ASTM E2933-21

Standard Specification for Stationary Point Chemical Vapor Detectors (SPCVD) for Homeland Security Applications

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the baseline performance requirements and additional optional capabilities for stationary point chemical vapor detectors (SPCVD) intended for continuous monitoring of public, non-industrial facilities 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It provides SPCVD designers, manufacturers, integrators, procurement personnel, end users/practitioners, and responsible authorities a common set of parameters to match capabilities and user needs. The document specifies chemical detection performance requirements, system requirements, environmental requirements, manuals and documentation, and product marking.
SCOPE
1.1 General:  
1.1.1 This specification presents baseline performance requirements and additional optional capabilities for stationary point chemical vapor detectors (SPCVD) designed for continuous, 24 h a day 7 days a week, monitoring of public, non-industrial facilities. This specification is one of several that describe chemical vapor detectors (for example, handheld and stationary) and chemical detection capabilities including: chemical vapor hazard detection, identification, classification, and quantification. An SPCVD is capable of detecting and alarming when exposed to chemical vapors that pose a risk as defined by the Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Selected Airborne Chemicals (AEGL). For example, chemical vapors of interest for homeland security applications, see Appendix X1. The SPCVD should not alarm to background chemical vapors and should provide low false positive alarm rates and no false negatives. Procurement agents and end users must identify the specific chemicals of interest and environmental requirements for the given facility.
1.1.1.1 An SPCVD samples air from immediate surroundings and is comprised of one or more detectors using one or more chemical detection technologies. An SPCVD also includes air sampling system(s), power system(s), computer(s), data storage, data network communication interface(s), and an enclosure, see Fig. 1. An SPCVD may be combined with other SPCVDs, other chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive (CBRNE) detectors, and other monitoring devices such as video. A remote command center may monitor and control these devices and communicate information to the responsible authorities and responders, as depicted in Fig. 2.
FIG. 1 An Example Schematic of a Stationary Point Chemical Vapor Detector (SPCVD)
The SPCVD is a unit which samples air from immediate surroundings and is comprised of one or more detectors using one or more chemical detection technologies. An SPCVD also includes air sampling system(s), power system(s), computer(s), data storage, data network communication interface(s), and an enclosure.
FIG. 2 A Conceptual Representation of a Facility Security System with Stationary Point Chemical Vapor Detectors (SPCVDs) integrated with other Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) Detectors, and Other Monitoring Devices such as Video  
1.1.2 This specification provides the SPCVD baseline requirements, including performance, system, environmental, and documentation requirements. This specification provides SPCVD designers, manufacturers, integrators, procurement personnel, end users/practitioners, and responsible authorities a common set of parameters to match capabilities and user needs.  
1.1.3 This specification is not meant to provide for all uses. Manufacturers, purchasers, and end users will need to determine specific requirements based on the installation location and environment.  
1.2 SPCVD Chemical Detection Capabilities—Manufacturers document and verify, through testing, the chemical detection capabilities of the SPCVD. Test methods for assessing chemical detection capabilities are available from the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Defense and are listed in Appendix X2.  
1.3 SPCVD System and Environmental Properties—Manufacturers document and veri...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Aug-2021
• ICS: 95.060 - Weapons
• Technical Committee: E54 - Homeland Security Applications
• Drafting Committee: E54.01 - CBRNE Detection and CBRN Protection

Overview

ASTM E2933-21 defines the baseline performance and optional capabilities for stationary point chemical vapor detectors (SPCVD) designed specifically for homeland security applications. These detectors provide continuous, 24/7 monitoring of public, non-industrial spaces such as transportation hubs, airports, and government buildings. The standard offers a unified set of specifications for designers, manufacturers, integrators, procurement officials, and end users, ensuring that deployed SPCVD systems meet essential criteria for chemical detection, reliability, safety, and documentation.

Key Topics

• Performance Requirements: Establishes criteria for the detection, identification, and quantification of hazardous chemical vapors. Detection must be based on Acute Exposure Guideline Levels (AEGL) for selected airborne chemicals.
• System Design: Outlines requirements for system components, including air sampling, power supply, computing, data storage, network interfaces, and protective enclosure. Emphasizes safety and reliability features such as mean time between failures and data retention.
• Environmental Compliance: Specifies operational criteria for various climates and environmental stressors, such as temperature ranges, humidity, electromagnetic interference, mechanical shock, vibration, moisture, and dust ingress (IEC 60529, IP54).
• False Alarm Minimization: Addresses procedures and criteria for minimizing false positives and false negatives, especially in environments with background chemical vapors.
• Documentation and Marking: Requires comprehensive manuals for installation, operation, maintenance, and software. Product marking must be secure and not reveal purpose to the public.

Applications

Stationary point chemical vapor detectors (SPCVDs) specified by ASTM E2933-21 are used for:

• Homeland Security: Enhancing facility protection by enabling real-time detection of hazardous chemical vapors in high-risk public environments.
• Critical Infrastructure: Continuous air monitoring in transportation systems, airports, government buildings, and public venues to detect threats and enable prompt response.
• System Integration: SPCVDs can be networked with other security and sensor systems, including chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive (CBRNE) detectors, and video surveillance for holistic facility security.
• Emergency Response: Rapid identification and alerting of hazardous chemical levels help authorities initiate timely evacuation or mitigation procedures.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensures that detection systems are designed, tested, and maintained according to recognized industry and international performance benchmarks.

