Concentrate Sampling Procedure

The Concentrate Sampling Procedure Course is designed for individuals engaged in the cannabis industry, particularly those involved with the production, testing, and quality assurance of cannabis concentrates. This program offers a detailed curriculum that encompasses the fundamental principles, methodologies, and standards necessary for the accurate and efficient sampling of cannabis concentrates, including oils, shatters, waxes, and more.

One of the critical aspects covered in this certification is the determination of sample increment and test batch amounts. These elements are pivotal in ensuring that the quantity of material collected for testing meets the requisite standards for a comprehensive analysis. The certification delineates the process of collecting sample increments, which are then amalgamated into a single test batch. This batch is placed in a transparent container, ready for submission to a testing facility. The process is designed to guarantee that the collected sample is representative of the entire batch, thereby ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the test results.

Another significant component of the certification is the emphasis on the role and training of designated test batch collectors. These individuals are responsible for the collection of sample increments and are required to adhere strictly to the operation’s Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for sampling. To become a designated test batch collector, an individual must undergo comprehensive training, which can be provided in-house by the employing operation or through a qualified third-party vendor. Upon completion of the training, the individual must sign and date a document affirming their understanding and compliance, which is then retained as a business record for a minimum of three years.

The certification also covers the equipment and supplies essential for the sampling process, ensuring that participants are well-versed in the tools required for accurate concentrate sampling. This includes knowledge of analytical balances or scales for measurement, the use of metal or disposable spatulas for sample collection, and the importance of using transparent containers for holding test batches. Moreover, the program emphasizes the necessity of maintaining cleanliness and sterilization throughout the sampling process, detailing the use of isopropyl alcohol, denatured alcohol, or equivalent disinfectants for equipment and surface sanitization.

Participants in the certification program will learn to develop a sample plan, which is a critical document that guides the sampling process. This plan includes detailed information such as the identity of the test batch collectors, sampling time and date, product name and type, and specific details about the production batch. The sample plan ensures that sample increments are collected from a comprehensive range of the production batch’s storage containers, aiming to capture the full spectrum of potential variability within the batch.

Upon completion of the Concentrate Sampling Procedure certification, participants will possess a robust understanding of the sampling process, from pre-sampling preparations to post-sampling procedures. They will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform sampling in a manner that minimizes the risk of contamination, ensures the representativeness of the sample, and adheres to the highest standards of quality and safety in the cannabis industry.

This certification is an invaluable asset for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in cannabis concentrate production and testing, contributing to the overall integrity and reliability of cannabis product testing and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.