CHAPTER Saf-C 6400  ALCOHOL AND CONTROLLED DRUGS

 

Statutory Authority:  RSA 265:85, V

 

REVISION NOTE:

 

            Pursuant to 2003, 319:80, II, effective 1-1-04, rules He-P 2202 entitled “Alcohol and Controlled Drugs”, last filed by the Department of Health and Human Services under Document #6612, effective 11-1-97, were transferred to the Department of Safety.  The Department of Safety subsequently filed Document #8454, effective 11-1-05, which readopted and renumbered as interim rules in Saf-C 6400 most of the rules in the former He-P 2202.

 

            The following rules in He-P 2202 were not included within Document #8454 and are deemed by the Department of Safety to have expired on 11-1-05:

 

            Selected definitions in He-P 2202.01, including (h), “Collection site personnel”;

                        (i)“Commissioner”; (m) “Director”; (o) “Laboratory”; (q) “Mean”;

                        (r) “Metabolite”; (v) “Proficiency testing program”; (x) Requesting agency”;

                        (z) “Seal”; and (ad) “Specimen”;

            He-P 2202.05 relative to specimen collection containers;

            He-P 2202.06 relative to transmittal slip;

            He-P 2202.20 relative to mail release form.

            He-P 2202.22 relative to independent laboratory personnel;

            He-P 2202.23 relative to receipt and handling of remaining sample received by an independent laboratory;

            He-P 2202.25 relative to recording of analytical data by an independent laboratory;

            He-P 2202.26 relative to quality assurance by an independent laboratory; and

            He-P 2202.30 relative to proficiency testing by an independent laboratory.

 

            The rules in Document #8454 therefore replaced all prior filings for rules in the former He-P 2202.  The filings of the Department of Health and Human Services or its Division of Public Health Services affecting the former He-P 2202 include the following documents:

 

            #1104, eff 2-16-78

            #1930, eff 1-26-82

            #2476, eff 9-14-83

            #2477, eff 9-14-83

            #2764, eff 6-19-84

            #3068, eff 7-23-85

            #4044, eff 4-25-86

            #5174, eff 7-8-91

            #5396, eff 5-19-92

            #6532, INTERIM, eff 7-8-97

            #6612, eff 11-1-97

 

PART Saf-C 6401  DEFINITIONS

 

        Saf-C 6401.01  "Accuracy" means the closeness of the test result to the true or expected result.

 

  Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

  New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.02  "Alcohol" means "intoxicating liquors" as defined in RSA 21:33.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.03  "Alcohol concentration tests" means the testing of blood or urine to determine the level of alcohol or controlled drug as defined in Saf-C 6401.02 or Saf-C 6401.13.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.04  "Analyte" means a compound for which a test is conducted.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.05  "Approval" means a statement of authorization signed by the director, division of state police.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.06  “Average” means testing a number of samples at the same level, the results of which are added together and divided by the total number of samples.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.07  "Blank standard" means a solution containing an internal standard and zero concentration of analyte.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.08  “Calibrator” means a solution of predetermined concentration used in establishing a range of accuracy of a test.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.09  "Certification of independent laboratory" means an interval, not to exceed one year, in which an independent laboratory meets the requirements of Saf-C 6403.01.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.10  “Commissioner” means the commissioner of the department of safety.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.11  "Confirmatory drug test" means a separate test of a sample based upon a different scientific principle than that used in the screening test.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.12  "Control" means a sample or solution of a predetermined concentration, similar to the sample, which is tested for quality control purposes and not used in the calibration of a method.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.13  "Controlled drug" means “controlled drug” as defined in RSA 318-B:1, VI.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.14  “Director” means the director, division of state police, department of safety.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.15  “Forensic laboratory” means the state police forensic laboratory as described in RSA 106-B:2-a.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.16  "Internal standard" means a substance of known concentration which is chemically similar and distinctly identifiable from the analyte.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.17  “Independent laboratory” means a laboratory certified in accordance with Saf-C 6403.01

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.18  “Limit of quantitation” means the lowest concentration at which an analyte can be determined with accuracy and precision.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.19  “Metabolite” means a biological by-product of a parent drug.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.20  "Minimum limit of detection" means the lowest level at which an analyte can be accurately identified.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.21  "Negative" means a test result for an analyte which is not found or falls below the minimum limit of detection for the method employed.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

Saf-C 6401.22  "Positive" means a test result which identifies the analyte at or above the minimum limit of detection for the method employed.

