New Practice for Collection of Microbial Material from Surfaces by Micro-vacuum
1. Scope
1.1 This practice describes the protocols for collection of surface samples using a micro-vacuum collection cassette and filter and their delivery to the laboratory. 1.2The purpose of this practice is to support the eld investigator in assessing surfaces for settled microbial materials associated with microbial growth and accumulated microbial laden particulates in the occupied environment. 1.3This practice may be used on porous, semi-porous, and non-porous surfaces as an alternative to tape lift or swab collection methods, especially for porous surfaces when tape lift and swab methods may not be as practical or effective such as, but not limited to, carpet, fabric covered furniture, clothing, and bedding. 1.4The samples collected by this practice are appropriate for either qualitative or quantitative analysis by a method determined by the investigator. 1.5This practice does not address building occupant exposures, or occupant health risks. 1.6This practice does not address the development of a formal hypothesis or the establishment of sampling objectives.
There are several methods in common use for collecting microbial material from surfaces in the occupied environment. D22.08 has established standard practices for tape lift and swab sample collection. This standard practice is intended to establish a consistent procedure for collecting microbial matter using the micro-vacuum method.
