Final

Sampling Plan

Mirant Mid-Atlantic, LLC’s

Dickerson Generating Station

Dickerson, MD

Sampling Episode 6562

Prepared for:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Engineering and Analysis Division

Office of Water

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Prepared by:

Eastern Research Group, Inc.

14555 Avion Parkway 

Suite 200

Chantilly, VA 20151

August 19, 2010

EPA Contract No. 68-C-02-095

Work Assignment 7-29
i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

1. INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................1-1

1.1 Background..........................................................................................................1-1

1.2 Objectives and Scope...........................................................................................1-1

1.3 Plant Selection .....................................................................................................1-2

2. FACILITY OVERVIEW ........................................................................................................2-1

2.1 FGD Scrubber Systems........................................................................................2-1

2.2 FGD Wastewater Treatment System ...................................................................2-2

3. SAMPLING PROCEDURES ...................................................................................................3-1

3.1 Sampling Point Selection.....................................................................................3-1

3.2 Analyte Selection.................................................................................................3-1

3.3 Sample Collection Procedures.............................................................................3-2

3.3.1 Influent to FGD Wastewater Treatment System (SP-1) ..........................3-3

3.3.2 Influent to SBR (SP-2).............................................................................3-8

3.3.3 Effluent from SBR (SP-3)......................................................................3-15

3.4 Sample Preservation, Shipping, and Analysis ...................................................3-23

3.5 Field Measurements and Engineering Data Collection .....................................3-24

3.6 Sample Labeling ................................................................................................3-25

3.7 Traffic Reports...................................................................................................3-25

3.8 Quality Assurance/Quality Control....................................................................3-26

3.9 Sample Splitting.................................................................................................3-27

4. SAMPLING ACTIVITIES ......................................................................................................4-1

4.1 Sampling Team Organization ..............................................................................4-1

4.2 Presampling Preparation ......................................................................................4-1

4.3 Field Sampling Activities ....................................................................................4-1

4.4 Logistics...............................................................................................................4-2

4.4.1 Dickerson Generating Station Contacts...................................................4-2

4.4.2 EPA Contacts...........................................................................................4-2

4.4.3 Analytical Laboratories............................................................................4-3

4.4.4 ERG Contacts...........................................................................................4-3

4.4.5 Freight Forwarders...................................................................................4-3

5. SAMPLE SHIPMENT ...........................................................................................................5-1

5.1 Sample Set Preparation........................................................................................5-1

5.2 Sample Packing....................................................................................................5-1

6. SITE-SPECIFIC HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURES ..........................................................6-1

6.1 Emergency/Medical Procedures ..........................................................................6-1

6.1.1 First Aid 6-1

6.1.2 Site Evacuation/Emergency Response Plan.............................................6-1

6.1.3 Emergency Showers and Eye Washes.....................................................6-1

6.1.4 Local Hospital..........................................................................................6-1

6.2 ERG Health and Safety Responsibilities and Authority......................................6-1
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)

Page

ii

6.2.1 Work Assignment Manager.....................................................................6-2

6.2.2 Crew Chief...............................................................................................6-2

6.2.3 Sampling Team Members........................................................................6-2

6.3 Briefings...............................................................................................................6-2

6.3.1 Off-Site Briefings.....................................................................................6-2

6.3.2 On-Site Briefings.....................................................................................6-3

6.4 Safety Procedures.................................................................................................6-3

6.4.1 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) .....................................................6-3

6.4.2 Safety Practices........................................................................................6-3

6.4.3 Safe Work Practices.................................................................................6-4

6.5 Sampling-Point-Specific Safety Procedures........................................................6-4

6.5.1 Physical Hazards......................................................................................6-4

6.5.2 Thermal Hazards......................................................................................6-5

6.5.3 Chemical Hazards....................................................................................6-5

6.6 Temperature Extremes.........................................................................................6-5

6.6.1 Heat Stress ...............................................................................................6-5

6.6.2 Heat Stress Monitoring ............................................................................6-6

6.7 First Aid ...............................................................................................................6-7

6.8 Sample Preservation and Safety Considerations..................................................6-7

6.9 Training and Medical Monitoring Requirements ................................................6-8

6.10 Shift Work Protocol.............................................................................................6-9

7. REFERENCES .....................................................................................................................7-1
iii

LIST OF TABLES

Page

3-1 Sample Collection at Dickerson Generating Station ..................................................... 3-28

3-2 Analytical Methods........................................................................................................ 3-29

3-3 Summary of Sample Container and Planned Preservation ............................................ 3-30

3-4 Sampling Point Field Measurements............................................................................. 3-31

6-1 Sample-Point-Specific PPE and Potential Hazards ....................................................... 6-10
iv

LIST OF FIGURES

Page

Figure 2-1. Simplified Diagram of the FGD Wastewater Treatment System, Dickerson 

Generating Station ........................................................................................................... 2-6

Figure 2-2. Physical/Chemical Separation and Biological Reactor Portion of FGD Wastewater 

Treatment System, Dickerson Generating Station........................................................... 2-7

Figure 3-1. Sample Preservation Log Sheet .............................................................................. 3-32

Figure 3-2. Field Sampling Log Sheet....................................................................................... 3-33

Figure 3-3. Engineering Data Collection Sheet (Page 1 of 3) ................................................... 3-34

Figure 3-4. Engineering Data Collection Sheet (Page 2 of 3) ................................................... 3-35

Figure 3-5. Engineering Data Collection Sheet (Page 3 of 3) ................................................... 3-36

Figure 3-6. Example Traffic Report........................................................................................... 3-37
1-1

1. INTRODUCTION

The Engineering and Analysis Division (EAD) of the U.S. Environmental Protection 

Agency (EPA) is currently conducting a sampling program at steam electric power plants. The 

sampling program will characterize raw wastewaters generated by coal-fired steam electric 

power plants, as well as evaluate treatment technologies and best management practices used to 

reduce pollutant discharges. This sampling plan, developed for the Mirant Mid-Atlantic, LLC’s

Dickerson Generating Station (Dickerson), provides plant-specific sampling procedures and 

methods EPA and its contractors will follow when conducting sampling activities. Sampling will 

be performed by EPA’s technical contractor, Eastern Research Group, Inc. (ERG), under 

Contract No. 68-C-02-095. This document, in combination with the Generic Sampling and 

Analysis Plan for Coal-Fired Steam Electric Power Plants [1], is intended to serve as a guide to 

the ERG field sampling crew, a review mechanism for EPA personnel, and a source of 

procedural information for plant personnel. 

1.1

During EPA’s recently completed detailed study of the steam electric industry, EPA 

identified metals and certain other constituents present in the wastewater discharges from steam 

electric power plants that are contributing the majority of the toxic loadings for the industry.

Additionally, EPA determined that one of the waste streams contributing most of these toxic 

loadings are associated with wet flue gas desulfurization (FGD) systems present at coal-fired 

power plants.

Background

This sampling plan will focus on characterizing wastewaters and treatment system 

discharges at Dickerson. For a general description of the steam electric process and the 

wastewaters generated during the operation of a coal-fired steam electric power plant, see

Chapters 3 and 4 of the Steam Electric Power Generating Point Source Category: Final Detailed 

Study Report [2].

1.2

EPA is preparing to collect and analyze samples to characterize wastewater streams 

generated at coal-fired steam electric power plants. This sampling plan describes the approach 

EPA will use to collect and analyze samples to characterize untreated FGD scrubber purge and

treated FGD wastewater from the following types of FGD wastewater treatment systems:

Objectives and Scope

• Chemical precipitation: Physical/chemical precipitation for heavy metals 

removal using hydroxide or a combination of hydroxide and sulfide 

precipitation; and

• Biological: Biological treatment specifically designed for nitrogen 

removal.
1-2

Generally, the analytical results collected during this sampling program will support EPA 

in answering the following key questions:

• What are the characteristics (i.e., pollutants present, pollutant 

concentrations, flow rate/volume) of untreated FGD scrubber purge 

wastewater?

• What are the effluent concentrations for pollutants present in treated FGD 

wastewater?

• What are the pollutant loadings associated with discharges of FGD 

wastewater following treatment?

EPA conducted a one-day pre-sampling site visit at Dickerson on March 9, 2010. The 

following information was collected on the pre-sampling site visit:

• Information about the plant’s operations;

• Process-specific information;

• Information on pollution prevention and wastewater treatment/operations;

• Plant-specific information to tailor sampling plans; and

• Information on potential sampling points.

The sampling program will consist of four-day sampling episodes at selected plants. The 

sampling will characterize the wastewaters generated by wet FGD scrubbers and the treatment 

performance of the systems used to treat the FGD scrubber purge wastewaters. EPA will also 

collect field quality control (QC) samples consisting of bottle blanks, field blanks, equipment 

blanks, and duplicate samples, and laboratory QC samples used for matrix spike/matrix spike 

duplicate analyses.

EPA’s sampling program will provide data to perform an engineering assessment of the 

design, operation, and performance of treatment systems at steam electric power plants. In 

addition to sampling the wastewater, EPA will collect information regarding system design and 

day-to-day operation.

1.3

EPA expects to select up to seven coal-fired steam electric plants for FGD wastewater 

sampling, basing the plant selection on the process configurations and characteristics of the 

plants.

Plant Selection

Dickerson was selected by EPA for sampling based on the following site characteristics:

• The plant is a coal-fired power plant that burns eastern bituminous coal in each of 

its three generating units;

• The plant operates limestone forced oxidation wet FGD systems on all three units;
1-3

• The plant operates a segregated FGD wastewater treatment system, which 

includes the following steps:

— Equalization,

— pH adjustment (lime addition),

— Ferric chloride addition,

— Polymer addition,

— Clarification,

— Filtration,

— Biological treatment (nitrogen removal);

• The plant operates selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR) systems on all three

units; and

• The plant produces a commercial-grade gypsum by-product.
2-1

2. FACILITY OVERVIEW

Dickerson operates three baseload steam electric generating units and each has a coalfired boiler. Units 1, 2 and 3, which came on line in 1959, 1960, and 1962, respectively, each 

have a capacity of 182 megawatts (MW). All three generating units burn eastern bituminous 

coal. Dickerson also has two combustion turbines on site that are 167 MW each. The Dickerson

plant and supporting facilities are located on approximately 1,000 acres in Dickerson, MD, near 

the Potomac River. Mirant owns 800 acres for the plant and the other 200 acres are owned by 

Pepco for switch yards, right-of-ways, etc.

In December 2009, Dickerson retrofitted all three units with a common wet FGD 

scrubber system to control the sulfur dioxide (SO2) releases from the plant. The wet FGD 

scrubber is designed to remove more than 95 percent of SO2 from the flue gas. With the addition 

of the FGD scrubber system, Dickerson also installed an FGD wastewater treatment system to 

control the discharges of the wastewater generated during the operation of the FGD scrubber. 

Sections 2.1 and 2.2 further discuss the FGD scrubber system and the FGD wastewater treatment 

system, respectively.

Dickerson retrofitted Units 1, 2, and 3 with SNCR systems in July 2009, to control 

nitrogen oxide (NOx) releases from the plant. Dickerson only operates the SNCR systems during 

ozone season, May 1 through September 30.

The three electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) and one common baghouse at Dickerson are 

particulate control devices that are designed to remove 99.5 and 99.8 percent of the fly ash and 

other particulates from the flue gas, respectively. Dickerson utilizes ESPs and the baghouse to 

remove the fly ash from all three units. Forty percent of the flue gas from each unit goes to the 

individual unit’s ESP, while the remaining 60 percent is routed to the common baghouse. The fly 

ash and other particulates are collected in hoppers and are pneumatically transferred to fly ash 

silos. 

Units 1, 2, and 3 have the following configuration:

• Boiler (ammonia injection for SNCR system);

• Air preheater;

• ESP (unit-specific) and baghouse (common); and

• FGD scrubber system (common).

2.1

Dickerson operates one wet FGD scrubber system that treats the flue gas from all three 

coal-fired generating units. The plant uses limestone slurry as the sorbent for sulfur dioxide 

absorption. Limestone and service water are fed to on-site ball mills, which pulverize the 

limestone to create the slurry. From the ball mills, the slurry is transferred to classifiers to collect 

limestone particles that are too large for use in the FGD system. The underflow from the 

classifiers is sent back to the ball mill for additional processing. The overflow from the 

classifiers, which is approximately 28 percent solids (by weight), is transferred to the limestone 

slurry storage tank and then used as fresh limestone slurry in the absorber.

FGD Scrubber Systems
2-2

The fresh limestone slurry is fed to the reaction tank of the FGD system where the slurry 

is pumped to the various levels of the FGD scrubber with the recycle pumps. The FGD system 

has three levels of flooding headers. The flooding headers supply the slurry to the dual flow 

tray. As the slurry falls downward in the scrubber vessel, the flue gas flows countercurrent to the 

limestone slurry. The droplets of the slurry contact the flue gas and absorb the SO2, which reacts 

with the limestone particles and produces calcium sulfite. The droplets continue to flow 

downward in the scrubber until they settle on the dual flow tray, forming a layer of slurry that the 

flue gas must pass through to exit the FGD system. The spray droplets continue to flow 

downward in the scrubber until they reach the reaction tank. Dickerson bubbles air through the 

reaction tank to oxidize the calcium sulfite to calcium sulfate (i.e., gypsum).

Dickerson intermittently blows down the gypsum slurry from the reaction tank to control 

the chlorides concentration in the scrubber to less than 20,000 parts per million (ppm). Typically, 

the chlorides concentration in the scrubber is about 15,000 ppm. The solids concentration in the 

scrubber ranges from 18 to 22 percent solids. Dickerson transfers the blowdown from the 

scrubber to the gypsum dewatering operations. 

The scrubber blowdown is pumped to the primary hydrocyclones where the solid gypsum 

is separated from the water by centrifugal force. The solid gypsum is forced outward to the walls 

of the hydrocyclones and falls downward, while the water exits the top of the hydrocyclones. 

The gypsum from the primary hydrocyclones is transferred to the vacuum filter belts. The 

overflow from the primary hydrocyclones is pumped to the secondary hydrocyclones. The 

underflow from the secondary hydrocyclones is sent to the FGD filtrate tank for recycle back to 

the absorber. The overflow from the secondary hydrocyclones is sent to the purge tank and then 

pumped to the FGD wastewater treatment system.

Dickerson washes the gypsum sent to the vacuum filter belts with service water, as the 

gypsum is poured onto the belts. The vacuum filter belts dry the gypsum to a moisture content of 

approximately 10 percent. Dickerson has a 20 year contract to sell gypsum that is 94 to 99 

percent pure, has a moisture content of less than 9 percent, and has less than 100 ppm chlorides. 

Off-spec gypsum and other solids are sent to a waste management site in Virginia. Dickerson 

generated 2 or 3 days of off-specification gypsum at the beginning of the FGD start up, but has 

always met the specifications since that time. Dickerson expects to generate approximately 

150,000 tons of gypsum per year.

2.2

The FGD wastewater treatment system is designed to receive intermittent transfers of 

FGD wastewater from the purge tank, which contains secondary hydrocyclone overflow, at a

typical flow rate of 75 gallons per minute (gpm) and a design maximum flow rate of 110 gpm. 

The plant typically transfers FGD purge to the wastewater treatment system four to six times per 

day, depending on the unit loading. The average total daily flow rate is approximately 84,000

gallons per day (gpd) and the maximum daily flow rate is 158,000 gpd. 

FGD Wastewater Treatment System

The plant operates the FGD wastewater treatment system 24 hours per day. Dickerson

installed the wastewater treatment system to treat the FGD scrubber purge wastewater to meet its

permit limits, which include limits for total suspended solids (TSS), nitrogen, and fecal coliform. 

The Dickerson FGD wastewater treatment system contains the following treatment operations:
2-3

• Physical/Chemical Separation;

— Equalization,

— pH adjustment (lime addition),

— Organosulfide addition,

— Ferric chloride addition,

— Polymer addition,

— Clarification;

— Hydrochloric acid addition; and

• Biological Reactors;

— Influent equalization,

— Cooling (heat extraction),

— Carbon source addition,

— Hypochloric acid addition,

— Sequencing batch reactor (SBR) process, and

— Effluent equalization, and

— Filtration.

Figures 2-1 and 2-2, located at the end of this section, present process flow diagrams of 

the FGD wastewater treatment system, as well as the planned sampling locations for EPA’s 

sampling episode. Figure 2-1 is a simplified diagram of the FGD wastewater treatment system, 

showing different portions of the system. Figure 2-2 is a diagram of the chemical precipitation 

and biological reactor portions of the treatment system.

