Major Sampling Errors

• Definition of sampling errors
• Causes of sampling errors
• Calculation of sampling errors
• Mitigation of sampling errors

Sampling Tools

• Selection of proper sampling tools
• Proper use of sampling tools
• How certain sampling tools cause bias

Basic Statistics for Sampling Activities

• The importance of statistics in sampling
• Random sample selection and its importance
• Confidence intervals and confidence levels
• Calculations for average and proportion of material above limit

Field Quality Control

• Interpreting field quality control
• The correct way to take splits and replicates
• Outliers and resampling
• Recognizing sampling problems in data

Data Quality Objectives

• Overview of EPA DQO process
• Why data quality objectives are the most important part of sampling
• The three most important questions when designing sampling plans

Sampling Plan Design

• Probabilistic vs. non-probabilistic samples
• Simple random, stratified, or systematic
• Critical elements of a sampling plan design
• Sampling for average property
• Sampling for hot spots
• Sampling for cleanup levels
• Cost effective sampling plans
• Grabs and composites
• MULTI INCREMENT sampling technique

Sampling Various Media

• Wastes
• Containerized solids and liquids
• Soil
• Surface water