This practice is intended for use in the sampling of surface waters and other liquids.

Dipper equipment is uncomplicated in construction, simple to use, and relatively easy to decontaminate; however, this practice will not provide accurate results with multiphase liquids.

This practice is to be used by personnel acquiring samples.

The dipper is best used to take a surface sample of liquid. No attempt should be made to take subsurface samples with a dipper because mixing and dilution will occur as the dipper is brought to the surface. Subsurface layers must be sampled using a device that can be closed prior to bringing it to the surface (for example, a COLIWASA, tube sampler, or bottle sampler).

The dipper is not appropriate for sampling multiphase liquids if quantitative characterization is needed.

When volatile organic analysis (VOA) will be performed, samples obtained with a dipper should be poured into an appropriate container (VOA vial) with minimal air contact and agitation.

This practice should be used in conjunction with Guide D 4687, which covers sampling plans, safety, Quality Assurance (QA), preservation, decontamination, labeling, and chain-of-custody procedures, also Practice D 5088, which covers decontamination of field equipment used at waste sites. Other documents pertinent to this practice are EPA-600/2-80-018 and EPA-600/4-84-076.

1.1 This practice describes the procedure and equipment for taking surface samples of water or other liquids using a dipper. A pond sampler or dipper with extension handle allows the operator to sample streams, ponds, waste pits, and lagoons as far as 15 ft from the bank or other secure footing. The dipper is useful in filling a sample bottle without contaminating the outside of the bottle.

1.2 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.