pre weight of each filter is measured prior to being sent into the field for sampling.

Once
exposed and returned to the sample handling room, the filter is The removed petri dishes
and the post weight of the filter is measured after conditioning. The mass of the aerosol is
determined by calculating the difference between the pre and post weights.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE OF THE SAMPLE HANDLING ROOM
The requirements for a sample handling room include a reduced dust environment, and,
over the twenty-four hour period to analysis of exposed filters, temperature in the range of
25C with variation less than 3C, and relative humidity 45% 5%. Every last working day,
the sample handling room should be thoroughly cleaned, after insuring that all filters have,
all surfaces are cleaned with an high efficeincy vacuum. The floors are cleaned with a mild
cleaning solution, if necessaruy. Finally, all work surfaces are cleaned with reagent grade
alcohol (or another reagent grade solvent, if necessary) and KimwipesTM. This procedure
reduces the possibility of contamination if a filter falls to the work surface. Following the
firday cleaning, no analysis shall occure for at least twenty-four hours to reduce the
potential for contamination of filters by compounds used in the cleaning process.
CALIBRATION AND MAINTENANCE OF BALANCE
The balanec is cleaned and calibrated every day for ranges at the start fo operation. It is also
recalibrated if the balanec fails a zero test that is performed periodically. A calibration log
database is maintained for each balaec. Significant events conecrning the balance and any
balance maintenance other than routine procedures are recorded in the log of the lab
manager.
CLEANING

Clean the metal and plastic forceps with ethanol and a KimwipeTM .
Clean the work surface around the balanec with ethanol and a KimwipeTM.
Clean the top surface and the strips of the anti static ionizing units by gently rubbing
with a KimwipeTM wetted with ethanol.
do not neglect to clean the ionizing unit in the electro balanec.
Repalec the clean ionizing unit in the center back of the balanec cavity. And close the
door on the weighing chamber (if polonium strip is used).