Home

Quality Manual-RTCA Lab - Ute Mountain Ute Environmental Program

1. E FIRST FLOOR seconoFiooR C THIRD FLOOR WAS DETECTOR PLACED ACCORDING TO INSTRUCTIONS sO wl 192362 Rev 11 06 NAME STREET COUNTY STATE CODE DAYTIME PHONE EMAIL 2250 AN QHOJSW T3 133H1S 5 2 V IYINY JO NOLLWHOdHOO Wo 1631 01 NOILVWHOZNI 1531 NYNLIY PLEASE OR PRINT SEND LAB REPORT TO IF DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE PLEASE PROVIDE TEST LOCATION STREET CITY COUNTY STATE ZIP CODE PURPOSE OF TEST Circle all that apply SCREENING POST MITIGATION RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SCHOOL COMMERCIAL GOVT AFFIX BAR CODE LABEL HERE PLEASE RETAIN A COPY OF RTCA CANISTER NUMBER S FOR YOUR RECORD S Rev 9 07 39 Appendix C Quality Policy Statement for RTCA Employees It is the Company s objective to produce technically defensible laboratory test results that accurately and precisely measure the radon concentration in air and water samples The Company is committed to reaching and routinely performing laboratory work in conformance to the NELAC standards resulting in the overall improvement in laboratory quality over time Demonstration of the Company s commitment to reach it s objective will result in the following Adequately staffed and equipped laboratory facility Successful participation in the proficiency testing program operated by the New York Stat
2. berad Lie calla or ine fron ol ine card ragardng the stem dale and fll ENO TEST In or PM tims zone average 1 Aner 2 jo 7 days sex ihe indoor end the faor canisier 102 with rates ing Jabel In wich ihe oanieler z 16 Being reads Wee This Label Seal placed Sve 1 Perfaralet Side Cf Canister na n of the dale and time ihat the wel 3 Ramova tha lowest portion of the 2 the card eu in Mor PM canster asd ka your eae me dp lame Pace the canister and leel intorma and remove the paper backing sne 90 care back ma box affix to ihe intermstion card in the Fer the woot accurale results mal the provided M you ara parfenm 10 RTCA the naxt business ing sde ty side measurements wilh cister mus be received iwc cane eem affix Ihe bar code fa tel fram tho 506504 aarister tho sane lesi card In the space provided fcr side by side mes suremems noi affix second bar label to same card canislars are neli placed side by side leat COHHECILY NCORRECZ LY xa 4 Charcoal Canister 30 NJ TEST INFORMATION CARD PLEASE OR PRINT FILL IN COMPLETELY SEND LAB REPORT TO NAME STRE
3. 3 Flace canisier and 1051 sre ramoys ihe paper backing inn licn card back into the tex affix ta the information card in tw 4Fcr the accurale resulls mal ne idad if you are perom to RTCA Ihe next business prov ng skie measuremenis wih two cani amp hers afix the bar code from the second carister on sana iasi nformeten in Inc Fore x space provided for side by sidm moa CORRECTIY CORRECTLY surzmerts Do rct affix seccod bar MARKED MAEKE label to same raises tom aie placed sidy ty side INSTRUCTIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL RADON TEST KIT The RICA Professional Raden Test harness and essy to use If you follow the insinuctions this test will provide an secursta measurement of tre Racon gas concentration at Ihe pomi of placement TO EEGIN TEST TANT K 1 Or the back of the E card plea rim the client name ord addrece a8 you Remove the canisters sealing late Waad wanl lo appear the RICA ihe canister in the sdected la Radon Report Also the bact ol thy infermation print your com 5 EXncsm Ima caniatar s al rumba n irdicated site ior 2 10 7 days ANY pa Pap am shone email expasure ihis period will pve accurate Rador fer tha indi 2 Using pencil nF In ihe irtorne Caled
4. 2 Destructive evaluation of the detector in question Any field blank of greater than 0 3 pCi L will result in is An examination of the analytical system employed 25 Examination of the aberrant unit along with recount to determine the origin of any spurious factors that could effect the measurement The Company QA Officer maintains records of all daily QC activities including control charts on a monthly basis The QA Officer will immediately report control limit violations to the President The Director of Analytical Operations will oversee all required corrective actions The QA Officer maintains a log of all corrective actions Any problems encountered in the field with the CRM can be addressed by contacting RTCA Troubleshooting is addressed by supplying solutions to problems such as use of the proper computer cable the integrity of the cable connection valid test report can be issued only if the test is a minimum of 48 hours or a minimum of 24 hours if the test is conducted in New Jersey 18 Document No Sect Date Page MANAGERIAL REVIEW The laboratory management conducts a review of its quality and calibration activities on an on going basis throughout of the procedures for routine analyzer QA and QC steps are measurements for blanks spikes amp duplicates are conducted discrepancies found are identified and corrected monthly basis The QC Report includes assessment precis
5. Radon In Air Radon In Water Method number analyte We the undersigned CERTIFY that 1 The analysts identified above using the cited test method s which 1 in use at this facility for the analyses of samples under the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program have met the Demonstration of Capability 2 The test method s was performed by the analyst s identified on this certification 3 of the test method s and the laboratory specific SOPs are available for all personnel on site 4 The data associated with the demonstration capability are true accurate complete and self explanatory 1 5 All raw data including a copy of this certification form necessary to reconstruct and validate these analyses have been retained at the facility and that the associated information is well organized and available for review by authorized assessors Technical Director s Signature Date Name amp Title Quality Assurance Signature Date Officer s Name 41 Attachment E Code of Ethics for RTCA Employees 3 0 PURPOSE The following Code of Ethics serves as an agreement with Radon Testing Corporation of America employees who are currently employed by RTCA The established rules are necessary to protect the life health property and welfare of the public and to maintain the credibility of the RTCA operation Accordingly each RTCA employee agrees to retain
6. 4 Do not remove tape that holds the top and and remove the paper backing from bottom of can this bar code labe and affix to the 5 Do not take can information card in the space provided 4 Put the canister and test information Expose the canister in your home for 2 to card back into box and mail to 7 days ANY exposure within this period ill gi n recon devel 5 For the most accurate results mail the canister to RTCA AS SOON AS Figare 1 POSSIBLE The canister must be CORRECTLY INCORRECTLY received by RTCA within 10 days of MARKED MARKED stopping the test OOOO For Best Results Follow These EPA Protocols if you are conducting a radon test for a real estate transaction the EPA recommends these short term options Take two short term tests at the same time in the same location for at least 48 Hours OR Take an initial short term test for at least 48 hours Afler the first test has been completed take a follow up short term test for at least 48 hours f you are conducting a radon test that is not for a real estate transaction Place canisters at least 20 inches above the floor on an exposed surface i e a table box or the RTCA PROFESSIONAL TEST STAND Place one canister in the lowest level of the home i e basement Place the second canister on the next higher level in a living area Additional canisters should be placed in accordance with your individual
7. Calibration factor 0 0518 obtained from the 1 4 65 V680 12 0 cpm To convert to pCi L then 10 LD 12 0 cpm E x CF x Ts x DF or LD 12 0 0 4203 x 0 0518 x 5760 x 0 404 0 24 pCi L 23 1 2 Data reduction and Validation of Charcoal Liquid Scintillation Vial Results 1 Calculation of radon concentration tj x CF x TS x DF Rn The concentration of radon pCi L GN Gross counting rate cpm Background counting rate pCi L E Alpha counting efficiency of analyzer in the region of interest CF Calibration factor based on the length of exposure and the amount of water gained TS Exposure period minutes DF Decay factor for radon from the midpoint of exposure until time of counting 2 The LLD is calculated in the same manner as the charcoal canisters Example The LLD for 20 ml vial sample with background Br 74 cpm and counted for Bt 10 min is LLD 4 65 N740 12 6 cpm 10 4 day exposure TS 5760 min Counting efficiency E 5 45 cpm pCi Calibration Factor CF 0 0013 Decay factor DF 0 404 when counted 3 days after the end of exposure 12 6 LLD 0 7 pCi L 5 45 x 0 0013 x 5760 x 0 404 The 2 sigma error at the 95 confidence level 2 NGross Counts Background Counts Gross Counts Background Counts 24 1 3 Data Reduction and Validation for Liquid Scintilla
8. OD PACIFICC_ ALASKAC_ TEST LOCATION TEMPERATURE ZONE 40 50 51 60C_ 61 70C_ 71 800 D 81 90C LE SPACE FIRST FLOOR SECOND FLOOR THIRD FLOOR 00000 AFFIX BAR CODE LABEL PLEASE RETAIN A COPY OF RTCA CANISTER NUMBER FOR YOUR RECORDS AFFIX BAR CODE LABEL FOR SIDE BY SIDE MEASUREMENT ONLY 2001 2006 Radon Testing Corporation P2781 Revised 10 06 32 INSTRUCTIONS The Home Radon Tester is harmless and easy to use If you follow the instructions this test will tell you whether or not you have a Radon Gas problem in your home at the time the test is run TO BEGIN TEST 1 Please print your name address telephone no and test location on back of test in formation card 2 Using a pencil fill in the information on card date start time check AM or PM time zone average indoor temperature and floor level in which canister is being TO END TEST 1 After 2 to 7 days seal canister top with label which reads Use This Label To Seal Perforated Side Of Canister Remove paper backing before applying label to canister top 2 Fill in date and time test was stopped on the test card check AM or PM placed See Figure 1 3 Remove the lowest portion of the bar 3 Remove R T C A Canister label Place code label from the bottom of the canister in selected location canister and keep for your records Then take the second bar code label
