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EcoChem's data validation work is frequently
used to document the legal defensibility of environmental data. Our
validation process assesses data quality against the relevant method requirements
and measurement quality objectives (MQOs). We utilize both primary and secondary
reviewers to ensure technical correctness and consistency.
We have developed proprietary procedures
and worksheets using the requirements of federal programs and methods [e.g.,
EPA National Functional Guidelines (NFG), CLP SOW, SW-846, etc.]. These
documents may be tailored, as necessary, to meet project specifications.
The level of data validation is selected
commensurate with the level of data quality required. We offer three typical
levels of data validation and interpretation:
• COMPLIANCE SCREENING [also referred
to as: CCS (EPA), QA-1 (PSDDA/PSEP)], cursory, verification]: Evaluation
of package completeness; sample chain-of-custody; sample preservation
and analytical holding times; blank contamination; precision (replicate
analyses); accuracy (compound recovery); and verification of target compound
list and required detection limits.
• SUMMARY VALIDATION [also referred
to as: Level 3 (EPA CLP); Level C (Navy); Screening (AFCEE); M-2 (organics
EPA Region 3); IM-2 (inorganics EPA Region 3); CLP summary form review]:
Includes evaluation of all QC elements from Compliance Screening plus instrument
performance (initial calibration, continuing calibration, tuning, sensitivity
and degradation).
• FULL VALIDATION [also referred to
as: Levels 4 and 5 (EPA CLP); Levels D and E (Navy); QA-2 (PSDDA/PSEP); Definitive
(AFCEE); M-3 (organics EPA Region 3); IM-3 (inorganics EPA Region 3)]:
Includes evaluation of all QC elements from Summary Validation plus evaluation
of compound identification and quantitation (transcription and calculation
checks).
For many projects, we recommend a tiered
approach to validation, where a subset of data is subjected to Full Validation.
If no systemic errors are found, the majority of the data undergoes Summary
Validation. Compliance screening may be appropriate for field QC sample data,
in-situ measurements, and some preliminary investigational data.
All data validation levels may result in data
being qualified or rejected due to non-compliances. Qualifiers are applied
to the sample result sheets, explained in the data validation report, and
added to the electronic data deliverables.
ELECTRONIC DATA VERIFICATION
Electronic data deliverables (EDD) from the laboratory are an integral
part of environmental projects. EcoChem has streamlined the process of
importing laboratory data files in many formats, verifying their completeness
and accuracy, and applying data qualifiers from the validation process.
The validated data files are then exported to our client in a suitable file
format.
EcoChem can also provide customized
data management services for our clients' project data.
DATA VALIDATION REPORTS
EcoChem provides a written summary of findings from the data validation
process. Our validation reports are provided in different styles, with appropriate
levels of detail.
• SUMMARY REPORT: Provided as our default
report style. Lists all QC parameters that were assessed. Includes a discussion
of all outliers, qualifiers and overall data usability.
• FULL REPORT: Provided upon request.
Lists and discusses all QC parameters that were assessed, even those with
no outliers. Includes a discussion of all outliers, qualifiers and overall
data usability.
• DATA QUALITY EVALUATION (DQE): Provided
upon request, accompanied by a summary report. Includes statistical evaluations
of data completeness and qualifiers. Presents an overview of all project
data, so is often appropriate upon completion of a long-term project.
Our data validation reports are provided as
hard copies, and in electronic file formats.
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