6 mo + 2o C of standard 1, 2 and 3) QA Handbook 

Annual Performance 

Evaluation Single Analyzer

Every site 1/year 25 % of sites quarterly Percent difference of audit levels 3-10 < +15% 

Audit levels 1&2 + 1.5 ppb difference or +15%

1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58 3) Recommendation - 3 aincluding zero. AMTIC http://www.epa.gov/ttn/a

Federal Audits (NPAP) 1/year at selected sites 20% of sites audited Audit levels 1&2 + 1.5 ppb difference all other levels percent difference + 15% 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 

2) NPAP adequacy requ3) NPAP QAPP/SOP 

Verification/Calibration

Upon receipt/adjustment/repair/ 

installation/moving 

1/6 months if manual zero/span 

performed biweekly 

1/year if continuous zero/span 

performed daily 

All points within + 2 % of calibration range of 

best-fit straight line 

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App A2 and 3) RecommendatioMulti-point calibration (0 

Gaseous Standards All gas cylinders NIST Traceable (e.g., EPA Protocol Gas) 

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App A2) NA Green book3) 40 CFR Part 50 App F Producers must participatVerification Program 40 

Zero Air/ Zero Air Check 1/year Concentrations below LDL 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App A
QA Hand

1) Requirement (SO2) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptance Criteria Inform

< 0.1 ppm aromatic hydrocarbons 2) Recommendation 

3) Recommendation and Section 4.1.6.2 

Gas Dilution Systems 1/year or after failure of 1 point QC check or performance evaluation Accuracy + 2 % 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App A

2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App A

Detection (FEM/FRMs)  Noise NA 0.001 ppm (standard range) 0.0005 ppm (lower range) 1) 40 CFR Part 53.23 (b) 

2) NA 3) ) 40 CFR Part 53.20 T

 Lower detectable level 1/year 0.002 ppm (standard range) 0.001 ppm (lower range) 1) 40 CFR Part 53.23 (c) 

2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 53.20 Tab

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA- SO2

Sampler/Monitor NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM designation 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App C 

3) 40 CFR Part 53 & FRM

Standard Reporting Units All data ppb (final units in AQS) 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part Rounding convention for data reported to AQS All data 1 place after decimal with digits to right truncated 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part Completeness 1 hour standard 

Hour – 75% of hour 

Day- 75% hourly Conc 

Quarter- 75% complete days 

Years- 4 complete quarters 

5-min value reported only for valid hours 

1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5More details in CFR on a5-min values or 5-min mavalid portion of the hour incomplete no 5-min or 5

Sample Residence Time Verification 1/year < 20 seconds

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E

Sample Probe, Inlet, Sampling train All sites Borosilicate glass (e.g., Pyrex®) or Teflon®

1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5FEP and PFA have been to Teflon. Replacement o1/year and more frequencontamination dictate 

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E

Precision(using 1-point QC checks) 

Calculated annually and as appropriate 

for design value estimates 90% CL CV < 10%

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 2) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 

Bias (using 1-point QC checks) Calculated annually and as appropriate for design value estimates 95% CL < + 10% 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 

2) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 

Annual PE Primary QA Organization (PQAO) 1/year 95% of audit percent differences fall within the one point QC check 95% probability intervals 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 

2) Recommendation 
QA Hand

1) Requirement (SO2) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptance Criteria Inform

Evaluation at PQAO level of aggregation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App A 
QA Hand

PM2.5 Filter Based Local Conditions Validation Template 

1) Criteria (PM2.5 LC ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

CRITICAL CRITERIA- PM2.5 Filter Based Local Conditions

Field Activities 

Filter Holding Times Sample Recovery all filters <7 days 9 hours from sample end date 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Sampling Period (including multiple power failures) all filters 

1380-1500 minutes, or 

value if < 1380 and exceedance of NAAQS 1/

midnight to midnight local standard time

1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5See details if less than 1

Sampling Instrument Average Flow Rate every 24 hours of op average within 5% of 16.67 liters/minute 1, 2 and 3) Part 50 App L Variability in Flow Rate every 24 hours of op CV < 2% 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5One-point Flow Rate Verification 1/mo + 4% of transfer standard + 5% of flow rate design value 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5

and 40 CFR Part 58, App

Laboratory Activities 

Post-sampling Weighing all filters

<10 days from sample end date if shipped at 

ambient temp, or 

<30 days if shipped below avg ambient (or 4o C 

or below for avg sampling temps < 4o C ) from 

sample end date

1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5

Filter Visual Defect Check (unexposed) all filters Correct type & size and for pinholes, particles or imperfections 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Filter Conditioning Environment 

Equilibration all filters 24 hours minimum 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Temp. Range all filters 24-hr mean 20-23o C 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Temp.Control all filters + 2o C SD* over 24 hr 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Humidity Range all filters 24-hr mean 30% - 40% RH or <5% sampling RH but > 20%RH 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Humidity Control all filters + 5% SD* over 24 hr. 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Pre/post Sampling RH all filters difference in 24-hr means < + 5% RH 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Balance all filters located in filter conditioning environment 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5

OPERATIONAL EVALUATIONS TABLE PM2.5 Filter Based Local Conditions

Field Activities

Sampling InstrumentIndividual Flow Rates every 24 hours of op no flow rate excursions > +5% for > 5 min. 1/ 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Filter Temp Sensor every 24 hours of op no excursions of > 5o C lasting longer than 30 min 1/ 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Routine Verifications
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM2.5 LC ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

External Leak Check every 5 sampling events < 80 mL/min (see comment #1)

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App L2) Method 2-12 Table 8-3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

Internal Leak Check every 5 sampling events < 80 mL/min 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2) Method 2-12 Table 8-3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

One-point Temp Verification 1/mo + 2oC 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2) Method 2.12 Table 6-3) Recommendation 

Pressure Verification 1/mo + 10 mm Hg 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2) Method 2.12 Table 6-3) Recommendation 

Annual Multi-point Verifications/CalibrationsTemperature multi-point Verification/Calibration on installation, then 1/yr + 2oC 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

2 and 3) Method 2.12 se

Pressure Verification/Calibration on installation, then 1/yr + 10 mm Hg 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2 and 3) Method 2.12 seSampler BP verified agaiverified against a lab primNIST traceable 1/year 

Flow Rate Multi-point Verification/ Calibration 

Electromechanical 

maintenance or transport or 

1/yr

+ 4% of transfer standard 

 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App 2) 40 CFR Part 50, AppTable 6-1 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

Design Flow Rate Adjustment at one-point or multi-point verification/calibration + 2% of design flow rate 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Other Monitor Calibrations per manufacturers’ op manual per manufacturers’ operating manual 1,2 and 3) RecommendatPrecisionCollocated Samples every 12 days for 15% of sites by method designation CV < 10% of samples > 3 μg/m3 1) and 2) Part 58 App A 

3 Recommendation based App A Sec 2.3.1.1 

AccuracyTemperature Audit 1/yr + 2oC 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Pressure Audit 1/yr +10 mm Hg 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Semi Annual Flow Rate Audit 1/6 mo + 4% of audit standard + 5% of design flow rate 1 and 2) Part 58, App A, 

3) Method 2.12 Sec. 10.2

Monitor MaintenanceImpactor (WINs) every 5 sampling events cleaned/changed 1, 2,and 3) Method 2.12 Very Sharp Cut Cyclone every 30 days cleaned/changed 1,2 and 3) RecommendaInlet/downtube Cleaning every 15 sampling events cleaned 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 Filter Chamber Cleaning 1/mo cleaned 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM2.5 LC ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

Circulating Fan Filter Cleaning 1/mo cleaned/changed 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 

Manufacturer-Recommended Maintenance 

per manufacturers’ SOP per manufacturers’ SOP 

Laboratory Activities 

Filter Checks Lot Blanks 9 filters per lot less than 15 μg change between weighings 

1, 2, 3) Recommendation stability of the lot of filtevendor. 