9. analysis the collectors are recycled for new the collectors after several exposures and recycles was found unchanged also confirmed with spiked radon collectors several times used fo The LS The same QC steps and procedures ar scintillation LS radon collectors exposure and it is not collect water for the measurement of radon shipped out upon reques Analysis of the wa until the time of exposure fresh seal label After tests The collection efficiency of This is hat have been routinely recycled r the fabrication of liquid type collector is used for a single recycled Clean and unused 20 ml They are prepackaged ter sample is carried out in glass vials are used to stored and tured identically in terms the thickness of the Teflon duplicate unused 20 ml glass vials for a one time use Electret ion chambers of a specific type are manufac of materials and size Sensitivity is a function of electret disk used in the ion chamber electre radiation while in storage they m tinuous radon monitor autom to ensure its proper operation The con checks the CRM any of is not actively recording radon data the self checks the user for every possible problem with the download the data from the CRM and voids the Tamper Detection The alpha smart sys tampering either with the device or the condi hourly measurements of temperature a handle in plac
10. encountered In the RTCA Ra Dome the exposure is terminated by taping the sample ports tight and by sealing the ion chamber in an aluminized bag that is impervious to radon 4 Charcoal collectors are post weighed to look for unusual trends or irregularities in the amount of water gain An experienced technician will initiate an investigation if unusual data on water gain are observed Water samples for radon analysis are observed to see if the vials are completely filled without air bubbles or air space before proceeding for analysis 5 Electret ion chambers are not affected by humidity during exposure but caution should be exercised by reading the electrets in an environment where th temperature is nearly constant 6 The collectors are ready for analysis if their integrity was not violated and the information recorded on the sample card is in accordance with EPA sampling protocols such as the duration of sampling and appropriate placement in a home Also the arrival of the collectors at RTCA must be timely to ensure analysis that is compatible with the principle and the method of measurement For radon in air and in water using the gamma and alpha analytical methods the collector arrival time should not exceed 10 days Since express or next day mailing is standard procedure at RTCA radon test samples generally arrive within 2 3 days after the end of exposure The return time for electret ion chambers is not
11. full responsibility and liability for his her actions and agree to comply with the following Code of Ethics 3 0 CODE OF ETHICS Responsibility Protect the safety health and welfare of the public by performing all certified activities in accordance with properly established and approved procedures Integrity Perform all certified activities honestly and treat the public clients and employer in an impartial and ethical manner All details of the certified activity shall faithfully and accurately reflect the inspections procedures used and result obtained Conflict of Interest Consciously avoid conflicts of interest situations and openly disclose such conflicts to all concerned parties Improper Conduct Refrain from work activities outside the area of certification without prior approval Safety Act in a safe and responsible manner while conducting certified activities ensuring that all required and necessary safety procedures are in place and are being used by one s self and others for whom one is responsible 3 0 PENALTY Violation of this Code of Ethics by any RTCA Employee might be cause for discontinuing employment I agree to abide by the above Code of Ethics for personnel employed by RTCA I understand that employment does not constitute any form of license Additionally I release and forever discharge RTCA and RTCA subcontractors from any and all liabilities claims demands or causes of action whatsoever which now exist o
12. 3 23 0 09 9 Gross Voltage drop Background Voltage 27 1 5 1 Data Reduction Validation for the RTCA Concentration Calculation Total gross Rn E Smart CRM alphas Background pCi L Re Where Total gross alphas All alphas Background 4 3 counts T Sampling time in Hrs Example CRM sampled for 48 hrs Total gross alphas counts in 48 4 4 3 cph x 44 Total background in 44 hours E 16 2 1 3 0600 189 2 Rn pCi L 16 2 x 44 or counts recorded during the sampling period minus first 4 hours of sampling period Monitor sensitivity in alphas or counts Hr pCi L 16 2 cph pCi L 44 hours 3 600 counts 189 2 counts 4 8 pCi L 2 The Lower Limit of Detection LLD for the CRM is calculated from the following expression LLD 4 65Nbackground Time in hours minus first 4 hours of sampling cph LLD 4 65 189 1 4 counts per hour 44 hours 3 The 2 sigma error 2x NGross Q 95 counts background counts confidence level Gross counts background counts Example using the above information The error 2 3 600 189 2 3 600 189 2 The error for 4 8 pCi L is 3 6 At 2 0 pCi L the error is 7 pCi L the error is 2 5 5 3 6 or 4 8 pCi L 0 15 pCi L at 4 0 pCi L the error is 4 5 and at 10 0 28 Attachment N
13. DATE COUNTY _ C31 32 STATE 1 ZIP CODE DAYTIME PHONE EMAIL 28 e IF DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE PLEASE PROVIDE TEST LOCATION STREET S 05 CITY TIME ZONE COUNTY est est ZIP CODE MOUNTAIN PACIFICL ALASKA C TEST LOCATION TEMPERATURE ZONE PURPOSE OF TEST Circle all that apply 500 1 roel SCREENING POST MITIGATION RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TEST LOCATION SCHOOL COMMERCIAL GOVT CRAWL SPACE FIRST FLOOR SECOND FLOOR a TIPO TUOS AFFIX BAR CODE LABEL HERE PLEASE RETAIN A COPY OF RTCA CANISTER NUMBER S FOR YOUR RECORD S WAS DETECTOR PLACED ACCORDING TO INSTRUCTIONS m wl 000000 LP2362 Rev 11 06 Rev 9 07 RTCA Radon in Water Test Kit Instructions 2 Choose an indoor water faucet that is most commonly used If the water faucet has an aerator REMOVE IT NOW Allow the cold water to run for at least 10 minutes After at least 10 minutes has elapsed reduce the flowrate to a slow single Stream of water Remove the the sample vial and place the sample vial as close to the End of the water faucet as possible Let the water overflow the sample vial for 1 2 minutes Fill the sample vial completely to the top with water IMPORTANT not let water drip into the sample vial 6 Do not leav
14. E ACTIONS Recommended By Disposition of Data __ Reanalyzed Rejected __ Qualified Recalled ACTIONS PERORMED Performed by Date FOLLOW UP ACTIVIES Continue another corrective action Change to SOP Assessed by Date 45
15. ET CITY STATE ___ ZIP CODE ___ DAYTIME PHONE E MAIL FAX TEST PROPERTY STREET _ CITY _ INC MUNIC COUNTY _ NJ ZIP CODE PRESENT OWNER OF TEST PROPERTY NAME UNKNOWN FIRST LAST TEST PERFORMED BY NJDEP ID Homeowner Name BUILDING TYPE CODE D Day Care Residential N Non residential U Unknown 5 School Public School STRUCTURAL TYPE OF THE BUILDING B Basement S Slab on grade C Crawlspace O Other U Unknown PURPOSE OF TEST Circle all that apply Standard BL Blank R Real Estate POM Post Mitigation DP Duplicate TEST CONDITIONS OH Open House RA Rainy CH Closed House WY Windy NO Unknown RETURN TEST KIT amp INFORMATION CARD TO RADON TESTING E CORPORATION OF AMERICA _ 2 HAYES STREET ELMSFORD NY 10523 _ Job 2154 Rev 10 07 NJ TEST INFORMATION CARD FILL IN OVAL COMPLETELY LIKE THIS Use pencil or dark ink only No red START DATE NOON MIDNIGHT MINUTES GO 45 MO STOP DATE STOP TIME NOON MIDNIGHT MINUTES AMCO PMC TIME ZONE cst MOUNTAINCD PACIFIC C D ALASKAC_ TEST LOCATION TEMPERATURE ZONE 40 50C_ 51 60C_ 61 70C_ 71 800 D 81 900 D TEST LOCATION BASEMENT FIRSTFLOOR SECOND FLOOR THI
16. LTS REPORTING Analytical results are batched daily and checked for discrepancies befor releasing information to clientele Detectors are sorted for analysis by type of service associated with client Priority service entails processing of detector the same day it is received at the lab for analysis Priority service is geared to accommodate the Company s nation wide network of professional testers primarily involved in residential real estate radon tests Standard service entails report generation within a week of receiving detector at lab for analysis Standard service is geared for governmental survey work All of the Company s analysis results are reported on stationary with a pre printed disclaimer The results are reported and interpreted according to EPA published recommendations For tests conducted in New Jersey results are reported and interpreted according to NJ DEP published recommendations Test methods are clearly identified on the results report Each results report includes the signature of the Laboratory Director which is accomplished through an electronic identification of the Laboratory Director s signature A results report may be revised and reissued if the client indicates to the lab that the exposure time information used to calculate the result is incorrect and needs to be updated Once the test record file is updated with correct exposure time the record is recalculated an
17. QUALITY MANUAL METHODS FOR MEASURING RADON IN AIR AND WATER WITH CHARCOAL CANISTERS LIQUID SCINTILLATION VIALS ELECTRET ION CHAMBERS AND CONTINUOUS RADON MONITORS RADON TESTING CORPORATION OF AMERICA 2 HAYES STREET ELMSFORD NEW YORK 10523 TELEPHONE 914 345 3380 FAX NUMBER 914 345 8546 LABORATORY QA OFFICER Andreas C George Telephone 914 345 3380 Ext 601 Rep ERAS LABORATORY DIRECTOR Dante Galan Telephone 914 345 3380 Ext 623 LABORATORY MANAGER Nancy Bredhoff Telephone 914 345 3380 Ext 614 Signature DATE September 2012 TABLE OF CONTENTS Description Organizational Chart Quality Policy Statement Protocols for Measurement Trace ability Radon Collector Custody Inventory of Appropriate Resources and Facility Procedures for Sample Handling Procedures for Results Reporting Procedures for Calibration and Maintenance of Equipment Internal Audits and Equipment Maintenance Records Corrective Actions Managerial Review Record Retention Dealing with Complaints Laboratory Personnel Training Appendix 1 Appendix 2 Appendix 3 Appendix 4 Appendix 5 Attachment A Attachment B Attachment C Attachment D tj Attachment Attachment F Section 1 0 2 0 10 0 11 0 12 0 13 0 Page 10 12 13 14 17 19 20 2 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 30 Document No 2 S
