This test method covers the sampling and analysis of indoor atmospheres for residues of chlordane and heptachlor.

Formerly under the jurisdiction of Committee D22 on Air Quality, this test method was withdrawn in September 2011 since the use of the termiticides chlordane and heptachlor was discontinued over 30 years ago and residues of these chemicals in and around a household are expected to be undetectable.

This test method is intended to be used primarily for non-occupational exposure monitoring in domiciles, public access buildings and offices.

Chlordane has been used widely as a general insecticide for crops (for example, cotton) and as a termiticide. Heptachlor is a major component of technical chlordane and an insecticide in its own right. Although their use in the United States was discontinued in 1988, residues of the chemicals may remain in indoor air for many years after application.

1.1 This test method covers the sampling and analysis of indoor atmospheres for residues of chlordane and heptachlor.

1.2 This test method is based upon the collection of chlordane and heptachlor from air onto polyurethane foam (PUF) and analysis by gas chromatography coupled with electron capture detection.

1.3 This test method is applicable to concentrations of chlordane varying from 0.1 to 100 g/m³ and heptachlor varying from 0.01 to 80.0 g/m³ with sampling periods to collect at least 0.25 m³ of air. Detection limits will depend upon the conditions of the gas chromatography (GC) and the length of the sampling period.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.