Overview
EN ISO 5667-19:2004 - Water quality - Sampling - Part 19: Guidance on sampling in marine sediments (CEN adoption of ISO 5667-19:2004) gives practical guidance for planning and conducting sampling of marine sediments for physical and chemical analyses used in environmental monitoring and assessment. The standard covers sampling strategy and design, selection and use of sampling devices, observations and records made during sampling, handling and sub‑sampling, and packaging and storage of sediment samples. It does not cover data treatment or laboratory analysis, nor is it intended for freshwater sediments.
Key Topics and Requirements
- Sampling strategy and programme: design of surveys tied to objectives and data quality needs; definition of study area, number and location of sampling points, replicates, and seasonal considerations.
- Types of surveys: guidance for pilot/reconnaissance surveys, baseline/impact assessments and temporal trend monitoring (repeated sampling or coring).
- Sampling equipment and techniques: selection of appropriate devices for surface sediments and cores; Annex B describes common sediment sampling devices.
- Vessel and positioning requirements: requirements for vessel stability during sampling and accurate definition of sampling point positions.
- Handling, sub‑sampling and records: procedures for obtaining representative sub‑samples, sample identification, chain‑of‑custody and reporting forms (example form in Annex A).
- Packaging and storage: recommendations to preserve sample integrity before laboratory analysis (temperature control, containers, and transport considerations).
- Safety and quality assurance: safety precautions during fieldwork and application of QA protocols to ensure sample reproducibility and reliability.
- Normative references: vocabulary and terms linked to ISO 6107; harmonized with the ISO 5667 series on water sampling.
Applications and Who Uses It
EN ISO 5667-19:2004 is used by:
- Environmental regulators and monitoring agencies conducting marine sediment surveys
- Marine and coastal researchers studying contaminant distribution, sedimentology or historical deposition
- Environmental consultants performing baseline surveys, impact assessments and long‑term trend monitoring
- Port authorities, offshore operators and remediation teams requiring standardized sampling procedures
The standard helps ensure comparability of sampling results across programs and time, supporting environmental assessments, contaminant mapping and compliance monitoring.
Related Standards (if applicable)
- ISO 5667 series (sampling guidance for water and sediments), e.g. Parts 1, 2, 3, 9, 12, 14, 15, 17 (see ISO 5667 foreword for full list)
- ISO 6107 (water quality - vocabulary) for defined terms
Keywords: EN ISO 5667-19:2004, marine sediments, sediment sampling, water quality sampling, sampling strategy, sampling devices, packaging and storage, baseline survey, trend monitoring.