 

Source.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.23  "Precision" means a measure of the agreement between replicate tests.

 

Source.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.24  "Range" means the upper and lower limits of acceptability for a test.

 

Source.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.25  “Sample” means a blood or urine specimen collected for testing.

 

Source.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.26  "Screening test" means a qualitative or semi-quantitative test of a sample for the identification of a drug or drug group or their metabolites.

 

Source.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.27  "Secure refrigerator" means a refrigerator used to store samples which is not accessible to the general public.

 

Source.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.28  "Sequence" means the number of like tests which are performed one after the other.

 

Source.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.29  "Solvent blank" means a liquid similar to that used in the sample test which does not contain the analyte or internal standard.

Source.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.30  "Standard" means a solution of predetermined concentration of analyte used to calibrate or verify a method.

Source.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6401.31  “Submitting agency” means a law enforcement agency within the state of New Hampshire.

 

Source.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

PART Saf-C 6402  COLLECTION, DELIVERY AND TESTING OF SPECIMENS

 

Saf-C 6402.01  Sample Size.  The blood or urine sample collected pursuant to RSA 265:84, RSA 270:49 or RSA 215-A:11-a, II, shall consist of approximately 20 milliliters, pursuant to RSA 265:86, RSA 270:53 or RSA 215-A:11-e, to allow for additional testing by means of similar procedures.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6402.02  Blood Sample Collection.

 

        (a)  Blood samples shall be collected pursuant to RSA 265:85, I, RSA 270:52, I, or RSA 215-A:11-d, I.

 

        (b)  A cleanser shall be used to clean the area of skin where the blood specimen will be drawn. The cleanser shall contain no ingredients that would interfere with an analysis for alcohol or drugs

 

        (c)  The person who collects the blood sample pursuant to RSA 265:85, I, RSA 270:52, I or RSA 215-A:11-d, I shall complete a blood sample collection form.

 

        (d)  The completed blood sample collection form shall include:

 

(1)  The name and title of the person withdrawing the sample;

 

(2)  The name of his/her employer;

 

(3)  The name of the suspect;

 

(4)  The date and time the sample was drawn in accordance with Saf-C 6402.02;

 

(5)  The type of cleanser used to prepare the site; and

 

(6)  The signature of the person who took the sample.

 

        (e)  The original copy of the blood sample collection form shall be retained by the submitting agency and a copy shall be given to the person who withdrew the sample.  The form shall be admissible evidence of proper sample collection pursuant to RSA 265:90, IV.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6402.03  Blood Sample Collection Container.

 

(a)  The container used for collection of a blood sample shall meet the following criteria:

 

(1)  Be a commercially available evacuation tube, or a glass bottle; and

 

(2)  Contain a preservative such as sodium fluoride and an anticoagulant such as potassium oxalate sufficient for the volume of sample collected.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6402.04  Urine Sample Collection.

 

        (a)  Urine samples shall be collected pursuant to RSA 265:85, I, RSA 270:52, I or RSA 215-A:11-d, I.

 

(b)  For alcohol concentration, a total of 2 urine samples shall be collected. The second sample shall be collected no sooner than one hour after the first.

 

(c)  Urine samples shall be collected in a commercially prepared container.

 

        (d)  The sample shall be collected in the presence of a person authorized by the submitting agency to ensure the integrity of the sample.

 

        (e)  The person observing the sample collection shall complete a urine sample collection form.

 

        (f)  The completed urine sample collection form shall include:

 

(1)  The name of the person observing the sample collection;

 

(2)  The name of his/her employer;

 

(3)  The name of the suspect;

 

(4)  The date and time the sample was collected in accordance with Saf-C 6402.04; and

 

(5)  The signature of the person observing the sample collection.

