ASTM International

Standard Guide for Sampling and Analysis of Residential and Commercial Water Supply Wells in Areas of Exploration and Production (E&P) Operations
 N D8006

Annotation

This guide presents a methodology for obtaining representative groundwater samples from domestic or commercial water wells that are in proximity to oil and gas exploration and production (E&P) operations. E&P operations include, but are not necessarily limited to, site preparation, drilling, completion, and well stimulation (including hydraulic fracturing), and production activities. The goal is to obtain representative groundwater samples from domestic or commercial water wells that can be used to identify the baseline groundwater quality and any subsequent changes that may be identified. While this guide focuses on baseline sampling in conjunction with oil and gas E&P activities, the principles and practices recommended are based on well-established methods that have been in use for many years in other industrial situations. This guide recommends sampling and analytical testing procedures that can identify various chemical species present including metals, dissolved gases (such as methane), hydrocarbons (and other organic compounds), as well as overall water quality.

This guide provides information on typical residential and commercial water supply well systems and guidance on developing and implementing a sampling program, including determining sampling locations, suggested purging techniques, selection of potential analyses and laboratory certifications, data management, and integrity. It also includes guidance on personal safety. The information included pertains to baseline sampling before beginning any activities that could present potential risks to local aquifers, periodic sampling during and after such work, and ongoing monitoring relating to known or potential groundwater constituents in the area. This guide does not address policy issues related to frequency or timing of sampling or sampling distances from the wellhead. In addition, it does not address reporting limits, sample preservation, holding times, laboratory quality control, regulatory action levels, or interpretation of analytical results.