Collection of Microbiological Agent Samples from Potentially Contaminated Porous Surfaces Using Microvacuum Techniques
Citation:
Silvestri, E., J. Chandler, Y. Chambers-Velarde, J. Cuddeback, J. Archer, AND W. Calfee. Collection of Microbiological Agent Samples from Potentially Contaminated Porous Surfaces Using Microvacuum Techniques. U.S. EPA Office of Research and Development, Washington, DC, 2021.
Impact/Purpose:
When an environmental catastrophe resulting in contamination occurs, whether from intentional incident such as a terrorist attack or an unintentional incident such as an industrial spill, emergency responders and decision-makers need timely and accurate data. This need for data can require the collection and analysis of numerous samples to determine the extent of contamination and to make informed decisions regarding remediation. Sample collection procedures are used during site characterization, remediation and release in support of EPA’s post-incident responsibilities. The procedures provide instructions regarding the collection of samples from indoor/outdoor environmental, building, and infrastructure materials that will be analyzed for contaminants using the methods provided in the Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM). This document provides step-by-step instructions for the use of 37-mm vacuum filter cassettes, to be used in conjunction with a microvacuum, to collect samples from surfaces potentially contaminated with select pathogens. It is intended to be used in conjunction with the analytical methods listed in SAM, as well as the corresponding SCID for pathogens. This document provides information on the materials and equipment needed for sample collection and the assembly of sampling kits; step-by-step instructions for taking field and quality control (QC) samples; and information on sample packaging, storage, and transport. Use of the procedure by EPA, or EPA contracted sample collectors, will ensure that quality samples are collected to support laboratory analysis.
Description:
This document provides step-by-step instructions for the use of vacuum filter cassettes to collect samples from surfaces potentially contaminated with pathogens. It is intended to be used in conjunction with the analytical methods listed in U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM)2017 (EPA/600/R-17/356) document and in the Environmental Sampling and Analysis Method Program online query tools for SAM, following homeland security-related contamination incidents. The instructions are applicable to collection of Bacillus anthracis spores from surfaces using a 37-mm filter cassette and microvacuuming techniques, with either a mixed cellulose ester (MCE) filter or a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) filter. Although testing has not been completed and collection efficiencies are unknown, these instructions might also be applicable to other pathogens.