Sample Transport and Storage - Field Sampling: Principles and Practices in Environmental Analysis - page 217

containers and controls must be used in sampling and shipping. The conditions that
samples are exposed to during shipping and storage must be controlled if the component
of interest is to be maintained in its original concentration and form. Chain of custody
forms must be scrupulously kept during the whole sampling and transportation process. It
is highly recommended that a computer-based COC be maintained, along with a paper
COC to accompany the samples. A request for analysis form must accompany the
samples to the analytical laboratory. Discussions with the analytical laboratory's project
manager assigned to the project is essential for successful sampling and analysis of
samples.

Request for analysis results form (not related to any commercial or government
form)
Analytical laboratory information—name, contact person, address, phone
numbers, E-mail, etc.
Submitter information—name of organization, contact person, address, phone
numbers, E-mail, etc.
Field sample
number

Lab. sample
number

Sample
amount

Sample
condition

Component analysis
requested
Cr Ni Cu As Se Hg

AC13a

AC13b

AC13c

FIGURE 8.6 Example of information provided in a request for analysis results
form. Actual forms will ask for more information and detail.

QUESTIONS

1. Explain three reasons why security of samples is important. What security
precautions are needed?

2. Describe the characteristics that a sample container must have. What must the