Related Standards

Several standards and guidelines are referenced for comprehensive compliance and interoperability:

• ASTM E2885 – Specification for Handheld Point Chemical Vapor Detectors for Homeland Security Applications
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Selected Airborne Chemicals
• NIST Publication 140-2: Security Requirements for Cryptographic Modules
• IEC 60529: Degrees of Protection Provided by Enclosures (IP Code)
• ANSI N42 Series: American National Standards for radiation detector performance in homeland security
• CFR Title 47 Parts 15 & 18: Radio frequency device compliance

Summary

ASTM E2933-21 is a critical specification for organizations responsible for public safety and facility security, providing essential guidance for the consistent procurement, deployment, and operation of stationary chemical vapor detection systems. The standard bridges stakeholder requirements and technical capabilities, supporting effective homeland security strategies with clear performance, system, and documentation guidelines.

Keywords: stationary point chemical vapor detector, SPCVD, homeland security, chemical vapor detection, ASTM E2933-21, CBRNE, security standards, public facility monitoring.

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:E2933 −21
Standard Specification for
Stationary Point Chemical Vapor Detectors (SPCVD) for
Homeland Security Applications
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E2933; 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 personnel,endusers/practitioners,andresponsibleauthoritiesa
common set of parameters to match capabilities and user
1.1 General:
needs.
1.1.1 This specification presents baseline performance re-
1.1.3 This specification is not meant to provide for all uses.
quirements and additional optional capabilities for stationary
Manufacturers, purchasers, and end users will need to deter-
point chemical vapor detectors (SPCVD) designed for
mine specific requirements based on the installation location
continuous, 24 h a day 7 days a week, monitoring of public,
and environment.
non-industrialfacilities.Thisspecificationisoneofseveralthat
describe chemical vapor detectors (for example, handheld and
1.2 SPCVD Chemical Detection Capabilities—
stationary) and chemical detection capabilities including:
Manufacturers document and verify, through testing, the
chemical vapor hazard detection, identification, classification,
chemical detection capabilities of the SPCVD. Test methods
and quantification. An SPCVD is capable of detecting and
for assessing chemical detection capabilities are available from
alarming when exposed to chemical vapors that pose a risk as
the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of
defined by the Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Selected
Defense and are listed in Appendix X2.
AirborneChemicals(AEGL).Forexample,chemicalvaporsof
interest for homeland security applications, see Appendix X1.
1.3 SPCVD System and Environmental Properties—
The SPCVD should not alarm to background chemical vapors
Manufacturers document and verify, through testing, the sys-
and should provide low false positive alarm rates and no false
tem and environmental properties of the SPCVD. Example test
negatives. Procurement agents and end users must identify the
methods for assessing the system and environmental properties
specific chemicals of interest and environmental requirements
are listed in Appendix X3.
for the given facility.
1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded
1.1.1.1 An SPCVD samples air from immediate surround-
as standard. Vapor concentrations of the hazardous materials
ings and is comprised of one or more detectors using one or
are presented in parts per million (ppm) as used in Acute
more chemical detection technologies. An SPCVD also in-
Exposure Guideline Levels for Selected Airborne Chemicals,
cludes air sampling system(s), power system(s), computer(s),
Vols 1-9 (see 2.2) and in mg/m .
data storage, data network communication interface(s), and an
enclosure, see Fig. 1.An SPCVD may be combined with other
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
SPCVDs, other chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
explosive (CBRNE) detectors, and other monitoring devices
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
such as video. A remote command center may monitor and
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
control these devices and communicate information to the
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
responsible authorities and responders, as depicted in Fig. 2.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
1.1.2 This specification provides the SPCVD baseline
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
requirements, including performance, system, environmental,
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
and documentation requirements. This specification provides
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
SPCVD designers, manufacturers, integrators, procurement
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E54 on
