ASTM D5088-20

Standard Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 An appropriately developed, executed and documented equipment decontamination practice is an integral and essential part of waste site investigations. The benefits of its use include:  
5.1.1 Minimizing the spread of contaminants within a study area and from site to site,  
5.1.2 Reducing the potential for worker exposure by means of contact with contaminated sampling equipment or hazardous materials,  
5.1.3 Improved data quality and reliability.  
5.1.4 Minimizing the amount of decontamination fluids or wastes generated.  
5.1.5 Reducing personnel exposures to chemicals used in, or released by decontamination.  
5.1.6 Minimizing or eliminating the use of hazardous materials in the decontamination process, and  
5.1.7 Selecting equipment based on total life-cycle costs including labor, waste containment, disposal, treatment and additional analytical costs, such as using dedicated or disposable equipment rather than decontaminating between uses.  
5.2 This practice is not a substitute for a well-documented Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) program. Because the ultimate test of a decontamination process is its ability to minimize erroneous data, a reasonable QA/QC program must be implemented.  
5.3 This practice may not be applicable to all waste sites. When a sampling effort is completed to determine only the general range of chemical concentrations of interest, then less rigorous decontamination processes can be adequate. Less rigorous decontamination procedures may also be used when cleaning non-porous surfaces, such as metal surfaces as well. Investigators should have the flexibility to modify the decontamination process with due consideration for the sampling objective or if QA/QC documentation supports alternative decontamination methods.  
5.4 At sites where the reactivity of sampling equipment to decontamination washes creates concern for the generation of undesirable chemical by-products, or will potentially damage the equipment surface...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the decontamination of field equipment used in the sampling of soils, soil gas, sludges, surface water, and groundwater at waste sites which are to undergo both physical and chemical analyses.  
1.2 This practice is applicable only at sites where chemical (organic and inorganic) wastes are a concern. It is not intended for use at radiological, mixed (chemical and radiological), or biohazard sites. This practice does not address regulatory requirements for the handling, labeling, shipping, or storing of wastes or samples.  
1.3 Practices are included for the decontamination of equipment which comes into contact with the sample matrix (sample contacting equipment) and for ancillary equipment that has not contacted the portion of sample to be analyzed (non-sample contacting equipment), but which must be cleaned to avoid spreading of contamination.  
1.4 This practice is intended for use when field equipment used for sampling will be decontaminated in the field or returned from the field. Information on the construction of field decontamination facilities and non-sample contacting equipment decontamination is also provided.  
1.5 This practice is based on commonly recognized methods by which equipment may be decontaminated. The practices described for sample contacting equipment are commonly prescribed. Background studies are included in the References at the end of this standard (1-5). The user is reminded of the importance of proper decontamination planning to minimize the amount of decontamination wastes generated and to reduce or eliminate the use of cleaning agents that are themselves hazardous. Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) samples that document decontamination effectiveness can be used to modify or enhance decontamination techniques. Decontamination at radiologically contaminated sites should refer to Practice D5608.  
1.6 This practice is applicable to most conventional sampl...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Apr-2020
• ICS: 13.030.40 - Installations and equipment for waste disposal and treatment
• Technical Committee: D18 - Soil and Rock
• Drafting Committee: D18.21 - Groundwater and Vadose Zone Investigations

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D5088-15a - Standard Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
• Effective Date: 01-May-2020
• Refers: ASTM D5608-16 - Standard Practices for Decontamination of Sampling and Non Sample Contacting Equipment Used at Low Level Radioactive Waste Sites
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2016
• Refers: ASTM D653-14 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2014
• Refers: ASTM D653-11 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2011
• Refers: ASTM D5608-10 - Standard Practices for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Low Level Radioactive Waste Sites
• Effective Date: 01-May-2010
• Refers: ASTM D653-09 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2009
• Refers: ASTM D653-08a - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Refers: ASTM D653-08 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2008
• Refers: ASTM D653-07f - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-07e - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-07d - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-07c - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-07b - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-May-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-06 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2006
• Refers: ASTM D5608-01(2006) - Standard Practices for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Low Level Radioactive Waste Sites
• Effective Date: 15-Sep-2006

Overview

ASTM D5088-20: Standard Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites provides comprehensive guidelines for cleaning and decontaminating field equipment utilized for sampling soils, soil gas, sludges, surface water, and groundwater at waste sites. This standard supports consistent data quality, minimizes the spread of chemical contaminants, and ensures safe field practices in environmental site investigations. ASTM D5088-20 is specifically designed for sites dealing with chemical contaminants-both organic and inorganic-and is not applicable to radiological or biohazard sites.

