Data Quality Management

Gradient assessed the reliability of benzene results reported by a petroleum company in support of its process wastewaters regulated under NESHAP. We examined underlying quality control practices and the representativeness of the sampling program. Our investigation found two cases of fraudulent instrument calibration by two different laboratories.

Gradient has provided ongoing quality assurance oversight services for a Superfund site located in New England for more than 20 years. We have developed several quality assurance plans, retained and overseen testing laboratories, conducted field sampling audits, and performed data validation and quality assessments.

Gradient assessed data integrity and usability issues associated with TCE and Technetium-99 radionuclide monitoring in support of remediation activities at an operational US DOE facility. Our in-depth investigation uncovered fraudulent sample analysis practices at the laboratory, and we provided the training, method validation, and auditing services needed to enable the laboratory to reopen for business.

Gradient assessed the reliability and usability of US EPA testing results to evaluate possible RCRA and TSCA waste disposal violations involving PCBs, chlorinated dioxins and furans, and hexachlorobenzene at an operating manufacturing facility. We evaluated the representativeness of the sampling program, adequacy of the quality control plan, and integrity and interpretation of the reported results.

Gradient provided scientific testimony regarding appropriate test methods available in the early 1980s for measuring TCE in drinking water. We researched municipal water supply TCE test methods and examined whether sampling procedures used by municipalities at that time for trihalomethanes were applicable for TCE.