Homeland Security Applications and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
E54.01 on CBRNE Detection and Decontamination.
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2021. Published September 2021. Originally
approved in 2013. Last previous edition approved in 2013 as E2933 – 13. DOI:
10.1520/E2933-21.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E2933−21
CFR Title 47 Telecommunication, Part 15 Radio Frequency
Devices, and Part 18 Industrial, Scientific, and Medical
Equipment.
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 30-minute Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Se-
lected Airborne Chemicals (30-min AEGL value), n—represent
threshold exposure limits for the general public and are
applicable to emergency exposure periods for 30 minutes.
3.1.2 AEGL-1, n—airborne concentration (expressed as
parts per million (ppm) or mg/m ) of a substance above which
itispredictedthatthegeneralpopulation,includingsusceptible
individuals, could experience notable discomfort, irritation, or
certain asymptomatic nonsensory effects; however, the effects
are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessa-
The SPCVD is a unit which samples air from immediate surroundings and is
tion of exposure.
comprised of one or more detectors using one or more chemical detection
technologies.An SPCVD also includes air sampling system(s), power system(s),
3.1.3 AEGL-2, n—airborneconcentration(expressedasppm
computer(s), data storage, data network communication interface(s), and an 3
or mg/m ) of a substance above which it is predicted that the
enclosure.
general population, including susceptible individuals, could
FIG. 1An Example Schematic of a Stationary Point Chemical
experience irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse
Vapor Detector (SPCVD)
health effects or an impaired ability to escape.
3.1.4 AEGL-3, n—airborneconcentration(expressedasppm
2. Referenced Documents
or mg/m ) of a substance above which it is predicted that the
2.1 ASTM Standards:
general population, including susceptible individuals, could
E2885 Specification for Handheld Point Chemical Vapor
experience life-threatening health effects or death.
Detectors (HPCVD) for Homeland Security Applications
3.1.5 alarm, n—sound, light, vibration, or data communica-
2.2 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency:
tion signal to the operator(s), or combinations thereof, indicat-
Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Selected Airborne
ing that the stationary point chemical vapor detector (SPCVD)
Chemicals, Vols 1–9.
has detected the presence of a chemical vapor(s) of interest at
2.3 U.S. Department of Homeland Security:
or above the alarm threshold value.
Chemical Detection Performance Specifications for Mass
Transit and Passenger Rail Systems 3.1.6 alarm threshold value, n—vapor concentration corre-
National Information Exchange Model (NIEM), http://
sponding to an AEGL value (AEGL-1, AEGL-2, or AEGL-3)
www.niem.gov/. that activates an SPCVD alarm.
2.4 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST):
3.1.7 background chemical vapors, n—incidental chemical
Publication 140–2 Security Requirements for Cryptographic
vapors present in the environment at vapor concentrations
Modules
lower than the 30-minute AEGL-1 values.
2.5 Code of Federal Regulations:
3.1.8 consumables, n—SPCVD components that require
CFR, Title 40 Protection of the Environment, Part 72.2
periodic replacement.
Permits Regulation, Definitions.
3.1.9 enclosure, n—an integral part of the SPCVD that
CFR, Title 10 NRC Regulations, Part 30.20, Gas and Aero-
protects the internal SPCVD components from harm including
sol Detectors Containing Byproduct Material
effects from temperature, moisture, dust, mechanical stress,
and tampering.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
3.1.10 facility, n—area, structure, or surroundings, or com-
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
binationsthereof,tobemonitoredbytheSPCVD(forexample,
the ASTM website.
a building, parking lot, transportation station, and airport).
Committee on Acute Exposure Guideline Levels, Committee on Toxicology,
Board on Environmental Studies and Toxicology, Division on Earth and Life
3.1.11 false negative, n—the SPCVD fails to alarm in the
Studies, National Research Council of the National Academies; 2000-2010, http://
presence of a chemical of interest when the vapor concentra-
www.epa.gov/oppt/aegl/index.htm, updated August 2010.
tion is at or above the indicated alarm threshold value.
Available from the Office of Health Affairs, Chemical Defense Program, and
theTransportation SecurityAdministration. 245 Murray Lane, NW, Mail Stop 0315,
3.1.12 false positive alarm, n—the SPCVD indicates the
Washington, D.C. 20528, March 2011.
presenceofachemicalofinterestwhennoneispresentorifthe
Available from National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), 100
chemical is present at vapor concentrations less than 50 % of
Bureau Dr., Stop 1070, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-1070, http://www.nist.gov. May
2001.