Key Topics

• Purpose and Significance

  • Limits cross-contamination within study sites and prevents offsite contaminant migration.
  • Reduces potential worker exposure to hazardous materials and contaminated equipment.
  • Enhances sampling data quality and reliability.
  • Supports responsible waste management by minimizing decontamination residues and hazardous cleaning agent use.

• Applicable Equipment and Materials

  • Covers procedures for both sample contacting (direct contact with samples) and non-sample contacting equipment (ancillary field tools).
  • Emphasizes compatibility of cleaning agents with equipment materials and highlights the importance of manufacturer guidelines regarding chemical and heat tolerances.

• Decontamination Processes

  • Recommends using the minimum necessary decontamination effort and materials to achieve required cleanliness.
  • Includes procedures such as washing with low-phosphate detergents, sequential rinsing (with control water and deionized water), acid or solvent rinses where required, and air or heat drying.
  • Recognizes alternate practices, such as use of disposable or dedicated equipment to eliminate decontamination requirements between uses.

• Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC)

  • Stresses the necessity of integrating QA/QC procedures to document decontamination effectiveness.
  • Suggests collecting equipment rinsate blanks and wipe samples before and after cleaning, with a recommended frequency (e.g., after every ten washings), tailored to program requirements.

• Waste and Safety Management

  • Addresses safe containment, collection, handling, and disposal of decontamination fluids and wastes.
  • Recommends minimizing use of hazardous cleaning agents and ensuring proper PPE and safety protocols.

Applications

ASTM D5088-20 is a critical standard for professionals conducting environmental fieldwork at chemical waste sites, including:

• Soil and Groundwater Sampling:
  Ensures reliable environmental data during the investigation and remediation of contaminated properties.
• Environmental Site Assessment (ESA):
  Supports Phase II ESA by reducing cross-contamination risks and ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Waste Site Remediation Projects:
  Minimizes the spread of hazardous substances and worker exposure during site cleanup.
• Field Laboratory Operations:
  Provides detailed guidance for the design and operation of decontamination stations and pads in the field.
• Industrial and Governmental Environmental Programs:
  Aids agencies and consultants in maintaining best practices for environmental sampling and waste management.

Related Standards

• ASTM D653: Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• ASTM D5608: Practices for Decontamination of Sampling and Non-Sample Contacting Equipment Used at Low Level Radioactive Waste Sites
• US EPA Region 4 Field Equipment Cleaning and Decontamination
  Offers federal guidance aligned with ASTM practices for QA/QC in environmental sampling.

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Keywords: ASTM D5088-20, equipment decontamination, waste site investigations, environmental sampling, QA/QC, contamination control, hazardous waste, field equipment cleaning, environmental standards, site remediation.

Standards Content (Sample)