Exposure Lot Blanks 3 filters per lot less than 15 μg change between weighings 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 S

Used for preparing a sub

Filter Integrity (exposed) each filter no visual defects 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 SFilter Holding TimesPre-sampling all filters < 30 days before sampling 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Lab QC ChecksField Filter Blank 10% or 1 per weighing session + 30 μg change between weighings 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 

2 and 3) Method 2.12 Se

Lab Filter Blank 10% or 1 per weighing session + 15 μg change between weighings 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 

2 and 3) Method 2.12 Se

Balance Check (working standards) beginning, 10th sample, end <3 +μg 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 SDuplicate Filter Weighing 1 per weighing session + 15 μg change between weighings 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 SMicrobalance Audit 1/yr + 0.050 mg or manufacturers specs, whichever is tighter 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 SVerification/CalibrationLab Temperature 1/6 months + 2oC 

1) Method 2.12 Table 3-2 2) Recommendation. Tab3) Method 2.12 Table 3-2 

Lab Humidity 1/6 months + 2% 

1) Method 2.12 Table 3-2 2) Recommendation Tab3) Method 2.12 Table 3-2 

Microbalance Calibration 

At installation and prior to 

each weighing session 

1/yr 

Manufacturer’s specification 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2) 40 CFR Part 50, App.LSec. 7.2 3) NA 

Calibration & Check Standards - Working Mass Stds. (compare to primary standards) Primary standards

1/3 mo. 

1/yr 

0.025 mg 0.025 mg 

1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA -PM2.5 Filter Based Local Conditions 

Sampler/Monitor NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM/ARM designation 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App C 

2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53 & FRM
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM2.5 LC ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E

Data Completeness Annual Standard > 75% scheduled sampling days in each quarter 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 

24- Hour Standard > 75% scheduled sampling days in each quarter 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 

Reporting Units all filters μg/m3 at ambient temp/pressure (PM2.5) 1. 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Rounding convention for data reported to AQS all filters to one decimal place, with additional digits to the right being truncated 1. 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Annual 3-yr average all concentrations nearest 0.1 μg/m3 (> 0.05 round up) 

1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Rounding convention for recommendation 

24-hour, 3-year average all concentrations nearest 1 μg/m3 (> 0.5 round up) 

1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Rounding convention for recommendation 

Detection LimitLower DL all filters 2 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Upper Conc. Limit all filters  200 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5PrecisionSingle analyzer (collocated monitors) 1/3 mo. Coefficient of variation (CV) < 10% for values > 3 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) Recommendat

(quarterly) evaluation of 

Primary Quality Assurance Org. Annual and 3 year estimates 90% CL of CV < 10% for values > 3 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5

. 

BiasPerformance Evaluation Program (PEP) 

5 audits for PQAOs with < 5 

sites 

8 audits for PQAOs with > 5 

sites 

+10% for values > 3 μg/m3

1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 52.3.1.1 

Field Activities

Verification/Calibration Standards Recertifications – All standards should have multi-point certifications against NIST Traceab

Flow Rate Transfer Std. 1/yr + 2% of NIST Traceable Std. 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 2) Method 2-12 Section 63) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 

Field Thermometer 1/yr + 0.1o C resolution, + 0.5o C accuracy 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Field Barometer 1/yr + 1 mm Hg resolution, + 5 mm Hg accuracy 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Clock/timer Verification 1/mo 1 min/mo 1and 2) Method 2.12 Tab

3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 

Laboratory Activities

Microbalance Readability at purchase 1 μg 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM2.5 LC ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

Microbalance Repeatability 1/yr 1 μg 

1) Method 2.12 Sec 4.3.6 2) Recommendation 3) Method 2.12 Sec 4.3.6 

Primary Mass. Verification/Calibration Standards Recertifications 

1/yr 0.025 mg 

1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 

Comment #1 The associated leak test procedure shall require that for successful passage of this test, the difference between the two pressure measurements shall not be gof Hg specified for the sampler by the manufacturer, based on the actual internal volume of the sampler, that indicates a leak of less than 80 mL/min.

1/ value must be flagged SD * = standard deviation CV= coefficient of variation 
QA Hand

Continuous PM2.5 Local Conditions Validation Template NOTE: There may be a number of continuous monitors that may be designated as an FEM or an ARM. These monitors may have different 

attributes that cannot be identified in this validation template. Monitoring organizations should review specific instrument operating manuals 

template as necessary. In general, 40 CFR Part 58 App A and 40 CFR Part 50 App L requirements apply to Continuous PM2.5 

1) Criteria (PM2.5 Cont) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Infor

CRITICAL CRITERIA- PM2.5 Continuous, Local Conditions

Sampling Period 24 hour estimate every sample period > 75% (18) of hourly averages 

1,2and 3) 40 CFR  See additional det18 hours. 

Hourly estimates Every hour Instrument dependent See operators manu

Sampling Instrument Average Flow Rate every 24 hours of op average within 5% of 16.67 liters/minute 1, 2 and 3) Part 50 Variability in Flow Rate every 24 hours of op CV < 2% 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR One-point Flow Rate Verification 1/mo + 4% of transfer standard + 5% of flow rate design value 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR 

CFR Part 58, Appe

BAM Specific Critical Criteria 

Reference Membrane Span Foil Verification (BAM) Hourly + 4% of ABS Value 1,2 and 3) BAM 10

OPERATIONAL CRITERIA- PM2.5 Continuous, Local Conditions

Annual Multi-point Verifications/CalibrationsLeak Check every 30 days < 1.0 lpm BAM (Not Thermo BAMS) + 0.15 lpm TEOM

1) 40 CFR Part 50 2) Recommendatio3) BAM SOP Sec  TEOM SOP Sec Thermo BAM leak Foils could be rupt

Temperature multi-point Verification/Calibration on installation, then 1/yr + 2oC 1) 40 CFR Part 50, 

2 and 3) Method 2

One-point Temp Verification 1/mo + 2oC 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, 2) Method 2.12 Ta3) Recommendatio

Pressure Verification/Calibration on installation, then 1/yr + 10 mm Hg 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, 2 and 3) Method 2 BP verified againsagainst a lab primaNIST traceable 1/y
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM2.5 Cont) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Infor

Flow Rate Multi-point Verification/ Calibration 

Electromechanical 

maintenance or transport or 

1/yr

+ 4% of transfer standard 

 1) 40 CFR Part 50 2) 40 CFR Part 50Table 6-1 3) 40 CFR Part 50, 

Design Flow Rate Adjustment at one-point or multi-point verification/calibration + 2% of design flow rate 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Other Monitor Calibrations per manufacturers’ op manual per manufacturers’ operating manual PrecisionCollocated Samples every 12 days for 15% of sites by method designation CV < 10% of samples > 3 μg/m3 1) and 2) Part 58 A

3 Recommendation 58 App A Sec 2.3.

AccuracyTemperature Audit 1/yr + 2oC 1, 2 and 3) Method Pressure Audit 1/yr +10 mm Hg 1, 2 and 3) Method Semi Annual Flow Rate Audit 1/6 mo + 4% of audit standard + 5% of design flow rate 1 and 2) Part 58, A

3) Method 2.12 Se

Shelter Temperature  Temperature range Daily (hourly values) 

20 to 30o C. (Hourly avg) 

or 

per manufacturers specifications if designated to a wider 

temperature range 

Generally the 20-3most restrictive opin the shelter may 

 Temperature Control Daily (hourly values) <+ 2o C SD over 24 hours 1, 2 and 3) QA Han Temperature Device Check 1/6 mo + 2oC 1, 2 and 3) QA HanMonitor MaintenanceVirtual Impactor (VSCC) Every 30 days cleaned/changed 1,2 and 3) RecommInlet Cleaning Every 30 days cleaned 1,2 and 3) Method Filter Chamber Cleaning Every 30 days cleaned 1,2 and 3) Method Circulating Fan Filter Cleaning 1/mo cleaned/changed 1,2 and 3) Method Manufacturer-Recommended  Maintenance per manufacturers’ SOP per manufacturers’ SOP 

TEOM Specific Operational Criteria

Total Flow Verification every 30 days Sum of flow rates from 3 paths equal design flow rate + 5% 1,2 and 3) TEOM SBypass leak check (TEOM) every 30 days + 0.60 lpm 1,2 and 3) TEOM S

Operating Manual 

Replace TEOM filters every 30 days As filter loading approached 100% 1,2 and 3) TEOM SReplace the 47-mm FDMS (Purge) filters 

every 30 days or any time 

TEOM filters are replaced replaced 1,2 and 3) TEOM S

Internal/External Data Logger Data Every 30 days 10 randomly selected values agree exactly (digital) and + 1 μg/m3 (analog) 1, 2 and 3) TEOM Replace In-line filters 1/6 mo replaced 1, 2 and 3) TEOM 
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM2.5 Cont) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Infor

Clean cooler assembly 1/yr cleaned 1, 2 and 3) TEOM Clean/Maintain switching valve 1/yr cleaned 1, 2 and 3) TEOM Clean air inlet system of mass transducer enclosure 1/yr cleaned 1, 2 and 3) TEOM Replace the dryers 1/yr or due to poor performance replaced 1, 2 and 3) TEOM Calibration (KO) constant verification 1/yr Pass or Fail (< 2.5%) 