the indicated alarm threshold value.
AvailablefromU.S.GovernmentPrintingOfficeSuperintendentofDocuments,
3.1.13 identify, v—indicate actual chemical detected by the
732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401, http://
www.access.gpo.gov. SPCVD.
E2933−21
FIG. 2A Conceptual Representation of a Facility Security System with Stationary Point Chemical Vapor Detectors (SPCVDs) integrated
with other Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) Detectors, and Other Monitoring Devices such as Video
3.1.14 indicator, n—information other than an alarm pro- 3.1.23 selectivity, n—ability of an SPCVD to distinguish
vided to the operator(s) by the SPCVD. one or more chemicals of interest in the presence of back-
ground chemical vapors.
3.1.15 laboratory challenge stream, n—a synthesized
chemical vapor mixture used in the laboratory to verify the
3.1.24 sensitivity, n—abilitytodetectoneormorechemicals
chemical detection capabilities of an SPCVD.
of interest at the alarm threshold values within the specified
response time.
3.1.16 local operations, n—control and monitoring of the
SPCVD at or near the physical location of the SPCVD.
3.1.25 stationary point chemical vapor detector (SPCVD),
n—a unit which samples air from immediate surroundings and
3.1.17 mean time between failures, n—estimate of the
is comprised of one or more detectors using one or more
elapsed time between inherent failures of a system during
chemical detection technologies; an SPCVD also includes air
operation, one measure of system reliability.
sampling system(s), power system(s), computer(s), data
3.1.18 probability of detection, n—under specific
storage, data network communication interface(s), and an
conditions, the probability that the SPCVD will activate an
enclosure, see Fig. 1; an SPCVD may be integrated into a
alarm when a chemical of interest is present at or above the
larger monitoring system, as depicted in Fig. 2.
alarm threshold values.
3.1.26 vapor, n—in the context of this specification, vapor
3.1.19 remote command center, n—a location where an
refers to either gases or gas phase chemicals where the same
operator remotely controls and monitors SPCVD(s), other
substance may also exist in either a liquid or solid state.
CBRNE detectors, and other monitoring devices; the remote
command center communicates information to the responsible
4. Chemical Detection Performance Requirements
authorities, see Fig. 2.
3.1.20 remote operations, n—control and monitoring of the 4.1 The manufacturer shall document the baseline and
SPCVD from a remote command center. additional optional capabilities of the SPCVD to detect,
identify, and quantify the chemical vapor hazards.
3.1.21 response time, n—time required for the SPCVD to
detect and activate an alarm when exposed to a chemical of
4.2 Detection and Hazard Identification:
interest at vapor concentrations at or above the alarm threshold
4.2.1 The baseline capability of the SPCVD is to detect and
value.
alarm to one or more hazardous chemical vapors listed in the
3.1.22 saturation, n—a condition in which the detector Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Selected Airborne
response no longer increases with increased vapor concentra- Chemicals. Tables X1.1 and X1.2 in Appendix X1 provide a
tion. representative list of chemical vapor hazards.
E2933−21
TABLE 2 SPCVD Chemical Detection Climate Ranges
4.2.2 The SPCVD shall detect the manufacturer-
documented chemical vapors without user intervention. Temperature % Relative Water Vapor
Climate Ranges
(°C) Humidity Content (g/m )
4.2.3 The SPCVD:
Low
-10to5 5to100 0.1to6.8
4.2.3.1 Shall alarm in the presence of manufacturer-
Temperature
documented chemical vapors at the vapor concentrations given Temperate 5 to 35 5 to 100 0.3 to 32
High
in 4.3 with response times given in 4.4;
35 to 50 5 to 77 2.0 to 32
Temperature
4.2.3.2 Shall indicate each 30-min AEGL value that the
Indoor 15 to 27 25 to 75 3.2 to 17
detected chemical vapor(s) is at or above; and
4.2.3.3 Shall indicate the specific chemical(s) that is de-
TABLE 3 SPCVD Testing Conditions
tected.
% Relative Water Vapor
4.3 Sensitivity:
Climate Ranges Temperature, °C
Humidity Content, g/m
4.3.1 For each manufacturer-documented chemical vapor,
7±2 77±25 6±2
the manufacturer: Temperate 33±2 17±6 6±2
33±2 78±6 29±2
4.3.1.1 Shall declare and document the SPCVD capability
Low
-5±2 0+68 0+2
to alarm at the 30-min AEGL-2 value;
Temperature
4.3.1.2 May declare and document the SPCVD capability to High
45±2 43±3 29±2
Temperature
alarm at the 30-min AEGL-1 value; and
17±2 21±17 3±2
Indoor
4.3.1.3 May declare and document the SPCVD capability to
25±2 72±18 17±2
alarm at the 30-min AEGL-3 value.
4.3.2 The SPCVD shall:
4.3.2.1 Automatically cease the alarm signal within 2 min
after the concentration drops below half of the alarm threshold
4.5.4 The SPCVD shall perform within the range of the
values; and
manufacturer-documented atmospheric pressures;
4.3.2.2 Include an indicator that is activated in the event of
4.5.5 The SPCVD should perform in the presence of tran-
an alarm and remains activated until an operator resets the
