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Transport, Couriers

There is a courier service which is available for collecting samples from all GP’s across Cornwall. All collections and deliveries are tracked, and drivers are fully trained, wear uniforms and carry ID badges. All samples are transported in bespoke UN3373 boxes and regular audits and staff training are conducted to ensure documented process is followed meticulously.

Courier vans deliver samples to the laboratories daily, times depending on location.

If there are any courier issues please contact –

Ross Halliday – RCHT Courier Manager

There is no courier service at weekends. A limited service (collection from local Hospitals) usually operates on Public Holidays.

If samples are not transported by the hospital courier service it is the responsibility of the requesting doctor to ensure that appropriate packaging is used to contain spillage in the event of an accident and that samples/requests are taken directly to the laboratory concerned under conditions which protect their integrity.

Occasionally patients deliver their own samples under direction from the requesting clinician, in which case all due care and attention must be given to the safe containment of the specimen and also protection of sensitive data (Data Protection Act).

  • Any specimens for Histopathology (in formalin) must never be sent by Post Office services or public Taxi services. These specimens must only be transported using the designated NHS courier services. Dental surgeries should make arrangements with their local GP surgery, to leave any dental histology samples with the surgery for collection by the NHS courier.
  • Uncentrifuged samples must be received in the laboratory within 24 hours. Therefore should not be taken on a Friday afternoon. If it is not possible to get the sample to the laboratory promptly the sample MUST be centrifuged and stored in a refrigerator until transport available.
  • Specimens should be transported to the laboratory without delay during normal working hours. If transport is delayed store at 2-8°C.