Overview
ISO 18400-107:2017 - Soil quality - Sampling - Part 107: Recording and reporting specifies the minimum information required in a sampling report for soil investigations, regardless of the investigation purpose. It does not cover preparation of the overall investigation report (see ISO/IEC 17025:2005, 5.10.3). The standard defines what must be recorded and reported to ensure sampling traceability, data quality and defensible laboratory results.
Key topics and requirements
ISO 18400-107 focuses on clear, factual documentation of sampling activities. Core elements include:
- Five major reporting activities: instructions to the sampler (and any deviations), field observations and measurements, laboratory instructions, identification of uncertainties, and comments on accuracy/precision/variability.
- Sampling plan linkage: the sampling report must reference the sampling plan and objectives.
- Field data and technical requirements (examples of mandatory information):
- name(s) of sampling personnel; site name/reference; precise sample locations (coordinates, depth); site sketches or maps
- date/time of sampling; field measurements and observations; weather conditions
- sampling device and sampling procedure (origin/generation of sample)
- sample identification and labelling; list of samples and planned analyses
- sample amount, whether samples are individual or composite, pretreatment in the field
- packaging, storage, transport details and chain-of-custody considerations
- safety requirements, quality control measures, and any authorised deviations from the sampling plan
- Site data: summary of surface relief, vegetation/cover, erosion signs, land use history, geology, hydrology and other features affecting interpretation.
- Sample description and identification: unique sample IDs (optionally including coordinates), field descriptions (colour, consistency, grain size, odour), disturbed/undisturbed status, volume, moisture state.
- Reporting format: factual, legible, cross-referenced reports; inclusion of photographs and electronic site records is encouraged.
Applications
ISO 18400-107 supports reliable soil sampling reporting across applications such as:
- environmental contamination assessments and site investigations
- remediation projects and validation monitoring
- agricultural and soil health surveys
- geotechnical and construction site investigations
- scientific research and long-term data archiving
Using this standard improves data traceability, enables proper interpretation of laboratory results, and reduces uncertainty in decision-making.
Who should use this standard
- Environmental consultants and field samplers
- Soil laboratories and analysts
- Project managers, regulators and compliance officers
- QA/QC specialists and data managers
Related standards
Adopting ISO 18400-107 ensures consistent, SEO-relevant practices for soil quality sampling, recording and reporting, helping teams deliver robust, auditable sampling records.