sient pressure pulses; and
indicator.
4.5.6 The manufacturer may extend the range of operation.
4.3.3 At vapor concentrations greater than the 30-min
AEGL-3 values:
4.6 Probability of Detection—For each of the manufacturer-
4.3.3.1 The SPCVD shall continue to alarm;
documented chemical vapors, the SPCVD shall achieve a
4.3.3.2 If a detector is saturated, the SPCVD shall indicate
probability of detection of at least 90 % under any condition
it is saturated; and
within each of the manufacturer-documented climate range(s)
4.3.3.3 The SPCVD should be designed to avoid detector
asspecifiedby90 %lowerconfidencebound(seeTable4).For
saturation at vapor concentrations below twice the AEGL-3
a detailed explanation, see Specification E2885. The probabil-
vapor concentration values.
ity of detection shall be verified by:
4.3.4 The SPCVD should indicate the vapor concentration
4.6.1 Testing a single SPCVD, representative of all the
of the chemical(s) present in absolute quantities (for example,
SPCVDs with the same model designation, which shall detect
ppm or mg/m ).
and alarm:
4.6.1.1 For 21 of 21 replicate tests; or
4.4 Response Time—The SPCVD shall detect and alarm
4.6.1.2 For 36 of 37 replicate tests.
within times indicated in Table 1 for 30-min AEGL-2 values
4.6.2 The replicate tests shall be performed:
and may optionally detect and alarm within the times for
4.6.2.1 Using laboratory challenge streams that shall consist
30-min AEGL-1 values and 30-min AEGL-3 values.
ofthechemicalofinterestdilutedinzeroair(seeCFRTitle40,
4.5 Chemical Detection Climate—For each of the
Part 72.2).
manufacturer-documented chemical detection capabilities:
4.6.2.2 With the laboratory challenge streams at the tem-
4.5.1 The SPCVD shall perform within the temperate cli-
peratures and humidities listed in Table 3.
mate range or the indoor climate range listed in Table 2;
4.6.3 The vapor concentration of the chemical of interest
4.5.2 The SPCVD may perform within the low- or high-
shall:
temperature climate ranges, or both, listed in Table 2;
4.6.3.1 Be measured by an independent method, and
4.5.3 The chemical detection capabilities within each cli-
4.6.3.2 Have a measured value at the documented AEGL
mate range shall be demonstrated by tests at the temperatures
value plus the expanded uncertainty of the measured vapor
and relative humidities listed in Table 3;
concentration at the 95 % confidence level. Therefore, the
vapor concentration of the laboratory challenge stream shall be
set above theAEGLvalue by an amount equal to the expanded
TABLE 1 SPCVD Response Time
measurement uncertainty.
30-min AEGL Values Maximum Response Requirement
Time 4.7 False Positive Alarm Characterization:
AEGL-2 120 s Required
4.7.1 The SPCVD shall not alarm when exposed to labora-
AEGL-1 15 min Optional
tory challenge streams representing each potential background
AEGL-3 30 s Optional
chemical vapor.
E2933−21
TABLE 4 Minimum Numbers of Test Required to Obtain a Lower Bound for the Specified Probability of Detection and Alarm with the
Specified Confidence Risk
NOTE 1—The first number in each interior cell of the table assumes all tests result in an alarm. The second number in each cell assumes all tests but
one result in an alarm. For detailed explanations, see Specification E2885.
4.7.1.1 The specific background chemical vapors of interest 4.7.2.3 The range of temperatures, pressures, and relative
are: humidity values; and
(1) Glycol ethers,
4.7.2.4 The indicated chemical, indicated alarm level, num-
(2) Exhaust from low-sulfur diesel fuel,
ber of events, time, and duration of each alarm, if any.
(3) Commercial glass cleaner, without glycol,
4.7.3 The manufacturer may document any additional capa-
(4) Solvent mixture of toluene, xylene, methanol, and
bility of the SPCVD to reject common background chemical
ethanol, and
vaporsbydocumentingthechemicalvaporsandconcentrations
(5) D-Limonene.
used in testing for false positive alarms.
4.7.1.2 Each laboratory challenge stream shall:
4.8 Sensitivity in the Presence of Background Chemicals:
(1) Consist of one of the specific background chemical
4.8.1 For each of the manufacturer-documented chemical
vapors of interest at 1 % of the saturation vapor pressure at
vapors, the SPCVD shall alarm when exposed to laboratory
23 °C diluted in zero air;
challengestreamswhicharemixturesofthechemicalvaporsof
(2) Be at a temperature between 20 °C and 25 °C and a
interest with potential background chemical vapors.
relative humidity between 45 % and 55 %; and
4.8.1.1 The specific background chemical vapors of interest
(3) Not contain any chemical on the AEGL list at concen-
are:
trations greater than the 30-min AEGL-1 vapor concentration
(1) Glycol ethers,
value.
(2) Exhaust from low-sulfur diesel fuel,
4.7.2 To characterize the false positive alarm rate, the
(3) Commercial glass cleaner, without glycol,
manufacturer should test the SPCVD in the field under
(4) Solvent mixture of toluene, xylene, methanol, and
environmental conditions similar to sites at which the SPCVD
ethanol, and
might be installed. This test should have a minimum duration
(5) D-Limonene.
...