 

        (g)  The submitting agency shall retain the original copy of the urine sample collection form and a copy shall be given to the person observing the sample collection.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

Saf-C 6402.05  Evidence Examination Request Form.

 

(a)  The law enforcement officer shall complete an evidence examination request form, DSSP 20, for any sample collected pursuant to RSA 265:84, 270:49 or 215-A:11-a, II.

 

(b)  The law enforcement officer shall include the following on the form:

 

(1)  The name, address and date of birth of the suspect giving the sample;

 

(2)  The date and location of the offense;

 

(3)  The submitting agency name and case number;

 

(4)  An exhibit number and description of the sample submitted;

 

(5)  The type of testing requested; and

 

(6)  A record of evidence custody.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

Saf-C 6402.06  Shipping Container.

 

(a)  The law enforcement officer shall place each sample collected pursuant to RSA 265:84, RSA 270:49 or RSA 215-A:11-a, II in a shipping container for transport to the forensic laboratory in accordance with RSA 265:85,II.

 

        (b)  The shipping container shall meet the following criteria:

 

(1)  Be made of a rigid material which shall protect the sample from damage during transport;

 

(2)  Be secured in a tamper evident bag or other tamper evident packaging with initials across the seal to prevent loss of evidence or alteration; and

 

(3)  Be accompanied by a completed evidence examination request form.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6402.07 Sample Handling and Transport.

 

        (a)  The law enforcement officer shall submit the secured container to the forensic laboratory in accordance with RSA 265:85, II, as soon as feasible.

 

        (b)  If mailed, the sample shall be mailed by registered or certified mail to enable tracking of the sample.

 

        (c)  The mailing container shall conform with postal regulations in effect at the time of shipment.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6402.08  Sample Receipt and Identification.

 

        (a)  The forensic laboratory shall record on the DSSP 20 form the following information for each sample received  pursuant to RSA 265:84, RSA 270:49 or RSA 215-A:11-a, II:

 

(1)  The forensic laboratory number assigned to the sample; and

 

(2)  The record of evidence information.

 

        (b)  Any problem encountered with the sample from the time of receipt to the date of destruction shall be noted in the case file.

 

(c)  A sample submitted in accordance with Saf-C 6402.08 shall be placed in a secure refrigerator until the time of testing or destruction.

 

(d)  Forensic laboratory personnel shall maintain a record of evidence on the DSSP 20 to document all handling of the sample until the sample is released or destroyed.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6402.09  Alcohol Method.

 

        (a) A blood or urine sample submitted for determination of alcohol concentration shall be tested by gas chromatography.

 

        (b) An internal standard shall be used in the testing of all samples to determine the concentration of analyte.

 

(c)  Prior to each day’s testing, the forensic laboratory shall calibrate a method or verify a previously calibrated method.

 

(d)  A blank standard shall be tested at the beginning of each day. Sample test results shall not be reported if the blank standard result is greater than 0.004g/100ml for blood or 0.004g/67ml for urine.

 

(e)  A minimum of 2 standards of different concentrations shall be tested at the beginning and end of each day that samples are tested as well as after every tenth sample.

 

        (f)  A minimum of one control shall be tested in duplicate each day that samples are tested.

 

        (g) Sample test results shall not be reported if either of the standard or control test results do not fall within the predetermined range of accuracy and precision for the procedure employed.

 

        (h)  Each sample shall be tested in duplicate.

 

        (i)  Results of duplicate testing shall fall within the predetermined limit of precision for the procedure employed.  Test results which exceed the precision limit shall not be reported.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6402.10 Recording of Analytical Data.

 

        (a)  All analytical data shall be recorded daily to include:

 

(1)  The date of testing;

 

(2)  The target values, ranges and test results of all blanks, standards and controls;

 

(3)  The lot numbers and expiration dates of solutions used;

 

(4)  The type of equipment used;

 

(5)  The results of the testing;

 

(6)  The reported value determined in accordance with Saf-C 6402.11;

 

(7)  A notation of any problems with the testing; and

 

(8)  The name of the person who conducted the test.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRES: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6402.11  Reporting of Alcohol Findings.

