Air Testing Methods

The analytical methods used by Environmental Analytical Service, Inc. (EAS) follow established agency methods for testing air, gas, source, or product samples.  Most of the methods used are modifications to the referenced method (see discussion below). The source of common air testing methods is listed below:

Most of the Local, State, and Air District Methods are similar to the EPA methods but can have different Compound Lists, QC Requirements, and Sample Collection Requirements.  EAS does these methods and treats them as Project Specific methods with special compound lists and QC requirements.  The EPA IP methods for indoor air testing are very similar to the TO methods, so the TO methods are often requested in place of them.

Modifified Methods

In order to provide our clients with the latest technological improvements and the most extensive target compound lists, EAS (like most air labs) uses modified methods.  Most laboratories use modified EPA TO Compendium methods because the published methods were originally prepared as a guidance document.  These published methods often lack specifics on target compounds or have QC requirements established for a limited list of compounds or estimated from other methods.  For example, ASTM methods (for compounds such as methane) were originally written for petroleum testing but have been modified for use in ambient air analysis.  All methods that have been modified are designated “modified” on the analytical reports. 

Methods used for source testing follow established and well-documented methods and can be run with no modification for compliance tests if requested in advance.