The results obtained from environmental sampling are only as good as the means and methods by which the sampling event was conducted. One of the worst things that can happen during a sampling event is cross-contamination caused by drilling equipment not being properly decontaminated between borings. When this happens, the entire sampling project has to be reassessed. To prevent this, completely decontaminate drilling equipment prior to use and oftentimes while in the field. A well thought-out site-specific equipment decontamination plan will help and should be established prior to work at any contaminated site. 

As a rule of thumb, contaminants found on sampling equipment must be decontaminated to a level that does not impact a study’s objectives; be mindful of detection limits for the specific contaminants measured. This is true for portable equipment that will be used to collect multiple samples at a single site such as portable power augers, well drilling rigs, soil coring rigs, and other large pieces of field equipment.

The EPA has established standard decontamination procedures for drilling. The cleaning standard is very specific with regards to the types of materials, methods, and procedures for cleaning sampling and other equipment while in the field.

What should a decontamination plan include?

• Identified decontamination areas
• Items required to clean equipment
• Methods – for both decontamination and preventing recontamination
• Record keeping
• Staff health and safety precautions
• Waste disposal specific to the contaminants of concern

Do You Need a Decontamination Area?

When equipment must be decontaminated prior to or between samples, there is a need for a designated staging area or a decontamination pad. This is the location where the cleaning of all equipment will take place. The ideal location should be clearly not affected by the contaminant of concern at the site. After the environmental project is complete, the area must be properly closed and all waste water properly disposed of according to the contaminants of concern identified at the site; be mindful of special disposal requirements for this waste water.

What Kind of Water and Cleaning Solutions Should Be Used?

The water used for decontamination must be municipal potable water brought to the site in a pre-cleaned tank. Soap must be stored and dispensed directly from clean containers.  Cleaning solutions will be based upon the contaminants of concern. Further, it is important to ensure that you have documented the soaps and any other cleaners that are used for the decontamination process. This information may be needed for future reference.

Environmental Drilling Solution for your Texas Project

To get the best results, you need to select a professional environmental drilling company with plenty of experience decontaminating drilling equipment.  They will know the challenges beforehand and have the means to work through just about any issue.  Give the environmental drilling experts at Talon/LPE a call today. This Texas environmental drilling company's goal is to give quality environmental drilling services to clients throughout the Lone Star State and the surrounding regions.