In drug and alcohol testing, accuracy and integrity are essential. If the chain of custody for a hair sample is compromised, results can be delayed, questioned, or misinterpreted. Maintaining a clear, verifiable process ensures that every test result can be trusted.
The 3 ways we safeguard the chain of custody from collection to analysis
1. Use a trained professional to collect the sample
Samples should always be collected by a trained professional. At Cansford Labs, our collectors ensure that samples are taken correctly and remain uncontaminated.
Hair testing is more resistant to manipulation than blood or urine testing, but precautions are still vital. Our collectors secure samples in foil which are sealed within our sample packs using tamper-evident seals. This ensures that the sample arriving for analysis is exactly as it was collected.
2. Confirm identity and use a witness
It’s essential to confirm that the sample belongs to the correct individual. Official photo ID should always be verified at the time of collection.
Having a reliable witness present can add another layer of protection. The witness observes the collection and signs documentation verifying that the sample was taken correctly.
3. Track and verify the analysis
While the analysis process occurs in the lab, transparency and traceability are key. Every sample is tracked from receipt to reporting using our Laboratory Information Management System. Technicians check the seals, record donor details, and carefully prepare the sample for analysis.
For additional reassurance, a witness statement can be provided detailing the lab process. This demonstrates that the analysis was conducted according to strict procedures, without compromise.
Why chain of custody matters
Maintaining an unbroken chain of custody is fundamental to credible drug and alcohol testing. Using trained professionals for collection, verifying identity with a witness present, and documenting laboratory procedures all safeguard the reliability of results, allowing them to be court admissible.
The takeaway
At Cansford Labs, we combine scientific rigour with practical safeguards to make sure every sample is collected, handled, and analysed with integrity. Every result we provide reflects accuracy, fairness, and trust.
