5.1 Since the analysis of the atmosphere is influenced by phenomena in which all factors except the method of sampling and analytical procedure are beyond the control of the investigator, statistical consideration must be given to determine the adequacy of the number of samples obtained, the length of time that the sampling program is carried out, and the number of sites sampled. The purpose of the sampling and the characteristics of the contaminant to be measured will have an influence in determining this adequacy. Regular, or if possible, continuous measurements of the contaminant with simultaneous pertinent meteorological observations should be obtained during all seasons of the year. Statistical techniques may then be applied to determine the influence of the meteorological variables on the concentrations measured (2).

5.2 Statistical methods may be used for the interpretation of all of the data available (2). Trends of patterns and relationships between variables of statistical significance may be detected. Much of the validity of the results will depend, however, on the comprehensiveness of the analysis and the location and contaminant measured. For example, if 24-h samples of suspended particulate matter are obtained only periodically (for example, every 6 or 8 days throughout the year), the geometric mean of the measured concentrations is representative of the median value assuming the data are log normally distributed. The geometric mean level may be used to compare the air quality at different locations at which such regular but intermittent observations of suspended particulate matter are made.

1.1 The purpose of this practice is to present the broad concepts of sampling the ambient air for the concentrations of contaminants. Detailed procedures are not discussed. General principles in planning a sampling program are given including guidelines for the selection of sites and the location of the air sampling inlet.

1.2 Investigations of atmospheric contaminants involve the study of a heterogeneous mass under uncontrolled conditions. Interpretation of the data derived from the air sampling program must often be based on the statistical theory of probability. Extreme care must be observed to obtain measurements over a sufficient length of time to obtain results that may be considered representative.

1.3 The variables that may affect the contaminant concentrations are the atmospheric stability (temperature-height profile), turbulence, wind speed and direction, solar radiation, precipitation, topography, emission rates, chemical reaction rates for their formation and decomposition, and the physical and chemical properties of the contaminant. To obtain concentrations of gaseous contaminants in terms of weight per unit volume, the ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure at the location sampled must be known.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.