What Is Chain Of Custody?
Chain Of Custody is a documented record that tracks a drug test specimen from collection through handling, testing, and reporting. Each person who receives or transfers the specimen records the action. The record helps show that the specimen stayed connected to the correct donor and was not switched, altered, or left unexplained.
Quick Facts About Chain Of Custody
Category
Testing record
Used for
Specimen tracking
Common confusion
It is not the drug test result
Also called
Chain of Custody Form, CoC
Often discussed with
DOT Drug Testing
Key Takeaways About Chain Of Custody
- A signed record follows the specimen through each handoff.
- The form connects the specimen to the correct donor.
- Chain Of Custody is not the same as the test result.
How Chain Of Custody Works
Chain Of Custody follows a specimen through each step of a DOT drug test. The donor provides identifying information, and the collector records the collection details. The collector then seals the specimen and completes the related paperwork.
Related glossary terms: Drug Panel, Medical Review Officer, Specimen Collection.
Each transfer is recorded as the specimen moves to the next authorized person. The record can show who handled it, when the handoff occurred, and whether the seal remained intact. A specimen collection form connects the donor, sample, and paperwork. The Medical Review Officer reviews the reported result and related records when that review applies.
For example, a collector receives a urine specimen from a driver, checks the identifying details, seals the containers, and records the transfer. The receiving laboratory can then match the specimen with its paperwork before testing.
From the Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Garden City team
When we handle DOT drug testing, we check the donor information, specimen labels, seals, and required signatures. We also review each handoff before the specimen leaves our care. Clear records help us identify a missing entry or mismatch before it affects the testing process.
Chain Of Custody in Practice: A Real-World Example
During a DOT drug test at Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Garden City, the collector labels and seals the specimen after collection. The collector records the transfer so the next handler can match the specimen with the correct paperwork.
Related Services
Related Terms
Drug Panel
A drug panel is a group of drug tests performed on one specimen to check for…
Medical Review Officer
A Medical Review Officer is a licensed physician who reviews drug test results and checks medical…
Specimen Collection
Specimen Collection is the controlled process of receiving, identifying, and securing a sample for testing. In…
Split Specimen
Split Specimen is a drug-testing collection method that divides one urine sample into two sealed containers…
Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Garden City
Have Questions About Chain Of Custody?
Contact Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Garden City for practical guidance on Chain Of Custody and related chiropractor work in Garden City.