Confidentiality – All information and results generated by Benchmark Laboratories shall be held in strict confidence. Test results will be released to appropriate representatives of a given client by mail and at the request of that client, by fax or through email.
Liability – Benchmark Laboratories utilizes documented and accepted methodologies. Some of these methods may from time to time be modified and documented for the purpose of optimization of laboratory equipment performance. Results are validated through extensive and documented calibration and in-house QA-QC initiatives. These calibration documents are available upon request. Benchmark Analytical assumes no liability for the interpretation or use of the results.
Insurance – Proof of insurance is available upon request.
Payment Terms – Net 30 days. A service charge of 18% per annum will be levied against overdue accounts. Accounts over 30 days may result in a lien being posted against the land for which the samples have been extracted, and the file referred to a collection agency without further notice. An additional 3% charge may be applied to payments made by visa or mastercard.. Please note that until payment is made in full, Benchmark shall retains copyright to the report. As such anyone wishing to profit or benefit from such a report may be liable for damages in lieu of full payment.
Quality Discounts – Discounts are available upon request for volume projects. Discounts may very with the number of samples and analysis requested.
Custom Analysis – If sample analysis is required for parameters that do not appear in our regular schedule of analysis, please call Benchmark Laboratories to discuss your needs. We will review your requirements and provide you with a quotation.
Sampling Supplies – Sample containers (including glass jars and vials, plastic containers and bags), preservatives, labels, coolers, chain of custody forms, and weigh bills are available free of charge provided that they are returned to Benchmark Laboratories for analysis. Sample containers that are not returned to Benchmark Laboratories containing samples within 90 days of delivery may be charged at cost + 3.5% administrative fee. Benchmark Laboratories reserves the right to withhold the release of samples or sample jars to the client in the event of late or non-payment.
Sample Shipping – Please ensure that samples are packaged properly and that Waybills are securely placed on shipments. Benchmark Laboratories does not accept any responsibility direct liability, or indirect liability (whether consequential", "indirect" or "incidental") for any damaged or lost samples during transport to the lab. To learn more about Liability Terms for the Shipping Carrier please refer to the Shipping Carriers Web site for more information. Chain of custody forms will be provided and must be used. Complete instruction as to analytical and reporting requirements must be provided with the samples. Failure to do so may result in delays in processing samples.
Sample Storage – Samples will be stored for a maximum of 30 days, unless prior arrangements have been made. Additional charges may apply. Benchmark Laboratories reserves the right to return unused portions of samples to the client, at the client’s expense. Samples found hazardous will either be returned to the client or disposed of in a licensed facility at the client’s expense.
Turnaround Time – Results of routine analysis are usually reported in five working days. “Rush” results are available when arrangements have been made. A surcharge or 50% to 100% may be assessed for accelerated turnaround. However, in fairness to clients whose work maybe delayed by such “rush” arrangements, we may at times be unable to comply with “rush” requests. Turnaround times may be delayed if a proper chain of custody form is not used.
Freight Policy – Samples for testing may be sent collect by the courier of your choice, Freight charges will be invoiced at the rates Benchmark Laboratories has been provided with. Please contact Benchmark Laboratories for rates in your area.