The secondary hydrocyclone overflow from the scrubbers is transferred to the purge tank 

and then sent to the equalization tank at the start of the wastewater treatment system. This 

wastewater is expected to contain approximately 1 percent solids and have a pH of 5.5 to 6.5

S.U. The equalization tank also receives water from the filtrate sump (which includes filter press 

filtrate, backwash reject from the continuous backwash gravity filters, building trench drains, and 

tank overflow).

From the equalization tank, the wastewater enters reaction tank 1 in which lime slurry is 

added to increase the pH to 8.3 S.U. to precipitate the soluble metals as insoluble hydroxides and 

oxyhydroxides. The plant also adds organosulfide (i.e., TMT-15) to reaction tank 1 to form 

sulfide complexes which have very low solubility products. Wastewater then cascades by gravity 

into reaction tank 2 in which ferric chloride is added to form a dense flocculant, enhance the 

settling characteristics of the precipitate, and promote iron coprecipitation.

The plant adds an anionic polymer as the wastewater flows from reaction tank 2 to the 

solids contact clarifier. The polymer is introduced at the inlet of the clarifier. The solids contact 

clarifier contains a sludge bed that attracts the solids in the wastewater. As the clarifier overflow 

is transferred to the sequencing batch reactor (SBR) influent equalization tank, the plant injects 

hydrochloric acid into the wastewater to adjust the pH to 7 prior to the biological treatment 

system. After the hydrochloric acid addition, the wastewater flows to the SBR influent 

equalization tank. The hydraulic residence time for the chemical precipitation portion of the FGD 

wastewater treatment system is approximately 16 hours, based on operating level conditions.
2-4

The majority of the sludge from the clarifier is transferred to a sludge holding tank; 

however, the plant recycles approximately 50 to 60 gpm of clarifier sludge back to reaction tank

1 to act as seed crystals for gypsum nucleation. The plant maintains a TSS concentration of 5 

percent solids in the outlet from reaction tank 1. The sludge in the sludge holding tank is pumped 

to a filter press for dewatering. The filter press cake is transferred to a landfill and the filtrate is 

sent to the filtrate sump. The filter press cake is transferred to the waste management site in 

Virginia, where the FGD solids and off-spec gypsum are sent. Dickerson performs 

approximately 5 filter press operations per day. 

Water from the clarifier as well as the SBR decant flush and backwash reject from the 

tertiary continuous backwash filters is transferred to the SBR influent equalization tank where it 

is then pumped through heat exchangers. After the heat exchangers have reduced the temperature

of the water to approximately 95 degrees Fahrenheit, the wastewater is recycled back to the SBR 

influent equalization tank. Hypochloric acid (to reduce the pH of the water) and a carbon source 

(i.e., glycerin, to promote cell growth in the biological treatment process) are also added to the 

SBR influent equalization tank. The food to mass ratio in the SBR system ranges from 4:1 to 8:1 

depending on the desired mixed liquor volatile suspended solids concentration. Water is then 

batch transferred to two 178,705 gallon SBR tanks operating in parallel.

Dickerson uses an SBR to biologically treat the wastewater to remove nitrogen. 

Currently, the SBR tanks are open to the atmosphere, but the plant has erected tents to cover the 

tanks. Dickerson plans to construct a building that will enclose the SBR by the winter of 

2010/2011.

Each batch of the SBR consists of the following five cycles:

• Fill

o Anoxic: Food is loaded into the basin and soluble BOD is absorbed and 

stored by the facultative biomass until air is received to metabolize the 

food. Good settling, facultative organisms predominate.

o Aerated: Air is pumped in and mixed to initiate metabolism. Nitrification 

and denitrification occur.

• React: No additional flow or food is added forcing the organisms to scour for any 

remaining BOD. The cycle continues until the biomass enters its “famine” state. 

Dissolved oxygen levels begin to rise.

• Settle: No influent is introduced and no effluent is decanted allowing the biomass to 

settle in quiescent conditions.

• Decant: An automatic valve is opened and the upper one-third of the basin is 

discharged.

• Idle: While waiting to receive flow settled sludge is wasted.

During the decant cycle, the water is transferred from the SBR to the SBR effluent 

equalization tank. The hydraulic residence time of the biological portion of the wastewater 
2-5

treatment system, including the equalization tanks, is approximately 16 hours. The hydraulic 

residence time of the SBR itself is a minimum of four hours. From the SBR effluent equalization 

tank, the wastewater is then pumped to the tertiary continuous backwash gravity filters. 

Backwash reject returns to the SBR influent equalization tank for reprocessing. The filtered 

effluent is conveyed via gravity to the treated water storage tank.

The SBR system at Dickerson reduces total nitrogen in the waste stream from 81 ppm 

(design average) to less than 4 ppm in the discharge after the gravity filters. The plant also states 

the SBR system achieves phosphate removal and may also achieve selenium removal. Typically, 

SBR systems are not designed to treat wastewaters high in TDS. A typical municipal wastewater 

treatment plant receives water with 2,000 to 3,000 ppm TDS. Dickerson’s FGD wastewater 

contains approximately 35,000 to 40,000 ppm TDS. Dickerson, therefore, obtained seed bacteria 

for the system from a paint pigment facility’s wastewater treatment plant (at the Eastern Shore), 

rather than from municipal sludge.

Water in the treated water storage tank is monitored for NPDES compliance prior to 

commingling with the main cooling water discharge. The commingled water then discharges 

through a canal that carries it approximately 1⁄4 mile downstream where it is discharged through 

Outfall 001 to the Potomac River.

Figure 2-2 shows the planned sampling points for the sampling episode at Dickerson. The 

influent sampling point at Dickerson’s FGD wastewater treatment system is located downstream 

of the purge tank and upstream of the equalization tank. Thus, the influent sampling point is 

upstream of any chemical addition or treatment system recirculation flow streams. The inprocess sampling point within Dickerson’s FGD wastewater treatment system is located at the 

heat exchanger tank pump discharge sample tap (after HCl addition). The biological reactor 

effluent sampling point at Dickerson’s FGD wastewater treatment system is located downstream 

of the tertiary continuous backwash gravity filters and upstream of treated water storage tank. 
2-6

Phys/Chem 

Separation

Bioreactor 

System

FGD Scrubber Purge Outfall 001

Cooling water

Potomac 

River

Figure 2-1. Simplified Diagram of the FGD Wastewater Treatment System, Dickerson Generating Station
2-7

FGD Scrubber Purge 

(from Purge Tank)

Lime

Polymer

Equalization 

Tank Reaction Tank 1 Reaction 

Tank 2

SP-1

SP-2

Indicates a Sampling Point

Ferric 

Chloride

Solids 

Contact 

Clarifier

Sludge 

Storage 

Tank

Filter Press

Sump

Solids to Waste 

Management Site

Wastewater Flow

Sludge Flow

Intermittent Wastewater Flow

Clarifier 

Sludge

Hydrochloric 

Acid

SP-3

Organosulfide

SBR Influent 

Equalization 

Tank

Cooling Water

Cooling Water 

Return

Hypochloric Acid

Carbon Source

Sequencing 

Batch Reactors 

(2)

SBR Effluent 

Equalization 

Tank

Decant Flush

Tertiary 

Continuous 

Backwash 

Gravity 

Filters (2)

Treated Water 

Storage Tank

Backwash Reject

To Discharge 

Canal

Figure 2-2. Physical/Chemical Separation and Biological Reactor Portion of FGD Wastewater Treatment System, Dickerson 

Generating Station
3-1

3. SAMPLING PROCEDURES

This section discusses the planned sampling procedures to be followed during the 

sampling episode at Dickerson. This section also provides the necessary information to plan for 

the logistics of this sampling episode. All tables and figures in this section are presented at the 

end of the section.

3.1

EPA selected the following eight sampling points for the Dickerson sampling episode 

(the three proposed sampling points for Dickerson’s FGD wastewater treatment system as well 

as the related Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) samples):

Sampling Point Selection

• SP-1 Influent to FGD Wastewater Treatment System;

• SP-2 Influent to SBR;

• SP-3 Effluent from SBR;

• SP-4 Duplicate of Influent to SBR (same location as SP-2);

• SP-5 Duplicate of Effluent from SBR (same location as SP-3);

• SP-6 Field Blank for Influent to FGD Wastewater Treatment System (same 

location as SP-1);

• SP-7 Field Blank for Influent to SBR (same location as SP-2); and

• SP-8 Field Blank for Effluent from SBR (same location as SP-3).

3.2

Analytes that will be included in EPA’s Dickerson sampling episode include those in the 

following classes of pollutants:

Analyte Selection

• Classicals:

— Biochemical oxygen demand, 5-day (BOD5),

— Chemical oxygen demand (COD),

— Total suspended solids (TSS),

— Total dissolved solids (TDS),

— Sulfate,

— Chloride,

— Total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN),

— Ammonia as nitrogen,

— Nitrate/nitrite as nitrogen,

— Total phosphorus,

— Total cyanide;
3-2

• Total metals:

— Aluminum, antimony, arsenic, barium, beryllium, boron, cadmium, 

calcium, chromium, cobalt, copper, iron, lead, magnesium, manganese, 

mercury, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, silver, sodium, thallium, tin, 

titanium, vanadium, and zinc.

• Dissolved metals:

— Same parameters as listed for total metals, plus hexavalent chromium.

The analytes selected for analysis reflect the current understanding of coal-fired power 

plant FGD wastewaters, including contributions from coal, scrubber sorbents, treatment 

chemicals, and other sources. Table 3-1 lists the potential analytes for each sampling point, Table 

3-2 lists the analytical methods that will be used, and Table 3-3 lists the sample container and 

volume and planned on-site preservation for each parameter or parameter group. 

3.3

To characterize the influent to the FGD wastewater treatment system (SP-1), the influent 

to the SBR (SP-2), and the effluent from the SBR (SP-3) at Dickerson, the sampling team will 

use varying methods to collect the samples depending on the sampling point and pollutant 

parameters. This section describes in detail the sample collection techniques. 

Sample Collection Procedures

Samples are collected as a series of “fractions,” or bottles designated for particular 

analyses requiring the same preservation. The comprehensive sample set consists of sample

fractions for all pollutant classes listed in Section 3.2. Note that some sample fractions will be 

collected in the same sample bottle, such as Group I analytes (TSS, TDS, sulfate, and chloride) 

and Group II analytes (ammonia as nitrogen, COD, nitrate/nitrite as nitrogen, TKN, and total 

phosphorus). 

In general, samplers will work in teams of two to ensure that proper sampling techniques 

are followed and adequate notes are taken at each sampling location. Samplers will wear 

disposable gloves, Tyvek® suits, masks (when sampling for mercury by EPA Method 1631E), 

steel-toed boots, hard hats, and safety eyewear, and will observe precautions while collecting 

samples, remaining aware of their surroundings. Note that the use of masks is to prevent 

contamination of the mercury samples and not for respiratory protection.

Sample containers and bottles will be purchased precleaned and certified and will not 

require rinsing with sample. The sample bottles for the metals analyses will be cleaned according 

to EPA Method 1669. For this sampling episode, ERG will collect 24-hour composite samples at 

the influent to and the effluent from the SBR sampling points and individual grab samples at the 

influent to the FGD wastewater treatment system sampling point. In addition, ERG will collect 

one sample at each sampling point each day over four consecutive 24-hour periods (a total of 

four samples for each sampling point). ERG will follow protocols described in EPA Method 

1669 to collect metal sample fractions. All sampling equipment (e.g., tubing) and sample bottles 

will be cleaned according to the procedures described in EPA Method 1669. Samplers will use 

“clean hands / dirty hands” sample collection techniques when collecting metal sample fractions, 

as described in EPA Method 1669. 
3-3

Samplers will take care not to touch the insides of bottles or lids/caps during sampling. 

Samples that require cooling to ≤6°C for preservation will be cooled immediately in an ice-water 

bath and then placed into coolers containing bagged ice throughout sample storage, shipment, 

and receipt at the analytical laboratories. The Crew Chief will confirm that samples are actually 

≤6°C before being packed for shipment to the laboratory and the temperature reading will be 

documented in the traffic report for the samples. Samples that require cooling to ≤6°C shall not 

be shipped until that temperature is reached. In addition, the length of time required for the 

samples to reach ≤6°C shall be documented in the field log sheet.

3.3.1 Influent to FGD Wastewater Treatment System (SP-1)

The influent to the FGD wastewater treatment system (SP-1) will be collected at a sample 

tap located on the drain of the pump that transfers the FGD wastewater from the purge tank to 

the equalization tank. Prior to the sampling episode, Dickerson will remove the piping that is 

currently located on the drain and will install a tap with a 3/8 inch hose barb for sample 

collection. ERG will collect the sample prior to the wastewater entering the equalization tank 

because the FGD scrubber purge is commingled with other waste streams in the equalization 

tank and, therefore, the sampling point upstream of the tank provides the best representation of 

the FGD scrubber purge from the Dickerson FGD system. Because the flow from the purge tank 

to the equalization tank is not continuous, ERG will need to coordinate closely with Dickerson

personnel during the sampling episode to determine when grab samples can be collected (i.e., 

when wastewater is being transferred to the FGD wastewater treatment system). ERG will follow 

protocols described in EPA Method 1669 to collect metal sample fractions from SP-1.

ERG plans to collect split samples with Dickerson (or its representative), where possible; 

therefore, ERG plans to attach a piece of silicone tubing to the sample tap with a “Y” splitter at 

the other end of the tubing to allow ERG and Dickerson (or its representative) to collect samples 

simultaneously. If problems occur during the collection of split samples (e.g., the splitters 

become clogged and the flow is split unevenly between the sampling crews), then EPA may stop 

the split sample collection and offer instead to collect duplicate samples with Dickerson or its 

representative. For all analyses (except dissolved metals and hexavalent chromium), the samplers 

will collect samples through the tubing directly into the specified containers. For the dissolved 

metals and hexavalent chromium samples, the samplers will fill one 10-L container, allow the 

solids to settle for approximately one hour, and then pump the aqueous portion of the sample 

through a 0.45 μm filter and then through a “Y” splitter into the specified containers; therefore, 

the dissolved metals and hexavalent chromium samples will be collected as split samples. 

Due to the high suspended solids content (typically one percent at Dickerson, but has 

been observed on the order of 1-5 percent at other plants) of the samples collected at the influent 

to the FGD wastewater treatment system, EPA may analyze the samples as bi-phasic samples. If 

the TSS content of the sample is greater than one percent, then the laboratory will separate the 

aqueous and solid portions of the sample and analyze both for the analyte of interest. In this 

instance, Group I (chloride and sulfate only), Group II (ammonia as nitrogen, nitrate/nitrite as 

nitrogen, and total phosphorus only), and total metals (including mercury, but not hexavalent 

chromium because it is filtered in the field during sample collection) samples will be analyzed as 

bi-phasic samples. Group I (TSS, and TDS only), Group II (COD only), BOD5, hexavalent 
3-4

chromium, and dissolved metals (including mercury) samples will not be analyzed as bi-phasic 

samples. Scrubber purge samples with less than one percent TSS will not require bi-phasic 

separation and analysis.

The samples for the influent to the FGD wastewater treatment system (SP-1) will be 

collected from a sample tap. The sampling equipment will consist of the following:

• Colorless, electronic-grade, non-nitrile gloves;

• Silicone tubing with “Y” splitter;

• 10-L containers;

• Teflon® tubing;

• Silicone tubing;

• 0.45-um filter;

• Funnel;

• Peristaltic pump;

• Small table;

• Cleanbox;

• Tyvek® suits (for metals samples); 

• Masks (for mercury samples); and

• Sample containers.

All metals sampling equipment will be specially-cleaned according to the procedures 

described in EPA Method 1669. ERG will follow protocols described in EPA Method 1669 to 

collect metal sample fractions. Two or more ERG samplers (“clean hands” and “dirty hands”) 

will follow the protocols described in the steps below to set up the sampling point, collect the 

field blank samples, and collect wastewater samples. This section describes the set up of the 

sample point and collection of the EPA samples1.

1. Samplers remove the bags containing the gloves and high-density polyethylene 

(HDPE) plastic wrap from the coolers or storage containers in which they are 

packed. Samplers identify which coolers or boxes contain the double-bagged 

sample bottles, precleaned tubing, blank water, and cleanbox. Depending on the 

condition of the sample tap, samplers may need to wipe the tap with a clean paper 

towel to remove any buildup on the tap that could potentially fall in the sample 

bottles during sample collection.

2. Both samplers put on Tyvek® suits, masks, and gloves. “Dirty hands” covers 

work surfaces (ground or table) with HDPE plastic wrap and places the doublebagged sample bottles within easy access on the covered surface.

3. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the cleanbox and “clean hands” opens the 

inner bag. “Clean hands” places the cleanbox at the point of sample collection, 

opens the cleanbox, and secures it open with the clips located inside the box.

 1 For the sample collection, the samples will be split with the plant (or the plant’s representative) and, therefore, the 

sample set-up describes equipment needed for split samples. However, EPA is not responsible for the collection of 

the split samples collected by the plant and, therefore, the collection of their samples is not described in this plan.
3-5

4. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag containing a length of precleaned silicone 

tubing. “Clean hands” opens the inner bag inside of the cleanbox, removes the 

tubing, and places clean plastic bags over the ends of the silicone tubing.

5. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the funnel and “clean hands” opens the inner 

bag inside of the cleanbox and attaches the funnel to the tubing.

6. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bags of the mercury field blank water and total 

mercury field blank sample bottles. “Clean hands” opens the inner bag for the 

field blank water, unscrews the lid and places it in the inner bag. “Clean hands” 

passes the funnel end of the tubing with a plastic bag shrouding the funnel to 

another “clean hands” person to hold outside the cleanbox. “Clean hands” 

removes the inner bag for the total mercury field blank sample bottle and places it 

in the cleanbox. “Clean hands” holds the end of the silicone tubing outside the 

cleanbox over a bucket, with the plastic bag still covering the end of the tubing. 

“Dirty hands” pours field blank water through the funnel and tubing. After the 

tubing has been purged with sufficient volume, “clean hands” places the silicone 

tubing back in the cleanbox. Working inside the cleanbox, “clean hands” 

unscrews the lid of the field blank sample bottle, removes the tubing from the 

plastic bag, and prepares to fill the field blank sample bottle. “Dirty hands” pours 

field blank water into the funnel and tubing, and “clean hands” fills the total 

mercury field blank sample bottle. “Clean hands” places the end of the silicone 

tubing into the plastic bag, replaces the lid on the sample bottle, and closes the 

inner bag. “Clean hands” removes the bottle from the cleanbox and places it in the 

outer bag. “Dirty hands” closes the outer bag. The samplers repeat this procedure 

for the total metals field blank samples2

.

7. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag for a precleaned 10-L container. “Clean hands” 

opens the inner bag and loosens the lid. “Clean hands” holds the end of the 

silicone tubing at the mouth of the 10-L container and removes the lid. “Dirty 

hands” pours field blank water through the funnel and tubing, and “clean hands” 

fills the 10-L container with enough field blank water to collect the dissolved 

metals field blank samples. “Clean hands” places the lid back on the 10-L 

container, places the plastic bag over the end of the silicone tubing, and places the 

tubing in the cleanbox. “Clean hands” screws the lid on the 10-L container and 

closes the inner bag. “Dirty hands” closes the outer bag of the 10-L container.

8. After collecting the field blank samples, “clean hands” removes the funnel from 

the tubing. “Clean hands” and “dirty hands” work to attach the end of the silicone 

tubing to the sample tap. 

 2 ERG will collect field blank samples at the influent to the FGD wastewater treatment system on Day 1 of the 

sampling episode. Additionally, ERG will collect the dissolved mercury sample using the same technique as the 

total mercury sample, but the dissolved sample will be filtered at the laboratory. A dissolved mercury field blank 

sample will be analyzed by the laboratory to assess any mercury contamination from the filtering performed at the 

laboratory. Therefore, ERG does not need to collect a dissolved mercury field blank sample in the field.
3-6

9. “Clean hands” holds the opposite end of the silicone tubing outside the cleanbox 

over a bucket, with the plastic bag covering the end of the tubing. “Dirty hands” 

opens the valve to the sample tap to purge the piping for a minimum of 2 minutes. 

“Clean hands” places the end of the silicone tubing back in the cleanbox.

10. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag for the total mercury sample bottle. “Clean

hands” removes the inner bag and bottle and places it in the cleanbox. “Clean 

hands” opens the inner bag and bottle lid. “Clean hands” removes the plastic bag 

from the tubing and fills the sample bottle. “Clean hands” places the tubing back 

in the plastic bag, replaces the lid on the sample bottle and closes the inner bag. 

“Clean hands” removes the sample bottle from the cleanbox and places it in the 

outer bag. “Dirty hands” closes the outer bag. The samplers repeat this procedure 

for the dissolved mercury and total metals samples.

11. “Dirty hands” places an ERG label on the outer bags of the sample bottles.

12. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag for a precleaned 10-L container. “Clean hands” 

opens the inner bag and loosens the lid. “Clean hands” holds the end of the 

silicone tubing at the mouth of the 10-L container and removes the lid. “Dirty 

hands” opens the sample valve to allow sample to flow into the 10-L container. 

Samplers fill the 10-L container with sample to be analyzed for dissolved metals

and hexavalent chromium, which is required to be filtered for these analyses. The 

samplers will allow the solids to settle for one hour while collecting the remaining 

samples. “Clean hands” places the lid back on the 10-L container, places the 

plastic bag over the end of the silicone tubing, and places the tubing into the 

cleanbox. ”Clean hands” screws the lid on the 10-L container and closes the inner 

bag. “Dirty hands” closes the outer bag of the 10-Liter container. Both samplers 

change their gloves.

13. Samplers fill a 1-L jar for the field measurements. The samplers will give the jar 

to another sampling team member to measure the temperature and pH. 

14. Both samplers collect the BOD5, Group I, Group II, and total cyanide samples 

from the sample location. The samplers need to test the total cyanide samples for 

sulfides and oxidants and preserve the samples immediately after sample 

collection, according to the preservation protocols outlined in Section 3.4.

Dissolved Metals Sample Collection

15. Samplers allow the 10-L sample container to continue to settle if one hour has not 

elapsed since the sample was collected.

16. “Dirty hands” covers the work surfaces (ground or table) with HDPE plastic wrap 

and places the double-bagged sample bottles within easy access on the covered 

surface.
3-7

17. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the clean box and “Clean hands” opens the 

inner bag. “Clean hands” places the cleanbox at the point of sample collection, 

opens the cleanbox, and secures it open with the clips located inside the box.

18. “Dirty hands” opens the opening on the peristaltic pump head so the tubing can be 

placed in the pump head. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag containing a length of 

precleaned Teflon® tubing attached to a 5-foot length of precleaned silicone 

tubing, a “Y” splitter, and two additional pieces of precleaned silicone tubing. 

“Clean hands” moves the tubing into the cleanbox, opens the inner bag, removes 

the tubing, and places a clean plastic bag over the ends of the Teflon® and 

silicone tubing.

19. “Dirty hands” threads the silicone tubing into the peristaltic pump head.

20. Both samplers change gloves.

21. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of a capsule filter. “Clean hands” opens the 

inner bag and removes the capsule filter. “Clean hands” attaches the capsule filter 

to the silicone tubing just before the “Y” splitter.

22. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the 10-L container that was used to collect 

the field blank water for the dissolved metals fractions. “Clean hands” opens the 

inner bag of the 10-L container. “Clean hands” removes the Teflon® tubing from 

the cleanbox, opens the lid of the 10-L plastic container, removes the plastic bag 

from the Teflon® tubing, and places the Teflon® into the 10-L container. “Dirty 

hands” opens the dissolved metals field blank sample bottle. “Clean hands” 

removes the dissolved metals field blank sample bottle and places it in the 

cleanbox. “Clean hands” holds the end of the silicone tubing outside the cleanbox 

over a bucket, with the plastic bag still covering the end of the tubing and “dirty 

hands” operates the pump to pump about 750 mL of blank water from the field 

blank water bottle. “Clean hands” places the end of the silicone tubing in the 

cleanbox, opens the inner bag of the dissolved metals field blank sample bottle, 

and removes the lid. “Dirty hands” operates the pump to collect the dissolved 

metals field blank sample and then stops the pump. The samplers repeat the 

procedure for the dissolved metals and hexavalent chromium field blank samples.

If a new filter is needed, “clean hands” removes the used filter and samplers 

following step 21 to replace the filter3

.

23. Both samplers change gloves.

24. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of one of the 10-L containers. “Clean hands” 

opens the inner bag, removes the lid, and places the end of the Teflon® tubing 

into the container. “Clean hands” holds the end of the silicone tubing outside the 

cleanbox, with the plastic bag still covering the end of the tubing. “Dirty hands” 

 3 ERG will collect field blank samples only at the influent to the FGD wastewater treatment system during Day 1 of 

the sampling episode.
3-8

starts the pump and passes approximately 750 mL through the tubing and filter

and then stops the pump.

25. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the dissolved metals sample bottle. “Clean 

hands” removes the inner bag and bottle and places it in the cleanbox. “Clean 

hands” opens the inner bag and removes the lid. “Dirty hands” operates the pump 

to collect the dissolved metals sample and then stops the pump. “Clean hands” 

closes the lid on the sample bottle and closes the inner bag. “Clean hands” places 

the inner bag and bottle in the outer bag and “dirty hands” closes the outer bag. 

The samplers repeat this procedure for the dissolved metals and hexavalent 

chromium samples. 

26. “Dirty hands” places an ERG label on the outer bags of the sample bottles.

EPA plans to collect samples at the influent to the wastewater treatment system (SP-1) on 

four consecutive days. The sample collection setup and sampling technique for each day of 

sampling will be the same.

3.3.2 Influent to SBR (SP-2)

The influent to the SBR (SP-2) will be collected at the sample tap located at the heat 

exchanger tank pump discharge to the SBR influent equalization tank. Dickerson has agreed to 

install a three-way splitter on the sample tap that will have three separate taps to collect samples 

from the sampling point. ERG will follow protocols described in EPA Method 1669 to collect 

metal sample fractions from SP-2.

ERG will collect the influent to the SBR composite samples using two automatic 

compositors that will be programmed to collect individual sample volumes into two large 

containers (e.g., two 20-liter containers). To collect sufficient sample volume, ERG will 

calculate the total volume required for ERG sample collection as well as plant split sample

collection and also add additional volume for purging tubing and contingencies. The volume will 

then be programmed to be collected in one-hour intervals during the 24-hour composite period. 

Following the composite period, ERG will pump off the specific sample volumes into the 

individual sample containers.

ERG will use one automatic compositor to collect sample volume for the metals analyses

(excluding mercury) and another automatic compositor to collect sample volume for all classical 

analytes (i.e., BOD5, Group I, and Group II). In addition to collecting automatic composite 

samples for the analytes listed above, ERG will collect total and dissolved mercury samples 

every six hours during each compositing period. ERG will also collect one grab sample for 

cyanide during each compositing period.

ERG plans to collect split samples with Dickerson (or its representative), where possible; 

therefore, when pumping off of the composite samples, a “Y” splitter will be used with two 

pieces of silicone tubing attached to the “Y” splitter to allow ERG and Dickerson (or its 

representative) to collect samples simultaneously. If problems occur during the collection of split 

samples (e.g., the splitters become clogged and the flow is split unevenly between the sampling 
3-9

crews), then EPA may stop the split sample collection and offer instead to collect duplicate 

samples with Dickerson or its representative.

ERG will collect the total and dissolved mercury grab samples by shrouding one of the 

three taps on the three-way splitter (the other two taps are used for the two compositors) and 

collecting the samples directly from the tap. Because the samples are collected directly from the 

tap, ERG will not be able to collect split samples with Dickerson (or its representative); 

therefore, duplicate samples will be collected.

For all analytes, ERG will collect QC samples at the influent to the SBR (SP-2) during 

Day 4 of the sampling episode. In addition, for all analytes, ERG will collect a duplicate sample 

of the influent to the SBR (SP-4) during Day 3 of the sampling episode.

The sample of the influent to the SBR (SP-2) will be collected from a sample tap. The 

sampling equipment will consist of the following:

• Colorless, electronic-grade, non-nitrile gloves;

• Peristaltic pump (automatic compositor – battery powered);

• Large composite containers (e.g., 20-liter containers);

• Funnel;

• “Y” splitter;

• “T” splitter;

• Teflon® tubing;

• Silicone tubing;

• 0.45-um filter;

• Cleanbox;

• Tyvek® suits (for metals samples); 

• Masks (for mercury samples); and

• Sample containers.

All metals sampling equipment will be specially cleaned according to the procedures 

described in EPA Method 1669. The supplier of the cleaned bottles, tubing, and composite 

containers will prepare and analyze bottle blanks and equipment blanks to evaluate possible 

contamination. ERG will follow protocols described in EPA Method 1669 to collect metal 

sample fractions. Two or more ERG samplers (“clean hands” and “dirty hands”) will follow the 

protocols described in the steps below to set up the sampling point, collect the field blank 

samples, and collect wastewater samples. This section describes the set up of the sample point 

and collection of the EPA samples4

.

1. Samplers remove the bags containing the gloves and HDPE plastic wrap from the 

coolers or storage containers in which they are packed. Samplers identify which 

coolers or boxes contain the double-bagged composite containers, precleaned 

tubing, blank water, and cleanbox.

 4 For the sample collection, the samples will be split with the plant (or the plant’s representative) and therefore, the 

sample set-up describes equipment needed for split samples. However, EPA is not responsible for the collection of 

the split samples collected by the plant and therefore, the collection of their samples is not described.
3-10

2. Both samplers put on Tyvek® suits, masks, and gloves. “Dirty hands” covers 

work surfaces (ground or table) with HDPE plastic wrap and places the doublebagged composite containers within easy access on the covered surface.

3. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the cleanbox and “clean hands” opens the 

clear inner bag. “Clean hands” places the cleanbox at the point of sample 

collection. “Clean hands” opens the cleanbox and secures it open with the clips 

located inside the box.

4. “Dirty hands” opens up the peristaltic pump portion of the automatic compositor 

so the tubing can be added. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag containing a length 

of precleaned silicone tubing, a “T” splitter, and two additional pieces of silicone 

tubing. “Clean hands” takes the inner bag containing the tubing and moves it into 

the cleanbox. “Clean hands” opens the inner bag and removes the tubing. “Clean 

hands” places a clean plastic bag over each end of the silicone tubing. The tubing 

configuration will be set up such that one end will be connected to the sample tap, 

one end will be threaded through the automatic compositor and connected to the 

large composite container, and one end will be placed next to a sump/drain near 

the sampling point. To collect the samples, the sample tap will be left open during 

the entire sample collection time period and will flow directly to the sump/drain; 

however, the automatic compositor will pull sample from the flowing stream as 

dictated by the sampling program. Additionally, the automatic compositor will be 

capable of purging the line back to the flowing stream between each individual 

sample aliquot.

5. “Dirty hands” threads one portion of the silicone tubing through the peristaltic 

pump portion of the automatic compositor.

6. Both samplers change gloves.

7. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the metals field blank water and the field 

blank composite container. “Clean hands” opens the inner bag for the field blank 

water, unscrews the lid and places it in the inner bag. “Clean hands” then places 

the one end of the silicone tubing into the blank water. “Clean hands” also opens 

the inner bag for the field blank composite container and loosens the lid. “Clean 

hands” holds the silicone tubing with the plastic bag covering the end out of the 

cleanbox and over a bucket and “dirty hands” operates the pump to pump blank 

water through the tubing. After the tubing has been purged with sufficient 

volume, “clean hands” holds the silicone tubing at the mouth of the field blank 

composite container and fills the composite container with sufficient volume to 

the collect the total and dissolved metals field blank samples at the pump-off 

location. “Dirty hands” stops the pump. During the purging of the tubing and 

collection of the field blank sample volume, “dirty hands” holds the end of the 

silicone tubing that will be placed by the sump/drain above the composite 

container to prevent this portion of the tubing configuration from filling with 

blank water during the pumping process. “Clean hands” places the plastic bag 
3-11

over the end of the silicone tubing, replaces the lid on the field blank composite 

container, places the silicone tubing back in the cleanbox, and closes the inner bag 

of the field blank composite container. “Dirty hands” closes the outer bag of the 

field blank composite container5.

8. Both samplers work together to move the sampling tubing, automatic compositor, 

and composite containers into position for the sample collection. Samplers will 

ensure that the tubing will stay in place during the 24-hour sample collection 

period. 

9. “Dirty hands” changes gloves.

10. “Clean hands” holds the end of the silicone tubing outside the cleanbox over a 

bucket, with the plastic bag still covering the end of the tubing. “Dirty hands”

places the end of the silicone tubing near the sump/drain and opens the sample tap 

valve to allow the wastewater to flow through the tubing. “Dirty hands” operates 

the pump to purge the pump portion of the tubing for a minimum of 2 minutes.

11. Samplers fill a 1-L jar for the field measurements. The samplers will give the jar 

to another sampling team member to measure the temperature and pH.

