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KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO ...

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APPENDIX B<br />

SOP B3.1<br />

Photoionization Detectors and Organic Vapor Analyzers<br />

A photoionization detector (PID) is used to detect the concentration of organic gases in air. During field<br />

investigations, this particular instrument, along with an organic vapor analyzer (OVA) serves several<br />

functions. First, and most importantly, it is used to protect the health and safety of the field personnel by<br />

providing information concerning the presence and concentration of contaminants encountered. Second,<br />

the information gained from the instrument is often used to dictate whether or not to continue the field<br />

investigation (i.e., drilling and sampling vertically or horizontally to delineate the extent of<br />

contamination). In addition, the field screening capabilities of the instrument can be used to determine<br />

which samples will be selected for laboratory analysis. The use of this instrument for health and safety<br />

considerations is described in the BWHSP (Appendix F of the BWP) and the SSHP.<br />

The PID and the OVA have some important limitations. The instruments can only monitor certain vapors<br />

and gases in air. Many nonvolatile liquids, toxic solids, particulates and other toxic gases and vapors<br />

cannot be detected. Because the types of compounds that the PID and OVA can potentially detect are<br />

only a fraction of the chemicals possibly present at an incident, a zero reading does not necessarily<br />

signify the absence of air contaminants.<br />

The instruments are also non-specific, and their responses to different compounds are relative to the<br />

calibration settings. In addition, the reading shown on the meter represents the total volatile organic<br />

concentrations rather than any one compound. The PID cannot detect methane, and neither instrument<br />

can be used as an indicator for combustible gases or oxygen deficiency. In the presence of methane, the<br />

PID will register lower levels for organic contaminants that are present due to the interference caused by<br />

the methane.<br />

The operating instructions for the actual field instruments to be used onsite (such as PIDs and OVAs)<br />

should be described in the project-specific addenda.<br />

The PID or OVA must be calibrated daily, at a minimum, before work commences. The instrument<br />

should be recalibrated after prolonged periods of downtime (such as a shutdown of drilling activities).<br />

Extreme temperatures (< 40°F or > 85°F) can sometimes cause the instrument to behave erratically and in<br />

error. If a malfunction occurs the instrument shall be recalibrated. When possible, the PID or OVA<br />

should be sheltered from extreme temperatures and foul weather conditions.<br />

Kirtland AFB<br />

SOPs for Field Investigations B-97 April 2004

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