A strict continuity of possession and handling is maintained for all samples received by the laboratory. Upon receipt, the laboratory receiver inspects the package to ensure integrity of the secure packaging and seal. If the sample and its packaging and security seals are intact, the chain-of-custody form is signed and an internal tracking document is immediately produced for the sample. A corresponding barcode is also applied to the sample for identification and ease of handling. The internal-tracking documentation follows the sample throughout the course of analysis to ensure a chain-of-custody while in the laboratory. Only authorized personnel with a specific reason for handling the specimen are permitted to access samples, and the internal tracking document is signed and dated by all handlers. The internal tracking document follows the samples within the laboratory and ensures that the integrity of the sample is maintained within the facility.