12. “Dirty hands” programs the automatic compositor to collect the 20 liters of 

sample over a 24-hour time period in one-hour intervals (i.e., collect 830 mL of 

sample every hour). “Dirty hands” calibrates the compositor to ensure that 830 

mL is being collected for each individual grab.

13. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the large composite container. “Clean 

hands” opens the inner bag and connects the silicone tubing to the port on the 

composite container, securing the connection with a cable tie. “Clean hands” 

closes the inner bag around the composite bottle, and “dirty hands” closes the 

outer bag. The samplers put ice around the composite container to keep the 

samples cold during the compositing time period.

14. Samplers repeat steps 1-13 to set up the automatic compositor for the classical

analytes (skipping step 7). Samplers will use another composite container.

15. “Dirty hands” and “Clean hands” then work to collect the total mercury field 

blank sample. “Dirty hands” shrouds the sample tap with a clear plastic bag that 

covers the end of the sample tap and provides enough room for samplers to work 

in with their hands. “Dirty hands” then opens the outer bag of the mercury field 

blank water and the total mercury field blank sample bottle. “Clean hands” opens 

the inner bag for the field blank water and the total mercury field blank sample 

bottle, unscrews the lids and places each in their inner bags. “Clean hands” pours 

 5 ERG will collect field blank samples for all metals samples at the influent to the SBR during Day 1 of the sampling 

episode. Additionally, ERG will collect a total mercury field blank sample during one of the grab samples for each 

day of sample collection at the influent to the SBR.
3-12

the field blank water into the field blank sample bottle, closes the lids, and closes 

the inner bags. “Clean hands” places the total mercury sample bottle in the outer 

bag and “Dirty hands” closes the outer bag

16. “Dirty hands” positions a bucket under the sample tap, opens the valve and purges 

the valve for at least one minute and then closes the tap. Dirty hands” then opens 

the outer bag of the total mercury sample bottle. “Clean hands” takes the bottles 

and positions himself/herself at the tap with the bottle under the shrouding and 

opens the inner bag. “Dirty hands” opens the sample tap and adjusts the flow. 

“Clean hands” open the lid of the total mercury sample bottle and places the bottle 

under the flowing stream to fill the bottle. “Clean hands” then closes the lid on the 

bottle and closes the inner bag. “Dirty hands” closes the sample tap. “Clean 

hands” places the bottle in the outer bag and “dirty hands” closes the outer bag. 

The samplers repeat this procedure for the collection of the dissolved mercury 

sample.

The samplers will fill the bottle directly from the sample tap; therefore, the total 

and dissolved mercury samples will not be collected as split samples with 

Dickerson (or its representative), but will be collected as duplicate samples.

17. The samplers will collect total and dissolved mercury grab samples every six 

hours during the compositing time period.

18. Samplers collect a total cyanide grab sample from the same sample tap used for 

the mercury sample collection. The samplers will fill the bottle directly from the 

tap; therefore, the cyanide sample will not be collected as a split sample with 

Dickerson (or its representative). Immediately after collection, the samplers need 

to test for sulfides and oxidants and preserve the sample according to the 

preservation protocols outlined in Section 3.4.

19. The samplers will collect field measurements samples every six hours during the 

compositing time period. The field measurement samples will be collected from 

the sample tap used for the mercury collection. 

20. At the end of the composite sampling period, “dirty hands” stops each of the 

automatic compositors and opens the outer bag of each composite container. For 

each container, “clean hands” opens the inner bag and detaches the used tubing 

from the composite container and covers the port with a closed lid or small plastic 

bag. The samplers transport each of the composite containers, including the field 

blank composite container, to the pump-off area to pump off the samples into the 

specified containers.

21. The samplers then repeat steps 1 through 20 to collect the composite samples for 

the next day of sample collection. 

After the composite samples have been collected, the sampling team will then transfer the 

sample into the individual sample containers at the pump-off area. For this sampling point, ERG 
3-13

will use a sample pump-off approach to transfer the composite samples to the individual sample 

bottles, because the samples are expected to have a low solids content. For this sample pump-off 

procedure, the dissolved metals samples will be collected before the total metals and classical 

samples to prevent cross-contamination within the tubing, which could lead to greater 

concentrations in the dissolved metals fractions.

Sample Pump-Off Procedures

22. Samplers remove the bags containing the gloves and HDPE plastic wrap from the 

coolers or storage containers in which they are packed. Samplers identify which 

coolers or boxes contain the double-bagged sample bottles, precleaned tubing, and 

cleanbox.

23. Both samplers put on Tyvek® suits and gloves. “Dirty hands” covers work 

surfaces with HDPE plastic wrap and places the double-bagged sample bottles 

and precleaned tubing within easy access on the covered surface.

24. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the cleanbox and “clean hands” opens the 

clear inner bag. “Clean hands” places the cleanbox at the point of sample 

collection, opens the cleanbox, and secures it open with the clips located inside 

the box. 

25. “Dirty hands” opens the opening on the peristaltic pump head so the tubing can be 

placed in the pump head. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag containing a length of 

precleaned Teflon® tubing connected to a length of precleaned silicone tubing, a 

“Y” splitter, and two additional pieces of silicone tubing. “Clean hands” moves 

the tubing into the cleanbox and opens the inner bag and removes the tubing.

“Clean hands” places a clean plastic bag over the end of the Teflon® and silicone 

tubing.

26. “Dirty hands” threads the silicone tubing into the peristaltic pump head.

27. Both samplers change gloves.

28. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the field blank composite container and total

metals field blank sample bottle. “Clean hands” removes the total metals field 

blank sample bottle and places it in the cleanbox. “Clean hands” opens the inner 

bag of the field blank composite container, removes the lid from the container, 

and places the end of the Teflon® tubing in the blank water. “Clean hands” holds 

the end of the silicone tubing outside the cleanbox over a bucket, with the plastic 

bag still covering the end of the tubing and “dirty hands” operates the pump to 

pump about 750 mL of blank water from the field blank composite container.

“Clean hands” places the end of the silicone tubing in the cleanbox, opens the 

inner bag of the total metals field blank sample bottle, and removes the lid. “Dirty 

hands” operates the pump to collect the total metals field blank sample and then 

stops the pump. “Clean hands” closes the lid on the sample bottle and closes the 
3-14

inner bag. “Clean hands” places the inner bag and bottle in the outer bag and 

“dirty hands” closes the outer bag. 

29. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of a capsule filter. “Clean hands” opens the 

inner bag and removes the capsule filter. “Clean hands” attaches the capsule filter 

to the silicone tubing just before the “Y” splitter.

30. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the dissolved metals field blank sample 

bottle. “Clean hands” removes the dissolved metals field blank sample bottle and 

places it in the cleanbox. “Clean hands” holds the end of the silicone tubing 

outside the cleanbox over a bucket, with the plastic bag still covering the end of 

the tubing and “dirty hands” operates the pump to pump about 750 mL of blank 

water from the field blank field blank composite container. “Clean hands” places 

the end of the silicone tubing in the cleanbox, opens the inner bag of the dissolved 

metals field blank sample bottle, and removes the lid. “Dirty hands” operates the 

pump to collect the dissolved metals field blank sample and then stops the pump.

“Clean hands” closes the lid on the sample bottle and closes the inner bag. “Clean 

hands” places the inner bag and bottle in the outer bag and “dirty hands” closes 

the outer bag. The samplers repeat this procedure for the dissolved metals and 

hexavalent chromium field blank samples6

. “Clean hands” closes the inner bag of 

the field blank composite container and “dirty hands” closes the outer bag. Note: 

750 mL of blank water does not need to be purged for each sample, just at the 

beginning of each new filter. If a new filter is needed, “clean hands” removes the 

used filter and samplers follow step 29 to replace the filter.

31. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the large composite container for the metals 

samples and “clean hands” opens the inner bag. “Clean hands” transfers the 

Teflon® tubing from the field blank composite container to the metals sample 

composite container. “Clean hands” holds the end of the silicone tubing outside 

the cleanbox over a bucket, with the plastic bag still covering the end of the 

tubing and “dirty hands” operates the pump to pump about one liter of sample 

through the tubing and filter and then stops the pump.

32. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the dissolved metals sample bottle. “Clean 

hands” removes the inner bag and bottle and places it in the cleanbox. “Clean 

hands” opens the inner bag and removes the lid. “Dirty hands” operates the pump 

to collect the dissolved metals sample and then stops the pump. “Clean hands” 

closes the lid on the sample bottle and closes the inner bag. “Clean hands” places 

the inner bag and bottle in the outer bag and “dirty hands” closes the outer bag. 

The samplers repeat this procedure for the dissolved metals and hexavalent 

chromium samples. During Day 3 of the sampling episode, the samplers will 

collect additional sample volume for the duplicate samples and during Day 4 of 

 6 ERG will collect field blank samples for all metals samples at the influent to the SBR only during Day 1 of the 

sampling episode. ERG will collect the dissolved mercury sample using the same technique as the total mercury 

sample, but the dissolved sample will be filtered at the laboratory. A dissolved mercury field blank will be 

performed by the laboratory to assess any mercury contamination from the filtering performed at the laboratory. 

Therefore, ERG does not need to collect a dissolved mercury field blank sample in the field.
3-15

the sampling episode, the samplers will collect additional sample volume for the 

laboratory QC analyses.

33. “Clean hands” removes the capsule filter from the sample tubing configuration 

and reconnects the two pieces of tubing together.

34. “Clean hands” holds the silicone tubing outside the cleanbox over a bucket, with 

the plastic bag covering the end of the tubing. “Dirty hands” pumps about one 

liter of sample through the tubing and then stops the pump. “Clean hands” places 

the end of the silicone tubing back in the cleanbox.

35. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the total metals sample bottle. “Clean hands” 

removes the inner bag and bottle and places it in the cleanbox. “Clean hands” 

opens the inner bag and removes the lid. “Dirty hands” operates the pump to 

collect the total metals sample and then stops the pump. “Clean hands” closes the 

lid on the sample bottle and closes the inner bag. “Clean hands” places the inner 

bag and bottle in the outer bag and “dirty hands” closes the outer bag. During Day 

3 of the sampling episode, the samplers will collect additional sample volume for 

the duplicate samples and during Day 4 of the sampling episode, the samplers will 

collect additional sample volume for the laboratory QC analyses.

36. “Dirty hands” places an ERG label on the outer bags of the sample bottles.

37. “Dirty hands” shakes the large composite containers for the classical analytes to 

mix the sample. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag for the composite container. 

“Clean hands” opens the inner bag and transfers the Teflon ® tubing from the 

metals composite container to the composite container for the classical analytes.

38. “Clean hands” holds the silicone tubing outside the cleanbox over a bucket, with 

the plastic bag covering the end of the tubing. “Dirty hands” pumps about one 

liter of sample through the tubing. “Dirty hands” stops the pump.

39. Both samples collect the BOD5, Group I, and Group II samples. During Day 3 of 

the sampling episode, the samplers will collect additional sample volume for the 

duplicate samples and during Day 4 of the sampling episode, the samplers will 

collect additional sample volume for the laboratory QC analyses.

EPA plans to collect samples at the influent to the SBR (SP-2) on four consecutive days. 

The sample collection setup and sampling technique for each day of sampling will be the same.

3.3.3 Effluent from SBR (SP-3)

The effluent from the SBR (SP-3) will be collected downstream of the tertiary continuous 

backwash gravity filters and upstream of the treated water storage tank. Dickerson has a sample 

tap located on the wastewater piping downstream of the tertiary continuous backwash gravity 

filters. Dickerson has agreed to install a three-way splitter on the sample tap that will have three 
3-16

separate taps to collect samples from the sampling point. ERG will follow protocols described in 

EPA Method 1669 to collect metal sample fractions from SP-3.

ERG will collect the effluent from the SBR composite samples using two automatic 

compositors that will be programmed to collect individual sample volumes into two large 

containers (e.g., two 20-liter containers). To collect sufficient sample volume, ERG will 

calculate the total volume required for ERG sample collection as well as plant split sample

collection and also add additional volume for purging tubing and contingencies. The volume will 

then be programmed to be collected in one-hour intervals during the 24-hour composite period.

Following the composite period, ERG will pump off the specific sample volumes into the 

individual sample containers.

ERG will use one automatic compositor to collect sample volume for the metals analyses

(excluding mercury) and another automatic compositor to collect sample volume for all classical 

analytes (i.e., BOD5, Group I, and Group II). In addition to collecting automatic composite 

samples for the analytes listed above, ERG will collect total and dissolved mercury samples 

every six hours during each compositing period. ERG will also collect one grab sample for 

cyanide during each compositing period.

ERG plans to collect split samples with Dickerson (or its representative), where possible; 

therefore, when pumping off of the composite samples, a “Y” splitter will be used with two 

pieces of silicone tubing attached to the “Y” splitter to allow ERG and Dickerson (or its 

representative) to collect samples simultaneously. If problems occur during the collection of split 

samples (e.g., the splitters become clogged and the flow is split unevenly between the sampling 

crews), then EPA may stop the split sample collection and offer instead to collect duplicate 

samples with Dickerson or its representative.

ERG will collect the total and dissolved mercury grab samples by shrouding one of the 

three taps on the three-way splitter (the other two taps are used for the two compositors) and 

collecting the samples directly from the tap. Because the samples are collected directly from the 

tap, ERG will not be able to collect split samples with Dickerson (or its representative); 

therefore, duplicate samples will be collected.

For all analytes, ERG will collect QC samples at the effluent from the SBR (SP-3) during

Day 3 of the sampling episode. In addition, for all analytes, ERG will collect a duplicate sample 

of the effluent from the SBR (SP-5) during Day 2 of the sampling episode.

The sample of the effluent from the SBR (SP-3) will be collected from a sample tap. The 

sampling equipment will consist of the following:

• Colorless, electronic-grade, non-nitrile gloves;

• Peristaltic pump (automatic compositor – battery powered);

• Large composite containers (e.g., 20-liter containers);

• Funnel;

• “Y” splitter;

• “T” splitter;

• Teflon® tubing;
3-17

• Silicone tubing;

• 0.45-um filter;

• Cleanbox;

• Tyvek® suits (for metals samples); 

• Masks (for mercury samples); and

• Sample containers.

All metals sampling equipment will be specially cleaned according to the procedures 

described in EPA Method 1669. The supplier of the cleaned bottles, tubing, and composite 

containers will prepare and analyze bottle blanks and equipment blanks to evaluate possible 

contamination. ERG will follow protocols described in EPA Method 1669 to collect metal 

sample fractions. Two or more ERG samplers (“clean hands” and “dirty hands”) will follow the 

protocols described in the steps below to set up the sampling point, collect the field blank 

samples, and collect wastewater samples. This section describes the set up of the sample point 

and collection of the EPA samples7.

1. Samplers remove the bags containing the gloves and HDPE plastic wrap from the 

coolers or storage containers in which they are packed. Samplers identify which 

coolers or boxes contain the double-bagged composite containers, precleaned 

tubing, blank water, and cleanbox.

2. Both samplers put on Tyvek® suits, masks, and gloves. “Dirty hands” covers work 

surfaces (ground or table) with HDPE plastic wrap and places the double-bagged 

composite containers within easy access on the covered surface.

3. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the cleanbox and “clean hands” opens the 

clear inner bag. “Clean hands” places the cleanbox at the point of sample collection.

“Clean hands” opens the cleanbox and secures it open with the clips located inside 

the box.

4. “Dirty hands” opens up the peristaltic pump portion of the automatic compositor so 

the tubing can be added. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag containing a length of 

precleaned silicone tubing, a “T” splitter, and two additional pieces of silicone 

tubing. “Clean hands” takes the inner bag containing the tubing and moves it into 

the cleanbox. “Clean hands” opens the inner bag and removes the tubing. “Clean 

hands” places a clean plastic bag over each end of the silicone tubing. The tubing 

configuration will be set up such that one end will be connected to the sample tap, 

one end will be threaded through the automatic compositor and connected to the 

large composite container, and one end will be placed next to a sump/drain near the 

sampling point. To collect the samples, the sample tap will be left open during the 

entire sample collection time period and will flow directly to the sump/drain; 

however, the automatic compositor will pull sample from the flowing stream as 

dictated by the sampling program. Additionally, the automatic compositor will be 

 7 For the sample collection, the samples will be split with the plant (or the plant’s representative) and therefore, the 

sample set-up describes equipment needed for split samples. However, EPA is not responsible for the collection of 

the split samples collected by the plant and therefore, the collection of their samples is not described.
3-18

capable of purging the line back to the flowing stream between each individual 

sample aliquot.