 

        (a)  The reported value of a blood sample shall be determined by reporting the average value of the 2 replicate tests and rounding the reported value to the second decimal place in accordance with Saf-C 6402.12.

 

        (b)  The reported value of a blood sample shall be expressed as grams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood (g/100ml), pursuant to RSA 259:3-b.

 

        (c)  The reported value of a urine sample shall be determined by reporting the average value of the 2 replicate tests and rounding the reported value to the second decimal place in accordance with Saf-C 6402.12.

 

        (d)  The reported value of a urine sample shall be expressed as grams of alcohol per 67 milliliters of urine (g/67ml), pursuant to RSA 259:3-b.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6402.12  Rounding of Alcohol Findings.

 

        (a)  Reported values determined in Saf-C 6402.11(a) and (c) shall be rounded as follows:

 

(1)  If the unit in the third decimal place is greater than 5, the unit in the second decimal place shall be increased by one;

 

(2)  If the unit in the third decimal place is less than 5, the unit in the second decimal place shall remain the same;

 

(3)  If the unit in the third decimal place is 5, and the unit in the second decimal place is even, the unit shall remain the same; and

 

(4)  If the unit in the third decimal place is 5, and the unit in the second decimal place is odd, the unit shall be increased by one.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

Saf-C 6402.13  Analytical Methods for Drugs.

 

        (a) A screening test shall be performed to eliminate negative samples.

 

(b)  Each sequence of screening tests shall include a blank and calibrators to verify the accuracy and reliability of the method employed.

 

(c)  Sample screening test results shall not be reported if the test results for the blank and calibrators do not fall within the predetermined range for the method employed.

 

        (d)  Confirmatory drug tests shall be performed whenever samples are identified as positive on the screening test.

 

        (e)  The confirmatory test shall include:

 

(1)  Testing of blanks, controls and standards to verify the accuracy and reliability of the method employed;

 

(2)  A solvent blank test prior to each sample test to ensure no carryover of analyte has occurred; and

 

(3)  A calibration curve for each drug tested when quantitative test results are reported.

 

        (f)  Blood or urine samples that are negative on the screening drug test shall be reported as negative and shall specify the minimum limit of detection for each method employed.

 

(g)  Blood samples that are tested for confirmation purposes shall be reported as follows:

 

(1)  Shall specify the controlled drug reported;

 

(2)  Shall specify the quantitative test result when at or above the limit of quantitation;

 

(3)  Shall specify “negative” when the quantitative value is below the minimum limit of detection;

 

(4)  Shall specify “trace” when the test result is above the minimum limit of detection, but below the limit of quantitation; and

 

(5)  Shall specify the limit of quantitation for the method employed.

 

(g)  Urine samples that are tested for confirmation purposes shall be reported as follows:

 

(1)  Shall specify the controlled drug reported;

 

(2)  Shall specify the test result as “positive” or “negative”; and

 

(3)  Shall specify the minimum limit of detection for the method employed.

 

        (i)  Urine test results shall not be quantitated.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6402.14  Alcohol and/or Drug Report.

 

        (a)  Results of the test of blood or urine samples submitted for testing to determine the alcohol concentration or drug content pursuant to RSA 265:84, RSA 270:49 or RSA 215-A:11-a, II, shall be reported to the submitting agency upon completion of all testing.

 

        (b)  The report shall be completed by the laboratory performing the test(s).

 

        (c)  The laboratory personnel shall include the following information in the report:

 

(1)  The name of the submitting agency;

 

(2)  The date of the report;

 

(3)  The name of the suspect tested;

 

(4)  The lab number of the sample tested;

 

(5)  The test results of any alcohol concentration test performed in accordance with Saf-C 6402.09-6402.12; and

 

(6)  The test results of any test(s) for drug content performed in accordance with  Saf-C 6402.13.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

Saf-C 6402.15  Qualifications of Personnel.  Division personnel shall be certified by the department of administrative services, division of personnel for the position classification requirements of criminalist or toxicologist.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6402.16  Availability of Remaining Sample.

