Field instruments sensitive to volatile organic compounds may not be used for what?

Field instruments that are sensitive to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are designed for detecting and measuring the presence of these compounds in various environments, particularly in soil and water samples. However, when it comes to the final soil sample results, it's important to understand that these instruments are not typically utilized for reporting final results because of the potential for VOCs to change during the sampling process.

During the collection of soil samples, the presence of VOCs can lead to contamination or alteration of the sample and affect the accuracy of the measurements. Therefore, while these instruments may be useful for preliminary assessments to detect the possible presence of VOCs, final results typically rely on more stable and controlled laboratory analyses that can provide a definitive assessment of the contaminants present.

This distinction is crucial as it ensures that the final results of soil sampling provide a reliable basis for any decisions regarding remediation or environmental impact, rather than being influenced by the dynamics of VOCs that may not be controlled in the field environment.