Site-Specific Health and Safety Plan (HASP) - Laschools.org

5.4 SAMPLE CHAIN-OF-CUSTODY
Sample custody begins in the field at the time of collection and continues throughout the
laboratory analytical process. Chain-of-custody forms will be prepared at the time of
sample collection and will accompany the samples to the laboratory and through the
laboratory sample processing. Chain-of-custody forms will be completed for each cooler
in a shipment of samples to track the samples and provide a written record of all persons
handling the samples. The following information for each sample will be documented on
the Chain-of-custody form:
• Unique sample identification;
• Date and time of sample collection;
• Source of sample (including name, location, and sample type);
• Designation of MS/MSD;
• Analyses required;
• Name(s) of collector(s);
• Custody transfer signatures, and dates and times of sample transfer from the field to
transports and to the laboratory; and
• Bill of lading or transported tracking number (if applicable).
Shipments will be sent by common carrier for overnight delivery, and a bill of lading will
be prepared. The shipping bill number will be recorded on the chain-of-custody form.
Bills of lading will be retained as part of the permanent documentation.
5.5 LABORATORY CUSTODY PROCEDURES
Laboratory sample custody procedures must be presented in the laboratory QAP and
approved by the project manager prior to shipping any samples to the laboratory. To
facilitate the documentation of sample custody, the laboratory will track the progress of
sample preparation, analysis, and report preparation. Samples received by the laboratory
will be checked carefully for label identification, chain-of-custody forms, and any
discrepancies. The laboratory will also note and record cooler temperatures, physical
damage, incomplete sample labels, incomplete paperwork, discrepancies between sample
labels and paperwork, broken or leaking containers, and inappropriate caps or bottles.
The laboratory will send signed facsimile copies of all chains-of-custody and sample login
receipt forms to the field manager (FM) within 24 hours of sample receipt in the
laboratory. All discrepancies and/or potential problems (e.g., lack of sample volume)
will be discussed immediately with the FM.
The laboratory sample custodian will provide a report to the FM of any problems
observed with any of the samples received. This report will also document the condition
of samples, sample numbers received, corresponding laboratory numbers, and the
estimated date for completion of analysis. Written permission must be received from the
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