Basic HTML Version
Appendix C
5/20/2009
2
3.
DEFINITIONS
3.1
Acceptance Criteria – Specified limits placed on characteristics of an item,
process, or service defined in a requirement document. (ASQC)
3.2
Accuracy – The degree of agreement between an observed value and an
accepted reference value. Accuracy includes a combination of random error
(precision) and systematic error (bias) components which are due to sampling
and analytical operations; a data quality indicator. (QAMS)
3.3
Aliquot – A discrete, measured, representative portion of a sample taken for
analysis. (EPA QAD Glossary)
3.4
Analytical Range - 100 ppb - 4000 ppm using 250 µl syringe and 4 - 100 µl
injection volume, using regular sensitivity catalyst.
3.5
Batch – Environmental samples, which are prepared and /or analyzed together
with the same process and personnel, using the same lot(s) of reagents. A
preparation batch
is composed of one to 20 environmental samples of the
same matrix, meeting the above mentioned criteria and with a maximum time
between the start of processing of the first and last sample in the batch to be 24
hours. An
analytical batch
is composed of prepared environmental samples
(extracts, digestates, or concentrates) and/or those samples not requiring
preparation, which are analyzed together as a group using the same calibration
curve or factor. An analytical batch can include samples originating from
various environmental matrices and can exceed 20 samples. (NELAC/EPA)
3.6
Blank- A sample that has not been exposed to the analyzed sample stream in
order to monitor contamination during sampling, transport, storage or analysis.
The blank is subjected to the usual analytical and measurement process to
establish a zero baseline or background value and is sometimes used to adjust
or correct routine analytical results. (ASQC)
3.7
Calibrate- To determine, by measurement or comparison with a standard, the
correct value of each scale reading on a meter or other device, or the correct
value for each setting of a control knob. The levels of the applied calibration
standard should bracket the range of planned or expected sample
measurements. (NELAC)
3.8
Calibration – The set if operations which establish, under specified conditions,
the relationship between values indicated by a measuring device. The levels of
the applied calibration standard should bracket the range of planned or
expected sample measurements. (NELAC)
3.9
Calibration Curve – The graphical relationship between known values,
such as concentrations, or a series of calibration standards and their
analytical response. (NELAC)
3.10
Calibration Method – A defined technical procedure for performing a
calibration. (NELAC)
3.11
Calibration Standard – A substance or reference material used to
calibrate an instrument. (QAMS)
3.11.1
Initial Calibration Standard (STD) – A series of standard
solutions used to initially establish instrument calibration
responses and develop calibration curves for individual target
analytes.