A data element dictionary including variable naming conventions, file formats, unique identifier variables and sampling weights and their use in estimation algorithms is provided for the 1988 National Sewage Sludge Use and Disposal Survey (NSSS). The survey, sponsored by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, is comprised of a Questionnaire and Analytical component. Data resulted from two stratified national probability samples of secondary treatment Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTWs). General operating, financial, and use disposal practice data were collected in the Questionnaire component of the survey. Data are contained in the NSSS data base subtitled '1988 Sewage Sludge Use and Disposal Questionnaire Survey.' Chemical concentrations from sludge samples collected just prior to disposal are reported in the Analytical component of the survey. Data from the Analytical component of the survey are contained in the data base subtitled 'Analytical Assessment of Sewage Sludge at Final Disposal.' The document provides general information pertaining to both data bases.