Tape-lift, bulk and swab samples are analyzed in our lab by Direct Microscope Analysis (DME). Please read all instructions before proceeding.
Tape-lift sampling
- Use a 5 cm (2”) piece of clear Scotch tape (not opaque or duct tape). Hold it along the edges, trying not to touch the sticky side.
- Press the tape gently onto the surface to be sampled.
- Peel the tape off the surface, holding it by the edges as much as possible and place it sticky side down on a piece of wax or grease paper.
- Place the paper in a clean zip lock plastic bag.
- Complete the Chain of Custody form and send to the lab.
Bulk sampling
- Wearing protective gloves, cut a small 5 x 5 cm (2” x 2”) piece of the suspect material (e.g., drywall, carpet, wood), taking care not to disturb the mould.
- Place the sample in a clean zip lock plastic bag (one sample per bag). Label the bag.
- Complete the Chain of Custody form and send to the lab.
Surface Swab sampling (for wet surfaces)
- Use a sterile swab for sampling on wet surfaces.
- Wearing protective gloves, roll a sterile swab lightly across the area to be sampled. (To quantify the amount of mould or bacteria on the surface, swab a specified surface area—e.g., 100 sq. cm.)
- Insert the swab in the tube or a clean zip lock plastic bag and label the sample.
- Complete the Chain of Custody form and send to the lab within 24 hours. In case of delays, use a cooler box with ice packs for wet samples.
Air sampling
This is a more complex procedure involving the use of special equipment (pump and air cassettes or agar strips/plates). We recommend contacting our Mississauga Microbiology Laboratory to book a trained technician.
Fees for Tape-lift, Bulk and Swab Analysis
Regular Service – 3-5 working days -- $50 per sample (plus applicable taxes)
Rush Service - (24-hour turnaround) -- $100 per sample (plus applicable taxes)
Getting Samples to Us
Drop off, mail or courier samples with payment to our Mississauga Microbiology Laboratory:
Pinchin Ltd.
Microbiology Laboratory
Attention: Dr. Rafic Dulymamode
2555 Meadowpine Blvd., Unit 2
Mississauga, ON L5N 6C3
Canada
(Map)
Office hours are 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday. There is an after-hours sample drop box beside the main doors.
Phone: 905-363-0678
Toll Free: 1.855.PINCHIN (746-2446)
Fax: 905-363-0681
If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to give us a call.
Chain of Custody
All samples must be accompanied by a Chain of Custody Form.
