What does conducting a chain of custody ensure in water quality testing?

Conducting a chain of custody ensures the integrity and reliability of samples in water quality testing by establishing a documented and unbroken trail of accountability from the time a sample is collected until it is analyzed. This process includes detailed documentation that tracks who collected the sample, when and where it was collected, the methods used for handling and storing the sample, and each individual who has had access to the sample thereafter.

By maintaining a chain of custody, any potential changes to the sample—whether due to contamination, degradation, or mishandling—can be avoided or accounted for. This is critical for ensuring that the results of the water quality tests are valid and can be trusted. Any discrepancies in the handling of the sample could lead to invalid results, which could ultimately affect water safety decisions and regulatory compliance. Therefore, the chain of custody is fundamental in confirming that the results truly reflect the state of the water being tested.