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.
Designation: D5088 − 20
Standard Practice for
Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5088; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* 1.6 This practice is applicable to most conventional sam-
pling equipment constructed of metallic and synthetic materi-
1.1 This practice covers the decontamination of field equip-
als. The manufacturer of a specific sampling apparatus should
ment used in the sampling of soils, soil gas, sludges, surface
becontactedorthemanufacturer’smanualsreviewedifthereis
water, and groundwater at waste sites which are to undergo
concern regarding the reactivity of a decontamination rinsing
both physical and chemical analyses.
agent or the temperatures that could affect the equipment.
1.2 This practice is applicable only at sites where chemical
Plastic components and gasket materials could be damaged by
(organic and inorganic) wastes are a concern. It is not intended
some of the stronger reagents or high temperatures.
for use at radiological, mixed (chemical and radiological), or
1.7 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded
biohazard sites. This practice does not address regulatory
as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
requirements for the handling, labeling, shipping, or storing of
standard.
wastes or samples.
1.8 This practice offers an organized collection of informa-
1.3 Practices are included for the decontamination of equip-
tion or a series of options and does not recommend a specific
ment which comes into contact with the sample matrix (sample
course of action. This document cannot replace education or
contacting equipment) and for ancillary equipment that has not
experience and should be used in conjunction with professional
contacted the portion of sample to be analyzed (non-sample
judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in
contacting equipment), but which must be cleaned to avoid
all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to
spreading of contamination.
represent or replace the standard of care by which the
1.4 This practice is intended for use when field equipment
adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor
used for sampling will be decontaminated in the field or
should this document be applied without consideration of a
returnedfromthefield.Informationontheconstructionoffield
project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the
decontamination facilities and non-sample contacting equip-
title of this document means only that the document has been
ment decontamination is also provided. approved through the ASTM consensus process.
1.9 This standard does not purport to address all of the
1.5 Thispracticeisbasedoncommonlyrecognizedmethods
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
by which equipment may be decontaminated. The practices
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
described for sample contacting equipment are commonly
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
prescribed. Background studies are included in the References
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
at the end of this standard (1-5). The user is reminded of the
1.10 This international standard was developed in accor-
importance of proper decontamination planning to minimize
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
the amount of decontamination wastes generated and to reduce
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
or eliminate the use of cleaning agents that are themselves
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
hazardous. Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC)
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
samples that document decontamination effectiveness can be
used to modify or enhance decontamination techniques. De- Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
contamination at radiologically contaminated sites should refer
2. Referenced Documents
to Practice D5608.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
Fluids
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.21 on Groundwater and
Vadose Zone Investigations. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved May 1, 2020. Published May 2020. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1990. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as D5088 – 15a. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D5088-20. the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5088 − 20
D5608 Practices for Decontamination of Sampling and Non 4.3 Prior to initiating a field program that will involve
Sample Contacting Equipment Used at Low Level Radio- equipment decontamination, a site specific equipment decon-
active Waste Sites tamination protocol should be prepared for distribution to the
individuals involved with the particular sampling program.
Information to be presented in the protocol should include:
3. Terminology
4.3.1 Site location and description,
3.1 Definitions:
4.3.2 Statement of the sampling program objectives and
3.1.1 Fordefinitionsofcommontechnicaltermsusedwithin
desired precision and accuracy, that is, is sampling effort for
this Practice refer to Terminology D653.
gross qualitative evaluation or for trace concentration, param-
3.2 Definitions Specific to this Practice:
eter specific evaluations,
3.2.1 equipment rinsate blank—a sample collected by using
4.3.3 Summary of available information regarding soil
analyte-freewaterrinsedover/throughequipmentthathasbeen
types, hydrogeology and anticipated chemistry of the materials
decontaminated, and is analyzed for the parameters of interest.
to be sampled,
4.3.4 Listing of equipment that will be used for sampling
3.2.2 field cleaning—the process of cleaning contaminated
and the materials or equipment that will be needed for