 

        (a)  A blood or urine sample taken pursuant to RSA 265:84, RSA 270:49, or RSA 215-A:11-a shall be held for a period of 30 days following completion of testing, pursuant to RSA 265:86, RSA 270:53 or RSA 215-A:11-e.

 

        (b)  During the 30 day period, the respondent or counsel may request the remaining sample in accordance with Saf-C 6402.17.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

Saf-C 6402.17  Release of Remaining Sample.

 

        (a)  A blood or urine sample held in accordance with Saf-C 6402.16(a) shall be released to the respondent by in hand at the forensic laboratory during normal work hours when the following criteria are met:

 

(1)  Presenting positive proof of identification to consist of a picture photograph with signature, such as a driver’s license; and

 

(2)  Completing the sample release form, DSSP 324, in accordance with Saf-C 6402.18.

 

        (b)  Counsel may obtain the remaining sample in hand in accordance with Saf-C 6402.17(a) by meeting the following criteria:

 

(1)  Showing proof of representation of the respondent which shall consist of:

 

a.  A letter on the firm’s stationary signed by counsel; or

 

b.  A copy of counsel’s appearance form filed with the court; and

 

(2)  Presenting positive proof of identification to consist of a picture photograph with signature, such as a driver’s license; and

 

(3)  Completing the sample release form, DSSP 324, in accordance with Saf-C 6402.18.

 

        (c)  A person designated by counsel may obtain the remaining sample in hand in accordance with Saf-C 6402.17 by meeting the following criteria:

 

(1)  Submitting a letter on the firm’s stationary signed by counsel to include:

 

a.  Counsel’s proof of representation of the respondent in accordance with Saf-C 6402.17;

 

b.  The name of the person designated by counsel to pick up the remaining sample; and

 

c.  A statement by counsel designating the person named in (b) as an employee of the firm and authorized to pick up the remaining sample;

 

(2)  Presenting positive proof of identification to consist of a picture photograph with signature, such as a driver’s license; and

 

(3)  Completing the sample release form, DSSP 324, in accordance with Saf-C 6402.18.

 

Source.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6402.18  Specimen Release Form.

 

        (a)  The sample release form, DSSP 324, shall consist of the following information:

 

(1)  The forensic laboratory number of the sample;

 

(2)  The name of the respondent;

 

(3)  Identification of the person receiving the sample as either:

 

a.  The respondent;

 

b.  Counsel; or

 

c.  The person designated by counsel;

 

(4)  The name and signature of the person receiving the sample;

 

(5)  The type of personal identification used;

 

(6)  The date and time of release of sample to the person identified in accordance with Saf-C 6402.17; and

 

(7)  The name of the forensic laboratory employee releasing the sample.

 

Source.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

PART Saf-C 6403  LABORATORY CERTIFICATION

 

        Saf-C 6403.01  Laboratory Certification, Independent Testing.

 

        (a)  Any independent laboratory that performs a test of a blood or urine sample to determine its alcohol concentration or drug content pursuant to RSA 265:86, RSA 270:53 or RSA 215-A:11-e, shall be certified by the commissioner pursuant to RSA 265:85, V.

 

        (b)  An independent laboratory seeking certification shall submit a completed application to the commissioner containing the following:

 

(1)  The name of the independent laboratory;

 

(2)  The address where the testing will be conducted;

 

(3)  The telephone number of the independent laboratory;

 

(4)  The name of the independent laboratory director;

 

(5)  A list of personnel who will be conducting the test;

 

(6)  Documentation of the scientific training and experience of personnel who will perform the test; and

 

(7)  Submission of a detailed written method to be used to analyze blood or urine samples in accordance with Saf-C 6403.02 which shall include:

 

a.  Sample receipt and handling;

 

b.  Analytical components; and

 

c.  Reporting of test results.

 

        (c)  Applications shall be approved in accordance with RSA 541-A:29 when the following conditions are met:

 

(1)  Submission of a completed application in accordance with Saf-C 6403.01(b); and

 

(2)  Approval of the method of testing in compliance with Saf-C 6403.01 and Saf-C 6403.02.