1, 2 TEOM SOP S3) 1405-DF operateither passes or faicriteria is < 2.5 % 

Rebuild sampling pump 18 months < 66% of local pressure 1, 2 and 3) TEOM 

GRIMM Specific Operational Criteria

Internal rinsing air filter After a few years Changed 

1, 2 and 3) GRIMM May require a trainonly require changnozzle and air inlet

Change Dust Filter 1/year Changed 1, 2 and 3) GRIMM 

BAM Specific Operational Criteria

Cleaning Nozzle and Van (BAM) Every 30 days cleaned 1, 2 and 3) BAM SReplace or Clean pump Muffler 1/6 mo Cleaned or changed Internal/External Data Logger Data (BAM) 

Every 30 days 

10 randomly selected values agree exactly (digital) and + 1 μg/m3 (analog) 1, 2 and 3) BAM S

Capstan shaft and pinch roller cleaning (BAM) Every 30 days cleaned 1, 2 and 3) BAM SSmart Heater Test 1/6 mo Heater turns when forced off 1, 2 and 3) BAM SClean/replace internal debris filter 1/year 72-Hour zero filter test At installation and 1/year 1, 2 and 3) BAM SCheck of membrane span foil 1/year Avg. < + 5% of ABS 1, 2 and 3) BAM SBeta detector count rate 1/year Between 600,00 and 1,000,000 1, 2 and 3) BAM S

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA- PM2.5 Continuous, Local Conditions

Sampler/Monitor NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM/ARM designation 1) 40 CFR Part 58 

2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53 

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 2) Recommendatio3) 40 CFR Part 58 

Data Completeness quarterly > 75% Part 50, App. N, SeReporting Units all filters μg/m3 at ambient temp/pressure (PM2.5) 1. 2 and 3) 40 CFR Rounding convention for data reported to AQS all filters to one decimal place, with additional digits to the right being truncated 1. 2 and 3) 40 CFR 
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM2.5 Cont) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Infor

Annual 3-yr average all concentrations nearest 0.1 μg/m3 (> 0.05 round up) 

1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Rounding conventirecommendation 

24-hour, 3-year average all concentrations nearest 1 μg/m3 (> 0.5 round up) 

1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Rounding conventirecommendation 

Detection LimitLower DL all filters 2 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Upper Conc. Limit all filters  200 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Verification/Calibration Standards Recertifications - All standards should have multi-point certifications against NIST Traceable standards Flow Rate Transfer Std. 1/yr + 2% of NIST Traceable Std. Part 50, App.L Sec Field Thermometer 1/yr + 0.1o C resolution, + 0.5o C accuracy Method 2.12 Sec 4Field Barometer 1/yr + 1 mm Hg resolution, + 5 mm Hg accuracy Method 2.12 Sec 4Calibration & Check StandardsFlow Rate Transfer Std. 1/yr + 2% of NIST-traceable Std. Part 50, APP L, SeVerification/CalibrationClock/timer Verification 1/mo 1 min/mo** Part 50, App.L, SePrecisionSingle analyzer (collocated monitors) 1/3 mo. Coefficient of variation (CV) < 10% for values > 3 μg/m3

1,2 and 3) Recommearly (quarterly) evDQOs. 

Primary Quality Assurance Org. Annual and 3 year estimates 90% CL of CV < 10% for values > 3 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR 

2.3.1.1 . 

BiasPerformance Evaluation Program (PEP) 

5 audits for PQAOs with < 5 

sites 

8 audits for PQAOs with > 5 

sites 

+10% for values > 3 μg/m3

1,2 and 3) 40 CFR and 2.3.1.1 

1/ value must be flagged due to current implementation of BAM ( sampling 42 minute/hour) only 1008 minutes of sampling in 24 hour period SD= standard deviation , CV= coefficient of variation** = need to ensure data system stamps appropriate time period with reported sample value 
QA Hand

PM10c for PM10-2.5 Low –Volume , Filter-Based Local Conditions Validation Template NOTE: The following validation template was constructed for use of PM10 at local conditions where PM10c is used in the calculation of the P

objectives other than comparison to the PM10 NAAQS. Although the PM 10-2.5 method is found in 40 CFR Part 50 Appendix O, Appendix O 

PM2.5 Method) for the QC requirements listed below. Therefore, the information action column, in most cases, will reference 40 CFR Part 5organizations using PM10 data for a NAAQS comparison purposes should refer to the PM10 validation template for STP (standard temperatur

In addition, since the samplers are very similar to the PM2.5 samplers, Guidance Document 2.12 Monitoring PM2.5 in Ambient Air Using D

1 Equivalent Methods is referred to where appropriate. 

1) Criteria (PM10c ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

CRITICAL CRITERIA- PM10c Filter Based Local Conditions

Field Activities 

Filter Holding Times Sample Recovery all filters <7 days 9 hours from sample end date 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Sampling Period (including multiple power failures) all filters 

1380-1500 minutes, or 

value if < 1380 and exceedance of NAAQS 1/

midnight to midnight local standard time

1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5See details if less than 1

Sampling Instrument Average Flow Rate every 24 hours of op average within 5% of 16.67 liters/minute 1, 2 and 3) Part 50 App L Variability in Flow Rate every 24 hours of op CV < 2% 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5One-point Flow Rate Verification 1/mo + 4% of transfer standard + 5% of flow rate design value 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5

Part 58, Appendix A Sec 

Laboratory Activities 

Post-sampling Weighing all filters

<10 days from sample end date if shipped at 

ambient temp, or 

<30 days if shipped below avg ambient (or 4o C 

or below for avg sampling temps < 4o C ) from 

sample end date

1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5

Filter Visual Defect Check (unexposed) all filters Correct type & size and for pinholes, particles or imperfections 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Filter Conditioning Environment 

Equilibration all filters 24 hours minimum 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Temp. Range all filters 24-hr mean 20-23o C 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Temp.Control all filters + 2o C SD* over 24 hr 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Humidity Range all filters 24-hr mean 30% - 40% RH or <5% sampling RH but > 20%RH 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Humidity Control all filters + 5% SD* over 24 hr. 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Pre/post Sampling RH all filters difference in 24-hr means < + 5% RH 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10c ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

Balance all filters located in filter conditioning environment 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5

OPERATIONAL EVALUATIONS TABLE- PM10c Filter Based Local Conditions

Field Activities

Sampling InstrumentIndividual Flow Rates every 24 hours of op no flow rate excursions > +5% for > 5 min. 1/ 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Filter Temp Sensor every 24 hours of op no excursions of > 5o C lasting longer than 30 min 1/ 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Routine VerificationsExternal Leak Check every 5 sampling events < 80 mL/min (see comment #1)

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App L2) Method 2-12 Table 8-3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

Internal Leak Check every 5 sampling events < 80 mL/min 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2) Method 2-12 Table 8-3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

One-point Temp Verification 1/mo + 2oC 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2) Method 2.12 Table 6-3) Recommendation 

Pressure Verification 1/mo + 10 mm Hg 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2) Method 2.12 Table 6-3) Recommendation 

Annual Multi-point Verifications/CalibrationsTemperature multi-point Verification/Calibration on installation, then 1/yr + 2oC 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

2 and 3) Method 2.12 se

Pressure Verification/Calibration on installation, then 1/yr + 10 mm Hg 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2 and 3) Method 2.12 seSampler BP verified agaiverified against a lab primas NIST traceable 1/year 

Flow Rate Multi-point Verification/ Calibration 

Electromechanical 

maintenance or transport or 

1/yr

+ 4% of transfer standard 

 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App 2) 40 CFR Part 50, AppTable 6-1 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

Design Flow Rate Adjustment at one-point or multi-point verification/calibration + 2% of design flow rate 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Other Monitor Calibrations per manufacturers’ op manual per manufacturers’ operating manual 1,2 and 3) RecommendatPrecisionCollocated Samples every 12 days for 15% of sites by method designation CV < 15% of samples > 3 μg/m3 1) and 2) Part 58 App A 

3 Recommendation based App A Sec 2.3.1.3 

AccuracyTemperature Audit 1/yr + 2oC 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10c ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

Pressure Audit 1/yr +10 mm Hg 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Semi Annual Flow Rate Audit 1/6 mo + 4% of audit standard + 5% of design flow rate 1 and 2) Part 58 App A, 

3) Method 2.12 Sec. 10.2

Monitor MaintenanceImpactor (WINs) every 5 sampling events cleaned/changed 1, 2,and 3) Method 2.12 Very Sharp Cut Cyclone every 30 days cleaned/changed 1,2 and 3) RecommendaInlet/downtube Cleaning every 15 sampling events cleaned 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 Filter Chamber Cleaning 1/mo cleaned 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Circulating Fan Filter Cleaning 1/mo cleaned/changed 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 

Manufacturer-Recommended Maintenance per manufacturers’ SOP per manufacturers’ SOP 

Laboratory Activities 

Filter Checks Lot Blanks 9 filters per lot less than 15 μg change between weighings 

1, 2 and 3) Recommendfilter stability of the lot ovendor. 