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: E2933 − 13 E2933 − 21
Standard Specification for
Stationary Point Chemical Vapor Detectors (SPCVD) for
Homeland Security Applications
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E2933; 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 General:
1.1.1 This specification presents baseline performance requirements and additional optional capabilities for stationary point
chemical vapor detectors (SPCVD) designed for continuous, 24 hoursh a day 7 days a week, monitoring of public, non-industrial
facilities. This specification is one of several that describe chemical vapor detectors (for example, handheld and stationary) and
chemical detection capabilities including: chemical vapor hazard detection, identification, classification, and quantification. An
SPCVD is capable of detecting and alarming when exposed to chemical vapors that pose a risk as defined by the Acute Exposure
Guideline Levels for Selected Airborne Chemicals (AEGL). For example, chemical vapors of interest for homeland security
applications, see Appendix X1. The SPCVD should not alarm to background chemical vapors and should provide low false
positive alarm rates and no false negatives. Procurement agents and end users must identify the specific chemicals of interest and
environmental requirements for the given facility.
1.1.1.1 An SPCVD samples air from immediate surroundings and is comprised of one or more detectors using one or more
chemical detection technologies. An SPCVD also includes air sampling system(s), power system(s), computer(s), data storage, data
network communication interface(s), and an enclosure, see Fig. 1. An SPCVD may be combined with other SPCVDs, other
chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive (CBRNE) detectors, and other monitoring devices such as video. A
remote command center may monitor and control these devices and communicate information to the responsible authorities and
responders, as depicted in Fig. 2.
1.1.2 This specification provides the SPCVD baseline requirements, including performance, system, environmental, and
documentation requirements. This specification provides SPCVD designers, manufacturers, integrators, procurement personnel,
end users/practitioners, and responsible authorities a common set of parameters to match capabilities and user needs.
1.1.3 This specification is not meant to provide for all uses. Manufacturers, purchasers, and end users will need to determine
specific requirements based on the installation location and environment.
1.2 SPCVD Chemical Detection Capabilities—Manufacturers document and verify, through testing, the chemical detection
capabilities of the SPCVD. Test methods for assessing chemical detection capabilities are available from the Department of
Homeland Security and the Department of Defense and are listed in Appendix X2.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E54 on Homeland Security Applications and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E54.01 on
CBRNE SensorsDetection and DetectorsDecontamination.
Current edition approved July 1, 2013Sept. 1, 2021. Published July 2013September 2021. Originally approved in 2013. Last previous edition approved in 2013 as
E2933 – 13. DOI: 10.1520/E2933-13.10.1520/E2933-21.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E2933 − 21
The SPCVD is a unit which samples air from immediate surroundings and is comprised of one or more detectors using one or more chemical detection technologies.
An SPCVD also includes air sampling system(s), power system(s), computer(s), data storage, data network communication interface(s), and an enclosure.
FIG. 1 An example schematicExample Schematic of a Stationary Point Chemical
Vapor Detector (SPCVD). The SPCVD is a unit which samples air from immediate surroundings and is comprised of one or more detec-
tors using one or more chemical detection technologies. An SPCVD also includes air sampling system(s), power system(s),
computer(s), data storage, data network communication interface(s), and an enclosure.(SPCVD)
1.3 SPCVD System and Environmental Properties—Manufacturers document and verify, through testing, the system and
environmental properties of the SPCVD. Example test methods for assessing the system and environmental properties are listed
in Appendix X3.
1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. Vapor concentrations of the hazardous materials are
presented in parts per million (ppm) as used in Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Selected Airborne Chemicals, Vols 1-9 (see
2.2) and in mg/m .
1.5 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
E2885 Specification for Handheld Point Chemical Vapor Detectors (HPCVD) for Homeland Security Applications
2.2 U.S. Environmental Protection AgencyAgency:
Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Selected Airborne Chemicals, Vols 1–9.
2.3 U.S. Department of Homeland SecuritySecurity:
Chemical Detection Performance Specifications for Mass Transit and Passenger Rail Systems
National Information Exchange Model (NIEM), http://www.niem.gov/.
2.4 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)(NIST):
Publication 140–2 Security Requirements for Cryptographic Modules
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.
Committee on Acute Exposure Guideline Levels, Committee on Toxicology, Board on Environmental Studies and Toxicology, Division on Earth and Life Studies,
National Research Council of the National Academies; 2000-2010, http://www.epa.gov/oppt/aegl/index.htm, updated August 2010.
Available from the Office of Health Affairs, Chemical Defense Program, and the Transportation Security Administration. 245 Murray Lane, NW, Mail Stop 0315,
Washington, D.C. 20528, March 2011.
Available from National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), 100 Bureau Dr., Stop 1070, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-1070, http://www.nist.gov. May 2001.
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FIG. 2 A conceptual representationConceptual Representation of a facility security systemFacility Security System with Stationary
Point Chemical Vapor Detectors (SPCVDs) integrated with other chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive (CBRNE)
detectors, and other monitoring devices such as video.Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) Detectors,
and Other Monitoring Devices such as Video