18. RD FLOOR OTHER CO WAS CANISTER PLACED ACCORDING TO INSTRUCTIONS YES CO CO NO WERE DETECTORS PLACED SIDE BY SIDE YES CO CO NO AFFIX BAR CODE LABEL PLEASE RETAIN A COPY OF RTCA CANISTER NUMBER FOR YOUR RECORDS AFFIX BAR CODE LABEL FOR SIDE BY SIDE MEASUREMENT ONLY 2002 2007 Radon Testing Corporation 12154 Revised 10 07 31 INFORMATION CARD Important COMPLETE and RETURN with CANISTERS to RTCA PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT NAME COMPANY STREET CITY STATE ZIP CODE DAYTIME PHONE EMAIL FAXS TEST LOCATION STREET CITY COUNTY STATE ZIP CODE CLIENT RADON CERT If applicable PURPOSE OF TEST Circle all that apply SCREENING POST MITIGATION RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SCHOOL COMMERCIAL GOVT RETURN TEST KIT AND INFORMATION CARD TO RADON TESTING E CORPORATION OF AMERICA 2 HAYES STREET ELMSFORD 10523 For results call 800 457 2366 PLEASE RETAIN A COPY OF RTCA CANISTER NUMBER S FOR YOUR RECORDS Rev 9 07 FILL IN OVAL COMPLETELY LIKE THIS ly START DATE MONTH ID GD CD G2 NOON MIDNIGHT C MINUTES GD 25 MO STOP DATE MONTH GD CD STOP TIME HOUR CD C2 CO G2 CO CD GD NOON MIDNIGHT MINUTES 15 200 45 MO MO TIME ZONE ESTC O CSTC OD MOUNTAINC
19. RTCA CANISTER NUMBER S FOR YOUR RECORD S Rev 9 07 TEST INFORMATION FILL IN BOX COMPLETELY WITH PENCIL OR DARK INK NO REO TEST START DATE 7 MONTH DAY CX CJ CeJ Do Cu 0 G3 G4 Gs Gs 07 C21 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 06 72 Cat Oooo START TIME HOUR 1 2 Cs Cz C8 noon L7 MINUTES 151 30 45 MONTH OB 4 C Ce 71 Ce Le Go 12 DAY 3 5 Ce 7 C8 9 00 C32 G3 Gs 15 16 17 18 Ge 20 21 23 24 2s 26 27 28 29 30 31 STOP TIME TIME ZONE esr CJ esr mountan C PaAciic ALASKA TEST LOCATION TEMPERATURE ZONE 5 CRAWL SPACE BASEMENT FIRST FLOOR SECOND FLOOR THIRD FLOOR OTHER ALLELE 000000 WAS DETECTOR PLACED ACCORDING TO INSTRUCTIONS a wl 1725362 Rev 1106 34 INSTRUCTIONS The Home Radon Testing Device is harmless and easy to use If you follow the instructions this test will tell you whether or not you have a Radon Gas problem in your home at the time the test is run TO BEGIN TEST TO END TEST 1 Please print your name address 1 After 2 to 7 days reseal the detector telephone amp and test location on test by removing t
20. able level of home Place the second detector on the next higher level in a living area If additional detectors have been purchased they should be placed on the next higher floor s in a living area Exterior windows and doors should be kept closed 12 hours before starting test and throughout the entire test period Do not operate high volume attic and window fans during the test Do not place detectors in drafts from ventilators doors windows fireplaces heating or air conditioner vents Do not place detectors directly next to exterior house walls Do not place detectors near sources of high heat i e furnaces TV etc Do not place detectors in a still air section of the room such as inside drawers or cabinets This will block the detectors from the normal air supply in the room CONDITIONS GOVERNING CONTRACT PERFORMANCE AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY CONTRACT PERFORMANCE Seller shall not be nonperformance or delays in performance peer p but not limited to labor difficulties fires jons to be approximate no event shall a failure Vier IARRANTY AND LIMITA OF LIABILITY Enviro pr pe Corporation and RTCA does not accept any responsibility for financial or health consequences of subsequent actions taken by the client or its consultants as a result of any Radon Ges andlor associated progeny measurement program conducted by Enviro Technology Corporation and RTCA Seller warrants ing or
21. and sign a Code of uct and conflict of and Code of Ethics Ethics Statement Attachment interest situations The Statement is filed in the 22 Appendix 1 1 Data Reduction and Validation of 3 and 4 Inch Charcoal Collector Results GN B Rn where x CF x TS x DF Rn Concentration of radon during exposure period GN Gross counting rate cpm Background counting rate cpm Gamma counting efficiency of analyzer for the 3 and 4 inch charcoal collectors in the region of interest cpm pCi CF Calibration factor based on the length of exposure and the amount of water gained TS Exposure period minutes DF Decay factor of radon from the midpoint of exposure until the time of counting 2 The Lower calculated Limit of Detection LLD from the following expression LLD 4 65NBr Bt B B background counts time background counted min Example A 4 inch canister shows a background Br cpm pCi 10 minutes Exposure time TS hours after the end of exposure of counting 4 days Water gain 2 5 calibration curve The 2 sigma error at the 95 confidence level 2 NGross Counts Background Counts Gross Counts Background Counts 68 cpm 5760 minutes Decay factor DF for the 4 and 3 inch collectors is Efficiency 0 4203 Counted 72 0 404 at the time
22. ar and give a better estimate of the year round average radon level The U S Environmental Protection Agency recommends the test kit be placed in the lowest lived in level of the home It should be placed in a room that is used regularly but not a kitchen or bathroom States or other organizations may have differing recommendations Pennsylvania for example recommends testing in the lowest livable level Contact your state agency if you have any questions regarding placement INSTRUCTIONS This test kit contains two 2 RaDome electret ion detectors one is labeled RA DOME and the other is labeled BLANK The one that is labeled BLANK should remain sealed in the foil pouch Both detectors should be placed side by side approximately 4 to 6 apart during the exposure period 1 Cut open the protective foil bag labeled RA DOME with scissors at the zip lock end and remove the RaDome radon detector and test information card This begins the monitoring period Save the protective foil bag for the return shipment 2 Place the RaDome radon detector upright on a table bookcase or other flat surface away from possible drafts windows doors heating cooling vents Place the detector at least 20 above the floor in an undisturbed location Avoid placing the detector near any concrete or masonry walls Place sealed bag labeled BLANK approximately 4 to 6 away from the RaDome 3 Please print the name and test location address on the
23. as critical as charcoal collectors because there is no radon decay involved after the end of testing 7 The CRM should be handled with care and be exposed according to EPA protocols The CRM should not be exposed in a location with large electric and magnetic fields or in conditions of extreme temperature and humidity variations By following EPA protocols on placement the monitor will discriminate against thoron To avoid data transmission errors make sure the cable is firmly connected between the CRM and the computer Never disconnect the cable during the start test or stop test procedures 10 Document No 2 Section 5 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 11 of 45 Where a sample or portion of the sample is to be held secure for example for reasons of record safety or value to enable check calibrations or tests to be performed later the laboratory shall store the sample in a fireproof locking file cabinet to protect the condition and integrity of the sample However since all of the samples that the laboratory analyzes have a half life of approximately 4 days and need to be analyzed within 12 days after taking the sample there is not a great need to secure the integrity of samples over a long time period The company will rely on the courts for disposition of any samples in question 11 Document No 2 Section 6 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 12 of 45 PROCEDURES FOR RESU
24. cifies corrective action If corrective action is necessary the Laboratory Analyst investigates all of the steps used to arrive at a result and to find the likely source of a discrepancy Any situations that are found to be out of control are investigated and corrective action is taken and documented The Situation is monitored to see if the frequency of occurrence could facilitate in uncovering future discrepancies The QA Officer then examines the written corrective action taken and approves or denies its implementation Control charts to observe trends in performance are very useful to evaluate QC Using the method of Quality Control Charts Tables Calculations and Construction which is recommended in item 261 of the NYS Environmental Laboratory Approval Program Certification Manual periodic evaluation of the daily performance of the different analyzers is performed to evaluate the analytical system Visual inspection of the daily performance checks usually is sufficient to verify the reproducibility and consistency of th ntire system Standard Protocols to Deal with Discrepancies and Departure from Normal Procedures If a discrepancy or departure from the above audits is identified it is investigated and corrective action is implemented A departure from previous established procedures and performance checks is easily identified Anomalous data are scrutinized by double checking the entire anal
25. ct or indirect financial interest that might reasonably tend to conflict with the proper discharges of his her official duties An employee should not by his her conduct give reasonable basis for the impression that any person can improperly influence him or unduly enjoy his her favor in the performance of his official duties or that he she is affected by kinship rank position or influence of any party or person An employee should abstain from making personal investments in enterprises which he she has reason to believe may be directly involved in decisions to be made by him her or which will otherwise create substantial conflict between his her duty in the public interest and his her private interest An employee should endeavor to pursue a course of conduct which will not raise suspicion among the public that he she is likely to be engaged in acts that are in violation of his trust No employee employed on a full time basis nor any firm or association of which such an employee is a member nor corporation a substantial portion of the stock of which is owned or controlled directly or indirectly by such an employee should sell goods or services to any person firm corporation or association which is licensed or whose rates are fixed by the agency in which such an employee serves If any employee shall have a financial interest direct or indirect having a value of ten thousand dollars or more in any activity which he is subject to the jurisdic
