Get SPL Analysis Request Chain of Custody Record

Definition(s): A process that tracks the movement of evidence through its collection, safeguarding, and analysis lifecycle by documenting each person who handled the evidence, the date/time it was collected or transferred, and the purpose for the transfer.

An example of chain of custody would be the recovery of a bloody knife at a murder scene: Officer Andrew collects the knife and places it into a container, then gives it to forensics technician Bill. Forensics technician Bill takes the knife to the lab and collects fingerprints and other evidence from the knife.

What is a Chain of Custody? Chain of custody refers to a system of controls and procedures that document the progress of a sample from the point of collection through the laboratory to its disposal after the results have been accepted.

Definition(s): A process that tracks the movement of evidence through its collection, safeguarding, and analysis lifecycle by documenting each person who handled the evidence, the date/time it was collected or transferred, and the purpose for the transfer.

Chain of custody starts at the time of initial patient contact. The specimen must be collected under controlled conditions. The collection facility initiates a documentation process that accompanies the specimen to the laboratory.

The Laboratory Internal Chain of Custody documentation records the chronological traceability of custody (by authorized Person(s) or upon storage) and the actions performed on the Sample and any Aliquot of the Sample taken for Analytical Testing.

A typical chain of custody document may include: Date and time of collection. Location of collection. Name of investigator(s) Name or owner of the media or computer. Reason for collection. Matter name or case number. Type of media. Serial number of media if available.

An example of chain of custody would be the recovery of a bloody knife at a murder scene: Officer Andrew collects the knife and places it into a container, then gives it to forensics technician Bill. Forensics technician Bill takes the knife to the lab and collects fingerprints and other evidence from the knife.