2.5 Code of Federal RegulationsRegulations:
CFR, Title 40 Protection of the Environment, Part 72.2 Permits Regulation, Definitions.
CFR, Title 10 NRC Regulations, Part 30.20, Gas and Aerosol Detectors Containing Byproduct Material
CFR Title 47 Telecommunication, Part 15 Radio Frequency Devices, and Part 18 Industrial, Scientific, and Medical Equipment.
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 30-minute Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Selected Airborne Chemicals,Chemicals (30-min AEGL value), n—represent
threshold exposure limits for the general public and are applicable to emergency exposure periods for 30 minutes.
3.1.2 AEGL-1, n—airborne concentration (expressed as parts per million (ppm) or mg/m ) of a substance above which it is
predicted that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience notable discomfort, irritation, or certain
asymptomatic nonsensory effects. However,effects; however, the effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon
cessation of exposure.
3.1.3 AEGL-2, n—airborne concentration (expressed as ppm or mg/m ) of a substance above which it is predicted that the general
population, including susceptible individuals, could experience irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse health effects or
an impaired ability to escape.
3.1.4 AEGL-3, n—airborne concentration (expressed as ppm or mg/m ) of a substance above which it is predicted that the general
population, including susceptible individuals, could experience life-threatening health effects or death.
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office Superintendent of Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401, http://
www.access.gpo.gov.
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3.1.5 alarm, n—sound, light, vibration, or data communication signal to the operator(s), or combinations thereof, indicating that
the stationary point chemical vapor detector (SPCVD) has detected the presence of a chemical vapor(s) of interest at or above the
alarm threshold value.
3.1.6 alarm threshold value, n—vapor concentration corresponding to an AEGL value (AEGL-1, AEGL-2, or AEGL-3) that
activates an SPCVD alarm.
3.1.7 background chemical vapors, n—incidental chemical vapors present in the environment at vapor concentrations lower than
the 30-minute AEGL-1 values.
3.1.8 consumables, n—SPCVD components that require periodic replacement.
3.1.9 enclosure, n—an integral part of the SPCVD that protects the internal SPCVD components from harm including effects from
temperature, moisture, dust, mechanical stress, and tampering.
3.1.10 facility, n—area, structure, or surroundings, or combinations thereof, to be monitored by the SPCVD (for example, a
building, parking lot, transportation station, and airport).
3.1.11 false negative, n—the SPCVD fails to alarm in the presence of a chemical of interest when the vapor concentration is at
or above the indicated alarm threshold value.
3.1.12 false positive alarm, n—the SPCVD indicates the presence of a chemical of interest when none is present or if the chemical
is present at vapor concentrations less than 50 % of the indicated alarm threshold value.
3.1.13 identify, v—indicate actual chemical detected by the SPCVD.
3.1.14 indicator, n—information other than an alarm provided to the operator(s) by the SPCVD.
3.1.15 laboratory challenge stream, n—a synthesized chemical vapor mixture used in the laboratory to verify the chemical
detection capabilities of an SPCVD.
3.1.16 local operations, n—control and monitoring of the SPCVD at or near the physical location of the SPCVD.
3.1.17 mean time between failures, n—estimate of the elapsed time between inherent failures of a system during operation, one
measure of system reliability.
3.1.18 probability of detection, n—under specific conditions, the probability that the SPCVD will activate an alarm when a
chemical of interest is present at or above the alarm threshold values.
3.1.19 remote command center, n—a location where an operator remotely controls and monitors SPCVD(s), other CBRNE
detectors, and other monitoring devices. Thedevices; the remote command center communicates information to the responsible
authorities, see Fig. 2.
3.1.20 remote operations, n—control and monitoring of the SPCVD from a remote command center.
3.1.21 response time, n—time required for the SPCVD to detect and activate an alarm when exposed to a chemical of interest at
vapor concentrations at or above the alarm threshold value.
3.1.22 saturation, n—a condition in which the detector response no longer increases with increased vapor concentration.
3.1.23 selectivity, n—ability of an SPCVD to distinguish one or more chemicals of interest in the presence of background chemical
vapors.
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3.1.24 sensitivity, n—ability to detect one or more chemicals of interest at the alarm threshold values within the specified response
time.
3.1.25 stationary point chemical vapor detector (SPCVD), n—a unit which samples air from immediate surroundings and is
comprised of one or more detectors using one or more chemical detection technologies. Antechnologies; an SPCVD also includes
air sampling system(s), power system(s), computer(s), data storage, data network communication interface(s), and an enclosure,
see Fig. 1. An; an SPCVD may be integrated into a larger monitoring system, as depicted in Fig. 2.
3.1.26 vapor, n—in the context of this specification, vapor refers to either gases or gas phase chemicals where the same substance
may also exist in either a liquid or solid state.
4. Chemical Detection Performance Requirements
4.1 The manufacturer shall document the baseline and additional optional capabilities of the SPCVD to detect, identify, and
quantify the chemical vapor hazards.
4.2 Detection and Hazard Identification:
4.2.1 The baseline capability of the SPCVD is to detect and alarm to one or more hazardous chemical vapors listed in the Acute
Exposure Guideline Levels for Selected Airborne Chemicals. Tables X1.1 and X1.2 in Appendix X1 provide a representative list
of chemical vapor hazards.
4.2.2 The SPCVD shall detect the manufacturer-documented chemical vapors without user intervention.
4.2.3 The SPCVD:
4.2.3.1 Shall alarm in the presence of manufacturer-documented chemical vapors at the vapor concentrations given in 4.3 with
response times given in 4.4;
4.2.3.2 Shall indicate each 30-min AEGL value that the detected chemical vapor(s) is at or above; and
