CEA Environmental Assessment & Sampling Techniques 3

Question 1

During a wetland delineation, which three-parameter approach is used under the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual?

Accepted Answer

Hydrology, hydric soils, and hydrophytic vegetation

Answer

The 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual requires the presence of hydrology, hydric soils, and hydrophytic vegetation for a wetland determination.

Question 2

When using a PID (Photoionization Detector) during soil gas screening, a reading of 500 ppm in the headspace of a soil sample most appropriately indicates:

Accepted Answer

Elevated VOC presence warranting further laboratory confirmation

Answer

PID readings are screening tools that indicate the presence of ionizable compounds; elevated readings warrant confirmatory laboratory analysis to identify and quantify specific compounds.

Question 3

A sediment sample is collected for metals analysis. Which preservation method is required for total metals in sediment per EPA guidance?

Accepted Answer

Cool to 4°C with no chemical preservative

Answer

Sediment samples for total metals analysis are preserved by cooling to 4°C without chemical acidification, unlike dissolved metals in water which require acidification.

Question 4

Which document formally transfers legal custody and responsibility for environmental samples from field collection through laboratory analysis?

Accepted Answer

Chain-of-Custody (COC) record

Answer

The Chain-of-Custody record is a legal document that tracks sample possession, transfer, and integrity from collection through final analysis and is required for defensible data.

Question 5

Under EPA's TSCA regulations, what action is required if asbestos-containing materials (ACM) containing greater than 1% asbestos are identified during a facility audit?

Accepted Answer

Implement an Operations & Maintenance (O&M) program if ACM is in good condition

Answer

TSCA and AHERA regulations allow ACM in good condition to remain in place under a written Operations & Maintenance program rather than requiring immediate removal.

(CEA) Certified Environmental Auditor Practice Test

(CEA) Certified Environmental Auditor Practice Test

CEA Environmental Assessment & Sampling Techniques 3