Skip to main content
Michael Taranto
Managing Director

When testing for asbestos, ensuring the integrity and traceability of your sample from the moment it is collected until it's analysed is crucial. This process is safeguarded by a Chain of Custody (CoC) form—a critical document that tracks each step of your sample’s journey, ensuring reliability, compliance, and accuracy.

Whether you’re a homeowner conducting a DIY renovation, a property manager assessing risk, or a workplace managing health and safety obligations, knowing how to correctly complete and submit a CoC form ensures your asbestos testing is precise, compliant, and legally robust.

Let’s explore what the CoC is, why it's essential, and how to complete it properly.

What exactly is a Chain of Custody (CoC) Form?

A Chain of Custody (CoC) form is a formal record that tracks your asbestos sample from the point of collection through to its laboratory analysis. Its primary roles are:

  • Accurate identification – Matching each sample to the right client details.
  • Ensuring integrity – Preventing sample contamination or misidentification.
  • Legal compliance – Producing a legally defensible testing process aligned with Australian regulations and NATA standards.

At QED, every asbestos sample submitted must be accompanied by a properly completed CoC form.

Why is the Chain of Custody Important?

Completing your CoC form thoroughly and correctly ensures:

  • Compliance with regulatory standards – Adhering to strict NATA guidelines for accurate and defensible laboratory testing.
  • Traceability and accountability – Clearly documenting the origin and history of your sample.
  • Accurate, reliable results – Eliminating any potential for mix-ups or errors in labelling.
  • Legal and safety protection – Particularly vital in workplace health and safety contexts and real estate transactions.

Any gaps or inaccuracies in the CoC form can lead to delays or rejection of samples, potentially compromising safety or compliance outcomes.

How to Complete the CoC Form

Completing the form correctly is straightforward but must be done carefully. Here’s a quick, step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Client Details

  • Client Name: Your full name or the company name.
  • Contact Information: Include phone and email clearly, as this will be used for result delivery.
  • Order Number: If applicable, provide your order confirmation number.

Step 2: Sample Description

  • Sample Location: Clearly describe the exact location of the sample (e.g., bathroom floor tile, ceiling insulation, eaves).
  • Collection Date: Specify the exact date of collection.
  • Number of Samples: Clearly list each individual sample.

Step 3: Signature and Confirmation

  • Ensure you sign the form, confirming that all samples have been correctly collected, handled, and packaged in accordance with instructions.

Step 4: Secure Sample Packaging

  • Double-bag each sample in zip-lock plastic bags to prevent contamination.
  • Ensure sample labels exactly match the details on the CoC form.

How to Submit Your Samples to QED 

Once you’ve completed your CoC form and securely packaged your samples, submit them through one of these methods:

  • Post your samples
    Address: Unit 1, 35 Sustainable Ave, Bibra Lake, WA 6163
    Tip: Use tracked postage for peace of mind.
  • Deliver your samples
    Visit our Bibra Lake laboratory during business hours or utilise our secure after-hours drop box for convenient submission.

What Happens After Submission?

  • Upon receiving your sample, QED's NATA-accredited laboratory performs rigorous analysis.
  • Within 72 hours, a Certificate of Analysis will be emailed directly to you, clearly outlining the presence or absence of asbestos.

Final Checklist Before Sending Your Samples 

  • Samples double-bagged and clearly labelled.

  • CoC form fully completed and signed.

  • Appropriate postage method or drop-off arrangements made.

By diligently following these steps, you'll ensure your asbestos testing process is seamless, accurate, and compliant with Australian regulations.

For more information or if you require further assistance, feel free to contact the QED team or order your DIY asbestos testing kit here.

Why Choose QED?

With decades of experience in environmental testing and a firm commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction, QED delivers reliable results and peace of mind every time. Our NATA accreditation guarantees your asbestos testing meets the highest standards for accuracy and legal defensibility.