CHAPTERS:An Optical Brightener Handbook
Step 1: Getting Started
A. Sampling Plan cont'd
Measuring water flow with a Flowmeter
2. Optical Brightener Data Sheet (see Appendix A) It is essential that all pertinent information be written on the Optical Brightener Data Sheet, at the time of placement, at the time of retrieval, and immediately after reading the results. Information as to total rainfall and the total number of days the sample was in place can be entered at a more convenient time if it is so desired. It should also be noted (because the O.B. pad remains on site for a period of time) that the total amount of rain that has fallen while the sample is in place is more appropriate than when the last rainfall occurred. For purposes of simplicity, it is sufficient to note total rainfall in one-half inch increments.
3. Proper handling
When handling samples that have been exposed to waters that might contain waste-water, it is always advisable to wear plastic or rubber gloves while handling these samples and to wash ones hands very thoroughly afterwards.
All rigid sampling devices should be rinsed thoroughly in a strong stream of tap water before reuse to prevent potential cross contamination.
It is also a good precaution to avoid direct contact with laundry soaps and detergents for 24 hrs. prior to handling any sampling equipment.
4. Quality Control
Although the analysis is relatively simple and straight forward, the reading of these samples should be done by people who have been trained in the reading of Optical Brightener results or at least involved in other forms of qualitative sampling.
As a quality control check, it is recommended that 10 to 20% of all O.B. pads be re-read by properly trained personnel. One source of obtaining this quality control check is the Gloucester Shellfish Department at (978) 281-9741
Another quality control check for monitoring groups is to have a designated portion of their retrieved samples quantitatively sampled. One source for obtaining quantitative results for a fee is:
Ozark Underground Laboratory
Rt. 1, Box 62
Protem, Mo.
417-785-4289
It should be noted that some laboratories require different protocol for the retrieving and handling of samples that will be tested for quantitative results. This information is best obtained by contacting the laboratory that will be conducting those tests.
