Sample Acceptance
Sample Acceptance Policy for Teklab, Inc.
This page outlines the circumstances under which Teklab will accept samples for analysis and provides insight into our protocol. If any samples fail to meet these criteria, clients will be notified, and the noncompliance will be noted in the final analytical report. Additionally, you will find information regarding our standard turn-around-time and quality control requirements that may be useful for those new to our services.
1. Chain of Custody Requirements
The Chain of Custody form must include the following information:
- Sample identification
- Location, and/or date and time of collection
- Sample collector’s name
- Type of preservation used
- Sample type
- Required analytical testing
- Special comments or instructions, including any specific reporting limits
- Indication if the samples are known to be hazardous or involved in litigation
- Signatures of the sample collector and all individuals who handle the sample, acknowledging the terms and conditions listed on the reverse side of the form
- Purchase order number and/or special invoicing instructions
2. Sample Labeling
Each sample must be labeled clearly and accurately using durable labels and indelible ink. Labels must contain a unique identification for each sample.
3. Sample Quantity and Preservation
An adequate volume of sample must be provided in the appropriate containers with the correct preservatives required for the specific analyses.
4. Sample Holding Times
All analyses are subject to required holding times. To ensure compliance, samples should be delivered to Teklab promptly after collection. If samples are received with less than half of the required hold time remaining, a surcharge may apply, or the analysis may not be completed within the designated hold time.
5. Temperature Requirements
Samples requiring thermal preservation at 4°C must be received with a temperature between 0.5°C and 6.0°C. For same-day deliveries, samples should show evidence that chilling has begun, such as being packed on ice.
6. Notification of Issues
Clients will be informed if there are any signs of damage or contamination, or if the sample does not meet the outlined acceptance criteria. In such cases, analysis will not proceed without client verification, and all communications will be documented.
Turnaround Time
Teklab’s standard turnaround time for most analytical services is 5 to 7 working days. However, this may vary depending on sample volume and current workload. For expedited results or large projects, please contact your project manager in advance to make arrangements.
Additionally, to continue providing the best service possible, we have prepared a guide for our holiday closures to give you ample time to plan around the holiday schedule.
Teklab understands that environmental testing may be an ambiguous term to some people, to help you understand the sampling procedure and why our standard turn around time of one week or less is exceptional in our industry, we have included below a brief outline of the complexities.