PFAS Sampling — Field Protocols, Kits & Contamination Control
Because PFAS are present in many everyday materials, sample collection is the step where PFAS programmes most often fail — a result can be unusable before the sample reaches the instrument.
What does it measure?
- Field, equipment and trip blanks that demonstrate the sampling process did not introduce PFAS
- Documented chain of custody, containers and preservation as the method requires
When is it used?
- Any drinking water, groundwater, wastewater or solids programme with low reporting limits
- Multi-round monitoring where results must be comparable over time
- Investigations where a detection will trigger regulatory or commercial consequences
Sample considerations
- Use the containers, caps and preservatives supplied by the laboratory; substitutions can compromise the batch.
- Materials to control in the field commonly include PTFE-lined equipment, waterproof field books, adhesive notes, certain gloves and personal care products.
- Collect and submit the blanks the method requires — without them, an unexpected detection cannot be attributed.
- Plan for hold times and shipping temperature before you mobilise a crew.
Laboratories with relevant capabilities
No directory profile currently documents this specific capability. Submit a request and we will look for laboratories that cover it.
Frequently asked questions
- Can my existing sampling procedure be used for PFAS?
- Not usually without review. Equipment and consumables that are acceptable for other analytes can contain fluorinated materials, so PFAS programmes use a dedicated field protocol.
- Who supplies the sampling kit?
- The analysing laboratory normally does, together with its field instructions. Request kits early — they must be on site before sampling begins.
Confirm standard edition, jurisdiction and actual laboratory scope. Service references are not partnerships or endorsements.