Sampling
Sample Integrity
Collection of Samples in Duplicate
Cooling of Samples
For most test methods samples must be chilled to <6C immediately following collection and packed with a sufficient amount of ice to maintain that temperature until receipt at laboratory facility. EPA protocols do not allow the use of ice packs or ice substitutes because they are unable to reach a cold enough temperature.
Laboratories are required to maintain a record of sample temperature as received. Envirosystems utilizes temperature recording to monitor temperature when samples are picked up from a client location or dropped off at our laboratory. A notation of the temperature is made on the Chain of Custody and samples received on ice will be noted as such. A confirmatory temperature check is done upon receipt at the laboratory when couriers have picked up samples from a client location to ensure the cooling process was maintained during transport.
Forms
Envirosystems is committed to maintaining the integrity of all samples submitted for laboratory analyses. Envirosystems has a set criterion that all samples must pass in order to be considered to be of satisfactory condition. The Sample Department will notify the client of any samples that may be considered to be of unsatisfactory condition and analysis will be conducted only with the written authorization from the client.
The collection of a sample in duplicate is requested when submitting a series of 10 or more samples per Chain of Custody. Collecting double the volume of aqueous samples will enable us to perform additional quality control procedures in the laboratory. This practice may also be utilized when submitting samples for a project requiring additional quality control information. Please contact us for more details on when collecting additional volume is recommended.