ASTM D596-26

4.1 The proper use of analytical data requires adequate documentation of all inputs, including the source and history of the sample, laboratory performing the analysis, method of analysis, date of analysis, precision and bias of the measurements, and related quality assurance information.

4.2 Data defensibility requires that the report be complete and accurate, providing adequate information to evaluate the data quality, with supporting information that documents sampling and analysis procedures.

4.3 This guide describes some of the common data qualifiers or “flags” that are used by many laboratories. Examples of these qualifiers include (E) for estimated value, (U) for analyzed for but not detected, and (B) for analyte found in the blank (see 8.11). The use of the standard qualifiers included in this guide should help the laboratory and its customers communicate more clearly.

4.4 Practice D933 is a comprehensive practice for reporting water-formed constituents such as metal oxides, acid anhydrides, and others.

1.1 This guide provides guidelines for reporting inorganic and organic results of analyses of drinking water, wastewater, process water, ground water, and surface water, and so forth, to laboratory clients in a complete and systematic fashion.

1.2 The reporting of bacterial and radiological data is not addressed in this guide.

1.3 The commonly used data qualifiers for reviewing and reporting information are listed and defined. Client and laboratory-specific requirements may make use of other qualifiers. This guide does not preclude the use of other data qualifiers.

1.4 This guide discusses procedures for and specific problems in the reporting of low-level data, potential errors (Type I and Type II), and reporting results that are above zero but below the calculated method detection limit.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.

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.