ASTM D5680-14(2022)

Overview

ASTM D5680-14(2022), "Standard Practice for Sampling Unconsolidated Solids in Drums or Similar Containers," is a widely recognized standard published by ASTM International. The standard provides guidelines for the collection of representative samples from drums or similar containers holding unconsolidated solids, such as hazardous materials, products, or waste. It applies to containers with a capacity of 110 U.S. gallons (416 liters) or less, including those that may be unstable, ruptured, or otherwise compromised.

This practice is essential for organizations involved in waste management, environmental site assessments, and hazardous materials handling. It details typical equipment, sampling methods, and the critical health and safety considerations necessary when collecting solid samples for environmental analysis or compliance.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application The standard covers methods for collecting samples from drums and similar containers. It highlights the need for a well-defined, site-specific sampling plan that addresses safety, health, and environmental concerns.

• Sampling Equipment and Techniques Various sampling tools are recommended, including:

  • Scoops and shovels
  • Augers
  • Trier samplers
  • Thin-walled tubes
  • Concentric tube thiefs
  • Scissors and tongs

Equipment selection depends on the nature and physical state of the solid material.

• Safety and Handling Procedures Special precautions are provided for handling and opening overpressurized, unstable, or hazardous containers. The use of non-sparking tools, proper grounding and bonding of sampling equipment, and adherence to health and safety plans are emphasized.

• Quality Assurance The standard highlights the importance of collecting quality control samples-such as equipment blanks, trip blanks, and duplicates-to ensure reliability and accuracy of environmental data.

• Documentation and Recordkeeping Completing all site paperwork, accurate labeling, and chain-of-custody procedures are integral to the sampling process.

Applications

ASTM D5680-14(2022) is used by a range of professionals and organizations, including:

• Environmental Consultants and Laboratories For site assessments, waste characterization, and regulatory compliance sampling.

• Waste Management Companies Ensuring safe and representative sampling of drums containing potentially hazardous or unknown solid waste.

• Industrial Operations When product or by-product sampling is required for quality control or environmental reporting.

• Regulatory Authorities To verify proper sampling procedures are followed at hazardous waste sites or during remediation projects.

The standard is suitable for both routine and emergency sampling situations and allows adaptability in methods depending on site-specific risks and material characteristics.

Related Standards

ASTM D5680-14(2022) references and complements several other ASTM and regulatory standards, including:

• ASTM D4547: Sampling Waste and Soils for Volatile Organic Compounds
• ASTM D5451: Sampling Using a Trier Sampler
• ASTM D5633: Sampling with a Scoop
• ASTM D4700: Soil Sampling from the Vadose Zone
• ASTM D5088: Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
• ASTM D6009, D6044, D6051, D6063, D6311, D6323: Related to sampling and data quality for waste and contaminated media
• EPA/600/2-86/013: Drum Handling Practices at Hazardous Waste Sites
• Occupational Safety and Health Guidance Manual: For hazardous waste site activities

Practical Value

Implementing ASTM D5680-14(2022) enables organizations to:

• Meet regulatory and safety requirements for sampling hazardous or unknown solids in drums.
• Reduce error, sampling bias, and safety risks.
• Ensure collection of representative samples for laboratory analysis and data quality objectives.
• Document procedures and maintain traceability, supporting legal and environmental compliance.

Using this standard supports consistent, reliable handling and sampling practices for unconsolidated solids, contributing to safer, more effective management of hazardous materials and waste.