The purpose of the Standardized Monitoring Framework (SMF),  promulgated in the Phase II Rule on January 30, 1991 (56 FR 3526), is to standardize, simplify, and consolidate monitoring requirements across contaminant groups. The SMF reduces the variability within monitoring requirements for chemical and radiological contaminants across system sizes and types. It also increases public health protection by simplifying monitoring plans and sycnronizing monitoring schedules.

The SMF Quick Reference Guide summarizes the federal drinking water requirements and ongoing monitoring frequencies for existing systems. Note that primacy agencies with an EPA-approved waiver program have the flexibility to issue waivers, which take into account regional and state specific characteristics and concerns. To determine exact monitoring frequencies, this Quick Reference Guide must be used in conjunction with any EPA-approved waiver program and/or additional requirements as determined by the primacy agency.

• The Standardized Monitoring Framework: A Quick Reference Guide (PDF)(3 pp, 285 K, May 2020, EPA 816-F-20-002)
  A quick reference guide to understanding the Standardized Monitoring Framework.