What information can be obtained from a chain-of-custody?

A chain-of-custody provides vital information about the handling and transfer of samples, specifically a list of all individuals who have come into contact with those samples. This documentation is crucial for establishing the integrity and reliability of the samples throughout their lifecycle, from collection to analysis. By maintaining a detailed account of each person's involvement, it helps ensure that the samples have not been contaminated, tampered with, or altered in any way.

This rigorous tracking process is essential in legal contexts, as it supports the validity of the evidence when presenting findings. It also helps meet compliance standards in environmental and waste management sectors, where the proper handling of samples is critical for regulatory purposes. Understanding the chain-of-custody allows operators to refer back to any point in the sampling process, ensuring accountability and traceability.