Specifications include, but are not limited to: 1. Laboratory services for the gravimetric analysis of particulate matter filters. Filters and cassettes will be provided by Louisville APCD. a. Gravimetric analysis pre- and post- exposure for PM2.5. Strict adherence to 40 CFR 50, Appendix L method must be implemented. Sample number is approximately 300 to 500 filters per year including 10% field blanks and 10% field blanks. b. Validation of sample data shall be performed according to the most recent version of the QA Handbook Volume II authored by the EPA. c. Lab shall use sample ID placed on filter by manufacturer. d. All lab filter handling shall be performed in a controlled environment. e. Filter inspection shall be performed with a light table and magnification. f. The lab shall implement a data management system that requires all lab quality control (lab blanks, instrument zero, calibration checks with working standards, and replicate analyses) to be performed to allow analysis of the sample set. g. The sample ID entry shall be entered by bar code. h. Direct data entry from analytical balance to data management system shall be used. i. Laboratory environmental conditions shall be recorded in data management system. j. Data management system shall integrate sample collection and laboratory data. k. Filters shall be loaded into uniquely identified cassettes in lab. l. Filters and cassettes shall be loaded into anti-static bags with field data labels that contain sample and cassette ID numbers. m. Detailed chain of custody forms shall be utilized and accompany the filters in transit. Data from the forms shall be entered into the data management system. n. The lab shall be pressurized with HEPA filtration. o. All surfaces within the lab shall be connected to a dedicated ground buss. p. Samples shall be shipped in rigid coolers with cooling agent. q. Samples shall be archived in refrigeration for 1 year. 2. Data management. a. Analysis of the sample data using electronic files from the particulate matter sampling instruments shall be used to verify and/or qualify data. (Electronic files will be provided by Louisville APCD) b. Lab shall notify Louisville APCD of elevated concentrations, deviations in lab procedures, or exceedances of acceptance criteria. c. Lab shall provide quality assured concentrations and related parameter data in AQS file format to APCD. d. Lab shall provide an hourly labor cost for resolution of sample data collection discrepancies. e. Lab shall provide monthly AQS files and quarterly detailed files that provide documentation that Lab environmentals were within specification and that all samples collected and weighed met all criteria specified in 40 CFR Part 50 Appendix L.