Exposure Lot Blanks 3 filters per lot less than 15 μg change between weighings 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 S

Used for preparing a sub

Filter Integrity (exposed) each filter no visual defects 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 SFilter Holding TimesPre-sampling all filters < 30 days before sampling 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Lab QC ChecksField Filter Blank 10% or 1 per weighing session + 30 μg change between weighings 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Se

Lab Filter Blank 10% or 1 per weighing session + 15 μg change between weighings 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 

2 and 3) Method 2.12 Se

Balance Check (working standards) beginning, 10th sample, end <3 μg 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 SDuplicate Filter Weighing 1 per weighing session + 15 μg change between weighings 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 SMicrobalance Audit 1/yr + 0.050 mg or manufacturers specs, whichever is tighter 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 SVerification/CalibrationLab Temperature 1/6 months + 2oC 

1) Method 2.12 Table 3-2 2) Recommendation Tab3) Method 2.12 Table 3-2 

Lab Humidity 1/6 months + 2% 

1) Method 2.12 Table 3-2 2) Recommendation Tab3) Method 2.12 Table 3-2 
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10c ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

Microbalance Calibration 

At installation and prior to 

each weighing session 

1/yr 

Manufacturer’s specification 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2) 40 CFR Part 50, App.LSec. 7.2 3) NA 

Calibration & Check Standards - Working Mass Stds. (compare to primary standards) 1/3 mo. 0.025 mg 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA - PM10c Filter Based Local Conditions 

Sampler/Monitor NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM/ARM designation 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App C 

2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53 & FRM

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E

Data Completeness NA > 75% scheduled sampling days in each quarter 

1, 2 and 3) Recommendarequirements in 40 CFR 4.2 (a) 

Reporting Units all filters μg/m3 at ambient temp/pressure (PM2.5) 1. 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Rounding convention for data reported to AQS all concentrations nearest 0.1 μg/m3 (> 0.05 round up) 1,2 and 3) Recommenda

requirements 40 CFR Par

Detection LimitLower DL all filters <3 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Upper Conc. Limit all filters >200 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5PrecisionSingle analyzer (collocated monitors) 1/3 mo. Coefficient of variation (CV) < 10% for values > 3 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) Recommendat

evaluation of achievemen

Primary Quality Assurance Org. Annual and 3 year estimates 90% CL of CV < 10% for values > 3 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5BiasPerformance Evaluation Program (PEP) 

5 audits for PQAOs with < 5 

sites 

8 audits for PQAOs with > 5 

sites 

+10% for values > 3 μg/m3

1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 2.3.1.1 

Field Activities

Verification/Calibration Standards Recertifications – All standards should have multi-point certifications against NIST Traceable standardsFlow Rate Transfer Std. 1/yr + 2% of NIST-traceable Std. 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 2) Method 2-12 Section 63) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 

Field Thermometer 1/yr + 0.1o C resolution, + 0.5o C accuracy 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Field Barometer 1/yr + 1 mm Hg resolution, + 5 mm Hg accuracy 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10c ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

Verification/CalibrationClock/timer Verification 1/mo 1 min/mo 1 and 2) Method 2.12 Ta

3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

Laboratory Activities

Microbalance Readability at purchase 1 μg 1, 2 and 3) ) 40 CFR Part Microbalance Repeatability 1/yr 1 μg 

1) Method 2.12 Sec 4.3.6 2) Recommendation 3) Method 2.12 Sec 4.3.6 

Primary Mass Stds. 1/yr 0.025 mg 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Comment #1 The associated leak test procedure shall require that for successful passage of this test, the difference between the two pressure measurements shall not be gof Hg specified for the sampler by the manufacturer, based on the actual internal volume of the sampler, that indicates a leak of less than 80 mL/min.

1/ value must be flagged , SD= standard deviation, CV= coefficient of variation 
QA Hand

PM10 Filter Based Dichot STP Conditions Validation Template 

1) Criteria (PM10 Dichot 

STP) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Informat

CRITICAL CRITERIA- PM10 Filter Based Dichot 

Field Activities

Filter Holding Times Sample Recovery all filters ASAP 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 ASampling Period all filters 1440 minutes + 60 minutes midnight to midnight local standard time 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 ASampling Instrument Average Flow Rate every 24 hours of op average 16.67 liters/minute 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec 2Verification/CalibrationOne-point Flow Rate Verification 1/mo + 7% of transfer standard 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 Tabl

Lab Activities

FilterVisual Defect Check (unexposed) all filters see reference 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec 4Collection efficiency all filters > 99 % 1,2 and 3) Part 50, App J sec Alkalinity all filters < 25.0 microequivalents/gram 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, AFilter Conditioning Environment 

Equilibration all filters 24 hours minimum 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, ATemp. Range all filters 15-30o C 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, ATemp.Control all filters + 3o C SD* over 24 hr 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, A

SD statistic is recommendati

Humidity Range all filters 20% - 45% RH 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, AHumidity Control all filters + 5% SD* over 24 hr 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, A

SD use is recommendation 

Pre/post Sampling RH all filters difference in 24-hr means < + 5% RH 1,2 and 3) Recommendation 

App.L sec 8.3.3 

Balance all filters located in filter conditioning environment 1,2 and 3) Recommendation 

App.L sec 8.3.2 

OPERATIONAL EVALUATIONS TABLE PM10 Filter Based Dichot 

Field Activities

Verification/CalibrationSystem Leak Check During precalibration check Vacuum of 10 to 15 in. & rate of decline to 0 >60 seconds 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec 2FR Multi-point Verification/Calibration 1/yr 

Correlation coefficient of >.990 with no point 

deviating more than 0.5 L/min for total or 0.05 

L/min for coarse 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.J, se2 and 3) Method 2.10 Sec 2.

Field Temp M-point Verification on installation, then 1/yr + 2oC 1,2 and 3) Recommendation Precision
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10 Dichot 

STP) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Informat

Collocated Samples every 12 days for 15% of sites 5 μg/m3 for concentrations below 80μg/m3 and 7% for concentrations above 80μg/m3 1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58 Ap

3) Part 50, App J sec 4.1 

Semi Annual Flow Rate Audit 1/6 mo + 10% of audit standard 1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58, Ap

3) Method 2.10 Sec 7.1.5 

Monitor MaintenanceImpactor 1/3 mo cleaned/changed 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec Inlet/downtube Cleaning 1/3 mo cleaned 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec 

Vacuum pump 1/yr Replace diaphragm and flapper valves 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec Manufacturer-Recommended Maintenance per manufacturers’ SOP per manufacturers’ SOP 

Lab Activities

Balance Check beginning, 10th sample, end  4 μg of true zero <2 μg of 10 mg check weight 1,2 and 3) Method 2 .10 sec “Standard” filter QC check 10% + 20 μg change from original value 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec 

From standard non-routine fi

“Routine” duplicate weighing 5-7 per weighing session + 20 μg change from original value 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec 

From routine filter set 

Integrity- Random sample of test field blank filters 10% + 5 μg/m3

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App J sec 2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App J sec 

Lab Temperature Calibration 1/6 months + 2oC 1,2 and 3) Recommendation 

App.L 

Lab Humidity Calibration 1/6 months + 2% 1,2 and 3) Recommendation 

L sec 5.8.1 

Microbalance Calibration 1/yr Manufacturer’s specification 1,2 and 3) Recommendation 

L 

Filter Weighing Audit 1/yr + 20 μg change from original value 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 TabBalance Audit 1/yr Observe weighing technique and check balance with ASTM Class 1 standard 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 Tab

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA - PM10 Filter Based Dichot 

Sampler/Monitor NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM/ARM designation 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App C Se

2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53 & FRM/F

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, se2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, se