5. “Dirty hands” threads one portion of the silicone tubing through the peristaltic 

pump portion of the automatic compositor.

6. Both samplers change gloves.

7. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the metals field blank water and the field 

blank composite container. “Clean hands” opens the inner bag for the field blank 

water, unscrews the lid and places it in the inner bag. “Clean hands” then places the 

one end of the silicone tubing into the blank water. “Clean hands” also opens the 

inner bag for the field blank composite container and loosens the lid. “Clean hands” 

holds the silicone tubing with the plastic bag covering the end out of the cleanbox 

and over a bucket and “dirty hands” operates the pump to pump blank water 

through the tubing. After the tubing has been purged with sufficient volume, “clean 

hands” holds the silicone tubing at the mouth of the field blank composite container 

and fills the composite container with sufficient volume to the collect the total and 

dissolved metals field blank samples at the pump-off location. “Dirty hands” stops 

the pump. During the purging of the tubing and collection of the field blank sample 

volume, “dirty hands” holds the end of the silicone tubing that will be placed by the 

sump/drain above the composite container to prevent this portion of the tubing 

configuration from filling with blank water during the pumping process. “Clean 

hands” places the plastic bag over the end of the silicone tubing, replaces the lid on 

the field blank composite container, places the silicone tubing back in the cleanbox, 

and closes the inner bag of the field blank composite container. “Dirty hands” 

closes the outer bag of the field blank composite container8

.

8. Both samplers work together to move the sampling tubing, automatic compositor, 

and composite containers into position for the sample collection. Samplers will 

ensure that the tubing will stay in place during the 24-hour sample collection 

period.

9. “Dirty hands” changes gloves.

10. “Clean hands” holds the end of the silicone tubing outside the cleanbox over a 

bucket, with the plastic bag still covering the end of the tubing. “Dirty hands”

places the end of the silicone tubing near the sump/drain and opens the sample tap 

valve to allow the wastewater to flow through the tubing. “Dirty hands” operates 

the pump to purge the pump portion of the tubing for a minimum of 2 minutes.

11. Samplers fill a 1-L jar for the field measurements. The samplers will give the jar to 

another sampling team member to measure the temperature and pH.

 8 ERG will collect field blank samples for all metals samples at the effluent from the SBR during Day 1 of the 

sampling episode. Additionally, ERG will collect a total mercury field blank sample during one of the grab samples 

for each day of sample collection at the effluent from the SBR.
3-19

12. “Dirty hands” programs the automatic compositor to collect the 20 liters of sample 

over a 24-hour time period in one-hour intervals (i.e., collect 830 mL of sample 

every hour). “Dirty hands” calibrates the compositor to ensure that 830 mL is being 

collected for each individual grab.

13. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the large composite container. “Clean hands” 

opens the inner bag and connects the silicone tubing to the port on the composite 

container, securing the connection with a cable tie. “Clean hands” closes the inner 

bag around the composite bottle, and “dirty hands” closes the outer bag. The 

samplers put ice around the composite container to keep the samples cold during the 

compositing time period.

14. Samplers repeat steps 1-13 to set up the automatic compositor for the classical

analytes (skipping step 7). Samplers will use another composite container.

15. “Dirty hands” and “Clean hands” then work to collect the total mercury field blank 

sample. “Dirty hands” shrouds the sample tap with a clear plastic bag that covers 

the end of the sample tap and provides enough room for samplers to work in with 

their hands. “Dirty hands” then opens the outer bag of the mercury field blank water 

and the total mercury field blank sample bottle. “Clean hands” opens the inner bag 

for the field blank water and the total mercury field blank sample bottle, unscrews 

the lids and places each in their inner bags. “Clean hands” pours the field blank 

water into the field blank sample bottle, closes the lids, and closes the inner bags. 

“Clean hands” places the total mercury sample bottle in the outer bag and “Dirty 

hands” closes the outer bag

16. “Dirty hands” positions a bucket under the sample tap, opens the valve and purges 

the valve for at least one minute and then closes the tap. Dirty hands” then opens 

the outer bag of the total mercury sample bottle. “Clean hands” takes the bottles and 

positions himself/herself at the tap with the bottle under the shrouding and opens 

the inner bag. “Dirty hands” opens the sample tap and adjusts the flow. “Clean 

hands” open the lid of the total mercury sample bottle and places the bottle under 

the flowing stream to fill the bottle. “Clean hands” then closes the lid on the bottle 

and closes the inner bag. “Dirty hands” closes the sample tap. “Clean hands” places 

the bottle in the outer bag and “dirty hands” closes the outer bag. The samplers 

repeat this procedure for the collection of the dissolved mercury sample.

The samplers will fill the bottle directly from the sample tap; therefore, the total 

and dissolved mercury samples will not be collected as split samples with 

Dickerson (or its representative), but will be collected as duplicate samples.

17. The samplers will collect total and dissolved mercury grab samples every six hours 

during the compositing time period.

18. Samplers collect a total cyanide grab sample from the same sample tap used for the 

mercury sample collection. The samplers will fill the bottle directly from the tap; 
3-20

therefore, the cyanide sample will not be collected as a split sample with Dickerson

(or its representative). Immediately after collection, the samplers need to test for 

sulfides and oxidants and preserve the sample according to the preservation 

protocols outlined in Section 3.4.

19. The samplers will collect field measurements samples every six hours during the 

compositing time period. The field measurement samples will be collected from the 

sample tap used for the mercury collection.

20. At the end of the composite sampling period, “dirty hands” stops each of the 

automatic compositors and opens the outer bag of each composite container. For 

each container, “clean hands” opens the inner bag and detaches the used tubing 

from the composite container and covers the port with a closed lid or small plastic 

bag. The samplers transport each of the composite containers, including the field 

blank composite container, to the pump-off area to pump off the samples into the 

specified containers.

21. The samplers then repeat steps 1 through 20 to collect the composite samples for 

the next day of sample collection.

After the composite samples have been collected, the sampling team will then transfer the 

sample into the individual sample containers at the pump-off area. For this sampling point, ERG

will use a sample pump-off approach to transfer the composite samples to the individual sample 

bottles, because the samples are expected to have a low solids content. For this sample pump-off 

procedure, the dissolved metals samples will be collected before the total metals and classical 

samples to prevent cross-contamination within the tubing, which could lead to greater 

concentrations in the dissolved metals fractions.

Sample Pump-Off Procedures

22. Samplers remove the bags containing the gloves and HDPE plastic wrap from the 

coolers or storage containers in which they are packed. Samplers identify which 

coolers or boxes contain the double-bagged sample bottles, precleaned tubing, and 

cleanbox.

23. Both samplers put on Tyvek® suits and gloves. “Dirty hands” covers work surfaces 

with HDPE plastic wrap and places the double-bagged sample bottles and 

precleaned tubing within easy access on the covered surface.

24. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the cleanbox and “clean hands” opens the 

clear inner bag. “Clean hands” places the cleanbox at the point of sample collection,

opens the cleanbox, and secures it open with the clips located inside the box. 

25. “Dirty hands” opens the opening on the peristaltic pump head so the tubing can be 

placed in the pump head. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag containing a length of 

precleaned Teflon® tubing connected to a length of precleaned silicone tubing, a 

“Y” splitter, and two additional pieces of silicone tubing. “Clean hands” moves the
3-21

tubing into the cleanbox and opens the inner bag and removes the tubing. “Clean 

hands” places a clean plastic bag over the end of the Teflon® and silicone tubing.

26. “Dirty hands” threads the silicone tubing into the peristaltic pump head.

27. Both samplers change gloves.

28. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the field blank composite container and total

metals field blank sample bottle. “Clean hands” removes the total metals field blank 

sample bottle and places it in the cleanbox. “Clean hands” opens the inner bag of 

the field blank composite container, removes the lid from the container, and places 

the end of the Teflon® tubing in the blank water. “Clean hands” holds the end of 

the silicone tubing outside the cleanbox over a bucket, with the plastic bag still 

covering the end of the tubing and “dirty hands” operates the pump to pump about 

750 mL of blank water from the field blank composite container. “Clean hands” 

places the end of the silicone tubing in the cleanbox, opens the inner bag of the total 

metals field blank sample bottle, and removes the lid. “Dirty hands” operates the 

pump to collect the total metals field blank sample and then stops the pump. “Clean 

hands” closes the lid on the sample bottle and closes the inner bag. “Clean hands” 

places the inner bag and bottle in the outer bag and “dirty hands” closes the outer 

bag. 

29. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of a capsule filter. “Clean hands” opens the inner 

bag and removes the capsule filter. “Clean hands” attaches the capsule filter to the 

silicone tubing just before the “Y” splitter.

30. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the dissolved metals field blank sample bottle.

“Clean hands” removes the dissolved metals field blank sample bottle and places it 

in the cleanbox. “Clean hands” holds the end of the silicone tubing outside the 

cleanbox over a bucket, with the plastic bag still covering the end of the tubing and 

“dirty hands” operates the pump to pump about 750 mL of blank water from the 

field blank field blank composite container. “Clean hands” places the end of the 

silicone tubing in the cleanbox, opens the inner bag of the dissolved metals field 

blank sample bottle, and removes the lid. “Dirty hands” operates the pump to 

collect the dissolved metals field blank sample and then stops the pump. “Clean 

hands” closes the lid on the sample bottle and closes the inner bag. “Clean hands” 

places the inner bag and bottle in the outer bag and “dirty hands” closes the outer 

bag. The samplers repeat this procedure for the dissolved metals and hexavalent 

chromium field blank samples9

 9 ERG will collect field blank samples for all metals samples at the effluent from the SBR only during Day 1 of the 

sampling episode. ERG will collect the dissolved mercury sample using the same technique as the total mercury 

sample, but the dissolved sample will be filtered at the laboratory. A dissolved mercury field blank will be 

performed by the laboratory to assess any mercury contamination from the filtering performed at the laboratory. 

Therefore, ERG does not need to collect a dissolved mercury field blank sample in the field.

. “Clean hands” closes the inner bag of the field 

blank composite container and “dirty hands” closes the outer bag. Note: 750 mL of 

blank water does not need to be purged for each sample, just at the beginning of 
3-22

each new filter. If a new filter is needed, “clean hands” removes the used filter and 

samplers follow step 29 to replace the filter.

31. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the large composite container for the metals 

samples and “clean hands” opens the inner bag. “Clean hands” transfers the 

Teflon® tubing from the field blank composite container to the metals sample 

composite container. “Clean hands” holds the end of the silicone tubing outside the 

cleanbox over a bucket, with the plastic bag still covering the end of the tubing and 

“dirty hands” operates the pump to pump about one liter of sample through the 

tubing and filter and then stops the pump.

32. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the dissolved metals sample bottle. “Clean 

hands” removes the inner bag and bottle and places it in the cleanbox. “Clean 

hands” opens the inner bag and removes the lid. “Dirty hands” operates the pump to 

collect the dissolved metals sample and then stops the pump. “Clean hands” closes 

the lid on the sample bottle and closes the inner bag. “Clean hands” places the inner 

bag and bottle in the outer bag and “dirty hands” closes the outer bag. The samplers 

repeat this procedure for the dissolved metals and hexavalent chromium samples.

During Day 2 of the sampling episode, the samplers will collect additional sample 

volume for the duplicate samples and during Day 3 of the sampling episode, the 

samplers will collect additional sample volume for the laboratory QC analyses.

33. “Clean hands” removes the capsule filter from the sample tubing configuration and 

reconnects the two pieces of tubing together.

34. “Clean hands” holds the silicone tubing outside the cleanbox over a bucket, with the 

plastic bag covering the end of the tubing. “Dirty hands” pumps about one liter of 

sample through the tubing and then stops the pump. “Clean hands” places the end of 

the silicone tubing back in the cleanbox.

35. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag of the total metals sample bottle. “Clean hands” 

removes the inner bag and bottle and places it in the cleanbox. “Clean hands” opens 

the inner bag and removes the lid. “Dirty hands” operates the pump to collect the 

total metals sample and then stops the pump. “Clean hands” closes the lid on the 

sample bottle and closes the inner bag. “Clean hands” places the inner bag and 

bottle in the outer bag and “dirty hands” closes the outer bag. During Day 2 of the 

sampling episode, the samplers will collect additional sample volume for the 

duplicate samples and during Day 3 of the sampling episode, the samplers will 

collect additional sample volume for the laboratory QC analyses.

36. “Dirty hands” places an ERG label on the outer bags of the sample bottles.

37. “Dirty hands” shakes the large composite containers for the classical analytes to 

mix the sample. “Dirty hands” opens the outer bag for the composite container. 

“Clean hands” opens the inner bag and transfers the Teflon ® tubing from the 

metals composite container to the composite container for the classical analytes.
3-23

38. “Clean hands” holds the silicone tubing outside the cleanbox over a bucket, with the 

plastic bag covering the end of the tubing. “Dirty hands” pumps about one liter of 

sample through the tubing. “Dirty hands” stops the pump.

39. Both samples collect the BOD5, Group I, and Group II samples. During Day 2 of 

the sampling episode, the samplers will collect additional sample volume for the 

duplicate samples and during Day 3 of the sampling episode, the samplers will 

collect additional sample volume for the laboratory QC analyses.

EPA plans to collect samples at the effluent from the SBR (SP-3) on four consecutive

days. The sample collection setup and sampling technique for each day of sampling will be the 

same.

3.4

All samples will be maintained on ice immediately upon collection (except metals 

samples that do not require cooling). Because the classical and hexavalent chromium samples are 

required to be cooled, all composite containers will be maintained on ice. After pumping off the 

composite samples into the individual sample containers, the classical and hexavalent chromium 

samples will be put in an ice-water bath; however, the other metals samples, which do not 

require cooling, will 

Sample Preservation, Shipping, and Analysis 

not be placed on ice. The classical and hexavalent chromium grab samples 

collected at the FGD influent sampling point will also be placed on ice immediately after 

collection.

The dissolved metals (excluding mercury) and hexavalent chromium samples will be 

filtered in the field. The dissolved mercury samples will be filtered upon receipt at the 

laboratory. All metals samples, except hexavalent chromium, will be acid-preserved prior to 

extraction at the laboratory. Hexavalent chromium samples will be preserved on site, according 

to the method-specified protocols. If the hexavalent chromium samples do not reach the required 

pH (9.3 to 9.7 S.U.) after 3 mL of ammonium sulfate buffer addition, the samplers will add 

ammonium hydroxide to achieve the required pH. Samplers will filter samples within 15 minutes 

after the compositing period ends (or as soon thereafter as possible). The dissolved samples of 

the FGD influent will be filtered approximately one hour after they are collected to allow for 

solids settling because the samples’ high solids content that would clog the filter.

The total cyanide grab samples will be preserved according to the method-specific 

protocols immediately following collection. Prior to sample collection, the samplers will test the 

wastewater at each sampling point for sulfide using lead acetate test strips. If sulfide is present, 

the samplers will use the procedure identified in Section 3.5 to determine the minimal amount of 

dilution necessary to reduce sulfide to a nondetectable concentration. After determining this

minimal dilution factor for the sampling point, the samplers will dilute all samples collected at 

this sampling point using blank water. After dilution, the samplers will retest the sample for 

sulfides. If sulfides are still detected, the sample will be diluted further using the same technique 

as identified in Section 3.5 to ensure that the sample is not over-diluted. The samplers will then 

test the diluted sample for the presence of oxidants (i.e., chlorine) using potassium-iodide starch 

paper. If total chlorine is present, the samplers will add sodium arsenite in small increments until 

the oxidants are at nondetectable concentrations in the sample. The samplers will then carefully 
3-24

adjust the pH to >10 S.U. using sodium hydroxide and place the sample on ice. The preservation, 

including the amount of dilution, will be reported to the laboratory on the traffic reports.

Table 3-3 lists the parameters, bottle types, sample volume, and on-site preservation 

requirements for each type of analysis. The type and amount of preservation used will be 

recorded on sample preservation log sheets (Figure 3-1). With the exception of total cyanide 

samples, if 10 percent of the sample volume is added and the required pH is not achieved, ERG 

will stop diluting the samples by discontinuing preservation and noting it on the traffic report. 

The wastewater samples, except metals samples that do not require cooling, will be packed in ice 

chests with a sufficient quantity of ice to maintain a temperature of ≤6°C. All samples will be 

prepared for overnight shipment via Federal Express to laboratories.