26. ctor identification number This is true for all methods used at RTCA for radon detection in both air and in water The collector and the sampling protocol information card are common coded with the same identification number eliminating sample mix ups and uncertainties Charcoal devices are pre weighed when the collectors are bar coded prior to packaging for shipment RTCA s radon measurement business certification number is stamped on test kit packaging The test kits are shipped expeditiously via United Parcel Service A log of the daily shipments is permanently kept at RTCA If a customer purchases a test kit on site at the RTCA facility then the invoice will reflect that The placement of the radon collector is always traced via information entered on the exposure information card that also lists several other parameters such as name and test address placement location start and stop time of the test and general conditions existing in the house during the test Radon collectors returned to the laboratory after exposures are logged in daily by their individual identification number and or client name The sample custodians at RTCA are responsible for the daily log report of received collectors A permanent record is maintained via RTCA s computer database The Company calibrates the analytical balances to certify that the weights of radon devices taken before and after exposure are traceable
27. ctret ion chamber is measured directly by using a second chamber that is impervious to radon and senses only the background The CRM s electronics perform continuous self checks and if a malfunction is detected the monitor will not report test results Each member of the staff has the technical knowledge and experience for their assigned tasks The duties and responsibilities of the technical assistants overlap making certain that the appropriate facility and resources are available at all times before commencing work Instructions and Test Information Card for Deploying Charcoal Canisters are attached See Attachment B See User Manual for instructions for deploying continuous radon monitor Document No 2 Section 5 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 10 of 45 PROCEDURES FOR SAMPLE HANDLING 1 Samples received from the field are handled by logging all the entries recorded on the sample information card Start amp stop time information is Scanned into RTCA s computer database by an optical card scanner 2 Observing the radon collectors to make sure their integrity was not violated Make sure the seal labels on charcoal canisters and the screw caps on liquid scintillation vials were properly fastened to ensure air tightness after the end of exposure 3 The condition of the electret ion chamber must be checked before and after the end of exposure to observe if any deviation from the normal use is
28. d a new report is issued this case the report will be stamped Report Reissued The report of the test results obtained with the CRM can be generated by clicking the report print buttons from the monitor s operating software print or fax the client report click the printer icon on the toolbar 12 Document No 2 Section 7 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 13 Of 45 PROCEDURES FOR CALIBRATION AND MAINTENANCE OF EQUIPMENT The calibration and performance of all types of RTCA charcoal collectors for radon in air with their specific analytical system was verified initially in a radon calibration facility traceable to NIST at different conditions of exposure such as radon concentration humidity temperature and length of exposure For radon in water the system calibration is done with certified standards of radon in solution Electret ion chambers are initially calibrated in a radon calibration facility traceable to NIST under different conditions of radon concentration and time of exposure To maintain continuous calibration the RTCA collectors or detectors are spiked on a monthly basis by having six replicate collectors of each type exposed in a commercial calibration facility traceable to NIST or equivalent Standards Laboratory Bowser Morner of Ohio satisfies the requirements of a standard radon calibration facility traceable to NIST and is the source of the monthly spikes The res
29. duplicate in the same location are very useful in finding if the test was conducted according to test protocols and if the correct data were used on the sample information card RTCA analyses hundreds of duplicate tests per month and constructs separate control charts for duplicates averaging lt 4 pCi L or gt 4 pCi L in order to evaluate the integrity of the collectors the measurement precision the consistency of the analytical system and whether the proper test protocols and procedures were followed during exposure 4 Field Blanks are a very important check on the behavior of radon collectors during handling storage and shipment RTCA encourages radon testers to submit on a regular basis unexposed collectors that are handled in the same fashion as the exposed ones Any deviation of the Blanks above the lower limit of detection LLD triggers an investigation to sort out the problem RTCA analyses a minimum of 25 blanks per month internally and encourages radon testers in the field to include blanks as part of their QA QC process 5 Reanalysis of radon collectors is performed when there is a question about the results Usually a question arises because the radon tester has provided the wrong information about the test Standard practice is for RTCA to recount the collector to eliminate the possibility of counting discrepancy before recycling No radon collector is recycled or disposed until the results of the radon anal
30. e Environmental Laboratory Approval Program Successful implementation of a NELAC compliant quality system Annual internal audits with management review Successful biennial assessments by the New York State Environmental Laboratory Approval Program l imely reporting of laboratory results to customers Laboratory test results that are supported by quality control data and documented laboratory test procedures It is understood that this commitment to quality is implemented and maintained by employees at all levels Management will document the commitment to quality through the employee evaluation process the training procedure the internal audit process and the document control process I agree to abide by the above Quality Policy for personnel employed by RTCA I understand that employment does not constitute any form of license Additionally I release and forever discharge RTCA and RTCA subcontractors from any and all liabilities claims demands or causes of action whatsoever which now exist or which may hereafter arise on account of my the undersigns activities henceforth as an employee of RTCA The undersigned applicant further acknowledges that this release is being given as a prerequisite for having filed application for employment by RTCA Signature Print Name Date 40 Attachment D Demonstration of Capability Certification Statement Date Laboratory Name Laboratory Address Analyst s Name s Matrix
31. e special diffusion vents to prevent hourly measurements for radon concentration fit inside an RTCA TC 30 Centurion Tamper Det it sets an electronic flag looks for this flag prior to starting or stopping a test tem provides fiv Teflon disks from the same production lot are desirable for mounting in holders made of conduc ts in ion chambers are sensitive to radon lea ust be kept in keeper storage caps to avoid loss of charge caused by ionization due to these bac ting polymer resin Since king inside and to gamma kground sources atically and continuously performs three self They are communications and collecting electrode voltag Battery level internal These are performed even when for a radon test If the CRM fails Therefore the CRM software The software notifies test and does not allow the user to test features to minimize tions during a test by providing that allows the CRM to be secured tampering no displaying of the and due to its small size it can ection Cage 14 Document No 2 Section 8 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 15 of 45 2 Proficiency Testing The calibration status of RTCA s radon collectors and the analytical system is established on a monthly basis by having 6 replicate radon collectors of every type spiked in a radon calibration facility traceable to a primary standards facility such as NIST or its equivalent EPA recommends calibration of th ntire system only once
32. e any air space in the sample vial Tightly cap the sample vial the sample vial upside down and make sure that No air has been trapped inside the sample vial IMPORTANT If any air bubbles are present you must take another Sample by repeating steps 5 and 6 Dump out previous Sample before repeating step 5 Tum cold water off Completely fill out the enclosed information card Return the sample vial and the completed information card to RTCA for analysis Use the enclosed Business Reply Card for retum postage Moisten the enclosed strip of Brown tape and use it to seal the mailing carton RADON TESTING A CORPORATION OF AMERICA RADON TEST KIT FOR WATER Send Lab Report To NAME STREET CITY ZIP CODE DAYTIME TELEPHONE NO STATE Test Location CLIENT STREET CITY ZIP CODE STATE DATE OF SAMPLE SAMPLE STOP TIME SAMPLE LOCATION AMO PMO Liquid Scintillation Radon in Water 37 RTCA s RaDome Electret Ion Chamber Long Term Radon Test Kit RTCA s RaDome Electret Ion Detectors contain an clectrostatically charged Teflon disk The ions produced by the alpha decay of radon inside the detector strike the disk reducing the surface voltage The voltage reduction is measured in the laboratory and the radon concentration is then calculated Radon levels vary from day to day and from season to season Long term tests remain in the home for 90 days up to one ye
