Waste samples collected using this guide provide representative samples for analysis in a laboratory using the TCLP.

The TCLP is used to simulate the transfer of lead from buried lead-containing waste into the ground water system upon codisposal of the lead-containing waste and municipal solid waste in unlined solid-waste landfills. The TCLP attempts to simulate rain or ground water leaching, or both. For the procedure to yield a predictor of the subsurface (in-ground) leaching process, a representative sample of the volume of the waste must be selected and submitted for leaching and analysis. The result of the sampling, leaching, and analysis process is used to determine the waste handling and disposal protocols to be followed and to document compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and requirements. The guide addresses the sampling process by defining a component-volume-based method to collect and assemble a representative sample of a solid waste stream that may contain heterogeneous components.

The collection of a volume-based sample of the waste stream is based on the fact that the TCLP leachate lead concentration limit, like other such TCLP limits, was developed based on the spatial dimensions of landfills.

Individuals who use this guide are expected to be trained in the proper and safe conduct of sampling of lead-containing wastes, qualified/certified/licensed as required by those authorities having jurisdiction over such activities, and properly utilize tools and safety equipment when conducting these procedures.

This guide may involve use of various hand and power tools for sampling the components of the waste. It is intended that such tools should be properly and safely used by persons trained and familiar with their performance and use.

In general terms, building components are drilled to collect samples of the various components in proportion to the volume of those components in the entire building. The component samples are assembled, and the resulting assembled sample is analyzed according to the TCLP protocol.

1.1 This guide describes a method for selecting samples of building components coated with paints suspected of containing lead. The samples are collected from the debris waste stream created during demolition, renovation, lead hazard control, or abatement projects. The samples are subsequently analyzed in the laboratory for lead.

1.1.1 The debris waste stream is assumed to have more than one painted component, for example, metal doors, wood doors, and wood window trim.

1.2 This guide is intended for use when sampling to test for lead only and does not include sampling considerations for other metals or for organic compounds. This guide also does not include consideration of sampling for determination of other possible hazardous characteristics of the waste.

1.3 This guide assumes that the individual component types comprising the debris waste stream are at least partially segregated and that the volume of each type of component in the debris waste stream may be estimated.

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