Data Completeness 24- Hour Standard > 75% scheduled sampling days in each quarter 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 AReporting Units all filters μg/m3 at standard temperature and pressure 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 A
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10 Dichot 

STP) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Informat

Rounding convention for data reported to AQS

Each routine concentration nearest 10 μg/m3 (> 5 round up) 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 A

Precision Single analyzer 1/3 mo. Coefficient of variation (CV) < 10% > 3 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) Recommendation 

part 58 App A sec 4 

 Single analyzer 1/ yr CV < 10% > 3 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) Recommendation 

58 App A sec 4 

 Primary Quality Assurance Org. Annual and 3 year estimates 90% CL of CV < 10% > 3 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) Recommendation 

58 App A sec 4 

Field Activities

Verification/Calibration Standards and Recertifications - All standards should have multi-point certifications against NIST Traceable standardsFlow Rate Transfer Std. 1/yr + 2% of NIST-traceable Std. 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 AField Thermometer 1/yr + 0.1o C resolution, + 0.1o C accuracy 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sectiField Barometer 1/yr + 1 mm Hg resolution, + 5 mm Hg accuracy 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sectiClock/timer Verification 1/6 mo 15 min/day 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec 9 

Lab Activities

Microbalance at purchase Readability 1 μg, Repeatability1 μg 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec 4Primary Mass Stds. (compare to NIST-traceable standards) 

1/yr NIST traceable 

(e.g., ANSI/ASTM Class 1, 1.1 or 2) 

1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec 9 

*SD= standard deviation CV= coefficient of variation 
QA Hand

PM10 Filter Based High Volume (HV) STP Conditions Validation Template 

1) Criteria (PM10 Hi-Vol 

STP) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Informatio

CRITICAL CRITERIA- PM10 Filter Based Hi-Vol

Field Activities

Filter Holding Times Sample Recovery all filters ASAP 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App J Sampling Period all filters 1440 minutes + 60 minutes midnight to midnight local standard time 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App J Average Flow Rate every 24 hours of op ~1.13 m3/min (varies with instrument) 1,2 and 3) Method 2.11 Verification/CalibrationOne-point Flow Rate Verification 1/3 mo + 7% of transfer standard and 10% from design 1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58, App A, 

3) Method 2.11 sec 3.5.1, Table 2

Lab Activities

FilterVisual Defect Check (unexposed) all filters see reference Method 2.11 sec 4.2 Collection efficiency all filters 99 % 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App J Alkalinity all filters < 25.0 microequivalents/gram 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App J Filter Conditioning Environment 

Equilibration all filters 24 hours minimum 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.J Temp. Range all filters 15-30o C 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.J Temp.Control all filters + 3o C SD* over 24 hr 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.J Humidity Range all filters 20% - 45% RH 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.J Humidity Control all filters + 5% SD* over 24 hr 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.J Pre/post Sampling RH all filters difference in 24-hr means < + 5% RH 1,2 and 3) Recommendation based Balance all filters located in filter conditioning environment 1,2 and 3) Recommendation base

OPERATIONAL EVALUATIONS TABLE PM10 Filter Based Hi-Vol 

Field Activities

Verification/CalibrationSystem Leak Check During precalibration check Auditory inspection with faceplate blocked 1,2 and 3) Method 2.11 sec 2.3.2 FR Multi-point Verification/Calibration 1/yr 3 of 4 cal points within + 10% of design 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.11 sec 2.3.2 Field Temp M-point Verification on installation, then 1/yr + 2oC 1,2 and 3) Recommendation PrecisionCollocated Samples every 12 days for 15% of sites CV < 10% of samples > 15 μg/m3 1) and 2) 40 CFR Part 58 App A s

3) Recommendation 

Semi Annual Flow Rate Audit 1/6 mo + 7% of transfer standard and 10% from design 1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58, App A, 

3) Method 2.11 sec 7 Table 7-1 

Monitor MaintenanceInlet/downtube Cleaning 1/3 mo cleaned 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.11 sec 6 Motor/housing gaskets 1/3 mo Inspected replaced 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.11 sec 6 
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10 Hi-Vol 

STP) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Informatio

Blower motor brushes 600-1000 hours Replace 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.11 sec 6 Manufacturer-Recommended Maintenance per manufacturers’ SOP per manufacturers’ SOP NA 

Lab Activities

Lab QC ChecksBalance Check (Standard Weight Check and Calibration Check) beginning, 15th sample, end + 0.5 mg of true zero and + 0.5 mg 1-5 g check weight 1,2, and 3) Method 2 .11 sec 4.5.1 “Routine” duplicate weighing 5-7 per weighing session + 2.8 mg change from original value 1,2 and 3) Method 2.11 sec 4.5.3 From routine filter set Integrity- Random sample of test field blank filters 10% + 5 μg/m3

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App J sec 7.2.3 2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App J sec 7.2.3 

Lab Temperature Calibration 1/6 months + 2oC 1,2 and 3) Recommendation relateLab Humidity Calibration 1/6 months + 2% 1,2 and 3) Recommendation relatMicrobalance Calibration 1/yr Manufacturer’s specification Audits Filter Weighing 1/yr + 5 mg change from original value 

1) Method 2.11 Table 7-1 2) Recommendation 3) Method 2.11 Table 7-1 

Balance Audit 1/yr Observe weighing technique and check balance with ASTM Class 1 standard 1) Method 2.11 Table 7-1 2) Recommendation 3) Method 2.11 Table 7-1 

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA - PM10 Filter Based Hi-Vol 

Sampler/Monitor NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM/ARM designation 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App C, Section 

2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53 & FRM/FEM m

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, section2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, section

Data Completeness quarterly > 75% 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App. KReporting Units all filters μg/m3 at standard temperature and pressure 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App K Rounding convention for data reported to AQS Each routine concentration nearest 10 μg/m3 (> 5 round up) 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App K Precision Single analyzer 1/3 mo. Coefficient of variation (CV) < 10% > 15 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) Recommendation  Single analyzer 1/ yr CV < 10% > 15 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) Recommendation  Primary Quality Assurance Org. Annual and 3 year estimates 90% CL of CV < 10% > 15 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) Recommendation 

Field Activities
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10 Hi-Vol 

STP) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Informatio

Verification/Calibration Standards and Recertifications - All standards should have multi-point certifications against NIST Traceable standardsFlow Rate Transfer Std. 1/yr + 2% of NIST-traceable Std. 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.J sec 7.3 2) Method 2.11 Sec 1.1.3 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.J sec 7.3 

Field Thermometer 1/yr + 0.1o C resolution, + 0.5o C accuracy 1,2 and 3) Method 2.11 Sec 1.1.2 Field Barometer 1/yr + 1 mm Hg resolution, + 5 mm Hg accuracy 1,2 and 3) Method 2.11 Sec 1.1.2 Clock/timer Verification 4/year 5 min/mo recommendation 

Lab Activities

Microbalance at purchase Readability 0.1 mg Repeatability0.5 mg 

(HV) 

1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 50, App.J s3) Method 2.11 sec 4.4 

Primary Mass Stds. (compare to NIST-traceable standards) 

1/yr NIST traceable 

(e.g., ANSI/ASTM Class 1, 1.1 or 2) 

1,2 and 3) Method 2.11 sec 9 

SD= standard deviation CV= coefficient of variation 
QA Hand

Continuous PM10 STP Conditions Validation Template NOTE: There are a number of continuous PM10 monitors that are designated as FEM. These monitors may have different measurement or 

cannot be identified in this validation template. Monitoring organizations should review specific instrument operating manuals and augment QC information specific to their EPA reference or equivalent method designation and instrument.” http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/files/ambien

equivalent-methods-list.pdf. In general, 40 CFR Part 58 App A and 40 CFR Part 50 App J requirements apply to Continuous PM10. Since a never developed for continuous PM10, many of the requirements reflect a combination of manual and continuous PM2.5 requirements and arecommendations.

