4.1 This guide is suitable for sampling heterogeneous wastes.

4.2 The focus of this guidance is on wastes; however, the approach described in this guide may be applicable to non-waste populations as well.

4.3 Sections 5 – 10 describe a guide for the sampling of heterogeneous waste according to project objectives. Appendix X1 describes an application of the guide to heterogeneous wastes. The user is strongly advised to read Annex A1 prior to reading and employing Sections 5 – 10 of this guide.

4.4 Annex A1 contains an introductory discussion of heterogeneity, stratification, and the relationship of samples and populations.

4.5 This guide is intended for those who manage, design, or implement sampling and analytical plans for the characterization of heterogeneous wastes.

1.1 This guide is a practical, nonmathematical discussion for heterogeneous waste sampling strategies. This guide is consistent with the particulate material sampling theory as well as inferential statistics, and may serve as an introduction to the statistical treatment of sampling issues.

1.2 This guide does not provide comprehensive sampling procedures, nor does it serve as a guide to any specification. It is the responsibility of the user to ensure appropriate procedures are used.

1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026. Reporting of test results in units other than SI shall not be regarded as nonconformance with this 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.

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.