Sampling Planning Guidance

  1. Schedule your project with AP Genomic Labs Inc. and depending on scope order sampling supplies  such as
    • Syringes and syringe filters
    • Sample bottles
    • mobile filtration pump and supplies
    • etc.
  2. Check your sampling readiness
    • Inspect the sampling kit upon receipt (if applicable)
    • Do you have all needed supplies?
    • Are you familiar with the sampling protocol?
    • Is the sample processing protocol clear?
    • Did you consider collection of QA/QC samples (field blanks and duplicates)?
    • Do you have needed preservatives and temporary sample storage (depending on scope)
  3. Collect and process sample according to required protocols
    • Wear clean gloves and make sure not to contaminate any of the sampling materials.
    • Switch gloves at each site.
    • Label samples correctly
    • Complete the Chain-of-Custody (COC) form right after sampling at each location
  4. Packing and Shipping
    • Pack sample containers to avoid loss of sample or sample information
    • To protect sample containers from breakage packing materials such as bubble bags or foil should be used
    • Depending on scope and test performed you may use different types of external preservative (ice or dry ice)
    • Ensure that shipping carrier and location accepts the external preservative (not all locations accept dry ice shipments)
    • Make sure shipping containers are labeled correctly (e.g. dry ice requires special label)
    • Don’t forget to ship a COC form with the samples (in a zip-lock bag on top of shipping container)
    • Make sure you have the correct shipping address (may differ depending on scope)
    • To avoid loss, don’t ship overnight samples on Thursday or Friday
    • Ideally, let us know that samples were shipped and provide us with the tracking information.