1) Criteria (PM10 Cont) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Informatio

CRITICAL CRITERIA- PM10 Continuous

Sampling Period all filters 1440 minutes + 60 minutes midnight to midnight local standard time 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App Average Flow Rate every 24 hours of op Average within + 5% of design recommendation Verification/CalibrationOne-point Flow Rate Verification 1/mo + 7% of transfer standard 1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58, App A

3) Method 2.10 Table 3-1 

OPERATIONAL EVALUATIONS TABLE PM10 Continuous 

Verification/CalibrationSystem Leak Check During precalibration check Auditory inspection with faceplate blocked 1,2 and 3) Method 2.11 sec 2.3.2 FR Multi-point Verification/Calibration 1/yr 3 of 4 cal points within + 10% of design 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App J sec 8.0 2 and 3) Method 2.10 Sec 2.2.4 Audits Semi Annual Flow Rate Audit 1/6 mo + 10% of audit standard 1,2) Part 58, App A, sec 3.2.4 3) Method 2.10 Sec 7.1.5 Monitor MaintenanceInlet/downtube Cleaning 1/3 mo cleaned 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec 6.1

Manufacturer-Recommended Maintenance per manufacturers’ SOP per manufacturers’ SOP 

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA - PM10 Continuous 

Sampler/Monitor NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM/ARM designation 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App C Sectio

2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53 & FRM/FEM 

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, sectio2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, sectio

Data Completeness 24-hour quarterly 23 hours > 75% Recommendation 40 CFR Part 50 App. K, sec. 2.3 Reporting Units all filters μg/m3 at standard temperature and pressure (STP) 40 CFR Part 50 App K 
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10 Cont) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Informatio

Rounding convention for data reported to AQS24-hour, 3-year average quarterly nearest 10 μg/m3 (> 5 round up) 40 CFR Part 50 App K sec 1 Verification/Calibration Standards and Recertifications - All standards should have multi-point certifications against NIST Traceable standardsFlow Rate Transfer Std. 1/yr + 2% of NIST-traceable Std. 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 App J Field Thermometer 1/yr + 0.1o C resolution, + 0.1o C accuracy 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 section 1Field Barometer 1/yr + 1 mm Hg resolution, + 5 mm Hg accuracy 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 section 1Clock/timer Verification 1/6 mo 15 min/day 1,2 and 3) Method 2.10 sec 9 
QA Hand

PM10 Low Volume STP Filter-Based Local Conditions Validation Template Monitoring organizations can use low-volume PM instruments for PM10 monitoring. However, PM10 data collection for NAAQS purposes m

temperature and pressure (STP). 40 CFR Part 50 App J describes the reference method for PM10 but this method was promulgated for dichot that have improved over the years. Since monitoring organization may be able to use the low volume methods for multiple uses (PM10c, PM

validation criteria for this method follow the method requirements associated with the PM 2.5 which is Appendix L. Where there are particul

related to the NAAQS evaluation App J will be used. 

1) Criteria (PM10 Lo-Vol 

STP) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

CRITICAL CRITERIA- PM10 Lo-Vol Filter Based STP

Field Activities 

Filter Holding Times Sample Recovery all filters <7 days 9 hours from sample end date 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Sampling Period (including multiple power failures) all filters 1440 minutes + 60 minutes midnight to midnight local standard time 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Sampling Instrument Average Flow Rate every 24 hours of op average within 5% of 16.67 liters/minute 1, 2 and 3) Part 50 App L Variability in Flow Rate every 24 hours of op CV < 2% 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5One-point Flow Rate Verification 1/mo + 4% of transfer standard + 5% of flow rate design value 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.LAppendix A Sec 3.2.3 & 2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

Laboratory Activities 

Post-sampling Weighing all filters

<10 days from sample end date if shipped at 

ambient temp, or 

<30 days if shipped below avg ambient (or 4o C 

or below for avg sampling temps < 4o C ) from 

sample end date

1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5

Filter Visual Defect Check (unexposed) all filters Correct type & size and for pinholes, particles or imperfections 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Filter Conditioning Environment 

Equilibration all filters 24 hours minimum 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Temp. Range all filters 24-hr mean 20-23o C 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Temp.Control all filters + 2o C SD* over 24 hr 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Humidity Range all filters 24-hr mean 30% - 40% RH or <5% sampling RH but > 20%RH 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Humidity Control all filters + 5% SD* over 24 hr. 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Pre/post Sampling RH all filters difference in 24-hr means < + 5% RH 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Balance all filters located in filter conditioning environment 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10 Lo-Vol 

STP) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

OPERATIONAL EVALUATIONS TABLE PM10 Lo-Vol Filter Based STP 

Field Activities

Sampling InstrumentIndividual Flow Rates every 24 hours of op no flow rate excursions > +5% for > 5 min. 1/ 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Filter Temp Sensor every 24 hours of op no excursions of > 5o C lasting longer than 30 min 1/ 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Routine VerificationsExternal Leak Check every 5 sampling events < 80 mL/min (see comment #1)

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App L2) Method 2-12 Table 8-3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

Internal Leak Check every 5 sampling events < 80 mL/min 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2) Method 2-12 Table 8-3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

One-point Temp Verification 1/mo + 2oC 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2) Method 2.12 Table 6-3) Recommendation 

Pressure Verification 1/mo + 10 mm Hg 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2) Method 2.12 Table 6-3) Recommendation 

Annual Multi-point Verifications/CalibrationsTemperature multi-point Verification/Calibration on installation, then 1/yr + 2oC 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

2 and 3) Method 2.12 se

Pressure Verification/Calibration on installation, then 1/yr + 10 mm Hg 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2 and 3) Method 2.12 seSampler BP verified agaiverified against a lab primNIST traceable 1/year 

Flow Rate Multi-point Verification/ Calibration 

Electromechanical 

maintenance or transport or 

1/yr

+ 4% of transfer standard 

 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App 2) 40 CFR Part 50, AppTable 6-1 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L

Design Flow Rate Adjustment at one-point or multi-point verification/calibration + 2% of design flow rate 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Other Monitor Calibrations per manufacturers’ op manual per manufacturers’ operating manual 1,2 and 3) RecommendatPrecisionCollocated Samples every 12 days for 15% of sites CV < 10% of samples > 3 μg/m3 1) and 2) 40 CFR Part 5

3) Recommendation 

AccuracyTemperature Audit 1/yr + 2oC 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Pressure Audit 1/yr +10 mm Hg 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10 Lo-Vol 

STP) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

Semi Annual Flow Rate Audit 1/6 mo + 4% of audit standard + 5% of design flow rate 1 and 2) Part 58, App A, 

3) Method 2.12 Sec. 10.2

Monitor MaintenanceImpactor (WINs) every 5 sampling events cleaned/changed 1, 2,and 3) Method 2.12 Very Sharp Cut Cyclone every 30 days cleaned/changed 1,2 and 3) RecommendaInlet/downtube Cleaning every 15 sampling events cleaned 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 Filter Chamber Cleaning 1/mo cleaned 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Circulating Fan Filter Cleaning 1/mo cleaned/changed 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 

Manufacturer-Recommended Maintenance 

per manufacturers’ SOP per manufacturers’ SOP 

Laboratory Activities 

Filter Checks Lot Blanks 9 filters per lot less than 15 μg change between weighings 

1, 2, 3) Recommendation stability of the lot of filtevendor. 

Exposure Lot Blanks 3 filters per lot less than 15 μg change between weighings 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 S

Used for preparing a sub

Filter Integrity (exposed) each filter no visual defects 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 SFilter Holding TimesPre-sampling all filters < 30 days before sampling 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Lab QC ChecksField Filter Blank 10% or 1 per weighing session + 30 μg change between weighings 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Se

Lab Filter Blank 10% or 1 per weighing session + 15 μg change between weighings 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 

2 and 3) Method 2.12 Se

Balance Check (working standards) beginning, 10th sample, end <3 μg 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 SDuplicate Filter Weighing 1 per weighing session + 15 μg change between weighings 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 SMicrobalance Audit 1/yr + 0.050 mg or manufacturers specs, whichever is tighter 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 SVerification/CalibrationLab Temperature 1/6 months + 2oC 

1) Method 2.12 Table 3-2 2) Recommendation Tab3) Method 2.12 Table 3-2 

Lab Humidity 1/6 months + 2% 

1) Method 2.12 Table 3-2 2) Recommendation Tab3) Method 2.12 Table 3-2 
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10 Lo-Vol 

STP) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

Microbalance Calibration 

At installation and prior to 

each weighing session 

1/yr 

Manufacturer’s specification 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L2) 40 CFR Part 50, App.LSec. 7.2 3) NA 

Calibration & Check Standards - Working Mass Stds. (compare to primary standards) 1/3 mo. 0.025 mg 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA - PM10 Lo-Vol Filter Based STP

Sampler/Monitor NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM/ARM designation 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App C 

2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53 & FRM

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E

Data Completeness 24- Hour Standard > 75% scheduled sampling days in each quarter 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Reporting Units all filters μg/m3 at standard temperature and pressure 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Rounding convention for data reported to AQS

Each routine concentration nearest 10 μg/m3 (> 5 round up) 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5