used sampling equipment so it can be returned or moved to a
decontamination,
final decontamination in a condition that will minimize the
4.3.5 An evaluation of the costs of the decontamination
potential of contaminant transfer from a site. At a minimum,
process including disposal, personnel time, Personal Protective
this should consist of washing with soap and water, and rinsing
Equipment (PPE) and other costs versus the use of less
with tap water.
hazardous materials, the use of dedicated equipment, or use of
3.2.3 sample contacting equipment—equipment that comes
disposable equipment.
in direct contact with the sample or portion of sample that will
4.3.6 Detailed step by step procedure for equipment decon-
undergo chemical analyses or physical testing (for example, a
tamination for each piece or type of equipment to be utilized
bailer used to sample a groundwater well, split-spoon sampler,
and practices for rinse fluids containment and disposal as
soil gas sampling probe, tubing used to bring a groundwater
appropriate,
sample to the surface, etc.).
4.3.7 Summary of QA/QC procedures and QA/QC samples
to be collected to document decontamination completeness
4. Summary of Practice
including specific type of chemical analyses and their associ-
4.1 When decontaminating equipment, the user will need to ated detection limit, and
evaluate whether the equipment materials are plastics or
4.3.8 Outline of equipment decontamination verification
metals, the types of contaminants (inorganic vs. organic) that
report.
will be analyzed for, whether the equipment contacts the
sample, the type of exposure (for example, whether exposed to
5. Significance and Use
oils, grease, tars, soils, or simply water), and the data-quality
5.1 An appropriately developed, executed and documented
objectives. These issues will help to determine the practices to
equipmentdecontaminationpracticeisanintegralandessential
be used to decontaminate the equipment. The decontamination
partofwastesiteinvestigations.Thebenefitsofitsuseinclude:
process should use the minimum effort and materials demon-
5.1.1 Minimizing the spread of contaminants within a study
strated to satisfy that the required decontamination has been
area and from site to site,
achieved. The use of hazardous materials should be used only
5.1.2 Reducing the potential for worker exposure by means
when additional rinses, heat, and other techniques have been
ofcontactwithcontaminatedsamplingequipmentorhazardous
found inadequate and the equipment cannot be substituted with
materials,
disposable or dedicated equipment.
5.1.3 Improved data quality and reliability.
4.2 Two different practices are presented for the decontami-
5.1.4 Minimizing the amount of decontamination fluids or
nation of sample-contacting and non-sample contacting equip-
wastes generated.
ment. The practices have been developed based on a review of
5.1.5 Reducingpersonnelexposurestochemicalsusedin,or
research studies as well as current state and federal guidelines.
released by decontamination.
In general, sample contacting equipment should be washed
5.1.6 Minimizing or eliminating the use of hazardous ma-
with a detergent solution followed by a series of control water
terials in the decontamination process, and
and deionized water rinses. Non-sample contacting equipment
5.1.7 Selecting equipment based on total life-cycle costs
should be washed with water or without a detergent solution
including labor, waste containment, disposal, treatment and
depending on the type and degree of contaminants and rinsed
additional analytical costs, such as using dedicated or dispos-
with control water. Although such techniques may be difficult
able equipment rather than decontaminating between uses.
to perform in the field, they may be necessary to most
accurately evaluate low concentrations of the chemical con- 5.2 This practice is not a substitute for a well-documented
stituent(s) of interest. Additional enhancements to the decon- Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) program. Be-
tamination process include the use of hot water or steam for cause the ultimate test of a decontamination process is its
cleaning and or rinsing the equipment, and in some cases the ability to minimize erroneous data, a reasonable QA/QC
useairdryingortheuseofheatnear100°Cforaperiodoftime program must be implemented.
D5088 − 20
5.3 This practice may not be applicable to all waste sites. and handling of these materials are regulated because of the
When a sampling effort is completed to determine only the hazardous nature of these materials. When these materials are
general range of chemical concentrations of interest, then less used for decontamination, they can generate larger amounts of
rigorous decontamination processes can be adequate. Less hazardous wastes that must be collected, properly
rigorous decontamination procedures may also be used when containerized, stored and labeled, shipped and/or disposed.
cleaning non-porous surfaces, such as metal surfaces as well.
Investigators should have the flexibility to modify the decon- 7. Apparatus
tamination process with due consideration for the sampling
7.1 Pressure Washer (Cold Water) or Steam Cleaner (Hot
objective or if QA/QC documentation supports alternative
Water)—Commercially available washers providing low vol-
decontamination methods.
umes of water at high pressure. The hot water washers may be
5.4 At sites where the reactivity of sampling equipment to electrically powered or fueled for remote operation. Most
pressure washers have the capability to inject detergents into
decontamination washes creates concern for the generation of
undesirable chemical by-products, or will potentially damage the system.
theequipmentsurfaces,forexample,theuseofanacidrinseon
NOTE 1—The use of pressure washers should consider the safety and
metal equipment, then use of dedicated sampling equipment