33. ection 1 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 3 of 45 ORGANIZATIONAL CHART President Nancy Bredhoff Dir of Analytical Operations Laboratory Director Quality Assurance Officer Dante Galan Andreas C George Lab Analysis and Reporting QA QC Activities Tel 914 345 3380 Laboratory Technician General and Administrative Lisa Sardanelli Thomasina Suttles Analysis of Radon Collectors Renee Baezer Charles Shipping Handling and Weighing Of Radon collectors Christian Terrones Fabrication Preparation and Recycling of Radon Collectors Justin Miller The QA QC Officer is organizationally independent of the Laboratory analysis and reporting to avoid conflict of interest 11 the individuals cited in the organizational plan are involved in their respective capacity to fabricate radon collectors shipment handling analysis data interpretation and in the management of the radon project See Attachment A for listing of Technicians Specialists affiliated with RTCA s Radon Measurement Business in New Jersey QUALITY POLICY STATEMENT Document No 2 Section 2 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 4 of 45 The responsibilities of the staff listed on the organizational plan fit their respective job description with some overlapping in the lower tier positions The QA officer oversees th ntir the standards for radon measuremen radon project in terms of the quality of the work and ma
34. es by reading and understanding the SOP and reference books During the audit the Quality Manager ensures tha internal auditing are being followed and record their findings onto the audi findings are reviewed with the staff responsible for the p the Quality Manager generates a deficiency report the aud initiate the corrective action The corrective action mus related to t procedures t checklist Audit rocedures audited If ited staff responds to t be completed within 90 days Clients are notifi the correctness or validity of the calibration or test res d immediately when audit deficiencies cast doubt on ults 19 Document No 2 Section 11 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 20 of 45 RECORD RETENTION The Company s analytical data is resident on the computer file server and network The Company s computer system is backed up nightly and a weekly back up tape is secured in off site storage Hard copies of analytical reports quality control measurements and test information forms are batched together on a monthly basis for storage purposes as well as for use of retrieval of information if necessary The Company retains hard copies of daily analytical reports and quality control measurements for a period of at least five 5 years The Company retains customer test information forms in on site storage for a period of at least five 5 years In the event that a laboratory transfers ownersh
35. esult of any Radon Gas and or associated progeny concentration measurement progeny concentration measurement program conducted by Enviro Technol Corporation and RTCA Seller warrants that any packaging or other services supplied by Seller and specifically purchased by Buyer shall be of a quality and will be free from defects in material and All claims for lective or non forming both hereafter called defective workmanship or materials under this warranty must be made in writing upon discovery and in any event within one 0 year after shipment Defective items must be held for Seller s inspection and returned to the original point upon request The foregoing is expressly in lieu of all other warranties whatsoever express implied and statutory including without limitation the implied warranties of merchantabilty and fitness 33 62501 AN 133915 S3AVH 2 30 9 1 31 NOQYH 204 GHV2 NOLLVASHOJNI 9 1531 PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT SEND LAB REPORT TO NAME _____ STREET i ee COUNTY LLL ZIP CODE DAYTIME EMAIL IF DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE PLEASE PROVIDE TEST LOCATION STREET CITY COUNTY STATE ZIP CODE PURPOSE OF TEST Circle all that apply SCREENING POST MITIGATION RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SCHOOL COMMERCIAL GOVT AFFIX BAR CODE LABEL HERE PLEASE RETAIN A COPY OF
36. ew Jersey Technicians Listing 29 Attachment INSTRUCTIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL RADON TEST KIT The RTCA Professicnal Radon Test is hamriess and easy 10 use If you follow the instructiors this test will provide an accurate maasurement of the Fador gas concentration al Ihe pont of placement TO SEGIN TEST INFCRTANT PLEASE KEEP A COPY the back of Ihe test ritemaon HS LUE PODE card please nt client nama ane eal location address aa you lt Remove the canlalers sealing labe would want t 10 sppser ch the RTCA Deos Iha caniater in the lo Raden so on tno or Allon tw infurmaten card pril your com 5 Exposm canisters sl the poy nube Indicated sius for 2 10 7 days ANY pue mE t enel expasure within this ner od will ar accurBle Rader for the indi 2 Usng a pencil in the Informa Cited waxp surw pars cella on the frani of the card regar ng lhe siat date and tme TO END EST in AM PM lime zone average Afer 2 12 7 days tha perforated indeor temperature ihe laor canisier top mih resea ng labul level in which the carisier s is being which reads Use This Labe Tc Seal placed See Figare Ferfovated Sida Of Carisler 3 Remove lowes portion of the In tha dave and iine ihe 0981 code laal ram the bolom of PH on the fll in AM n
37. front of the test information card This is how it will appear on the RTCAG Radon Report 4 Fill in the information cells on the back of the card START date and time AM or PM year time zone average indoor temperature and the building level the detector was placed 5 Leave the detectors undisturbed for a period of at least 3 months 90 days up to 1 year Removing the tamper tape from the RaDome will VOID the test 6 Atthe end of the monitoring period record the STOP date and time AM or PM on the test information card Place the RaDome radon detector and the test information card into the protective foil bag and close the zip lock 7 Place both detectors in a padded envelope or box and return for analysis to RTCA 2 Hayes Street Elmsford NY 10523 38 5060 739C 0900 TEST INFORMATION FILL IN BOX COMPLETELY WITH PENCIL OR DARK INK NO RED TEST START DATE CX CS Cel Cz Ce Ce 5 Cz 16 C12 ca 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 28 29 30 31 06 07 08 09 42 START TIME HOUR 1 2 Cs C Cs CeJ CD C noon MINUTES 35 30 45 e bl TIME ZONE est O est MOUNTAIN PACIFIC L_ ALASKA TEST LOCATION TEMPERATURE ZONE TEST LOCATION CRAWL SPACE 0
38. he Company calibrates the analytical balances to cer ify that the weights of radon devices taken before and after exposure ar raceable to a standards laboratory The Laboratory Director maintains Certificates of Calibration The analyzer gamma counting systems used for the 3 and 4 inch charcoal canisters are aligned daily with a cesium radioactive source and their counting efficiencies in the gamma energy region of interest is verified daily with certified Ra 226 Radon 222 standards with known radon concentration and with the same counting geometry The counting time is 10 minutes Any deviation above or below 2 from one day to the next is investigated The counting systems gamma background is verified with unexposed charcoal collectors in the same energy region of interest on a weekly basis and more frequently if the need arises The counting time is 10 minutes The RTCA 3 and 4 canisters have no inherent radiological background in the region of interest The background effect is usually from cosmic radiation that is nearly constant at RTCA Measurements of background that show sensitivity above the lower limit of detection LLD are investigated Field blanks offer an additional check on the effect of background on the LLD The liquid scintillation analyzer used for radon measurements in air and in water is aligned with a liquid tritium source and its alpha counting efficiency is de
39. he exposure cap the information card cap with the 1 4 filtered hole in the top and IMMEDIATELY replacing it 2 Using 2 pencil fill in the following with the sealing HOLD THE information on test information date DETECTOR UPRIGHT WHILE start time check AM or PM time zone REPLACING THE CAP TO AVOID average temperature and floor level on SPILLING which detector is being placed See Fig 1 2 Fill in date and time test was stopped 3 Remove the sealing cap from the detector on the Test information card check and immediately replace it with the or PM exposure cap the cap with the 1 4 filtered hole in the center HOLD THE 3 Put sealed detector test information DETECTOR UPRIGHT WHILE card and exposure cap into mailing REPLACING THE CAP SAVE THE bag Seal bag with brown tape SEALING CAP AND THE BROWN TAPE BY PLACING THEM IN 4 Forthe most accurate results mail the THE BROWN MAILING BAG SAVE Detector to RTCA AS SOON AS THE MAILING BAG POSSIBLE The detector must be received by RTCA within 10 days of 4 Expose opened detector in your home for stopping the test 2 to 7 days ANY exposure within this period will give you an accurate Radon level Fig 1 CORRECTLY INCORRECTLY MARKED MARKED Example FOR BEST RESULTS FOLLOW THESE EPA PROTOCOLS Place detectors 24 to 36 above the floor on an exposed surface i e a Shelf or table Place one detector in the lowest liv
40. i 2 10 0 Rev 9 0 September 2012 19 of 45 ion system and testing the year A review conducted daily QA monthly Any A QC report is prepared on a on and completeness of ration measurements measurement data accuracy through results from blind calib and spiked samples The QC report also includes a statist duplicate measurements and associated percentage variation Quali government contracts to summarize the Company s QA data for an annual report to identify QA problems in the lab The Quali that incl ty Manager prepares a final audit report and main udes checklists audit reports and corrective act Management reviews the quality system on an annual basis t procedures in the Quality Manual and Laborato followed to determine th ffectiveness of the procedures quality data and to identify the need to modify any of the procedures Management reviews annually all areas describe System policies work instructions and records affecting The Quality Assurance Manager initiates the audit and ensu conducted in an efficient manner The Quality Manager is ical summary on all S Although the ty Assurance Officer prepares an annual report for management and state the Company cannot wait tains an audit history ion plans ensure that ry Methods Manual have been in controlling the laboratory d in the quality the quality of work t is auditing res that i trained in techniqu