3.5

Temperature, pH, sulfide, and oxidants will be measured and recorded by the sampling 

crew at each sampling point (SP-1, SP-2, and SP-3). The samplers will measure temperature and

pH when the automatic composite samplers are initially set up and every six hours during the 

compositing period. The samplers will test the wastewater for sulfide and oxidants at the time the 

total cyanide grab sample is collected. For temperature and pH, the samplers will fill a 1-liter 

glass jar with sample and test the wastewater immediately after collecting the aliquot. For sulfide 

and oxidants, the samplers will fill the cyanide sample bottle directly and test for sulfide and 

oxidants using test strips immediately after sample collection.

Field Measurements and Engineering Data Collection

During a pre-sampling set-up day (i.e., the day before the sampling episode begins), the

samplers will test the wastewater at each sampling point for sulfide using lead acetate test strips 

to determine if preservation is needed for cyanide. The presence of sulfide will be determined

using lead acetate test strips. If sulfide is present, the samplers should determine the minimal 

amount of dilution necessary to reduce the sulfide concentration to below detection by the lead 

acetate test strips. To identify the minimal amount of dilution, the samplers will dilute the sample 

by a factor of two (1:1) and retest for sulfides. If sulfide is still detected, the samplers will dilute 

the original sample by a factor of 3 (2:1). This process will be continued until sulfide is not 

detected in the sample. After this minimal dilution factor is determined for the sampling point, 

the samplers will use this minimal dilution factor to dilute all samples collected at the sampling 

point. The samplers will also test both the original (i.e., non-diluted) and diluted sample for the 

presence of oxidants (e.g., chlorine) during the pre-sampling set-up day using potassium-iodide 

starch paper. 

Samplers will follow applicable test kit calibration procedures specified by the 

manufacturer. Table 3-4 summarizes the field measurements, the method to be used for the 

measurement, and the detection range of each field test instrument. In addition, EPA will collect 

flow rate data for each sampled waste stream. The flow rates for all the sampling points will be 

collected from the plant’s existing flow recorders.

Field sampling log sheets (Figure 3-2) will be completed at each sampling point. This 

sheet will record the sampling methodology, names of the samplers, sample collection time, field 

measurements, and any notes and observations.
3-25

Samplers will also collect engineering information with regard to design and operation of 

the plant. For example, they will collect information such as coal usage, plant capacity, 

wastewater flow rates, sludge generation rates (if applicable), chemical addition to the treatment 

system, and retention times in wastewater treatment process stages. Engineering data collection 

sheets (Figures 3-3, 3-4, and 3-5) will be completed for the plant. This information will be used 

to determine if the specific design or operational criteria of the steam electric operations affect 

the wastewater characteristics.

3.6

Each sample will be coded with a unique sample number and labeled at the time of 

collection. Typically, labels are printed prior to arrival in the field, although they may also be 

completed by hand. Each self-adhesive label is completed in indelible ink and contains the 

following information:

Sample Labeling

• Sample number;

• Sampling episode number;

• Sampling point/description;

• Date of sample collection;

• Analysis to be performed;

• Sample bottle type; and

• Required preservation.

If any of the preprinted information is incorrect, it will be revised using indelible ink. In 

particular, if a required preservation is not used, it will be marked out (additional preservation 

details will be noted on the traffic report). Once applied to the sample container, labels are 

covered with clear tape to prevent tampering, abrasion, smearing, or loss during transit. For 

metal samples, the samplers will not label the sample bottles, but will label the outer plastic bag 

of the sample bottle.

3.7

To maintain a record of sample collection, transfer between personnel, shipment, and 

receipt by the laboratory, samplers will complete a traffic report for each sample set at each 

sampling location. These forms are used to document sample custody transfer from the field to 

the laboratory. Traffic report forms will be completed for all samples sent to all laboratories. 

Figure 3-6 includes an example of a traffic report. At the time of sample shipment, a copy of the 

traffic report will be sent to ERG, another copy will be kept by sampling personnel, and two 

copies will be transmitted with the samples to the analytical laboratory.

Traffic Reports

In addition to the transfer of custody, the traffic report provides information to the 

analytical laboratory on the sample number, type of water sample (in-line process, untreated 

wastewater, treated effluent), sample description, whether the sample is preserved, pH of the 

sample after preservation, type of sample (grab, composite), sample collection date and time, and 

the analyses requested. Samplers will use the comment section to provide special notes or 

instructions to the laboratory, such as whether samples have been filtered on site or how to 

composite separate samples prior to analysis. The sampling team will also comment if sample 
3-26

bottles are not completely filled (i.e., less than 75 percent full). In addition, the comments section 

will be used to note deviations from standard sampling protocols (for example, if a sample could 

not be acid-preserved because of excessive buffering).

3.8

The QA/QC program for sample collection at Dickerson will include the following:

Quality Assurance/Quality Control

• Documentation for samples through laboratory traffic reports;

• Collection of duplicate samples for all analytes;

• Collection of bottle blank(s) for metals;

• Collection of field blank(s) for metals;

• Collection of equipment blank(s) for metals; and

• Collection of laboratory QC samples for matrix spike/matrix spike duplicate 

analyses.

Duplicate sample sets will be collected as part of the quality assurance program for 

sampling. During Day 3 of the sampling episode, ERG will collect one duplicate sample (SP-4) 

of the influent to the SBR (SP-2) and during Day 2 of the sampling episode, ERG will collect 

one duplicate sample (SP-5) of the effluent from the SBR (SP-3). The duplicate samples will be 

collected as separate aliquots in the field. Results of the duplicate analyses will be used to 

evaluate precision, including variability in sample collection, handling, preparation, and analysis. 

Bottle blanks will be used to evaluate possible contamination from the sample bottles. 

The bottle blank will consist of an analyte-free matrix (Ultra Pure Blank Water DI+TM) poured 

into the appropriate sample bottles (e.g., 250-mL plastic bottle for metals) and stored for several 

days prior to shipment to the laboratory. The supplier of the cleaned metals bottles will prepare 

and analyze the bottle blanks prior to shipping the equipment to the sampling episode.

Field blanks will be used to evaluate possible contamination caused by sampling 

equipment or by sampling equipment decontamination procedures. Field blanks will be prepared 

in the field prior to sample collection and analyzed for all sampling equipment, other than sample 

bottles, that come into direct contact with samples (e.g., tubing or filters). 

ERG will prepare field blanks for each of the total and dissolved metals analyses at each 

of the three sampling points during Day 1 of the sampling episode10

 10 ERG will not collect a field blank for dissolved mercury because a filter blank will be prepared and analyzed for 

by the laboratory. 

. Additionally, ERG will 

collect total mercury field blanks at the influent to the SBR and the effluent from the SBR 

sampling points during the collection of one of the grab samples each day of the sampling 

episode. ERG samplers will use “clean hands / dirty hands” sampling techniques to prepare the 
3-27

metals field blanks, as discussed in more detail in Section 3.3. The total metals field blanks

(including mercury) at the influent to the FGD wastewater treatment system will be prepared by 

gravity-feeding ASTM Type 1 water through the silicone tubing into the sample bottles. The 

total metals field blanks (excluding mercury) at the influent to and effluent from the SBR

sampling points will be prepared by pumping ASTM Type 1 water through the composite tubing 

set into a large composite container where it will be held for the 24-hour compositing period, 

then pumping the ASTM Type 1 water from the large composite container through the Teflon® 

and silicone tubing and into the sample bottles. The total mercury field blanks at the influent to 

and effluent from the SBR sampling points will be prepared by pouring ASTM Type 1 water 

directly into the sample bottles. The dissolved metals field blanks at the influent to the FGD 

wastewater treatment system will be prepared by pumping the ASTM Type 1 water through the 

silicone tubing into a 10-L composite container and then pumping the ASTM Type 1 water from 

the 10-L container through the Teflon® and silicone tubing, through a 0.45-um filter, and into 

the sample bottles. The dissolved metals field blanks at the influent to and effluent from the SBR

sampling points will be prepared by pumping ASTM Type 1 water through the composite tubing 

set into a large composite container where it will be held for the 24-hour compositing period, 

then pumping the ASTM Type 1 water from the large composite container through the Teflon® 

and silicone tubing, through a 0.45-um filter, and into the sample bottles. The field blanks will 

determine if there is any contamination from the sampling equipment, atmospheric 

contamination, or other contamination from the surroundings.

EPA Method 1669 requires that equipment blanks also be prepared and analyzed for 

metals to evaluate possible contamination of metals caused by the sampling equipment. The 

supplier of the tubing and composite containers will prepare and analyze these equipment blanks 

and provide a report certifying the equipment as clean.

As part of standard laboratory quality control, matrix effects on analytical performance 

are assessed through the analysis of matrix spikes and laboratory duplicates. Consequently, 

additional sample volume must be collected for these QC analyses. The sampling team will 

collect, label, and ship the necessary laboratory QC volumes. Laboratory QC volumes (i.e., 

MS/MSD sample) will be collected for every 10 samples collected at a sampling event, 

excluding field blank samples. For all analytes requiring laboratory QC volumes, the sampling 

team will collect QC sample volume from the influent to the SBR (SP-2) during Day 4 of the 

sampling episode and from the effluent from the SBR (SP-3) during Day 3 of the sampling 

episode. 

3.9

Dickerson or its representative has elected to collect split samples at each of the sampling 

points. Dickerson or its representative will supply all of the personnel, equipment, glassware, and 

reagents required to collect the split samples and to coordinate the analysis of samples. For each 

of the sampling points, the sampling crew will attempt to collect split samples with Dickerson or 

its representative as described in this plan; however, if problems occur (e.g., the splitters become 

clogged and the flow is split unevenly between the sampling crews), then EPA may stop the split 

sample collection and offer instead to collect duplicate samples with Dickerson or its 

representative. 

Sample Splitting
3-28

Table 3-1. Sample Collection at Dickerson Generating Station

Sampling Point 

Number Sampling Point Name

Total Metals(EPA Method 200.8 with collision cell)Total Metals(EPA Method 200.7)Dissolved Metals(EPA Method 200.8 with collision cell,)Dissolved Metals(EPA Method 200.7)Total MercuryDissolved MercuryHexavalent ChromiumBOD5Group I aGroup II bTotal Cyanide

SP-1 Influent to FGD Wastewater Treatment 

System

4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

SP-2 Influent to SBR 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC

SP-3 Effluent from SBR 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC 4+1QC

SP-4 Duplicate of Influent to SBR 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

SP-5 Duplicate of Effluent from SBR 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

SP-6 Field Blank for Influent to FGD Wastewater 

Treatment System

1 1 1 1 1 1

SP-7 Field Blank for Influent to SBR 1 1 1 1 4 1

SP-8 Field Blank for Effluent from SBR 1 1 1 1 4 1

Total Number of Samples 17+2QC 17+2QC 17+2QC 17+2QC 23+2QC 14+2QC 17+2QC 14+2QC 14+2QC 14+2QC 14+2QC

a – Group I includes total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), sulfate, and chloride.

b – Group II includes ammonia as nitrogen, nitrate/nitrite as nitrogen, total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and total phosphorus.
3-29

Table 3-2. Analytical Methods 

Parameter Method Number

Classicals

Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) SM 5210 B 

Chemical oxygen demand (COD) EPA 410.4

Total suspended solids (TSS) SM 2540 D

Total dissolved solids (TDS) SM 2540 C 

Sulfate EPA 300.0

Chloride EPA 300.0

Ammonia as nitrogen EPA 350.1

Nitrate/nitrate as nitrogen EPA 353.2

Total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) EPA 351.2

Total phosphorus EPA 365.1

Total cyanide SM 4500 CN E

Total and Dissolved Metals

Mercury EPA 1631E

Hexavalent chromium (dissolved only) EPA 218.6 

Antimony, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, nickel, selenium, 

silver, thallium, vanadium, and zinc

EPA 200.8 with collision cell 

Aluminum, barium, beryllium, boron, calcium, cobalt, iron, magnesium,

manganese, molybdenum, sodium, tin, and titanium 

EPA 200.7
3-30

Table 3-3. Summary of Sample Container and Planned Preservation

Parameter

Sample 

Container and 

Volume

QC Sample 

Container and 

Volume On-Site Preservation

Classicals

BOD5 One 1-L plastic 

bottle

One 1-L plastic 

bottle

≤6°C

Group I a One 1-L plastic 

bottle

One 1-L plastic 

bottle

≤6°C

Group II b Two 1-L plastic 

bottles

Two 1-L plastic 

bottles

H2SO4 to pH <2, ≤6°C

Total cyanide One 1-L plastic 

bottle

One 1-L plastic 

bottle

Dilution until sulfide is not detected, 

NaAsO2 until total chlorine is not 

present, NaOH to pH >10, ≤6°C

Metals

Total metals (EPA Method 200.8 with 

collision cell)

One 500-mL 

plastic bottle

No additional 

volume needed

None

(acid preserve at laboratory)

Total metals (EPA Method 200.7) One 500-mL 

plastic bottle

No additional 

volume needed

None

(acid preserve at laboratory)

Dissolved metals (EPA Method 200.8 

with collision cell)

One 500-mL 

plastic bottle

No additional 

volume needed

0.45-μm filter (performed in field)

(acid preserve at laboratory)

Dissolved metals (EPA Method 200.7) One 500-mL 

plastic bottle

No additional 

volume needed

0.45-μm filter (performed in field)

(acid preserve at laboratory)

Total mercury: None

Manual composite grab samples (acid preserve at laboratory) Four 125-mL 

glass bottle

No additional 

volume needed

Influent samples and field blank 

samples

Two 250-mL 

glass bottle

No additional 

volume needed

Dissolved mercury: None

(filter and acid preserve at 

laboratory) Manual composite grab samples Four 125-mL 

glass bottle

No additional 

volume needed

Influent samples One 250-mL 

glass bottle

No additional 

volume needed

Hexavalent chromium One 250-mL 

plastic bottle

No additional 

volume needed

0.45-μm filter (performed in field)

Ammonium sulfate buffer to 

pH 9.3 – 9.7, ≤6°C

(a) Group I includes TSS, TDS, sulfate, and chloride.

(b) Group II includes ammonia as nitrogen, COD, nitrate/nitrite as nitrogen, TKN, and total phosphorus.
3-31

Table 3-4. Sampling Point Field Measurements

Field Measurements Method Detection Range (or Gradation of Scale)

Temperature Thermometer -20 to 150 ± 1oC

pH (Standard Units) Four-color indicator strip

pH meter

0 to 12 ± 1 pH S.U.

-1.0 to 15.0 ± 0.1 pH S.U.

Sulfide Lead acetate test strip >50 mg/L sulfide (S2-)

Oxidants (i.e., chlorine) Potassium-iodide starch paper >1 mg/L free chlorine (Cl2)
3-32

Sampling Episode ____________

Preservation Chemicals – List Strength of Solution from Bottle and Lot Number 

H2SO4 _____________________NH4SO4 ________________________

NaOH _____________________

Sample

Number

Analysis Date Time Name Chemical Initial 

pH

Final pH Number of 

Drops

Figure 3-1. Sample Preservation Log Sheet
3-33

Sampling Episode: __________________________________

Sampling Point: ____________________________________

Sample Numbers: __________________________________

Date:

Manual Composite □ Grab □

Automatic Composite □

Time of Grab Sample Collection:

Start Time □ AM □ PM

End Time □ AM □ PM

Time of Automatic Sample Collection:

Start Time □ AM □ PM

End Time □ AM □ PM

Equipment Used: _________________________________________________

Samplers’ Names: ________________________________________________

Grab Sample Time

Temp

°C

pH

(S.U.) 

meter / strips

Waste Stream Flow Rate 

(MGD)

1

2

3

4

Notes: (include observations of odor and color of each aliquot, take pictures if necessary)

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Figure 3-2. Field Sampling Log Sheet
3-34

Plant Name: ________________________________________________________________________________

Plant Contact: ______________________________________________________________________________

Dates of Sample Collection: ___________________________________________________________________

Data Collected by: ___________________________________________________________________________

Instructions: In the tables below, fill out information on the generating units and FGD systems operating at the plant based on all four days of the sampling 

episode. Note any changes in operation that occur during the four-day period. Provide actual data if possible. If actual data are not available, provide estimates 

for the specific information. Some of the data requested may not be susceptible to estimation. Enter “URE” for “unable to reasonably estimate.” Otherwise, 

specify whether data provided are actual or estimated by writing in “ACT” or EST” wherever appropriate.

Generating Unit Operating Characteristics During Sample Collection

Unit 

ID Boiler Type

Capacity 

(MW)

Electricity 

Production

(MW)

(or Percent 

Capacity %)

a

SCR

(No, On, 

Off)

Particulate 

Control System 

(HS/CS ESP, or 

BH)

a The electricity production should be measured on a daily basis from midnight of the 1st day of sample collection to 

midnight of the last day of sample collection. 