Detection LimitLower DL all filters 2 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Upper Conc. Limit all filters  200 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5Precision Single analyzer 1/3 mo. Coefficient of variation (CV) < 10% > 3 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) Recommenda Single analyzer 1/ yr CV < 10% > 3 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) Recommenda Primary Quality Assurance Org. Annual and 3 year estimates 90% CL of CV < 10% > 3 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) Recommenda

Field Activities

Verification/Calibration Standards Recertifications – All standards should have multi-point certifications against NIST Traceab

Flow Rate Transfer Std. 1/yr + 2% of NIST Traceable Std. 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 2) Method 2-12 Section 63) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 

Field Thermometer 1/yr + 0.1o C resolution, + 0.5o C accuracy 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Field Barometer 1/yr + 1 mm Hg resolution, + 5 mm Hg accuracy 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Clock/timer Verification 1/mo 1 min/mo 1and 2) Method 2.12 Tab

3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L 

Laboratory Activities

Microbalance Readability at purchase 1 μg 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 5
QA Hand

1) Criteria (PM10 Lo-Vol 

STP) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Inform

Microbalance Repeatability 1/yr 1 μg 

1) Method 2.12 Sec 4.3.6 2) Recommendation 3) Method 2.12 Sec 4.3.6 

Primary Mass. Verification/Calibration Standards Recertifications 

1/yr 0.025 mg 

1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 

Comment #1 The associated leak test procedure shall require that for successful passage of this test, the difference between the two pressure measurements shall not be gof Hg specified for the sampler by the manufacturer, based on the actual internal volume of the sampler, that indicates a leak of less than 80 mL/min. 
QA Hand

Pb High Volume (TSP) Local Conditions Validation Template Note: in 2008, the NAAQS was lowered for Pb and new monitoring rules were promulgated which allowed for the use of federal equivalent use of PM10 sampling in certain circumstances. The following information is guidance based on the current FRM which is sampling by TSP 

absorption. Information is this table is derived from the TSP sampling method in 40 CFR Part 50 App B, and QA Handbook Method 2.2 (19requirements/guidance is derived from 40 CFR Part 50, App G and QA Handbook Method 2.8 (1981). Monitoring for Pb based on the new Nbegin in calendar year 2010. Revised and/or additional Pb validation templates will be included in this section (if published before thi

or posted on AMTIC 

1) Criteria 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range 4) Inform

CRITICAL CRITERIA- Pb in TSP

Field Activities 

Filter Holding Times Sample Recovery all filters ASAP 1, 2 and 3 ) 40 CFR Part 50 Sampling Period all filters 1440 minutes + 60 minutes midnight to midnight local standard time 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 ASampling Instrument Average Flow Rate every 24 hours of op 1.1-1.70 m3/min (varies with instrument) in actual condition 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 One-point Flow Rate Verification 1/3 mo +7% from transfer standard 1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58 Ap

3) Method 2.2 sec 2.6 

Lab Activities

FilterVisual Defect Check (unexposed) all filters 

Initial backlight inspection- no pinholes or 

imperfections.Visual inspection prior to shipping 

to analytical lab 

1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 A

Collection Efficiency all filters 99 % 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 APressure Drop Range all filters 42-54 mm Hg 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 ApH all filters 6-10 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, Pb Content all filters pre-sampling batch check <75 μg/filter 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, 

Method 2.8 sec 6.2.1. Morwhether filters should be co

Calibration Reproducibility Checks Beginning, every 10 samples and end + 5% of value predicted by calibration curve 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, 

May be FEM dependent 

Reagent Blank Every analytical batch < LDL 1,2 and 3) Recommendation Daily Calibration Daily (on day of analysis) until good agreement is obtained among replicates 1,2 and 3) Method 2.8 sec 2

OPERATIONAL EVALUATIONS TABLE Pb in TSP 

Field Activities

Verification/Calibration
QA Hand

1) Criteria 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range 4) Inform

System Leak Check During precalibration check Visual and Auditory inspection with faceplate blocked 1, 2 and 3) RecommendatioFR Multi-point Verification/Calibration 

After receipt, after motor 

maintenance or failure of 1-

point check and 

1/yr 

5 points over range of 1.1 to 1.7 m3/min 

within + 5% limits of linearity 

1, 2 and 3) Method 2.2 sec 

PrecisionCollocated Samples 

15% of each method code in 

PQAO 

Frequency - every 12 days 

CV < 20% of samples > 0.02 μg/m3 (cutoff value) 1 and 2 ) 40 CFR Part 58 A

3) Recommendation for ear

Semi Annual Flow Rate Audit 1/6 mo + 7% of audit standard 1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58, A

3) Method 2.2 Table 8.2 

Monitor MaintenanceInlet cleaning 1/3 mo cleaned 1,2 and 3) Recommendation Motor/housing gaskets ~400 hours Inspected replaced 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.2 sec 

Blower motor brushes 400-500 Replace 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.2 sec Manufacturer-Recommended Maintenance per manufacturers’ SOP per manufacturers’ SOP NA 

Lab Activities

Analysis Audits 6 strips/quarter 3 at each concentration range 10% (percent difference) 1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58, A

3) Recommendation 

Field Filter Blank 1/quarter < LDL 1,2 and 3) Recommendation Lab Blanks 1/ sample run < LDL 1,2 and 3) Recommendation Control Standards ( 1 μg Pb/ml and a standard between 1-10 μg Pb/ml) 

1st, every 10 samples and last 

sample. 

Deviation of < 5% from value predicted by 

calibration curve 

1,2 and 3) Method 2.8 sect

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA - Pb Filter Based Hi-Vol 

Sampler/Monitor NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM/ARM designation

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App C S2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53 & FRM/Also described in 40 CFR P

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, s2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, s

Data Completeness 3-year standard average of the 3 constituent monthly means > 75% . 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 

there are substitution tests tmeeting completeness crite

Reporting Units all filters μg/m3 at local temperature and pressure. 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 Rounding convention for data reported to AQS (3-month arithmetic mean)

quarterly Report data to 3 decimal places (data after 3 are truncated. 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 
QA Hand

1) Criteria 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range 4) Inform

Lower Detectable Limit (AA) all samples 0.07 μg Pb/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 PrecisionSingle analyzer 1/3 mo. Coefficient of variation (CV) < 20% > 0.02 μg/m3 1 and 2 ) 40 CFR Part 58 A

3) Recommendation related 

Primary Quality Assurance Org. Annual and 3 year estimates 90% CL of CV < 20% > 0.02 μg/m3 1, 2 and 3 ) 40 CFR Part 58 

2.3.1.4 

BiasPerformance Evaluation Program (PEP) 

5 audits for PQAOs with < 5 

sites 

8 audits for PQAOs with > 5 

sites 

95% CL Absolute bias +15% > 0.02 μg/m3

1, 2 and 3 ) 40 CFR Part 58 2.3.1.4 The PEP include 1 or indepor 6 samples from the monimonitor sent to the indepen

Field Activities

Verification/Calibration Standards and Recertifications - All standards should have multi-point certifications against NIST Traceable standardsFlow Rate Transfer Std. 1/yr Resolution 0.02 m3/min + 2% reproducibility 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.B s

2) Method 2.2 section 2.5 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.B s

Field Thermometer 1/yr 2o C resolution 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.B s2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.B s

Field Barometer 1/yr + 5 mm Hg resolution 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.B s2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.B s

Clock/timer Verification 1/3 mo. + 2 min/24-hour R1,2 and 3) Method 2.2. se

Lab Activities

Analytical StandardsReagents (HNO3 and HCL) all ACS reagent grade 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 Pb nitrate Pb (NO3)2 all ACS reagent grade (99.0% purity) 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 

SD= standard deviation CV= coefficient of variation 
QA Handbook V

PM10 -Pb Low Volume Filter-Based Local Conditions Validation Template NOTE: The following validation template was constructed for use of PM10-Pb at local conditions where PM10c method in 40 CFR Part 50 Appen

Although the PM 10-2.5 method is found in 40 CFR Part 50 Appendix O, Appendix O also references Appendix L (the PM2.5 Method) for the QC 

below. Therefore, the information action column, in most cases, will reference 40 CFR Part 50 App L. In addition, since the PM10 samplers are PM2.5 samplers, Guidance Document 2.12 Monitoring PM2.5 in Ambient Air Using Designated Reference or Class 1 Equivalent Methods is reappropriate. At present the only analytical FRM is XRF. Therefore quality control criteria are associated with the XRF method which is promul50 Appendix Q. 