41. intenance trained and time a test collector goes ou measurement of the radon concen are revised the cover page cl the training deals wi becom The in p They and the counting equipmen and in water Training is fundamentals for their pe laboratory assistant laboratory rotec rsonal p Employee review of t pertinent to the emp and signs off on a Q to employees during understood implemen Quality Policy Statement is filed in sampling protocols xperience gained through ks necessary to ship and analyze radon collectors of any type used at RTCA The training is acquired by participating in a two day radon cou rse dealing with measurement QC and decay product QA or becom EPA recognized written examination th every aspect of the RTCA and operation of all the analytical systems well versed in the standard operating procedu for sampling until tration If the st arly indicates th certified by radon program including The personnel ar res from the its return for analysis and andard operating procedures revision number and the signature of the approving au technicians acquire expertise th reparation and handling of radon test collectors for shipment and analysis are trained in the maintenance and operation of the analytical balances for the analysis of radon tes supplemented with classroom pa of radon measurements and audio tapes that cover radiat
42. ion safety tion and for other personnel wo raining materials and standard ope loyee s job function is documented uality Policy Sta the training of new hires ted and maintained by employ tement Th th Attachmen ffective date of any change thority rough on site training t samples in both in air rticipation on the in the analytical rocedures Each employ reviews t C that is communicated e adherence to quality is s at all levels The signed rating p mploy s personnel records The Technical Director and the Quality Assurance Officer must sign a Demonstration of Capability Certifica employee performing a test tion Statemen Certificate is filed in the per test method All employees must perform thei for Data Integrity Disclosure Agreement prior to s employee that all analytical wo information and is only to be released to au also requires employees to read E that addresses improper cond signed Non Disclosure Agreement mployee s personnel records The Company requires new sonnel records for r specialized dutie t Attachment D for each A copy of the Demonstration of Capability ach employ performing a S in conformance with RTCA SOP mpl tarting employment rk performed by the thoriz oyees to read and sign a Non Management instructs the Company is confidential d clientel The Company
43. ip or goes out of business the laboratory has developed a plan to ensure that the records are maintained or transferred according to client s instructions All hard and electronic copies of analytical reports and customer test information forms for the past five years will transfer to the new owner for storage and safekeeping as part of the sales agreement Should the company go out of business records for government contract work will be returned to clients if requested otherwise all hard copies will be destroyed 20 Document No 2 Section 12 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 21 of 45 DEALING WITH COMPLAINTS Should radon testers complain about the test devices during handling shipment or after analysis RTCA investigates its internal laboratory procedures and the exposure protocols used by the tester to trace the source of any discrepancy Since RTCA radon collectors or detectors are shipped promptly with clear instructions for their deployment there is no room for complaint concerning quick shipment Analysis of the test collectors is usually done the same day received or the next day at RTCA depending on the test method Radon results exceeding the EPA recommended safe value the action level are reported promptly with interpretation and explanation about what steps to take to reduce the high radon concentration to an acceptable level If the RTCA sampling and shipping instructions and protocols are followed by the radon
44. kes sure it meets the standards set for such work EPA established ts exposure protocols and result interpretation with occasional revisions RTCA recommendations advanced and approved by EPA follows the procedures and The QA officer oversees the results of the different analytical procedures reported by the Laboratory Director and makes recommendations and adjustments accordingly to ensure quality measurements with quality results The QA officer advises the President and the Laboratory Director on a regular basis on the of the measurements using the monthly and blind calibration The monthly QC report includes a statistical summary of the duplicate collector performance that is the most important way of assessing the assessment precision and quality status of the entire analytical op erations The QA Officer and the Laboratory Director keep Company management informed on the steps taken to fix a problem and to ensure quality work Any corrected action is documented and enforced immediately after a discrepancy or deficiency is discovered The Company s analytical data is resident on the computer file server and ystem is backed up nightly and a weekly back network The Company s computer s up tape is secured in off site sto measurements and test information for storage purposes as well as f necessary The Company retains ha rage Analytical reports quality control forms are ba
45. libration facility with known radon concentration 14 Decay factor for all methods except for electr 15 The continuous radon monitor CRM is calibra manufacturer in a traceable standard radon atmosphere monitor is recalibrated The CRM is equipped with a battery that opera at least a year the battery becomes low the a test Using all the information recorded on the informa pre analysis test procedures mentioned above the Document No 2 Section 3 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 6 of 45 et ion chambers ted initially by the CRM will not be able tion card and the labo automatically calculates the concentration of radon at the time of samp information card with the client s recorded expos permanent archives The necessary parameters noted above are used in listed in the appendices to calculate the radon concent limit of detection LLD If the need arises to c ure data is stored in ross check the compute Every six months the tes for to start ratory computer software program ling The the the data reduction formulas ration and the lower ig calculations then the formulas listed in the appendices can be used for manually calculating the radon concentration The test data of the CRM is accumulated in hourly records and stored in volatile memory At the end of each test period 48 hours or 2 days to hours or 10 days the recorded informati
46. n of test kits for analysis at the same time the Company could add one or two additional shifts per day in the lab and the associated data processing could be performed by temporary labor All analytical systems are maintained operational at all times by performing the daily routine QA and QC checks including analytical balance calibration analytical systems performance checks with radiation standards background radioactivity measurements with unexposed collectors or detectors and computer software performance look at the data from day to day operation is a good indicator of consistency and reproducibility In situations where questions arise control charts can be very useful to identify a possible discrepancy and correct Ct Document No 2 Section 4 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 8 of 45 The computer system required for handling all the information for analysis and calculation is tested and its integrity is evaluated daily at the beginning of a workday and after 2 hours of use The voltage meter that measures the surface potential difference initially and after the exposure of an electret ion chamber is terminated is checked daily with a reference voltage source The analytical balances are auto calibrated at the beginning of each day with NIST tolerance S calibration sources Analytical balances are required with all methods that use charcoal collectors for radon testing T
47. on is uploaded from the CRM to non 240 the computer The calculated hourly radon concentrations and temperature r are used to generate a graphical representation of the data with a table of average values Customized test reports are automatically gene printed in the field Secondary radon testers obtain immediate connecting to a remote file server via modem Th the secondary tester Hard copies of the test reports are reviewed adings rated and can be results by server faxes test reports to the Radon Measurement Specialist and mailed the next business day signed by Document No 2 Section 4 0 Rev 9 0 Page 7 of 45 Date September 2012 INVENTORY OF APPROPRIATE RESOURCES AND FACILITY The Status of the Laboratory make certain that there is an adequate supply of freshly constructed or Every aspect of the radon measurement process is reviewed on a daily basis to regenerated collectors and detectors to meet the demand Radon collectors of the 3 and 4 inch size canisters are loaded with exactly 50 g and 90 g of freshly activated carbon respectively and they are stored in inventory The liquid scintillation vials are loaded with 2 g of activated carbon from the same lot and batch of charcoal as the canisters They are prepared in advance and remain sealed until they are sent out for a radon test Fabrication of new radon collectors and detectors goes on daily with con