FGD System Operating Characteristics During Sample Collection

Unit 

ID

Wet FGD 

System 

(Yes/No)

Type of 

Scrubber

Forced 

Oxidation 

(Yes/No) Sorbent

Additives 

(DBA, formic 

acid, etc.)

FGD Makeup Water 

Source

SO2

Removal 

Percentage

Type of 

Solids 

Separation

Note changes in operation over the past month (e.g., turned off SCRs on October 1 or burned 5 percent petroleum coke previous week):

Figure 3-3. Engineering Data Collection Sheet (Page 1 of 3)
3-35

Plant Name: ________________________________________________________________________________

Plant Contact: ______________________________________________________________________________

Dates of Sample Collection: ___________________________________________________________________

Data Collected by: ___________________________________________________________________________

Instructions: In the tables below, provide information on the coal burned and FGD scrubber slurry at the plant for 

each day of the sampling episode. Provide actual data if possible. If actual data are not available, provide estimates 

for the specific information. Some of the data requested may not be susceptible to estimation. Enter “URE” for 

“unable to reasonably estimate.” Otherwise, specify whether data provided are actual or estimated by writing in 

“ACT” or EST” wherever appropriate.

Coal Information

Day of 

Sampling Unit ID Coal Type

Amount of 

Coal Used 

During 

Day of 

Sampling

Source of 

Coal (Coal 

Region 

and/or 

State)

Percent 

Sulfur in 

Coal

Chlorine 

Content of 

Coal

1

2

3

4

Note changes in operation over the past month (e.g., turned off SCRs on October 1 or burned 5% petroleum coke 

previous week) as well as conditions and changes during the sampling episode:

Scrubber Slurry Information

Day of 

Sampling

FGD 

System ID

Associated 

Unit IDs

Scrubber Slurry

Blowdown Flow Rate

Scrubber 

Slurry 

Percent 

Solids

Time of 

Dewatering 

During 

Sampling Day

Percent 

Filtrate 

Recycled 

Back to 

Scrubber

Flow Rate

(gpm) Duration

1

2

3

4

Figure 3-4. Engineering Data Collection Sheet (Page 2 of 3)
3-36

Plant Name: ________________________________________________________________________________

Plant Contact: ______________________________________________________________________________

Dates of Sample Collection: ___________________________________________________________________

Data Collected by: ___________________________________________________________________________

Instructions: In the table below, provide information on the FGD wastewater treatment system for each day of the sampling episode and the volumes of the FGD 

wastewater treatment system tanks and reactors. If possible, provide the name of the acid and polymer used during the sampling episode. Provide actual data if 

possible. If actual data are not available, provide estimates for the specific information. Some of the data requested may not be susceptible to estimation. Enter 

“URE” for “unable to reasonably estimate.” Otherwise, specify whether data provided are actual or estimated by writing in “ACT” or EST” wherever 

appropriate.

FGD Wastewater Treatment System Operation Information

Day of 

Sampling

Scrubber Purge 

Chemical Usage

(specify units)

Flow Rate

(gpm) Duration Lime

Ferric 

Chloride

Organosulfide

_________

(specify product)

Polymer:

_________

(specify product)

Acid:

_________

(specify product)

1

2

3

4

Volume of equalization tank: ________________

Volume of reaction tanks: 1) ________________ 2) ________________

Volume of clarifiers: 1) ________________ 2) ________________

Volume of SBR influent EQ tank: ________________

Volume of SBR tanks: 1) ________________ 2) ________________

Volume of SBR effluent EQ tank: ________________

Volume of treated wastewater storage tank: ________________

Figure 3-5. Engineering Data Collection Sheet (Page 3 of 3)
3-37

EPISODE NO:

RANGE OF SAMPLE NOS:

Return completed form to:

FOR LAB USE ONLY

NAME: SHIP TO: DATE REC'D:

CITY: ATTN: REC'D BY:

STATE: CARRIER: SAMPLE CONDITION ON RECEIPT:

INDUSTRIAL CATEGORY: AIRBILL:

DATE SHIPPED:

CONFIDENTIAL (Y/N): SAMPLING OFFICE/SAMPLER:

SAMPLE 

NUMBER

SOURCE WATER (city, river, well)IN LINE PROCESSUNREATED EFFLUENT (raw wastewater)TREATED EFFLUENTOTHER (specify)

ADDITIONAL 

SAMPLE 

DESCRIPTION

PH LEVELPRESERVED (Y/N)G=GRAB / C=COMPOSITESAMPLE COLLECTION TIME / DATE

Comments:

United States

EPA Environmental Protection Agency

Washington, DC 20460

TRAFFIC REPORT P.O. BOX 1407

USEPA ENGINEERING AND ANALYSIS DIVISION ALEXANDRIA, VA 22313

SAMPLE CONTROL CENTER (703) 519-1140

INDUSTRIAL FIRM SAMPLED SHIPPING & INFORMATION

SAMPLE POINT DESCRIPTION SAMPLE ANALYSES

Eastern Research Group, Inc.

14555 Avion Parkway, Suite 200

Chantilly, VA 20151

Figure 3-6. Example Traffic Report
4-1

4. SAMPLING ACTIVITIES

This section discusses the sampling team organization, sampling preparation, and 

sampling activities.

4.1

The sampling crew will consist of a crew chief and four crew members from ERG, and 

two EPA representatives. The crew chief will be responsible for all health and safety, sample 

collection, preservation, and shipping activities while at Dickerson. Following the sampling 

episode, ERG will collate the analytical results from each laboratory and summarize and transmit 

this information in a trip report to EPA. After EPA review, the report will be forwarded to 

Dickerson for review.

Sampling Team Organization

4.2

On March 9, 2010, ERG and EPA conducted a site visit at Dickerson. The site visit 

provided ERG and EPA the necessary information to prepare for this sampling episode. The 

information collected during the site visit was used to create this sampling plan. 

Presampling Preparation

As part of preparing the team for the sampling episode at Dickerson, the ERG crew chief 

will distribute this sampling plan to each team member and ensure they are completely familiar 

with the sampling plan and the health and safety requirements specific to Dickerson. The crew 

chief will also give copies of this sampling plan to Dickerson personnel before sampling begins. 

The ERG crew chief will also coordinate the procurement and shipment of all necessary 

sampling and health and safety equipment. 

4.3

Upon arrival at Dickerson, the ERG crew chief, in conjunction with the EPA 

representatives, will meet with Dickerson personnel to determine whether samples can be 

collected as planned at each of the planned sampling points. Upon confirming the methods to

collect samples, the ERG crew chief will update the descriptions of the proposed sampling 

points, if necessary, in consultation with EPA and Dickerson personnel. If necessary, the crew 

chief will obtain additional equipment. The revised sampling description will include:

Field Sampling Activities

• A sampling point description and collection procedure for each sampling point;

• A list of the sample fractions to be collected at each point;

• A list of potential physical hazards (e.g., pH, temperature, and potentially 

hazardous equipment);

• A list of potential chemical hazards associated with each sampling point; and

• A list of proposed health and safety procedures. 

Prior to sampling, the ERG crew chief will notify the ERG Health and Safety 

Coordinator (HSC) of any revised sampling activity descriptions along with recommended 

revisions to the proposed health and safety procedures. Together, the crew chief and HSC will 

review the proposed health and safety procedures. The crew chief will incorporate any plant-
4-2

specific changes indicated by the HSC and receive approval for sampling from the HSC before 

proceeding with sampling activities.

All sample bottles will be labeled, collected, and preserved, according to method 

protocols. Sample fractions requiring ≤6oC preservation will be placed on ice. Sample fractions 

will then be sealed, and placed in coolers for shipment to the laboratory. The Traffic Report 

forms will be completed and placed in plastic sleeves inside the coolers. The coolers will then be 

taken to the nearest Federal Express office and shipped to the analytical laboratories. At the 

conclusion of the sampling episode, the sampling equipment will be prepared for return shipping.

4.4

This subsection summarizes Dickerson contacts, analytical laboratory contacts and 

addresses, and sampling team personnel and support functions.

Logistics

4.4.1 Dickerson Generating Station Contacts

Ann Wearmouth

Mirant Mid-Atlantic, LLC

8301 Professional Place, Suite 230

Landover, MD 20785

(301) 955-9028

Ray D’Alesandro

Mirant Mid-Atlantic, LLC

8301 Professional Place, Suite 230

Landover, MD 20785

(404) 917-3987

Mickey Lynn

Mirant Mid-Atlantic, LLC

21200 Martinsburg Road

Dickerson, MD 20753

(301) 601-6652

4.4.2 EPA Contacts

Ron Jordan

Engineering and Analysis Division

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (4303T)

Washington, D.C. 20460

(202) 566-1003
4-3

Jezebele Alicea

Engineering and Analysis Division

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (4303T)

Washington, D.C. 20460

(202) 566-1755

4.4.3 Analytical Laboratories 

Classicals and Metals by 200.7 and 200.8 with Collision Cell

TestAmerica, Inc.

:

4955 Yarrow Street

Arvada, CO 80002

Phone: (303) 736-0138

Contact: Elizabeth Eichelberger

Frontier GeoSciences, Inc.

Mercury and Dissolved Hexavalent Chromium:

414 Pontius Ave. North

Seattle, WA 98109

Phone: (206) 957-1428

Contact: Patrick Garcia-Strickland

4.4.4 ERG Contacts

TJ Finseth (Crew Chief)

Eastern Research Group, Inc.

14555 Avion Parkway, Suite 200

Chantilly, VA 20151

(703) 633-1698

Deborah Bartram (Work Assignment Manager)

Eastern Research Group, Inc.

14555 Avion Parkway, Suite 200

Chantilly, VA 20151

(703) 633-1669

4.4.5 Freight Forwarders

Federal Express (FedEx)

General Information (800) 463-3339

FedEx Office Print & Ship Center (10 miles from plant)

5223 Presidents Court, Suite A-6

Frederick, MD 21703

Hours of Operation: Mon. – Fri.: 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Last Express Drop-off: Mon. – Fri.: 7:00 p.m.
4-4

FedEx Office Print & Ship Center (14 miles from plant)

401 N. Frederick Ave, Suite A

Gaithersburg, MD 20877

Hours of Operation: Mon. – Thurs.: Open 24 hours; Fri.: 12:01 am to 11:00 pm

Last Express Drop-off: Mon. – Fri.: 8:00 p.m.
5-1

5. SAMPLE SHIPMENT

All sample containers will be labeled with ERG's standard address labels. All samples 

will be tracked using Traffic Report forms. Custody will be maintained by the sampling crew 

chief from sample collection until samples are delivered to Federal Express.

All samples will be packaged and shipped in accordance with Department of 

Transportation (DOT) or International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations. The 

general IATA packaging requirements for air shipment are as follows:

• “Inner packaging must be so packed, secured or cushioned as to prevent their 

breakage or leakage and so as to control their movement within the outer 

packaging during normal conditions of transport. Cushioning material must not 

react dangerously with the contents of the inner packaging. Any leakage of the 

contents must not substantially impair the protective properties of the cushioning 

material. Unless otherwise provided in this paragraph or in the Packing 

Instructions, liquids in Classes, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 of Packing Groups I or II in glass or 

earthenware inner packaging, must be packaged using material capable of 

absorbing the liquid. Absorbent material must not react dangerously with the 

liquid. Absorbent material is not required...” (IATA Dangerous Goods 

Regulations, 5.0.16).

• “When filling receptacles for liquids, sufficient ullage (outage) must be left to

ensure that neither leakage nor permanent distortion of the receptacle will occur 

as a result of an expansion of the liquid caused by temperatures likely to prevail 

during transport. Liquids must not completely fill a receptacle at a temperature of 

55°C (130°F).” (IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, 5.0.12).

The packing and labeling procedures in the following subsections may be used for 

nonhazardous samples. Hazardous samples will be identified based on consultation with the 

hazardous shipments contact, and appropriate hazardous shipping procedures will be followed. 

Based on process considerations, samples collected at Dickerson will not be classified as IATA 

dangerous goods.

5.1

Samples are collected as a series of “fractions,” or bottles designated for particular 

analyses requiring the same preservation. The comprehensive water sample set consists of 

sample fractions for all pollutants listed in Section 3.2, collected as grab samples directly into the 

individual sample containers or composite samples that are transferred to individual sample 

containers using a pump-off approach.

Sample Set Preparation

5.2

All dilute samples from the plant will be packed according to the following guidelines 

(there is no limit on the amount of liquid each sample container may contain):

Sample Packing
5-2

1. Label each sample bottle. If a required preservation is not used, cross it off with 

indelible ink. Cover the label with clear tape to protect this information. Do not 

label metal sample bottles, but, the outer plastic bag for each bottle instead.

2. Tighten the lid on each filled sample bottle, being careful not to overtighten the 

lid. If bottle threads are dirty to where the lid is impeded from closing, clean the 

threads on the bottle being careful to not introduce contamination into the sample. 

Clean the sample bottle with a cloth rag or paper towel. Do not clean the bottle 

threads for the metals sample bottles.

3. Prior to packaging, place each sample bottle requiring ≤6°C preservation into an 

ice chest with wet ice to cool.

4. When each sample requiring ≤6°C preservation has reached the desired 

temperature, wrap each glass sample bottle with two layers of “bubble wrap” (or 

place bottle in two “bubble bags”). The bubble wrap must fit snugly and 

completely cover the sample bottle. Enclose each “bubble-wrapped” container 

and plastic container in an individual sealable plastic freezer bag. Place VOA 

vials in VOA bricks in a freezer bag.

5. Place two garbage bags inside each other in the cooler.

6. Place sample bottles in garbage bags in the cooler with proper end up, close the 

interior garbage bag by tying or with a twist-tie.

7. Add ice to cooler to keep samples cold during shipment. Arrange blue ice or 

sealed plastic freezer bags filled with wet ice on top of the sample bottles (if 

samples require ≤6°C preservation). If using wet ice, place the ice inside two onegallon sealable freezer bags. Put at least 4 × 1⁄2 gallons of ice (4 × 2.5 pounds of 

ice) in each large cooler and 2 × 1⁄2 gallons of ice (2 × 2.5 pounds of ice) in each

small cooler. Use more ice when ambient temperatures are very high. Place the 

ice inside the second garbage bag and close the second garbage bag with a twisttie.

8. Fill in around the bottles and any free space with additional cushioning material. 

Use sufficient packing material so that the sample containers will not shift during 

shipment. 

9. Seal the Traffic Report form in a plastic zip-lock bag and tape it securely to the 

inside of the cooler lid.

10. Place a "Return to ..." label on the inside of the cooler lid.

11. Close cooler.

12. Make several wraps with tape around the cooler perpendicular to the seal to 

ensure that the lid will remain closed if the latch is accidentally released or 

damaged.
5-3

13. Tape the cooler drain plug so it will not open.

14. Place a completed address label on the lid of the cooler including name, address, 

and telephone number of the receiving laboratory and the return address and 

telephone number of the shipper.
6-1

6. SITE-SPECIFIC HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURES

This section specifies the health and safety procedures and practices to be used by the 

sampling team during sampling at Dickerson. This section provides general health and safety 

information for this sampling episode. The sampling team is obligated to follow all safety 

procedures specified in this section.

6.1

The following procedures will be followed in the event of a medical or other emergency 

situation. 

Emergency/Medical Procedures

6.1.1 First Aid

Dickerson has first aid kits available throughout the plant. In addition, ERG will also 

bring a first aid kit. Dickerson uses 911 in case of emergency. The response time is 

approximately 7 to 10 minutes. 

6.1.2 Site Evacuation/Emergency Response Plan

The sampling team will be informed of the Dickerson evacuation procedures and routes 

by plant personnel. 

6.1.3 Emergency Showers and Eye Washes

Emergency showers and eye wash stations are located throughout the plant. Before 

collecting samples at any point, sampling team members will locate the nearest operating safety 

shower and eye wash station.

6.1.4 Local Hospital

The nearest hospital is Shady Grove Adventist Hospital, located in Rockville, MD, and is 

approximately 18 miles from Dickerson Generating Station. The hospital address is:

Shady Grove Adventist Hospital

9901 Medical Center Drive

Rockville, MD 20850

The local emergency phone number in Dickerson, MD is 911.

6.2

The ERG Work Assignment Manager (WAM), crew chief, and sampling team members 

have different responsibilities to maintain a safe sampling environment. These responsibilities 

are described below.