protection of the personnel using them. Manufacturer operating literature
should be considered.
or manuals typically contain safety precautions for the use of the
equipment. Personnel may be exposed to backsplash, slippery surfaces or
5.5 This practice, where applicable, should be used before,
other hazards and should be appropriately protected. The use of high
between, and after the completion of sampling events.
temperature water or steam can also result in burns.
5.6 This practice is appropriate for use at sites where
7.2 Ovens or Other Heat Sources—For some equipment,
chemical (organic and inorganic) contamination is known or
extended drying (for example, 24 hours) at higher than room
expected.The application of this practice to other types of sites
temperatures may be needed. Dependent on the equipment size
radiological, mixed (radiological and chemical), or biohazard
and configuration standard laboratory draft ovens may be used.
contaminated sites is not applicable. The application of this
For field use, commercially available heated air handlers can
practice to these types of sites should be undertaken with care
be used.
and consideration, along with QA/QC documentation that
NOTE2—Theuseofovensorairhandlersshouldexchangefreshheated
supportstheeffectivenessofthesedecontaminationtechniques.
air to the equipment and not provide air that contains carbon fuel
combustion or other contaminants that will contaminate the equipment
6. Reagents
being dried. Venting of the heated air should not be into an area occupied
3 by personnel.
6.1 Detergent, non-phosphate detergent solution.
7.3 Standpipes, buckets, tubs, portable light-weight sinks,
6.2 Acid Rinse (inorganic desorbing agent), 10 % nitric or
commercially available containers of adequate size for
hydrochloric acid solution-made from reagent grade nitric or
soaking, cleaning and rinsing equipment.
hydrochloric acid and deionized water (1 % is to be applied to
7.4 Scrub brushes, metal brushes.
low-carbon steel equipment). These materials are hazardous
themselves and use should be minimized or eliminated when
7.5 Decontamination Pad/Materials Collection—
possible.
Impermeable materials that can be placed on the ground to
capture decontamination fluids of a size appropriate to the
6.3 Solvent Rinse (organic desorbing agent), isopropanol,
equipment and volumes. These can be polyethylene, HDPE,
acetone, or methanol; pesticide grade. These materials are
sheeting or other materials. Pre-formed and seamed liners are
hazardous themselves and use should be minimized or elimi-
commercially available. Equipment to recover the fluids, such
nated when possible.
aspumpsmayalsoberequired,alongwithtoolsormaterialsto
6.4 Control Rinse Water, preferably from a water system of
repair any damage to the liner. For smaller items and volumes,
known chemical composition. In most cases, potable water is
a child swimming pool or equivalent can be used to contain
suitable for non-contacting equipment.
decontamination fluids.
6.5 Deionized Water, w
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D5088 − 15a D5088 − 20
Standard Practice for
Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5088; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
1.1 This practice covers the decontamination of field equipment used in the sampling of soils, soil gas, sludges, surface water,
and groundwater at waste sites which are to undergo both physical and chemical analyses.
1.2 This practice is applicable only at sites where chemical (organic and inorganic) wastes are a concern. It is not intended for
use at radiological, mixed (chemical and radiological), or biohazard sites. This practice does not address regulatory requirements
for the handling, labeling, shipping, or storing of wastes or samples.
1.3 Practices are included for the decontamination of equipment which comes into contact with the sample matrix (sample
contacting equipment) and for ancillary equipment that has not contacted the portion of sample to be analyzed (non-sample
contacting equipment), but which must be cleaned to avoid spreading of contamination.
1.4 This practice is intended for use when field equipment used for sampling will be decontaminated in the field or returned from
the field. Information on the construction of field decontamination facilities and non-sample contacting equipment decontamination
is also provided.
1.5 This practice is based on commonly recognized methods by which equipment may be decontaminated. The practices
described for sample contacting equipment are commonly prescribed. Background studies are included in the References at the end
of this standard (11-52345). The user is reminded of the importance of proper decontamination planning to minimize the amount
of decontamination wastes generated and to reduce or eliminate the use of cleaning agents that are themselves hazardous. Quality
Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) samples that document decontamination effectiveness can be used to modify or enhance
decontamination techniques. Decontamination at radiologically contaminated sites should refer to Practice D5608.
1.6 This practice is applicable to most conventional sampling equipment constructed of metallic and synthetic materials. The
manufacturer of a specific sampling apparatus should be contacted or the manufacturer’s manuals reviewed if there is concern
regarding the reactivity of a decontamination rinsing agent or the temperatures that could affect the equipment. Plastic components
and gasket materials could be damaged by some of the stronger reagents or high temperatures.
1.7 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
standard.
1.8 This practice offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course
of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment.
Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace
the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied
without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the
document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.
1.9 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and
determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.10 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.
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.21 on Groundwater and Vadose
Zone Investigations.
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2015May 1, 2020. Published August 2015May 2020. Originally approved in 1990. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as
D5088 – 15.D5088 – 15a. DOI: 10.1520/D5088-15A.10.1520/D5088-20.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5088 − 20
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
D5608 Practices for Decontamination of Sampling and Non Sample Contacting Equipment Used at Low Level Radioactive
Waste Sites
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of generalcommon technical terms used within this Practice refer to Terminology D653.
3.2 Definitions Specific to this Practice:
3.2.1 equipment rinsate blank—a sample collected by using analyte-free water rinsed over/through equipment that has been
decontaminated, and is analyzed for the parameters of interest.
3.2.2 field cleaning—the process of cleaning dirty contaminated used sampling equipment so it can be returned or moved to a
final decontamination in a condition that will minimize the potential of contaminant transfer from a site. At a minimum, this should
consist of washing with soap and water, and rinsing with tap water.
3.2.3 sample contacting equipment—equipment that comes in direct contact with the sample or portion of sample that will
undergo chemical analyses or physical testing (for example, a bailer used to sample a groundwater well, split-spoon sampler, soil
gas sampling probe, tubing used to bring a groundwater sample to the surface, etc.).
4. Summary of Practice
4.1 When decontaminating equipment, the user will need to evaluate whether the equipment materials are plastics or metals,
the types of contaminants (inorganic vs. organic) that will be analyzed for, whether the equipment contacts the sample, the type
of exposure (for example, whether exposed to oils, grease, tars, soils, or simply water), and the data-quality objectives. These issues
will help to determine the practices to be used to decontaminate the equipment. The decontamination process should use the
minimum effort and materials demonstrated to satisfy that the required decontamination has been achieved. The use of hazardous
materials should be used only when additional rinses, heat, and other techniques have been found inadequate and the equipment
cannot be substituted with disposable or dedicated equipment.
4.2 Two different practices are presented for the decontamination of sample-contacting and non-sample contacting equipment.
The practices have been developed based on a review of research studies, studies as well as current state and federal guidelines.
In general, sample contacting equipment should be washed with a detergent solution followed by a series of control water and
deionized water rinses. Non-sample contacting equipment should be washed with water or without a detergent solution depending
on the type and degree of contaminants and rinsed with control water. Although such techniques may be difficult to perform in the
field, they may be necessary to most accurately evaluate low concentrations of the chemical constituent(s) of interest. Additional
enhancements to the decontamination process include the use of hot water or steam for cleaning and or rinsing the equipment, and
in some cases the use air drying or the use of heat near 100°C for a period of time
4.3 Prior to initiating a field program that will involve equipment decontamination, a site specific equipment decontamination
protocol should be prepared for distribution to the individuals involved with the particular sampling program. Information to be
presented in the protocol should include:
4.3.1 Site location and description,
4.3.2 Statement of the sampling program objectives and desired precision and accuracy, that is, is sampling effort for gross
qualitative evaluation or for trace concentration, parameter specific evaluations,
4.3.3 Summary of available information regarding soil types, hydrogeology and anticipated chemistry of the materials to be
sampled,
4.3.4 Listing of equipment that will be used for sampling and the materials or equipment that will be needed for
decontamination,
4.3.5 An evaluation of the costs of the decontamination process including disposal, personnel time, Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) and other costs versus the use of less hazardous materials, the use of dedicated equipment, or use of disposable
equipment.
4.3.6 Detailed step by step procedure for equipment decontamination for each piece or type of equipment to be utilized and
practices for rinse fluids containment and disposal as appropriate,
4.3.7 Summary of QA/QC procedures and QA/QC samples to be collected to document decontamination completeness
including specific type of chemical analyses and their associated detection limit, and
4.3.8 Outline of equipment decontamination verification report.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
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5. Significance and Use
5.1 An appropriately developed, executed and documented equipment decontamination practice is an integral and essential part
of waste site investigations. The benefits of its use include:
5.1.1 Minimizing the spread of contaminants within a study area and from site to site,
5.1.2 Reducing the potential for worker exposure by means of contact with contaminated sampling equipment or hazardous
