Legal (sampling) Flashcards
What activities have legal ramifications in sampling?
- collection of samples
- handling of samples
- transport of samples
- analysis of samples
- storage of samples
When can the analyst come under greatest scrutiny in court?
The initial collection
What is needed to in court to show that accepted procedures were planned and followed?
Detailed sampling plan with QA/QC component
What do you need in court to make results defendable?
Equipment calibration protocols followed and documented
What do you need legally to results are positive or negative and not a natural component of env
Control samples
What must be done for blanks to be legally defensible in court
Must be documented as to when and where they were taken and they were treated and any preservatives added
What must be done to containers to ensure they are defensible in court
Pre-labeled and certified clean
What must be on
A sample containers label?
- name of sampler
- site identification
- sample identification
- date and time
- sample conditions (temp,pH,conductivity,colour)
- signature of sampler
Does a field notebook have to only contain information for one particular case?
Yes
Field notebooks must be:
- attributable
- permanent
- secure
How do you avoid tampering with legal samples after collection?
Must have a fitting lid and a sample seal or sealed with tape. This must be done as soon as sample is collected
What must be done to a cooler containing legal samples?
- cooled to 4c
- locked
- contents listed on outside of cooler
- chain of custody listed inside and outside cooler
- delivered in person (if possible)
What is the chain of custody?
Chronological record of the events and people involved with sample collection.
What must the chain of custody include?
- dates and times
- first and last names and roles of people involved
What does the chain of custody track?
Sample from the moment of collection through analysis and reporting to final disposal
