If the original sample is split is the confirmatory result still valid and accurate? What happens if the lab loses or contaminates the confirmatory sample?
Splitting the sample (sample A and sample B) is a requirement under the Australia Standards, and the result from the split sample is valid and accurate. This procedure is to be witnessed at all times by both the donor and the approved tester. Splitting the sample ensures that same sample that was tested in the approved laboratory (sample A), is available in a second secure tamper proof container (sample B) for the donor if they choose to get the sample tested again. The donor can elect to have the B sample tested by the same laboratory that tested sample A, or have it transported using strict chain of custody procedures to a second approved laboratory.
