Guidance on Deviating Samples

Following recent guidance, provided by the Laboratory Committee of the European Cooperations for Accreditation, relating to the handling of samples prior to analysis and the effect of this on the validity of test results, the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) has stated that it will be strengthening its focus on this area during assessment visits to laboratories.

We are pleased to inform you that we will be improving the service we offer for Chemistry and Microbiology wastewater analysis by making changes to our working practices to ensure that the requirements of this new guidance are met. Key areas of focus will be:

Identifying the date on which samples are taken;
Clarifying the time in which samples must be provided to us to ensure that maximum sample preservation times are not exceeded; and Considering the condition of samples, containers and sample storage prior to receipt at the laboratory Commencement of analysis within the maximum sample preservations times.

Some of the changes may have an impact on your working practices and we look forward to working together to prepare our customers about what these changes will mean for them. 

For further information:

Sample Stability Brochure
Microbiology stability times
Current maximum preservations times for chemistry analysis
Current maximum preservations times for soils analysis
Current maximum preservations times for potable analysis
Container type and courier guide for wastewater and soils
Container type and courier guide for potable water

Customer Communication:
STSASCOM2811