ERG Health and Safety Responsibilities and Authority
6-2

6.2.1 Work Assignment Manager

The ERG WAM, Deborah Bartram, has the overall responsibility to ensure that these

health and safety procedures are developed and implemented in accordance with regulations and 

corporate guidelines, that proper health and safety procedures have been initiated, and that all 

ERG activities are conducted in accordance with the health and safety plan. The ERG WAM will 

also ensure that proper resources are allocated so that the project is conducted in a safe manner, 

and that the crew chief is competent in his ability to oversee health and safety during the 

sampling episode.

6.2.2 Crew Chief

The ERG crew chief, TJ Finseth, is responsible for ensuring that ERG sampling team 

members adhere to this plan. The ERG crew chief and ERG night crew chief are responsible for 

overseeing all activities. The crew chiefs must report any accident, near miss, or injury to any 

sampling team member to the ERG Chantilly Office Health and Safety Coordinator (HSC), 

Kevin Sikora, verbally within eight hours, or sooner. The HSC will investigate the incident to 

identify the cause of the accident, near miss, or injury. If sufficient cause exists, ERG’s general 

health and safety plan and in-house training program will be modified to avoid similar accidents 

in the future.

At the start of the sampling visit, the crew chiefs will inspect all sampling points and 

review sample collection procedures with the Dickerson personnel to ensure that all potential 

hazards have been identified.

The crew chiefs have the authority to enforce ERG’s health and safety requirements 

contained in this plan, and any facility-specific requirements. Changes to this plan can be made if 

the crew chiefs, the Chantilly HSC, and EPA representative agree that the changes are 

appropriate.

6.2.3 Sampling Team Members

All field personnel are responsible for following the requirements of this plan, for 

adhering to plant-specific health and safety procedures, and donning required/recommended 

personal protective equipment (PPE). They are also responsible for bringing health and safety 

issues to the attention of the crew chiefs.

6.3

ERG sampling team personnel will attend on- and off-site health and safety briefings.

Briefings

6.3.1 Off-Site Briefings

Prior to arriving on site, all members of the sampling team will receive a copy of this 

sampling plan and attend a presampling meeting to review the sampling plan and the proposed 

sample collection activities. Everyone at this meeting will receive a copy of the sampling plan. 

All ERG employees will be required to sign a health and safety sign-off sheet stating that they 

have read, understood, and agree with this health and safety plan prior to participating in field 

sampling activities.
6-3

6.3.2 On-Site Briefings

ERG sampling team personnel must attend a one- to two-hour safety course given by 

Dickerson personnel prior to conducting sampling activities at Dickerson. This safety course will 

review plant-specific health and safety procedures, including:

• Locating on-site first aid/emergency medical procedures;

• Required PPE;

• High hazard areas and other specific areas or hazards of concern;

• Emergency alarms and evacuation procedures; and 

• Other site safety requirements and procedures that ERG personnel must follow.

6.4

ERG personnel will follow general safety procedures, which include wearing PPE and 

engaging in safe work practices.

Safety Procedures

6.4.1 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The PPE listed below will be worn by ERG personnel at all times while inside the 

premises of Dickerson:

• Steel-toed safety shoes;

• Long sleeves (when collecting samples) and pants;

• Hard hat, where required by Dickerson;

• Hearing protection, where needed;

• Nitrile or non-colored, electronic grade gloves, when collecting or preserving

samples; and

• Safety glasses with side shields or chemical splash goggles, when collecting or 

preserving samples.

For all phases of sample collection, disposable PPE will be used, so decontamination of 

the PPE may not be necessary. If gloves become torn or degraded, they will be thrown away and 

replaced with a new pair. Disposable PPE, including gloves, will be removed, bagged, and left at 

the site in a controlled manner.

6.4.2 Safety Practices

ERG personnel will conduct themselves at all times in a manner judged to be safe by site 

supervisors. 

All sample collection will be scheduled so that no ERG employee collects samples alone. 

Each worker will maintain visual contact with at least one other worker at all times. This buddy 

system will ensure against an employee becoming injured or contaminated with chemicals 

without a coworker being aware of his or her condition. Workers should “watch out” for each 

other while working close to potential chemical and physical hazards. A Dickerson or EPA 
6-4

employee may be used as a buddy by ERG personnel. This arrangement will be agreed to and 

acknowledged by the employee. 

ERG employees will not enter any permit-required confined space areas. 

6.4.3 Safe Work Practices

ERG samplers will obey the following safety rules while working in the facility:

• Wearing PPE, where required;

• Staying within designated areas;

• Not wearing loose clothing or jewelry; 

• Keeping long hair in hard hat or tied back; 

• Not eating in the sampling or staging areas; and

• Not smoking in the sampling or staging areas.

6.5

All sampling team members will be advised of any sampling-point-specific safety 

protocols during the on-site health and safety briefing. Table 6-1 summarizes all potential 

sampling-point-specific safety hazards as well as the PPE required at each sampling point. 

During the day shift, the sampling team health and safety officer (HSO) for this sampling 

episode is the crew chief, TJ Finseth (ERG). During the night shift, the HSO for this sampling 

episode is the ERG night crew chief (to be determined at a later date). The HSO and the 

sampling team will inspect each sampling point area to identify unique or additional hazards not 

already covered in this plan or during the formal health and safety briefing. If additional hazards 

are found, the sampling team will be informed of each hazard and required control measures 

prior to the start of work. Where identified hazards may affect the plant’s personnel, the HSO 

will notify the appropriate Dickerson personnel.

Sampling-Point-Specific Safety Procedures

6.5.1 Physical Hazards

ERG personnel will be alert for all physical hazards present while on site. Physical 

hazards may arise from using catwalks, hitting low-hanging overhead piping, and working 

around moving equipment or vehicles. ERG personnel will be aware of the potential splash 

hazards at SP-1, SP-2, and SP-3 due to the location of the sample taps. To prevent splashing, 

ERG personnel will ensure that the sample tubing is connected securely to the sample tap and 

will open the sample valve slowly when collecting samples. Other potential hazards may include 

falling hazards during sample collection, tripping on metal grates, or operation of large trucks 

and machinery in the vicinity of the sample collection area. See Table 6-1 for potential hazards 

that may be associated with specific sampling points.

Noise may be a hazard in certain areas of the facility. The sampling team will use hearing 

protection where required by the plant, when they are having trouble hearing or being heard 

when standing three feet or less away from another person, or when deemed necessary by the 

Dickerson personnel or ERG crew chief. 
6-5

6.5.2 Thermal Hazards

Heat stress may be a concern during the sampling episode. Samplers may be suited in 

Tyvek® and temperatures could reach extremes. Of particular concern is SP-1, which is located 

outside. The sampling team members will consume plenty of fluids prior to the start of sampling, 

and will monitor each other for symptoms of heat stress. 

Wastewater sampling points are not expected to be too hot for safe handling using typical 

PPE. Thicker nitrile gloves may be used during sampling if sample bottles are too hot to hold. 

Samplers will handle extremely hot samples with heat-resistant gloves.

6.5.3 Chemical Hazards

The only chemical hazards expected are chemicals used to preserve samples. All 

sampling team members will be advised of any potential chemical hazards at each sampling 

point as well as any special PPE recommendations during the formal health and safety briefing.

If the sample tap (i.e., the point from which the wastewater flows) is above waist height, a face 

shield or goggles must be worn during sample collection. To avoid ingesting chemicals, 

sampling team members will be required to wash hands thoroughly before eating or drinking. 

ERG personnel will not be permitted to enter areas where the facility has determined that 

respiratory protection equipment is necessary to protect against inhalation hazards. 

6.6

Extremely hot temperatures can be a health and safety hazard for this sampling episode. 

ERG personnel will take precautions to avoid injuries due to extreme temperatures.

Temperature Extremes

6.6.1 Heat Stress

Heat stress is not only a concern in hot/humid outdoor environments; it is a concern due 

to the thermal or radiant heat generated by equipment and/or processes. Sampling team personnel 

will monitor each other for the following symptoms:

• Heat rash that may result from continuous exposure to heat or humid air. 

Treatment: Wear cotton clothing under coveralls or Tyvek®.

• Heat cramps that are caused by heavy sweating and inadequate electrolyte 

replacement. Many times, cramps may not occur until after work or until the 

worker is sleeping. Signs and symptoms include muscle spasms and pain in the 

hands, feet, and abdomen

Treatment: Gently stretch and massage muscles and replace fluids. Have worker 

rest in a cool shaded area.

• Heat exhaustion that occurs from increased stress on various body organs 

including inadequate blood circulation due to cardiovascular insufficiency or 

dehydration. Signs and symptoms include:
6-6

— Pale, cool, moist, clammy skin

— Heavy sweating

— Headache and dizziness

— Nausea

— Fainting or fatigue

— Elevated pulse rate (above 150)

Treatment: Replace fluids, pour cool water over face, neck, hands, arms, and legs. 

Place worker in cool air and seek medical care.

• Heat stroke is the most serious form of heat stress. Temperature regulation fails 

and the body temperature rises to critical levels. Immediate action must be taken 

to cool the body before serious injury and death occur. Competent medical help 

must be obtained. Signs and symptoms are:

— Red, hot, usually dry skin, body core temperature 108°F (oral)

— Lack of or reduced perspiration

— Nausea

— Headache, dizziness, and confusion

— Strong, rapid pulse

— Coma

Treatment: Remove worker to cool area, saturate clothes with cold water, wrap 

worker in wet cold sheets (if possible), monitor ABC (airway, breathing, 

circulation), treat for shock, and call emergency services for basic life support 

(BLS) or advanced life support (ALS).

6.6.2 Heat Stress Monitoring

A worker who exhibits any of the above symptoms will be immediately relieved of 

responsibilities and requested to consume electrolyte fluid or cool water while resting in a shaded 

area. The individual should not return to work until symptoms are no longer recognizable. If 

symptoms appear critical, persist, or get worse, the crew chief will seek immediate medical 

attention for the employee. If the individual does resume work, he/she will be monitored for any 

increase in heart rate for the remainder of his/her shift. In addition, the worker will be requested 

to consume electrolyte fluid or cool water every hour.

The crew chief will visually monitor workers hourly when:

• Symptoms of heat stress are reported or observed;

• Ambient temperatures exceed 70°F and workers are dressed in impervious 

clothing; or

• Ambient temperatures exceed 90°F and workers are dressed in normal clothing.

For sampling on this project, work periods will be considered to be approximately two 

hours in length, followed by a break period of 20 minutes.
6-7

At ambient temperatures of 87°F and above, workers will be monitored for heat stress 

conditions by measuring the heart rate (HR) by radial (wrist) pulse for 30 seconds after one 

minute of rest. The HR after one minute of rest should not exceed 110 beats per minute. If the 

heart beat is higher, the next work period will be shortened by 33 percent, while the length of rest 

period remains the same. If the pulse rate is still higher than 110 beats per minute after one 

minute of rest in the next rest period, the following work cycle will be shortened by another 33 

percent. This shortening of the work period must continue until the worker's HR is no greater 

than 110 beats per minute.

6.7

First aid procedures in response to chemical exposures will be conducted in accordance 

with the appropriate material safety data sheet (MSDS) for the chemical involved. If an incident 

occurs and MSDSs are not available for a particular hazardous chemical (e.g., wastewater), the 

following general first aid procedures will be performed:

First Aid

• Skin Contact – Rinse the affected area thoroughly and copiously with clean water. 

Seek medical attention if irritation is experienced after cleaning.

• Eye Contact – Flush the eyes thoroughly at the nearest eyewash station for 15 

minutes. Follow up with medical attention.

• Ingestion – Notify the hospital and carry out any procedures recommended. 

The first aid kit will be maintained on each site in the equipment staging area. The 

contents of the first aid kit will include at a minimum:

• Adhesive bandages;

• Antiseptic wipes;

• A compress;

• An eyewash solution;

• Gauze pads;

• A cold pack; and 

• A triangular bandage.

The injuries most likely to be encountered at Dickerson are cuts and bruises; the first aid 

kit will be maintained and stocked accordingly.

6.8

Water samples to be analyzed for various contaminants may be preserved with sulfuric 

acid (H2SO4), hydrochloric acid (HCl), sodium hydroxide (NaOH), an ammonium sulfate buffer 

solution (NH4SO4), and/or sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) before shipment to the analytical 

laboratory. Nitrile gloves and splash goggles must be worn when handling these corrosive 

chemicals to prevent chemical burns. Sample preservation must be performed in a wellventilated area (preferably an operational lab hood) to avoid potential accumulation and 

inhalation of any toxic vapors. When pouring samples, skin protection must also be worn (longSample Preservation and Safety Considerations
6-8

sleeved cotton coveralls or uncoated Tyvek®, safety glasses with side shields or splash goggles, 

and nitrile gloves). Sodium arsenite is a known carcinogen and is toxic so extra care should be 

taken when handling any solutions containing sodium arsenite.

In some instances, the use of these preservation chemicals could create a chemical 

reaction (i.e., generation of heat or release of toxic vapors). For instance, if acids are added to a 

wastewater sample containing cyanide or sulfides, dangerous and toxic vapors will be emitted. If 

the sample reacts violently, notify the crew chief and stop preserving the sample immediately.

In the case of a chemical spill, the following procedures must be followed:

• Don protective clothing (nitrile gloves as a minimum).

• Ventilate area (open doors, windows, or turn on ventilation).

• Use spill control pillows or prepared neutralizers to contain/clean up spill. Do not 

add water to acid.

• Place spilled material in a heavy plastic container, label the container, and contact 

site for disposal information.

• Notify the crew chief of the spill and the procedures used.

At any time, if personnel do not feel comfortable about cleaning up the spilled material or 

if a large quantity has been spilled, notify site personnel. The site may have an emergency 

response team who will respond to the chemical spill. 

In the case of fire, notify the site contact. If the fire can be easily extinguished using a 

portable fire extinguisher, and personnel have received fire extinguisher training, extinguish the 

fire using the portable extinguisher.

6.9

All ERG sampling crew personnel have participated in ERG's annual eight-hour health 

and safety training program as specified by ERG's Corporate Health and Safety Policy. 

Training and Medical Monitoring Requirements

This training includes:

• Toxicology;

• Exposure limits;

• Chemical, biological, and physical hazards;

• Heat and cold stress;

• Confined spaces;

• PPE;

• Decontamination; and

• Emergency plans and procedures.

All ERG personnel involved with sample collection and preservation are active 

participants in the Medical Monitoring Program. Field sampling personnel have received a 

baseline medical information review.
6-9

6.10

This subsection provides guidance for field personnel project schedules and field work, 

particularly overtime. It is important to remember extended work schedules will contribute to 

poor production and motivation. All field teams will rotate to ensure that sampling team 

members receive sufficient rest to avoid injuries resulting from fatigue or inattention.

Shift Work Protocol

It is common practice to perform 12-hour work days under project management direction. 

If this work schedule is exceeded the following guidelines will be recognized:

1. A 15-hour maximum work day will be 15 hours, provided that it does not occur 

on consecutive days, or more than three times in ANY SEVEN-DAY PERIOD.

2. Each shift will be followed by nine hours off per 24-hour period, excluding 

driving time to and from the hotel.

3. No more than seven consecutive days of work will be allowed without a 

minimum of 24 hours off.

4. Each work day will be reviewed as a 24-hour cycle to assure all field workers 

receive adequate time off.
6-10

Table 6-1. Sample-Point-Specific PPE and Potential Hazards

Sampling 

Point Number Sampling Point Description PPE Required a Potential Physical Hazards b

SP-1 Influent to FGD Wastewater 

Treatment System

Steel-toed boots, hard hats, 

gloves, and safety glasses

Splash hazard: Potential for 

splashing from the sample tap. 

Sample tap will be below waist 

level.

SP-2/SP-4 Influent to SBR Steel-toed boots, hard hats, 

gloves, and safety glasses

Splash hazard: Potential for 

splashing from the sample tap. 

Sample tap will be below waist 

level.

SP-3/SP-5 Effluent from SBR Steel-toed boots, hard hats, 

gloves, and safety glasses

Splash hazard: Potential for 

splashing from the sample tap. 

Sample tap will be below waist 

level.

a – Splash protection (face shield) required if sampling port is waist high or above. Hearing protection (ear plugs) 

will be worn if needed.

b – Additional physical hazards, if any, will be identified during the formal on-site health and safety briefing. 

Updates to this table will be made as needed.
7-1

7. REFERENCES

1. Eastern Research Group, Inc. 2009. Generic Sampling and Analysis Plan for Coal-Fired 

Steam Electric Power Plants. (February).

2. U.S. EPA. 2009. Steam Electric Power Generating Point Source Category: Final 

Detailed Study Report. EPA 821-R-09-008. Washington, DC. (October). Available online

at: http://www.epa.gov/guide/steam/finalreport.pdf. DCN SE00003.