The Baseline - Mining and the Environment: From Ore to Metal - page 377

FIGURE 8.7
Elements of a QA/QC Plan for
Fieldwork

Equipment/
Material Storage

Entrance Control

Laboratory analyses probably cause
more confusion, uncertainty, and dis-
putation than any other part of the
baseline data collection process.

Mobilization of Equipment/
Material Storage

Sampling Location

Field Equipment Calibration
Sampling Documentation

IN SITU Measurement
Sample Acquisition

Sample Shipment

Chain of Custody
Control Samples

Laboratory Results

Data Review

Data Verification

Reporting

Final Report

Peer Review

Data Release

Table 8.7 provides guidance for selecting and using a contract laboratory. When sending
samples to a laboratory, holding times and sample preservation methods become impor-
tant. Holding times, acceptable bottle types, and sample preservation methods should be
included in SOPs/i eldwork plans; information that can be easily requested from the lab-
oratory based on the parameter to be analyzed and the method used. Many laboratories
provide a service whereby they supply pre-prepared sample containers suitably labelled for
the analyses to be conducted. The chain of custody should be clearly documented for all
external sample analyses.