 

        (d)  An independent laboratory requesting certification shall be subject to inspection by division personnel prior to initial certification and shall grant access for reinspection at any time during the certification period.

 

        (e)  The inspection shall include verification of:

 

(1)  Location of equipment;

 

(2)  Documentation of adherence to the method of testing as submitted with the application in accordance with Saf-C 6403.01(b)(7); and

 

(3)  Reporting of test results in accordance with Saf-C 6403.03-04.

 

        (f)  Certificates shall be issued by the commissioner, to independent laboratories completing the requirements of Saf-C 6403.01, for a period of 12 months from date of issue.

 

        (g)  The certificate shall specify the following:

 

(1)  The name and location of the certified independent laboratory;

 

(2)  The name of the independent laboratory director;

 

(3)  The dates of the certification period; and

 

(4)  That certification shall be subject to continued compliance with Saf-C 6403.01.

 

        (h)  Denial of an application shall be based upon the independent laboratory’s failure to meet the requirements of Saf-C 6403.01.  The commissioner shall notify an independent laboratory of a denial in writing by certified mail, return receipt requested.

 

        (i)  The commissioner shall maintain a list of independent laboratories certified to perform testing of blood or urine samples for alcohol concentration and/or drug content.  This list shall be available to anyone upon request.

 

  Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6403.02  Method of Alcohol Testing -Independent Laboratory.

 

(a)  An independent laboratory shall use gas chromatography as a method of alcohol testing.

 

        (b)  A blank standard shall be tested at the beginning of each day. Sample test results shall not be reported if the blank standard reading is greater than 0.004g/100ml for blood or 0.004g/67ml for urine.

 

        (c)  A minimum of 2 standards of different concentrations shall be tested at the beginning and end of each day that samples are tested as well as after every tenth sample.

 

        (d)  A minimum of one control shall be tested in duplicate each day that samples are tested.

 

        (e) Sample test results shall not be reported if either the standards or control test results do not fall within the predetermined range of accuracy and precision for the procedure employed.

 

(f)  Each sample shall be tested in duplicate.

 

        (g)  Results of duplicate testing shall fall within the predetermined limit of precision for the procedure employed. Test results which exceed the precision limit shall not be reported.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6403.03  Reporting of Alcohol Findings - Independent Laboratory.

 

        (a)  The reported value of a blood sample shall be determined by reporting the average of the 2 replicate test results and rounding the reported value to the second decimal place in accordance with Saf-C 6403.04.

 

        (b)  The reported value determined in (a) shall be expressed as grams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood (g/100ml), pursuant to RSA 259:3-b.

 

        (c)  The reported value of a urine sample shall be determined by reporting the average of the 2 replicate test results and rounding the reported value to the second decimal place in accordance with Saf-C 6403.04.

 

(d)  The reported value determined in (c) shall be expressed as grams of alcohol per 67 milliliters of urine (g/67ml), pursuant to RSA 259:3-b.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6403.04  Rounding - Independent Laboratory.

 

        (a)  Reported values determined in Saf-C 6403.03(a) and (c) shall be rounded as follows:

 

(1) If the unit in the third decimal place is greater than 5, the unit in the second decimal place shall be increased by one;

 

(2)  If the unit in the third decimal place is less than 5, the unit in the second decimal place shall remain the same;

 

(3)  If the unit in the third decimal place is 5, and the unit in the second decimal place is even, the unit shall remain the same; and

 

(4)  If the unit in the third decimal place is 5, and the unit in the second decimal place is odd, the unit shall be increased by one.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6403.05  Alcohol and/or Drug Report - Independent Laboratory.

 

        (a)  Results of the testing of blood or urine samples submitted for testing to determine the alcohol concentration or drug content pursuant to RSA 265:84, RSA 270:49 or RSA 215-A:11-a, II, shall be reported to the person requesting the test upon completion of all testing.

 

        (b)  The report shall be completed by the independent laboratory performing the test(s).