materials,
5.1.3 Improved data quality and reliability.
5.1.4 Minimizing the amount of decontamination fluids or wastes generated.
5.1.5 Reducing personnel exposures to chemicals used in, or released by decontamination.
5.1.6 Minimizing or eliminating the use of hazardous materials in the decontamination process, and
5.1.7 Selecting equipment based on total life-cycle costs including labor, waste containment, disposal, treatment and additional
analytical costs, such as using dedicated or disposable equipment rather than decontaminating between uses.
5.2 This practice is not a substitute for a well-documented Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) program. Because the
ultimate test of a decontamination process is its ability to minimize erroneous data, a reasonable QA/QC program must be
implemented.
5.3 This practice may not be applicable to all waste sites. When a sampling effort is completed to determine only the general
range of chemical concentrations of interest, then less rigorous decontamination processes can be adequate. Less rigorous
decontamination procedures may also be used when cleaning non-porous surfaces, such as metal surfaces as well. Investigators
should have the flexibility to modify the decontamination process with due consideration for the sampling objective or if QA/QC
documentation supports alternative decontamination methods.
5.4 At sites where the reactivity of sampling equipment to decontamination washes creates concern for the generation of
undesirable chemical by-products, or will potentially damage the equipment surfaces, for example, the use of an acid rinse on metal
equipment, then use of dedicated sampling equipment should be considered.
5.5 This practice, where applicable, should be used before, between, and after the completion of sampling events.
5.6 This practice is appropriate for use at sites where chemical (organic and inorganic) contamination is known or expected. The
application of this practice to other types of sites radiological, mixed (radiological and chemical), or biohazard contaminated sites
is not applicable. The application of this practice to these types of sites should be undertaken with care and consideration, along
with QA/QC documentation that supports the effectiveness of these decontamination techniques.
6. Reagents
6.1 Detergent, non-phosphate detergent solution.
6.2 Acid Rinse (inorganic desorbing agent), 10 % nitric or hydrochloric acid solution-made from reagent grade nitric or
hydrochloric acid and deionized water (1 % is to be applied to low-carbon steel equipment). These materials are hazardous
themselves and use should be minimized or eliminated when possible.
6.3 Solvent Rinse (organic desorbing agent), isopropanol, acetone, or methanol; pesticide grade. These materials are hazardous
themselves and use should be minimized or eliminated when possible.
6.4 Control Rinse Water, preferably from a water system of known chemical composition. In most cases, potable water is
suitable for non-contacting equipment.
6.5 Deionized Water, water that is organic-free and deionized. Tap water that has been treated by passing through a standard
deionizing resin column. As a minimum, the finished water should contain no detectable heavy metals or other inorganic
compounds.
6.6 The use of acids, bases, and organic solvents requires that personnel have the appropriate Safety Data Sheets, be properly
trained in their handling, have the appropriate PPE including appropriate respiratory protection, and have appropriate first-aid
training and response equipment. The shipping and handling of these materials are regulated because of the hazardous nature of
these materials. When these materials are used for decontamination, they can generate larger amounts of hazardous wastes that
must be collected, properly containerized, stored and labeled, shipped and/or disposed.
7. Apparatus
7.1 Pressure Washer (Cold Water) or Steam Cleaner (Hot Water)—Commercially available washers providing low volumes of
water at high pressure. The hot water washers may be electrically powered or fueled for remote operation. Most pressure washers
have the capability to inject detergents into the system.
NOTE 1—The use of pressure washers should consider the safety and protection of the personnel using them. Manufacturer operating literature or
Liquinox or Detergent 8 or similar solution has been found suitable for this purpose. Detergent 8 is recommended for spray cleaning.
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manuals typically contain safety precautions for the use of the equipment. Personnel may be exposed to backsplash, slippery surfaces or other hazards
and should be appropriately protected. The use of high temperature water or steam can also result in burns.
7.2 Ovens or Other Heat Sources—For some equipment, extended drying (for example, 24 hours) at higher than room
temperatures may be needed. Dependent on the equipment size and configuration standard laboratory draft ovens may be used. For
field use, commercially available heated air handlers can be used.
NOTE 2—The use of ovens or air handlers should exchange fresh heated air to the equipment and not provide air that contains carbon fuel combustion
or other contaminants that will contaminate the equipment being dried. Venting of the heated air should not be into an area occupied by personnel.
7.3 Standpipes, buckets, tubs, portable light-weight sinks, commercially available containers of adequate size for soaking,
cleaning and rinsing equipment.
7.4 Scrub brushes, metal brushes.
7.5 Decontamination Pad/Materials Collection—Impermeable materials that can be placed on the ground to capture
decontamination fluids of a size appropriate to the equipment and volumes. These can be polyethylene, HDPE, sheeting o
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