1. (a) An approved laboratory shall ensure that its employees prepare all samples in accordance with policies and procedures that include appropriate information necessary for identifying, collecting and transporting samples in a manner that does not endanger the integrity of the samples for any testing required by this part.

2. (b) The sampling policies must:

   1. (1) Be appropriate to the matrix being sampled.
   2. (2) Require samples to be representative of the harvest batch, harvest lot or process lot.
   3. (3) Require the amount being removed to be based on applicable statistical criteria.

3. (c) The sampling procedures must include the following procedures:

   1. (1) Surveying the conditions in which the sample is being stored.
   2. (2) Using appropriate sampling equipment and consistent procedures.
   3. (3) Selecting and removing equal portions for each sample.
   4. (4) Random or systematic taking of samples throughout the harvest batch or harvest lot.
   5. (5) Obtaining a minimum number of samples based on harvest batch or harvest lot size.
   6. (6) Checking all parts of the harvest batch when harvest lots are created from that harvest batch.
   7. (7) Recording on a form prescribed by the Department all observations and procedures used when collecting the sample.
   8. (8) Creating a unique sample identification number that will be linked to the harvest batch or harvest lot number assigned by the grower/processor in the electronic tracking system.
   9. (9) Entering all required information into the electronic tracking system.

Cross References

This section cited in 28 Pa. Code § 1171a.22 (relating to laboratories generally).