ASTM D8299-19

Standard Guide for Using Metal Ratios in Soils to Distinguish Between Anthropogenic and Natural Beryllium

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Chronic Beryllium Disease (CBD) and Beryllium Sensitization (Be-S) caused by exposure to anthropogenic Beryllium (A-Be) are a continuing health concern in the nuclear and defense industries. The traditional worker protection strategy has been to compare total Be (T-Be) measurements taken in workplaces with appropriate limits or local background Be measurements. That strategy can be ineffective, however, where naturally occurring Be (N-Be) from local soils can be a non-negligible component of the measured T-Be. N-Be is not known to have adverse health effects. This MRM uses the ratio(s) of measurements of Be with measurements of one or more metals found in background materials, but not likely to be in facilities, to predict the amount of N-Be expected in individual samples based on the measurement(s) of the predictor metal(s) in those samples. The measured T-Be can be compared with the predictions to estimate the amount of A-Be present, if any.  
5.2 In order to use the MRM it is required to identify local sources of N-Be that can be credibly transported into facilities, along with a means of sampling those sources. It would be helpful also to have insight into the metal content of the soils at those sources, to facilitate the identification of candidate predictor metals. Regarding the latter, there are published databases describing the chemistry of surface soils in many regions; however, information found in those databases should be regarded as suggestive, due to the modified sample preparation and analysis methods currently expected to be used because of the need to digest high-fired BeO, one form of A-Be of concern.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide describes a general approach to planning investigations in which the goal is to obtain background measurements of naturally occurring Beryllium (N-Be) along with one or more predictor metals in local soils, to be used in predicting the amount of N-Be expected in samples taken for evaluation using the Metal Ratio Method (MRM). Generally, systematic random sampling is recommended, after which the results are interpreted using statistical methods described in this guide.  
1.2 The total Be (T-Be) measured in evaluation samples can then be compared with the predicted N-Be to estimate the amount of anthropogenic Be (A-Be) present, if any. Several scenarios are discussed in which samples taken and analyzed for T-Be for worker or public protection purposes might include both N-Be and A-Be (see 6.1). This method can allow the N-Be and A-Be components of T-Be measurements to be estimated.  
1.3 Values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 This guide 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 guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard guide 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.  
1.5 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, health, and environmental 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 Wo...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Dec-2019
• ICS: 13.080.10 - Chemical characteristics of soils
• Technical Committee: D18 - Soil and Rock
• Drafting Committee: D18.01 - Surface and Subsurface Investigation

Relations

• 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 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 D7458-08 - Standard Test Method for Determination of Beryllium in Soil, Rock, Sediment, and Fly Ash Using Ammonium Bifluoride Extraction and Fluorescence Detection
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-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 D653-05 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2005
• Refers: ASTM D653-04 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2004
• Refers: ASTM D653-03 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2003

Overview

ASTM D8299-19: Standard Guide for Using Metal Ratios in Soils to Distinguish Between Anthropogenic and Natural Beryllium provides a robust framework for identifying and differentiating beryllium sources in various soil samples. Chronic Beryllium Disease (CBD) and Beryllium Sensitization (Be-S) remain critical health concerns in nuclear and defense industries, especially when exposure is linked to anthropogenic beryllium (A-Be). Traditional strategies compare total beryllium (T-Be) in workplaces to regulatory limits or local backgrounds. However, naturally occurring beryllium (N-Be) can significantly influence measurements. This standard introduces the Metal Ratio Method (MRM), which uses ratios of beryllium with one or more predictor metals to estimate the portion of beryllium that is anthropogenic versus that which is naturally present, enhancing the ability to manage worker and public safety.

Key Topics

• Metal Ratio Method (MRM): The heart of this standard, MRM leverages the measured ratios of beryllium to other naturally occurring metals in soil samples. By comparing these ratios in background soils and facility samples, users can estimate the amount of anthropogenic beryllium present.
• Sampling and Statistical Analysis: The guide outlines systematic random sampling approaches, including grid sampling and stratified sampling, to obtain representative background data. Analytical consistency across sample batches is emphasized to ensure reliability.
• Selection of Predictor Metals: Site-specific candidate metals are identified based on their presence in local soils and absence from facility-related activities. Consideration is given to spatial variability and chemical differences in background soils.
• Data Interpretation and Decision Support: The standard discusses interpreting results both for individual samples and across datasets, taking account of statistical prediction bounds and the potential for naturally negative values.
• Professional Judgment: ASTM D8299-19 is a guidance document, highlighting that selection of sampling locations, methods, and predictor metals requires expert evaluation and cannot replace professional expertise.

