Opening Drums and Containers - Drum Sampling

Drum sampling is the process of taking a sample of the drum contents in order to identify them. It can be incredibly dangerous if the drum contents are unknown.

Before sampling, employers should develop a plan to minimize injury or harm. As a part of this plan, employers should develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for opening drums, sampling, and sample packaging and transportation. These SOPs should do the following:

• Identify the drums that need to be sampled.
• Research available background information about the wastes.
• Choose the appropriate sampling devices and containers.
• Develop a sampling plan. This should include the number, volume, and locations of samples that will be taken.
• Provide a trained health and safety professional with available information about the wastes and site conditions. Have this person select the appropriate personal protection to be used during sampling, decontamination, and packaging of the sample.

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