48. other services supplied by Seller and specifically purchased by Buyer shall be of a good and will be free from defects in material and workmanship claims for defective non conforming both hereafter called defective workmanship or materials under this warranty must be made in writing immediately upon discovery and in any event within one piv rr Defective items must be held for Seller s inspection and returned to the pem e ol ag foregoing is expressly in lieu of other warranties whatsoever express implied and statutory includi without the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness Liquid Scintillation Vial Radon in Air 35 TEST INFORMATION 52501 AN QHOJSW 3 133H1S S3AVH 2 FILL IN BOX COMPLETELY WITH PENCIL OR DARK INK NO RED VOIH3WV 40 NOIL VHOdHOO SNILS31 NOQVH __ TEST START DATE 01 NOLLVWMHOJNI 5 C 3 Ca Cs Ce Cz Go 12 1531 Cs 7 2 Cs Gio 01 02 Ga Gs Ge Gz Ca 19 20 21 22 23 24 PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 06 SEND LAB REPORT TO X Ks 99 t a2 YEAR CJ C3 C3 C9 C3 C3 C3 START TIME HOUR 1 2 2 5 6 CzJ 5 CD C Noon 7 STREET MINUTES 99 30 43 1 TEST STOP
49. per year By using the spike method the analytical system calibration is accomplished on a monthly basis The monthly spikes are done at different radon concentration levels and at different conditions of humidity and temperature to simulate conditions in the indoor environment To meet EPA proficiency criteria the accuracy or the relative percent difference of the RTCA test method should fall within plus or minus of 25 of the true value The monthly spikes indicate whether th calibration factors used for calculation of radon concentration are still valid The calibration of the CRM is performed initially and at semi annual intervals For daily analyzer performance checks certified Radium 226 Radon 222 standards are used The gamma and alpha background of the analytical systems are conducted on a daily basis by using unexposed charcoal canisters and liquid scintillation vial collectors Both instrument performance and background information are documented on a daily performance report From this internal audit the status of the entire analytical system is assured and maintained in good order 3 The precision of the test method is determined by exposing duplicate tests in the same location in the field The creation of control charts of duplicates on a monthly time frame provides the criteria for the monthly and annual performance of the exposure and analytical procedures Radon tests conducted in
50. r which may hereafter arise on account of my the undersigns activities henceforth as an employee of RTCA The undersigned applicant further acknowledges that this release is being given as a prerequisite for having filed application for employment by RTCA Signature Print Name Date 42 Appendix E Code of Ethics l 10 1 12 Conflict of interest No employee should have any interest financial or otherwise direct or indirect or engage in any business or transaction or professional activity or incur any obligation of any nature which is in substantial conflict with the proper discharge of his her duties in the public interest No employee should accept other employment which will impair his independence of judgment in the exercise of his her official duties No employee should accept employment or engage in any business or professional activity which will require him to disclose confidential information which he has gained by reason of his official position or authority No employee should disclose confidential information acquired by him in the course of his her official duties nor use such information to further his her personal interests No employee should use or attempt to use his her official position to secure unwarranted privileges or exemptions for himself herself or others No employee should engage in any transaction as representative or agent of the government with any business entity in which he has a dire
51. tched together on a monthly basis or use of retrieval of information if rd copies of daily analytical reports and quality control measurements for radon in air for a period of at least five 5 years and for radon in water for a Company retains customer test info air for a period of at least five of at least ten 10 years period of at rmation forms 5 years and least ten 10 years The in on site storage for radon in for radon in water for a period The Company reviews all new work to ensure that it has the appropriate facilities and resources before commencing such work When processing an order the Company s customer service rep the Company cannot predict when te experience an unusually high return of resentative checks with the Production Manager for availability of test kit inventory and estimated shipping date Although St kits will be returned for analysis the Company has the analytical capacity to handle a much larger workload than it currently processes in an eight hour work shift If the Company were to test kits for analysis at the same time the Company could add one or two additional shifts per day in the lab and the associated data processing could be performed by temporary labor Document No 2 Section 3 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page oc ot 45 PROTOCOLS FOR MEASUREMENT TRACEABILITY COLLECTOR CUSTODY Trace ability is linked to an individual colle
52. termined daily with duplicate Ra Rn certified sources in the region of interest using the same counting geometry The analytical method is the EPA Liquid Scintillation Method 913 0 time for radon in air analysis is Pia H and Hahn P 1993 counting ten minutes The counting time for radon in water analysis is 30 minutes Deviation in counting efficiency of more than 2 is investigated The background i S measured daily at the same counting geometry for the same length of time with duplicate unexposed vials at the same counting geometry Any deviation from the LLD is investigated Potential drop must be calibrated daily and in between measurements with a reference voltage source Any deviation by 2 volts from the reference calibration source triggers an investigation The voltmeter should be used at nearly the same temperature for initial and final voltage readings after exposure The long term electrets supplied by RTCA eliminate the possibility of voltage drift due to the temperature difference during the readings by requiring that th lectrets be read at the environment RTCA facility in an environmentally controlled Document No 2 Section 4 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 9 of 45 The background contribution to the Rad Elec electret returning after an exposure is estimated for different environments while the background contribution to the RTCA ele
53. testers there should not be any room for complaints Radon results 4 pCi L are usually reported the next day after analysis If there is a complaint about the radon results an investigation is triggered to find the source of the discrepancy Complaint is recorded on Log Form See Attachment F The radon tester is contacted immediately to interrogate him or her on the procedures and protocols used during the test In almost every case the source of the discrepancy can be traced back to the radon tester who failed to follow the test protocols or marked wrong test information on the sample card Other sources of the discrepancy can be traced to a prolonged exposure of the radon collector that is beyond the usefulness of the charcoal method or due to delay in shipping the test collector back to the laboratory for timely analysis Based on the findings of the investigation of a complaint the decision is made whether to void the test and retest 21 LABORATORY PERSONNEL TRAINING The laboratory technicians have internal training and classroom education to perform all the tas fabricate maintain radon fundamentals radon sourc methods and techniques in air and water Document No 2 Section 13 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 22 of 45 a combination of radon and radon es ceive a certificat radiation safety Candidates passing successfully an The on site ma
54. testing strategy Windows and doors should be kept closed as much as possible 12 hours before starting test and throughout the test period Do not operate high volume attic and window fans during the test Do not place canisters in drafts from ventilators doors windows fireplaces heating or air conditioner vents Do not place canisters directly next to exterior house walls Do not place on heat producing objects such as furnaces or televisions Do not place canisters in a still section of the room such as inside drawers or cabinets This will block the canisters from the normal air supply in the room CONDITIONS GOVERNING CONTRACT PERFORMANCE AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY CONTRACT PERFORMANCE Seller shall not be responsible for nonperformance or delays in performance occasioned by any causes beyond Seller s reasonable control including but not limited to labor difficulties delays of vendors or carriers fires governmental actions and material shortages Any delays occasionod shall effect corresponding extension of Seller s performance dates which are in any event understood to be approximate In no event shall Buyer be entitled to incidental or consequential damage for late or a failure to perform IRANTY AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY Enviro Technology Corporation and RTCA does not accept any responsibility for financia or health consequences of subsequent actions taken by the client or 15 consultants as a r