4.2.3.3 Shall indicate the specific chemical(s) that is detected.
4.3 Sensitivity:
4.3.1 For each manufacturer-documented chemical vapor, the manufacturer:
4.3.1.1 Shall declare and document the SPCVD capability to alarm at the 30-min AEGL-2 value;
4.3.1.2 May declare and document the SPCVD capability to alarm at the 30-min AEGL-1 value; and
4.3.1.3 May declare and document the SPCVD capability to alarm at the 30-min AEGL-3 value.
4.3.2 The SPCVD shall:
4.3.2.1 Automatically cease the alarm signal within 2 min after the concentration drops below half of the alarm threshold values;
and
4.3.2.2 Include an indicator that is activated in the event of an alarm and remains activated until an operator resets the indicator.
4.3.3 At vapor concentrations greater than the 30-min AEGL-3 values:
4.3.3.1 The SPCVD shall continue to alarm;
4.3.3.2 If a detector is saturated, the SPCVD shall indicate it is saturated; and
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4.3.3.3 The SPCVD should be designed to avoid detector saturation at vapor concentrations below twice the AEGL-3 vapor
concentration values.
4.3.4 The SPCVD should indicate the vapor concentration of the chemical(s) present in absolute quantities (for example, ppm or
mg/m ).
4.4 Response Time—The SPCVD shall detect and alarm within times indicated in Table 1 for 30-min AEGL-2 values and may
optionally detect and alarm within the times for 30-min AEGL-1 values and 30-min AEGL-3 values.
4.5 Chemical Detection Climate—For each of the manufacturer-documented chemical detection capabilities:
4.5.1 The SPCVD shall perform within the temperate climate range or the indoor climate range listed in Table 2;
4.5.2 The SPCVD may perform within the low- or high-temperature climate ranges, or both, listed in Table 2;
4.5.3 The chemical detection capabilities within each climate range shall be demonstrated by tests at the temperatures and relative
humidities listed in Table 3;
4.5.4 The SPCVD shall perform within the range of the manufacturer-documented atmospheric pressures;
4.5.5 The SPCVD should perform in the presence of transient pressure pulses; and
4.5.6 The manufacturer may extend the range of operation.
4.6 Probability of Detection—For each of the manufacturer-documented chemical vapors, the SPCVD shall achieve a probability
of detection of at least 90 % under any condition within each of the manufacturer-documented climate range(s) as specified by
90 % lower confidence bound (see Table 4). For a detailed explanation, see Specification E2885. The probability of detection shall
be verified by:
4.6.1 Testing a single SPCVD, representative of all the SPCVDs with the same model designation, which shall detect and alarm:
4.6.1.1 For 21 of 21 replicate tests; or
4.6.1.2 For 36 of 37 replicate tests.
4.6.2 The replicate tests shall be performed:
4.6.2.1 Using laboratory challenge streams that shall consist of the chemical of interest diluted in zero air (see CFR Title 40, Part
72.2).
4.6.2.2 With the laboratory challenge streams at the temperatures and humidities listed in Table 3.
4.6.3 The vapor concentration of the chemical of interest shall:
4.6.3.1 Be measured by an independent method, and
4.6.3.2 Have a measured value at the documented AEGL value plus the expanded uncertainty of the measured vapor concentration
at the 95 % confidence level. Therefore, the vapor concentration of the laboratory challenge stream shall be set above the AEGL
value by an amount equal to the expanded measurement uncertainty.
TABLE 1 SPCVD Response Time
30-min AEGL Values Maximum Response Requirement
Time
AEGL-2 120 s Required
AEGL-1 15 min Optional
AEGL-3 30 s Optional
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TABLE 2 SPCVD Chemical Detection Climate Ranges
Temperature % Relative Water Vapor
Climate Ranges
(°C) Humidity Content (g/m )
Low
-10 to 5 5 to 100 0.1 to 6.8
Temperature
Temperate 5 to 35 5 to 100 0.3 to 32
High
35 to 50 5 to 77 2.0 to 32
Temperature
Indoor 15 to 27 25 to 75 3.2 to 17
TABLE 3 SPCVD Testing Conditions
% Relative Water Vapor
Climate Ranges Temperature, °C
Humidity Content, g/m
7 ± 2 77 ± 25 6 ± 2
Temperate 33 ± 2 17 ± 6 6 ± 2
33 ± 2 78 ± 6 29 ± 2
Low
-5 ± 2 0 + 68 0 + 2
Temperature
High
45 ± 2 43 ± 3 29 ± 2
Temperature
17 ± 2 21 ± 17 3 ± 2
Indoor
25 ± 2 72 ± 18 17 ± 2
4.7 False Positive Alarm Characterization:
4.7.1 The SPCVD shall not alarm when exposed to laboratory challenge streams representing each potential background chemical
vapor.
4.7.1.1 The specific background chemical vapors of interest are:
(1) Glycol ethers,
(2) Exhaust from low-sulfur diesel fuel,
(3) Commercial glass cleaner, without glycol,
(4) Solvent mixture of toluene, xylene, methanol, and ethanol, and
(5) D-Limonene.
4.7.1.2 Each laboratory challenge stream shall:
(1) Consist of one of the specific background chemical vapors of interest at 1 % of the saturation vapor pressure at 23°C23 °C
diluted in zero air;
(2) Be at a temperature between 2020 °C and 25°C25 °C and a relative humidity between 4545 % and 55 %; and
(3) Not contain any chemical on the AEGL list at concentrations greater than the 30-min AEGL-1 vapor concentration value.
4.7.2 To characterize the false positive alarm rate, the manufacturer should test the SPCVD in the field under environmental
conditions similar to sites at which the SPCVD might be installed. This test should have a minimum duration of 600 hours.h. The
manufacturer shall document:
4.7.2.1 The test conditions including a description of the test location (for example, indoor, outdoor, transportation system) and
potential background chemical vapors or sources of background chemical vapors, or both, that could cause a false positive alarm;
4.7.2.2 The number of hours operated in the environment;
4.7.2.3 The range of temperatures, pressures, and relative humidity values; and
4.7.2.4 The indicated chemical, indicated alarm level, number of events, time, and duration of each alarm, if any.
4.7.3 The manufacturer may document any additional capability of the SPCVD to reject common background chemical vapors
by documenting the chemical vapors and concentrations used in testing for false positive alarms.
4.8 Sensitivity in the Presence of Background Chemicals:
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TABLE 4 Minimum Numbers of Test Required to Obtain a Lower Bound for the Specified Probability of Detection
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