Chain of Custody
Chain of Custody is a tracking system used in laboratories and testing facilities to document and control samples from collection to final results. Think of it as a detailed paper trail that shows who handled a sample, when they handled it, and what they did with it. This is especially important in medical labs, drug testing facilities, and forensic laboratories where test results might be used for legal purposes. It's similar to how shipping companies track packages, but with much stricter rules because the results could affect someone's health, employment, or legal situation.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Chain of Custody documentation for over 500 samples per week in a high-volume testing facility
Implemented electronic Chain of Custody tracking system that improved accuracy by 98%
Trained staff on proper Chain of Custody procedures and compliance requirements
Typical job title: "Laboratory Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Laboratory Technicians
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where you discover a break in the Chain of Custody?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain the importance of immediately documenting the issue, notifying appropriate supervisors, conducting an investigation to determine the cause, implementing corrective actions, and possibly rejecting/recollecting samples if integrity cannot be verified.
Q: How would you improve a laboratory's Chain of Custody system?
Expected Answer: Should discuss implementing electronic tracking systems, creating clear procedures, establishing staff training programs, regular audits, and ways to prevent common errors while maintaining compliance with regulations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What documentation is required for proper Chain of Custody?
Expected Answer: Should mention date, time, and names of all individuals handling samples, purpose of transfers, sample conditions, storage locations, and any special handling requirements.
Q: How do you ensure proper Chain of Custody when shipping samples?
Expected Answer: Should explain using proper shipping containers, security seals, documentation requirements, choosing appropriate shipping methods, and maintaining required temperature conditions.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is Chain of Custody and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a documented trail of sample handling from collection to disposal, important for ensuring sample integrity and legal requirements.
Q: What information do you need to record when receiving a sample?
Expected Answer: Should mention date and time of receipt, condition of sample, who delivered it, any identifying numbers, and verification that seals are intact.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic sample receiving and processing
- Documentation completion
- Understanding of laboratory safety
- Basic computer skills for tracking systems
Mid (2-5 years)
- Supervising sample processing
- Training others on procedures
- Troubleshooting documentation issues
- Quality control monitoring
Senior (5+ years)
- System implementation and improvement
- Audit management
- Policy development
- Regulatory compliance oversight
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of attention to detail in documentation
- No understanding of legal implications
- Unfamiliarity with regulatory requirements
- Poor record-keeping habits
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