Operations and Procedures:
Sample Analysis
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### Types of Analyses

Now that you have an understanding of sample handling, let's take a look at the process of sample analysis. The WLA-RP classifies sample analysis into three broad categories:

- Field/Safety
  Screening
- Rapid
  Laboratory Analysis
- Confirmatory
  Methods

Field/Safety Screening

Field/Safety Screening analyses are performed in the field or at an All Hazards Receipt Facility (AHRF) to screen for hazardous substances (e.g., radioactivity or chemical warfare agents) and tentatively identify the contaminants

Rapid Laboratory Analysis

Rapid Laboratory analyses are performed in the laboratory when results are needed quickly for time sensitive situations

Confirmatory Methods

Confirmatory Methods analyses are performed in the laboratory usually when reliable information on contaminant concentrations is needed (e.g., during remediation and recovery)

The ASR should work with the PRL and MSLs to develop an analytical strategy appropriate to the situation. The types of analyses selected often depend on the purpose of the monitoring (e.g., contaminant identification versus remediation) and the required data turnaround times. The analytical approach is expected to change as the incident progresses.

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