55. tinuous maintenance of the existing stock for prompt shipping Liquid scintillation glass vials for radon in water analysis are prepackaged and are available in large supply for prompt shipping with instructions for sampling RTCA s long term electrets Ra Dome are prepared in advance Ra Domes are registered for their respective application and are labeled with a bar coded identification number before they are shipped out for radon testing The Ra Dome electret configuration has a raised electret for a more uniform distribution of the surface charge The Ra Dom lectrets are charged to between 700 800 Volts and then are stored for a minimum of one month in protective caps in a low radon environment Their surface volt potential is followed for up to one month for possible voltage drift until they are shipped for radon testing The Company reviews all new work to ensure that it has the appropriate facilities and resources before commencing such work When processing an order the Company s customer service representative checks with the Production Manager for availability of test kit inventory and estimated shipping date Although the Company cannot predict when test kits will be returned for analysis the Company has the analytical capacity to handle a much larger workload than it currently processes in an eight hour work shift If the Company were to experience an unusually high retur
56. tion Radon in Water Results 1 Calculation of radon concentration Ru water o ttem nt mn where GN Gross counting rate cpm B Background counting rate cpm E Alpha counting efficiency in the region of interest cpm pCi DF Decay factor from the time of sample collection to time of analysis V Volume of standard background and sample which is constant at 0 008 1 Example A water sample for radon collected for analysis showed GN 500 cpm The background B 5 71 cpm The counting efficiency CF was 5 685 cpm pCi and the decay factor DF was 0 404 Since the volume of water sample analyzed is 0 008 L then 500 5271 Rn in water 26 900 pCi L 5 685 x 0 404 x 0 008 To convert radon in water to radon in air equivalent divide by 10 000 Example radon in water is 26 900 pCi l and radon equivalent in air is 26 900 10 000 2 69 pCi L 2 The LLD is calculated from LLD 4 65 NBr Bt Br Background counts the time the background was counted Example If Br 5 71 cpm and Bt 30 min then 4 65 V5 71 x 30 2 02 cpm 30 If the analyzer Efficiency 5 685 cpm pCi and the decay factor DF 0 8217 then LLD 54 0 1 1 5 685 cpm pCi x 0 8217 x 0 008 L 25 Appendix 3 continued The 2 sigma error at the 95 confidence level 2 NGross Counts Background Coun
57. tion of a regulatory agency he she should file a written statement that he she has such a financial interest in such activity which statement shall be open to public inspection Violations In addition to any penalty contained in any other provision of law any such employee who shall knowingly and intentionally violate any of the provisions of the Code of Ethics may be fined suspended or removed from office or employment in the manner provided by law 43 Attachment E The following laboratory staff have read this Code of Ethics I certify that the requirements have been communicated to me and that I am trained in its use A copy of this page will be distributed to the employee training record file I will not engage in any activities that could possibly negatively impact the integrity of data produced in this organization Signature Name Date Signature Name Date Signature Name Date Signature Name Date Signature Name Date Signature Name Date Signature Name Date Signature Name Date Signature Name Date Signature Name Date Signature Name Date Signature Name Date Attachment Complaint Corrective Preventive Action Log __ Audit __ Complaint __ PT failure QC failure __ SOP departure Prevention Data __ Type Initiated By DESCRIPTION METHOD Samples Recorded By ROOT CAUSE PUROPOSE Investigated By POTENTIAL CORRECTIVE PREVENTIV
58. to a standards laboratory The Laboratory Director maintains Certificates of Calibration Before analysis the returned collector is weighed to determine the water vapor acquired during exposure This applies to the charcoal methods for radon collection only The pre weight information is subtracted from the post weight to obtain the net water gained by the radon collector This information is recorded permanently and is used to determine the appropriate calibration factor needed for the calculation of the radon concentration Other parameters needed for complete trace ability are 1 Time and date of analysis 2 Exposure start and stop time and dates 3 Id No of analyzer used 4 Analyzer type and detection efficiency or calibration factor 5 Background gamma count in the region of interest 6 7 8 Alpha background in the region of interest Gross gamma count in the region of interest for charcoal canisters Gross alpha count in the region of interest for the liquid scintillation charcoal method 9 Gross ionization or voltage drop in electret ion chambers 10 Background contribution for electret ion chamber in voltage drop 11 Calibration factor corresponding to the sampling period and the amount of water gained by the charcoal canisters 12 Calibration factor for radon in water analysis dependent on the radon standard solution 13 Calibration factor for the electret ion chamber detectors obtained from exposures in a ca
59. ts Gross Counts Background Counts Example Gross Counts 500x 30 15 000 Background 5 71 x 30 171 3 The error 2 15 000 171 3 15 000 171 3 If Radon 26 900 pCi L 0 017 then Radon 26 900 457 pCi L 26 1 4 Data Reduction and Validation for Electret Ion Chambers Ra Dome amp E PERM Concentration Calculation Vi Vf B Where Vi Initial voltage Vf Final voltage Voltage drop due to background in Volts Exposure time days Calibration factor in Volts pCi L days H wW Wood In the Ra Dome system site specific background is measured In the Rad Elec the background is estimated depending on elevation and the background history of the measurement location Example p 700 volts 177 volts 23 volts in 365 days T 365 days 0 170 obtained from the calibration and 700 177 23 a a Saas eae a 8 1 pci L 0 170 x 365 The LLD for the Ra Dome 4 65 x Sb where Sb VBr Bt Br Background in volts Bt Time background was counted days Example Ra Dome electret ion chamber exposed shielded from radon entry for 365 days showed a background of 23 volts LLD 4 65 N23 061 volts day and 365 days The 2 sigma error at the 95 confidence level 2 NGross Voltage drop Background Voltage 2 523 23 52
60. ults of each spiked collector or detector must be within plus or minus 25 of the reference valu The initial calibration of the CRM is performed by the manufacturer in a radon environment traceable to a standards laboratory CRM s must be calibrated at least twice per year At the end of one year the CRM s batteries must be replaced This is accomplished at the same time the unit is recalibrated 13 Document No 2 Section 8 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 14 of 45 INTERNAL AUDITS AND EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE RECORDS Annual internal quality systems audits are performed to verify compliance with all QA and QC requirements if any QA and QC deficiencies exist he takes Audits are performed acco 1 Fabrication of the for reproducibility purposes and reducing va filled with the exact RTCA has in 5 production lot to reduce The fabricated radon collectors are regenera amount of carbon from The QA director observes day to day operations and action to correct them immediately rding to the following procedures test collectors using the same materials and methods riability Identical canisters are he same production lot and batch tock a very large quantity of activated carbon from the same the variability encountered with mixed produc ted at th label tion lots same temperatur overnight and sealed airtight with a seal After exposure they a resealed airtight wi
61. ysis are examined and approved by the Laboratory Director 15 Document No 2 Section 8 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 16 of 45 6 Equipment Maintenance Records All equipment necessary for obtaining an accurate radon result are analytical balances used maintained in good order on a daily basis The to measure the weight of carbon placed in each radon collector and to measur used for a test are calib the pre weight and post weight of radon collectors rated daily with NIST traceable class S weights The counting system consisting of analyzers are standardized on a daily basis using Radium 226 Radon 222 sealed standards that have the same counting geometry as the test collector The total gamma background on all the counting systems is determined daily with unexposed collectors using the same gamma region of interest as with the standardization The liquid scintillation counting system for radon in air and radon in water undergoes the same maintenance using the appropriate alpha standard sources and blanks 16 Document No 2 Section 9 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 17 of 45 CORRECTIVE ACTIONS The QA Officer assesses the QC data and determines if the QC measurements are acceptable or not The Laboratory Director initiates and recommends corrective action when deemed necessary For out of control situations the QA Officer spe
62. ytical system including the computer and every step taken to arrive at the final result The laboratory management protocols are very concise and do not allow any departures from the set and documented policies and procedures Procedures for feedback and corrective action include investigation at the onset Any departure from documented policies is investigated The source of the problem needs to be identified i e analytical equipment test devic preparation analytical standards field operations analytical equipment and computer equipment If the problem is chronic analytical data may not be released For quality control samples the control chart for duplicate exposures is based on a 28 RPD warning level and a 36 control limit for duplicates of 4 0 pCi L or greater For duplicates of less than 4 0 pCi L the warning and control levels are set at 50 and 67 respectively Two successive warning level duplicates or one control limit violation triggers T A call to the end user to determine if proper protocol for duplicate measurements has been observed 2 Examination of the detector pair for structural integrity 9r Evaluation of the analytical systems involved in the analysis of the aberrant pairs 17 Document No 2 Section 9 0 Rev 9 0 Date September 2012 Page 18 of 45 Any field spike with an IRE greater or less than 25 triggers T4 Evaluation of the analytical systems involved

Quality Manual-RTCA Lab - Ute Mountain Ute Environmental Program

Contents

Download Pdf Manuals

Related Search

Related Contents