Applications

ASTM D8299-19 is widely applicable in scenarios where distinguishing between anthropogenic and natural beryllium is essential for worker safety, environmental assessment, and regulatory compliance. Practical applications include:

• Nuclear and Defense Facilities: Use MRM to monitor workplace beryllium, ensuring worker protection and regulatory adherence.
• Site Remediation and Decontamination: Evaluate soils in and around facilities for anthropogenic beryllium contamination, supporting informed remediation actions.
• Environmental Health and Industrial Hygiene: Estimate anthropogenic beryllium presence in soil and dust samples for both occupational and public health risk assessment.
• Regulatory Reporting: Provide data-driven justifications for distinguishing between background and facility-related beryllium in compliance reports.
• Research and Geochemical Surveys: Support geochemical investigations in regions where beryllium can originate from both natural sources and human activity.

Related Standards

For optimal implementation of ASTM D8299-19, the following standards are frequently referenced:

• ASTM D653: Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids – essential for consistent definitions.
• ASTM D7458: Test Method for Determination of Beryllium in Soil, Rock, Sediment, and Fly Ash Using Ammonium Bifluoride Extraction and Fluorescence Detection – provides laboratory methods compatible with MRM.
• ASTM Guidance Documents: For data quality objectives, systematic sampling, and analytical precision (refer to EPA QA/G-4 and QA/G-9 for complementary systematic planning principles).

By following ASTM D8299-19, professionals can enhance their environmental assessments, precisely quantify anthropogenic beryllium in complex matrices, and make informed decisions for health and safety in sensitive settings. This standard underscores the importance of rigorous sampling, statistical evaluation, and professional judgment in distinguishing natural and anthropogenic contamination in soils.

Keywords: anthropogenic beryllium, natural beryllium, metal ratio method, beryllium analysis, soil sampling, workplace safety, environmental health, ASTM D8299-19.