1) Criteria (PM10-Pb LoVol ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Information 

CRITICAL CRITERIA- PM10-Pb Filter Based Local Conditions

Field Activities 

Filter Holding TimesSample Recovery all filters ASAP 

1, 2 and 3 ) 40 CFR part 50 AIf filters are used for more thand PM10) the sample recovmost stringent requirement. 

Sampling Period (including multiple power failures) all filters 1440 minutes + 60 minutes midnight to midnight local standard time 

1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 AIf filters are used for more thand PM10) the sample recovmost stringent requirement. 

Sampling Instrument Average Flow Rate every 24 hours of op average within 5% of 16.67 liters/minute 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 AVariability in Flow Rate every 24 hours of op CV < 2% 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, AOne-point Flow Rate Verification 1/mo + 4% of transfer standard + 5% of flow rate design value 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, S58, Appendix A Sec 3.2.3 & 2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, S

Laboratory Activities(XRF Analysis) 

Filter Visual Defect Check (unexposed) all filters Correct type & size and for pinholes, particles or imperfections 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, APb blank filter Acceptance Testing ~ 20 test filters per lot 90% of filters < 4.8 ng Pb/cm2 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 A

OPERATIONAL EVALUATIONS TABLE- PM10-Pb Filter Based Local Conditions

Field Activities 

Sampling InstrumentIndividual Flow Rates every 24 hours of op no flow rate excursions > +5% for > 5 min. 1/ 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, A
QA Handbook V

1) Criteria (PM10-Pb LoVol ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Information 

Filter Temp Sensor every 24 hours of op no excursions of > 5o C lasting longer than 30 min 1/ 1, 2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, ARoutine VerificationsExternal Leak Check every 5 sampling events < 80 mL/min (see comment #1)

1) 40 CFR Part 50 App L, Se2) Method 2-12 Table 8-1 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, S

Internal Leak Check every 5 sampling events < 80 mL/min 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, S2) Method 2-12 Table 8-1 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, S

One-point Temp Verification 1/mo + 2oC 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, S2) Method 2.12 Table 6-1 3) Recommendation 

Pressure Verification 1/mo + 10 mm Hg 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, S2) Method 2.12 Table 6-1 3) Recommendation 

Annual Multi-point Verifications/CalibrationsTemperature multi-point Verification/Calibration on installation, then 1/yr + 2oC 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, S

2 and 3) Method 2.12 sec 6.

Pressure Verification/Calibration on installation, then 1/yr + 10 mm Hg 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, S2 and 3) Method 2.12 sec 6.Sampler BP verified against verified against a lab primary certified as NIST traceable 1

Flow Rate Multi-point Verification/ Calibration 

Electromechanical 

maintenance or transport or 

1/yr

+ 4% of transfer standard 

 1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, S 2) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, STable 6-1 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, S

Design Flow Rate Adjustment at one-point or multi-point verification/calibration + 2% of design flow rate 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, AOther Monitor Calibrations per manufacturers’ op manual per manufacturers’ operating manual 1,2 and 3) Recommendation PrecisionCollocated Samples 

15% of each method code in 

PQAO 

Frequency - every 12 days 

CV < 20% of samples > 0.02 μg/m3 (cutoff value) 1 and 2 ) 40 CFR Part 58 Ap

3) Recommendation for early 

AccuracyTemperature Audit 1/yr + 2oC 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 SecPressure Audit 1/yr +10 mm Hg 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Sec. Semi Annual Flow Rate Audit 1/6 mo + 4% of audit standard + 5% of design flow rate 1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58 App 

3) Method 2.12 Sec. 10.2.1 & 

Monitor Maintenance
QA Handbook V

1) Criteria (PM10-Pb LoVol ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Information 

Impactor (WINs) every 5 sampling events cleaned/changed 1, 2,and 3) Method 2.12 Sec Very Sharp Cut Cyclone every 30 days cleaned/changed 1,2 and 3) Recommendation Inlet/downtube Cleaning every 15 sampling events cleaned 1,2 and 3) Method 2.12 Sec Filter Chamber Cleaning 1/mo cleaned 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Sec Circulating Fan Filter Cleaning 1/mo cleaned/changed 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Sec 

Manufacturer-Recommended Maintenance per manufacturers’ SOP per manufacturers’ SOP 

Laboratory Activities (XRF Analysis)

Filter Holding Times  Pre-sampling all filters < 30 days before sampling 

1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, ARequired only if filters will bmass as well as Pb. If only upre-sampling holding time no

Analysis Audits 6 filters/quarter 3 at each concentration range 10% (percent difference) 1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 58, Ap

3) Recommendation 

Field Filter Blank 1/quarter < 0.01 μg/m3 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App Q sec 

2 and 3) Recommendation 

Lab Filter Blank 1/ sample run <.003 μg/m3 1 40 CFR part 50 App Q sec 

2 and 3) Recommendation 

Thin Film Standards (standard reference materials) Beginning and end of each analytical run XRF conc. + 3x the 1 sigma uncertainty overlaps the NIST certified conc. + 1x its reported uncertainty. 1) 40 CFR Part 50 App Q sec 

2 and 3) recommendation 

Run time quality control standards Checking peak areas, background areas, centroid and FWHM 

Beginning and end of each 

analytical run Target value + 3 SD 

1,2,and 3) Recommendation Target values and SD of QC prior to analysis. 

XRF analyzer calibration 

1/year or when significant 

repairs or changes occur or 

QC limits exceeded

XRF conc. + 3x the 1 sigma uncertainty overlaps 

the NIST certified conc. + 1x its reported 

uncertainty. 

1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 50 App 3) Recommendation 

Background Measurement and Correction 

20 clean blank filters 

for each filter lot used NA 1 and 2) 40 CFR Part 50 App 

SYSTEMATIC CRITERIA - PM10-Pb Filter Based Local Conditions 

Sampler/Monitor NA Meets requirements listed in FRM/FEM designation 1) 40 CFR Part 58 App C Se

2) NA 3) 40 CFR Part 53 & FRM/F

Siting 1/year Meets siting criteria or waiver documented 

1) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, se2) Recommendation 3) 40 CFR Part 58 App E, se
QA Handbook V

1) Criteria (PM10-Pb LoVol ) 2) Frequency 3) Acceptable Range Information 

Data Completeness 3-year standard average of the 3 constituent monthly means > 75% . 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 A

addition there are substitutiofor data not meeting complet

Reporting Units all filters μg/m3 at local temperature and pressure. 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 ARounding convention for data reported to AQS (3-monthmean) quarterly Report data to 3 decimal places (data after 3 are truncated. 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 ALower DL all filters <0.001 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50 AUpper Conc. Limit all filters >200 μg/m3 1,2 and 3) 40 CFR Part 50, APrecisionSingle analyzer 1/3 mo. Coefficient of variation (CV) < 20% > 0.02 μg/m3 1 and 2 ) 40 CFR Part 58 Ap

3) Recommendation related t

Primary Quality Assurance Org. Annual and 3 year estimates 90% CL of CV < 20% > 0.02 μg/m3 1, 2 and 3 ) 40 CFR Part 58 A

sec 2.3.1.4 

BiasPerformance Evaluation Program (PEP) 

5 audits for PQAOs with < 5 

sites 

8 audits for PQAOs with > 5 

sites 

95% CL Absolute bias +15% > 0.02 μg/m3

1, 2 and 3 ) 40 CFR Part 58 Aand sec 2.3.1.4 The PEP includes 1 or 2 indeaudits and 4 or 6 samples froorganizations collocated monindependent National PEP L

Field Activities

Verification/Calibration Standards Recertifications – All standards should have multi-point certifications against NIST Traceable standardsFlow Rate Transfer Std. 1/yr + 2% of NIST-traceable Std. 

1) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L Se2) Method 2-12 Section 6.3.3 3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L Se

Field Thermometer 1/yr + 0.1o C resolution, + 0.5o C accuracy 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Sec Field Barometer 1/yr + 1 mm Hg resolution, + 5 mm Hg accuracy 1, 2 and 3) Method 2.12 Sec Verification/CalibrationClock/timer Verification 1/mo 1 min/mo 1 and 2) Method 2.12 Table 

3) 40 CFR Part 50, App.L, S

Comment #1 The associated leak test procedure shall require that for successful passage of this test, the difference between the two pressure measurements shall not be greamm of Hg specified for the sampler by the manufacturer, based on the actual internal volume of the sampler, that indicates a leak of less than 80 mL/min.

1/ value must be flagged SD= standard deviation CV= coefficient of variation