4.1 This guide describes standard approaches used to formulate air sampling strategies before actual air sampling occurs.

4.2 For most workplace air sampling purposes, and for the majority of materials sampled, air sampling strategies are matters of choice. Air sampling in the workplace may be done for single or multiple purposes, such as health impact, hazard or risk assessment, compliance assessment, or investigation of complaints. Problems can arise when a single air sampling strategy is expected to satisfy multiple diverse purposes.

4.2.1 Proper consideration of limitations of cost, space, power requirements, equipment, analytical methods, training and personnel result in a best available strategy for each purpose.

4.2.2 A strategy designed to satisfy multiple purposes must be a compromise among several alternatives, and will not be optimum for any one purpose; however, the strategy should be appropriate for the intended purpose(s).

4.2.3 The purpose or purposes for sampling should be explicitly stated before a sampling strategy is selected in order to ensure that the sampling strategy is appropriate for the intended use. Good sampling practice, legal requirements, cost of the sampling program, and the utility of the results may be markedly different for different intended sampling purposes.

4.3 This guide is intended for use by those who are preparing to evaluate air quality in a work environment of a location by air sampling, or who wish to obtain an understanding of what information can be obtained by carrying out air sampling.

4.4 This guide should not be used as a stand-alone document to evaluate any given airborne contaminant(s).

4.5 This guide cannot take the place of sound professional judgment in development and execution of any sampling strategy. In most instances, a strategy based on a standard practice or method will need to be adjusted due to conditions encountered in the field. Documentation of any professional judgments applied to development or execution of a sampling strategy is essential.

1.1 This guide describes criteria to be used in defining air sampling strategies for workplace health and safety monitoring or evaluation. Sampling criteria such as duration, frequency, number, location, method, equipment, and timing are all considered.

1.2 Where air sampling is prescribed by law or regulation, this guide is not intended to take the place of any requirements that may be specified in such law or regulation.

1.3 Guidance for surface sampling strategies for metals and metalloids is provided in Guide D7659.

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.