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: D8299 − 19
Standard Guide for
Using Metal Ratios in Soils to Distinguish Between
Anthropogenic and Natural Beryllium
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D8299; 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 priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.1 This guide describes a general approach to planning
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
investigations in which the goal is to obtain background
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
measurements of naturally occurring Beryllium (N-Be) along
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
with one or more predictor metals in local soils, to be used in
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
predicting the amount of N-Be expected in samples taken for
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
evaluation using the Metal Ratio Method (MRM). Generally,
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
systematic random sampling is recommended, after which the
results are interpreted using statistical methods described in
2. Referenced Documents
this guide.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.2 The total Be (T-Be) measured in evaluation samples can
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
then be compared with the predicted N-Be to estimate the
Fluids
amount of anthropogenic Be (A-Be) present, if any. Several
D7458 Test Method for Determination of Beryllium in Soil,
scenarios are discussed in which samples taken and analyzed
Rock, Sediment, and Fly Ash Using Ammonium Bifluo-
for T-Be for worker or public protection purposes might
ride Extraction and Fluorescence Detection
include both N-Be and A-Be (see 6.1). This method can allow
the N-Be and A-Be components of T-Be measurements to be
3. Terminology
estimated.
3.1 Definitions:
1.3 Values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.
3.1.1 For definitions of common technical terms used in this
No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
standard, refer to Terminology D653.
1.4 This guide offers an organized collection of information
oraseriesofoptionsanddoesnotrecommendaspecificcourse
4. Summary of Guide
of action. This document cannot replace education or experi-
4.1 This guide describes a Metal Ratio Method (MRM) for
ence and should be used in conjunction with professional
using ratios of measurements of naturally occurring Beryllium
judgment. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all
(N-Be) with one or more predictor metals in local background
circumstances. This ASTM standard guide is not intended to
soils to predict the amount of N-Be expected in samples taken
representorreplacethestandardofcarebywhichtheadequacy
in workplaces or other settings to be evaluated. The total Be
of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this
(T-Be) measured in each individual sample can then be
document be applied without consideration of a project’s many
compared with the predicted N-Be to give an estimate of the
unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this
amount of anthropogenic Be (A-Be) present in that sample, if
document means only that the document has been approved
any. Being based on ratios, this method can accommodate
through the ASTM consensus process.
varying dilutions of the soils with other materials, including
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
wipe matrices.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
4.2 This guide describes the major steps involved in imple-
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
menting a MRM at a site. These include:
Thistestmethodisunder the jurisdiction ofASTM CommitteeD18onSoiland
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.01 on Surface and For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Subsurface Characterization. contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2019. Published January 2020. DOI: 10.1520/ Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
D8299-19 the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D8299 − 19
4.2.1 identifying and sampling appropriate N-Be-containing 6.1.3 Scenario WD—Another scenario is where the samples
site-specific background materials; to be evaluated are from soil areas, either near facilities
4.2.2 identifying appropriate candidate predictor metals; containingA-Be or having been remediated, where the concern
4.2.3 conducting sample preparation and chemical analysis is still with possible N-Be being blown from nearby uncon-
in a manner designed to promote batch-to-batch consistency taminated soils.
(precision) of Be/Metal ratios; 6.1.4 Scenario IF—Insomesettingstheremaynotbeaclear
4.2.4 selecting the final predictor(s) with regard to both and accessible local background source of N-Be, but other
batch-to-batch precision and predictive power; facilitiescanbeidentifiedthatareknownquitecrediblytohave
4.2.5 using a prediction algorithm based on ratios that will NOThadoperations involvingA-Be, in which the bulk or wipe
be applicable to samples composed of soils diluted by other sample chemistry ought to be similar to that in facilities of
materials, including wipe matrices, and estimating its predic- concern, except for the operations involving A-Be.
tion error; and
6.2 Background Data—The fundamental idea is that back-
4.2.6 applying the MRM at that site.
ground samples should chemically resemble those that would
befoundinfacilitiesofconcern(allowingfordilutions)solong
5. Significance and Use
as operations at those facilities have not involved A-Be.
5.1 Chronic Beryllium Disease (CBD) and Beryllium Sen-
6.2.1 Identifying Background Locations—In scenarios WF,
sitization (Be-S) caused by exposure to anthropogenic Beryl-
WA,and WDbackgroundsourceswouldbelocalsurfacesoils.
lium (A-Be) are a continuing health concern in the nuclear and
TheremaybeapossibilitythatA-Behadbeentransportedfrom
defense industries. The traditional worker protection strategy
a facility (operating or not) to surrounding soils. If this is a
has been to compare total Be (T-Be) measurements taken in
concern,testsamplescanbeobtainedthatextendoutwardfrom
workplaces with appropriate limits or local background Be
that facility to determine whether a gradient in Be concentra-
measurements. That strategy can be ineffective, however,
tions can be discerned. If such a gradient is found, it can be
where naturally occurring Be (N-Be) from local soils can be a
estimated how far away samples must be taken to obtain
non-negligible component of the measured T-Be. N-Be is not
acceptably uncontaminated background samples. On the other
known to have adverse health effects. This MRM uses the
hand, natural soil chemistry does vary spatially, so it should be
