| Swab Sampling 1. Obtain a sterile 1mL Butterfield’s Solution swab Product # 8708935 to collect samples for culture or a TransPorter swab Product ID8708301 for PCR testing. 2. Remove swab from packaging material and swab the desired area thoroughly; rolling the swab lightly back and forth over sampling area. A 4”x 4” area is recommended. Insert the swab into the tube and firmly close the cap. Ship the swabs to EMSL. Bulk Samples 1. Wearing gloves, remove a small piece of the suspect material. Place piece inside a clean sterile container or new plastic bag (Ziploc). 2. Close the bag or cap the container and label appropriately. Contact Plates 1. Store the contact plate at 2-8° C. Product is light and temperature sensitive; protect from light, excessive heat, moisture, and freezing. 2. Hold the plate with thumb and second finger and use index finger to press plate bottom firmly against the selected test surface. The same amount of pressure should be applied for every sample. 3. Do not twist or move the plate laterally. Lateral movement spreads contaminants over the agar surface, thus making resolution of colonies. |