Ensuring Your Analysis Starts with a Representative Sample
In agricultural and environmental testing, the analytical result from the lab is only as good as the sample it came from. A single gram of soil or plant tissue must accurately represent an entire field or shipment. **Sampling & Preparation Protocols** are the documented, standardized procedures (like ISO 11648) that ensure this representativeness, integrity, and homogeneity from field collection to lab analysis.
BQCIS provides expert services in both performing and verifying correct sampling and preparation methods. Our field technicians are trained in compliant sampling techniques for soil, water, crops, and bulk commodities. In the laboratory, we follow rigorous sample preparation protocols.
This includes homogenization, crushing, grinding, and splitting (e.g., rotary splitting) to create a small, uniform analytical subsample. We also manage sample storage and chain-of-custody to ensure accuracy and prevent contamination.
Key Sampling & Prep Activities
On-Site Field Sampling (Soil, Water, Crop)
Representative collection based on ISO 11648, covering depth, compositing, variability, water grab/composite sampling, and crop/feed capture.
Laboratory Sample Preparation & Homogenization
Drying, crushing, grinding, pulverizing, blending, and rotary sample division (RSD) to produce uniform, unbiased analytical subsamples.
Key Benefits of Our Training
Build Internal Competency
Ensure teams can perform and validate sampling protocols correctly.
Ensure System Effectiveness
Correct sampling removes bias and eliminates disputes.
Drive Continual Improvement
Better data → better decisions → better outcomes.
Achieve & Maintain Certification
Meet ISO, regulatory, and trade compliance requirements.
Success Story
Protocol Audit Identifies Sampling Bias in Mine Concentrate
A mining company’s lab consistently reported higher grades than the buyer’s results — creating costly commercial disputes.
BQCIS audited both the mine and port protocols, identifying mechanical sampling and splitter bias as the root cause.
Correcting the faulty splitter eliminated the grade discrepancy, ending the commercial dispute and restoring trust.