ratio(s) of measurements of Be with measurements of one or
considered how far away credibly comparable background
moremetalsfoundinbackgroundmaterials,butnotlikelytobe
samplescanorshouldstillbeobtained.Forexample,atthesite
in facilities, to predict the amount of N-Be expected in
for which this MRM was developed, there is clear variation in
individual samples based on the measurement(s) of the predic-
the soil chemistry, but also notable winds, so a large back-
tor metal(s) in those samples. The measured T-Be can be
ground area was used. Issues arising in identifying background
compared with the predictions to estimate the amount ofA-Be
facilities for scenario IF were mentioned in 6.1.4.
present, if any.
6.2.2 Sampling at the Background Locations—Systematic
5.2 In order to use the MRM it is required to identify local random sampling is recommended for obtaining background
sources of N-Be that can be credibly transported into facilities, samples in scenarios WF, WA, and WD. A grid of approxi-
mately equally sized cells is superimposed on a chart of the
along with a means of sampling those sources. It would be
helpful also to have insight into the metal content of the soils background area identified in 6.2.1. One location is chosen at
random in each grid cell, at which “blowable” surface soils are
at those sources, to facilitate the identification of candidate
predictor metals. Regarding the latter, there are published collected using standard methods. For example, equal amounts
databases describing the chemistry of surface soils in many of soil could be collected at four points within a meter of each
regions; however, information found in those databases should selected location. These would then be dried, sieved to less
be regarded as suggestive, due to the modified sample prepa- than 1000 µm, and homogenized. Sufficient amounts of these
ration and analysis methods currently expected to be used soils, termed “source materials”, should be obtained to allow
becauseoftheneedtodigesthigh-firedBeO,oneformofA-Be for aliquots to be provided to the laboratory in multiple
of concern. analytical batches, as discussed in 6.4.2 and 6.6.3. The number
of locations from which to obtain source materials will be
6. Procedure
based on the anticipated variation in natural soil chemistry. If
available survey data suggest that the soil chemistry is quite
6.1 Scenarios—This MRM can be applied in a variety of
homogeneous, the survey might start with as few as 20 or so
scenarios, such as the following.
locations, but in a situation with more complex spatial patterns
6.1.1 Scenario WF —When dealing with N-Be blown into
in soil chemistry more background sampling locations would
facilities from local surface soils, samples to be evaluated are
be desired.
bulk and wipe samples taken inside the facilities.This situation
6.2.2.1 Advantages of the Systematic Grid Sampling
is found at sites in arid locations.
Approach—A grid sampling approach is recommended, even
6.1.2 Scenario WA—Similar considerations could apply
though subsequent data analysis uses techniques designed for
where samples to be evaluated are air sampling filters, but the
simple random sampling (SRS). There are two possibilities.
N-Be source is still windblown soils.
This is the scenario for which the MRM was originally developed at the US
Department of Energy Hanford Site. At the Hanford Site for which the MRS was developed, 65 locations were used.
D8299 − 19
One is that there really are no spatial patterns or autocorrela- tions in the two mineral forms, including M may allow the
tions present in the population being sampled. In that case no combination to provide superior overall predictions of N-Be,
statistical differences are expected between samples obtained even though M by itself might not be such a good predictor of
regardless of the sampling plan used; grid sampling is essen- N-Be.
tially equivalent to SRS. The other is that there really are
6.3.3 The third caveat is that even though soil chemical
spatial patterns or autocorrelations. In that case it has been
databases may be available, they may not include measure-
shown that statistical methods designed for SRS actually
ments of all potential candidate predictor metals that are
perform better in terms of statistical precision and accuracy
desired,andwillbeunlikelytohavemeasurementsmadeusing
than they would in an actual SRS situation.
aggressive sample preparation procedures currently desired for
6.2.2.2 Stratified Sampling—This is an extension of system-
making Be measurements because of the desire to digest
atic sampling, in which available information will allow areas
high-fired BeO.
expected to have differences in soil chemistry to be identified.
6.4 Producing a “Short List” of Candidate Predictors—
In this situation such areas should be identified and appropriate
Once background source soils (or in-facility samples in sce-
proportions of the overall background sampling should be
nario IF) have been obtained and the candidate predictors
obtained from each such stratum. A challenge here, though, is
identified, several (at least four) analytical batches should be
determining what those appropriate proportions ought to be; in
prepared and analyzed (for both soil and wipe samples if
principle, they should be related to the proportions of soils to
appropriate). It will be useful to first obtain some idea of the
befoundinfacilitiesexpectedtohavecomefromeachstratum.
N-Be concentrations present in the background soils in sce-
6.2.3 The IF Scenario—Inthe IFscenario,samplesfromthe
narios WF and WA as well as the (diluted) concentrations
facility of concern may be bulk samples or wipe samples or
anticipated in future in-facility analyses in application. (In
both. In the background comparison facility sub-facilities
scenariosWD and IF it is more likely that N-Be concentrations
(clusters of offices, shop, etc.) can be identified that would play
would be similar for the background and comparison samples.)
the role of grid cells in systematic sampling. One (or a few
6.4.1 Batching Considerations—If information regarding
adjacent) location(s) would be selected in each sub-facility, to
anticipated in-facility N-Be concentrations can be obtained, it
besampledinthesamemannerasthefacilityofconcernwould
can be used to guide the assignment of soils to different
be sampled; that is, using the same methods, same selection of
analytical batches. If both bulk and wipe samples (or just
specific locations within the sub-facility, etc. Multiple side-by-
wipes) are to be analyzed, it can be used to guide the amounts
samples (for wipes) or splits (for bulks) should be obtained
of source soils added to the wipes in an attempt to have N-Be
from each location, in order to allow for the multiple analytical
concentrations bl
...