 

        (c)  The laboratory shall include the following information in the report:

 

(1)  The name of the person requesting the test;

 

(2)  The date of the report;

 

(3)  The name of the suspect tested;

 

(4)  The forensic laboratory number of the sample tested;

 

(5)  The results of any alcohol concentration test performed and reported in accordance with Saf-C 6403.02 and Saf-C 6403.03;

 

(6)  The results of any test(s) for drug content performed in accordance with Saf-C 6403.01;

 

(7)  The name of the person conducting the test.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6403.06  Renewal of Independent Laboratory Certification.

 

        (a)  Applications for renewal of certification shall be submitted to the commissioner no later than one month prior to expiration and shall be subject to the provisions of RSA 541-A:30, I.

 

        (b)  The application renewal procedure shall be as set forth in Saf-C 6403.01.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6403.07  Denial, Suspension or Revocation of Certification.

 

        (a)  The commissioner shall deny, refuse to renew or suspend for a period of 60 days, the certification of an independent laboratory for any of the following causes:

 

(1)  Fraudulent application or renewal of certification;

 

(2)  Dishonest reporting such as falsifying records;

 

(3)  Failure to report test results in compliance with Saf-C 6403.03-04; or

 

(4)  Permitting a person to perform tests and report results who is not listed with the commissioner, in accordance with Saf-C 6403.01(b)(5).

 

        (b)  The commissioner shall revoke an independent laboratory’s certification if after a suspension, the violation(s) has not been corrected.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6403.08  Reinstatement of Laboratory Certification.

 

        (a)  An independent laboratory requesting reinstatement shall submit a letter to the commissioner, outlining the corrective measures taken to improve the independent laboratory’s performance.

 

        (b) The commissioner shall respond to an independent laboratory request for reinstatement in accordance with RSA 541-A:29.  Notice of reinstatement or denial shall be made in writing, by certified mail, return receipt requested.

 

        (c)  If the independent laboratory’s certification has expired during the period of revocation or suspension, the independent laboratory shall reapply in accordance with Saf-C 6403.01.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

        Saf-C 6403.09  Request for Hearing-Orders of the Commissioner.

 

        (a)  Any independent laboratory contesting an order by the commissioner, pursuant to Saf-C 6403.07 or Saf-C 6403.08 may request a hearing within 10 days of receipt of such order.

 

        (b)  All requests for a hearing shall be in writing to the commissioner, department of safety.

 

        (c)  Requests for a hearing in accordance with (a) shall include:

 

(1)  The independent laboratory’s name, address and telephone number;

 

(2)  The order rendered by the commissioner and the date the order was rendered; and

 

(3)  The reason(s) why the independent laboratory feels the order is not fair or is unfounded.

 

        (d)  Any independent laboratory that fails to request a hearing on the order by the commissioner, in accordance with Saf-C 6403.09 shall waive the independent laboratory’s right to a hearing on the order.

 

        (e)  Upon receipt of a request for a hearing, filed in accordance with Saf-C 6403.09, the commissioner shall hold a hearing.  Notice and hearing shall be in accordance with the provisions of RSA 541-A:31-36.

 

Source.  #8454, INTERIM, eff 11-1-05, EXPIRED: 4-30-06 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Saf-C 6400)

 

New.  #8620, eff 5-1-06

 

APPENDIX

 

Rule

Specific State or Federal Statutes or Regulations which the Rule Implements

 

 

Saf-C 6401

RSA 541-A:1, XV

Saf-C 6402.01 – 6402.02(c)

RSA 265:85

Saf-C 6402.02(d)

RSA 541-A:16, I(b)(1)

Saf-C 6402.02(e) – 6402.05(a)

RSA 265:85

Saf-C 6402.05(b)

RSA 541-A:16, I(b)(1)

Saf-C 6402.06 –6402.07

RSA 265:85

Saf-C 6402.08(a)

RSA 541-A:16, I(b)(1)

Saf-C 6402.08(b) – 6402.17

RSA 265:85

Saf-C 6403.01-.08

RSA 265:85, II and RSA 265:85, V(e)

Saf-C 6403.09

RSA 265:85, V(e) & RSA 541-A:16, I(b)(2)