3.2.1 Laboratory – Sample Collection, Transportation, and Storage A separate Vendor (collection only) may be responsible for collecting, packaging, and preparing specimens for transport to the Laboratory vendor for testing. The laboratory vendor will schedule express courier service as determined by County approved testing schedule. 3.2.1.1 The laboratory vendor shall be responsible for a lab-authorized courier service that will pick up and transport specimens to the Vendor’s laboratory at least two (2) times per week (as determined by testing schedule). 3.2.1.2 Both the collection and laboratory vendor shall maintain strict chain-of-custody documented procedures to ensure that the results are correctly matched to the person who provided the specimen, and transfer all specimens in a manner to preserve the chain-of-custody. 3.2.1.3 The laboratory vendor shall provide written instructions for the shipping process and tracking system, including how to access the tracking system, to collection vendor. 3.2.2 Laboratory – Specimen Validity Testing The laboratory vendor shall possess strict protocol related to specimen validity, tampering and adulteration, including creatinine testing for dilution as recommended by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). 3.2.3 Laboratory – Adulterant Validity Testing The Vendor has the capability to test specimens for signs of adulteration. This examination will include physical (abnormal or unusual color or odor, excessive foaming, and excess sediments) and analytical (checking for creatinine, PH, specific gravity, nitrates and oxidants). Contractor will also be able to identify chemicals intended to alter or interfere with test results.
