4.1 Herbicides, insecticides, and many industrial effluents contain arsenic and are potential sources of water pollution. Arsenic is significant because of its adverse physiological effects on humans.

1.1 These test methods2 cover the photometric and atomic absorption determination of arsenic in most waters and wastewaters. Three test methods are given as follows:

Concentration
Range

Sections

Test Method A—Silver Diethyldithio-
 carbamate Colorimetric

5 μg/L to 250 μg/L

 7 to 16

Test Method B—Atomic Absorption,
 Hydride Generation

1 μg/L to 20 μg/L

17 to 26

Test Method C—Atomic Absorption,
 Graphite Furnace

5 μg/L to 100 μg/L

27 to 36

1.2 The analyst should direct attention to the precision and bias statements for each test method. It is the user's responsibility to ensure the validity of these test methods for waters of untested matrices.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to inch-pound units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.4 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. For specific hazard statements, see 11.1 and 20.2.

1.5 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.