Rule 3745-560-325 | Compost sampling requirements for class III composting facilities.
(A) The owner or operator shall sample the compost in accordance with the following:
(1) Determine the volume of the pile of compost and record in the log of operations.
(2) Obtain one composite sample from each pile no greater than ten thousand cubic yards as follows:
(a) Each composite sample shall consist of nine grab samples of equal volume.
(b) Three grab samples shall be taken at different depths from three equally divided locations of the pile of compost.
(c) Thoroughly mix grab samples in a clean container to form one composite sample of a minimum volume of four quarts.
(3) Extract a sub-sample of a minimum volume of two quarts from the composite sample and place in a clean container.
(4) At a minimum, label the sample container to document the collection date, time, and person obtaining the sample.
(5) Samples collected for testing of table 2 in rule 3745-560-330 of the Administrative Code shall be prepared and analysis started within one of the following time frames:
(a) Not later than eight hours after the collection of the sample.
(b) Not later than forty-eight hours after the collection of the sample when refrigerated and maintained at four degrees Centigrade.
(6) Sample collection and preservation shall ensure valid and representative results.
(B) Authorization for alternative frequency of sampling or sampling method. Ohio EPA may approve and condition a request for an alternative frequency of sampling or sampling method if the alternative frequency or method is determined to ensure equivalent protection of public health and safety and the environment. The determination shall be based on the information provided in paragraphs (C) and (D) of this rule and any other information required by Ohio EPA.
(C) Request for approval of an alternative frequency of sampling. After one year of operation, the owner or operator may submit a written request for approval for an alternative frequency of sampling. The request shall include at a minimum the following information:
(1) A description of the proposed alternative frequency of sampling including how compliance with applicable quality standards will be ensured.
(2) The feedstocks, bulking agents, and additives accepted at the facility.
(3) A copy of the test results for at least five consecutive sampling and testing cycles in accordance with this rule and rule 3745-560-330 of the Administrative Code.
(4) A description of the composting mix including but not limited to the feedstock to bulking agent ratio.
(5) Any other information deemed necessary by Ohio EPA.
(D) Request for approval of an alternative sampling method. The owner or operator may submit a written request for approval of an alternative sampling method. The request shall include at a minimum the following information:
(1) A detailed narrative of how the alternative sampling or testing method will ensure compliance with applicable quality standards.
(2) The feedstocks, bulking agents, and additives accepted at the facility.
(3) For alternative testing methods, the scientifically recognized test preparation and analytical method that will provide equivalent or improved test results.
(E) Ohio EPA may require the owner or operator to submit additional information upon review of a request generated in accordance with paragraph (C) or (D) of this rule.
(F) The owner or operator who has obtained an approval for an alternative frequency of sampling or sampling method shall immediately notify the director of changes in the feedstocks, bulking agents, or additives composted or mix ratio for composting and simultaneously shall commence complying with this rule and rule 3745-560-330 of the Administrative Code.
Supplemental Information