WO2019153035A1

WO2019153035A1 - Sampling device, method and system

Info

Publication number: WO2019153035A1
Application number: PCT/AU2019/000017
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ian Mervin DELAERE
Original assignee: Chymica Research International Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2018-02-09
Filing date: 2019-02-11
Publication date: 2019-08-15

Abstract

Disclosed is a sampling device comprising a support and a sampling sheet, for sampling a surface. The sampling device is able to be folded closed to reduce subsequent contamination. The sampling device is associated with a unique identifier which can be uploaded to a website to allow test results conducted by a testing facility on the sampling device to be associated with and sent to a test result recipient. Also disclosed is a system which allows multiple sampling devices to be transported between a user and a testing facility while minimising the likelihood of compromising the samples in transit. The sampling device, method and system disclosed allows for easy and robust sampling of an environment to determine the likelihood that the environment has been exposed to substances such as illicit drugs, chemicals or biological substances that can be harmful to a person living in that environment.

Description

SAMPLING DEVICE, METHOD AND SYSTEM

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to obtaining and testing samples of substances of interest in the environment such as drug or other residue on surfaces such as walls of a building.

PRIORITY

[0002] This application claims priority from Australian Provisional Patent Application No.

2018900416 filed on 9 February 2018.

[0003] The entire content of this priority application is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0004] There is a developing need to determine whether certain environments such as buildings, have been exposed to drugs or other substances. For example, when a building such as a house is about to be purchased or leased to a new tenant, the buyer or tenant may wish to be reassured that they will not be exposed to drug or other substances once they begin living in the house. Exposure to such substances can lead to health problems such as neurochemical changes in the brain, behavioural and developmental effects, cardiovascular effects, respiratory difficulties and skin irritations. In the case of a tenanted building, this may expose the owner to legal liability.

[0005] It is possible to test the environment by obtaining swabs of surfaces within the building, such as walls or doors. These swabs can pick up residue of any substance of interest, and can be sent to a laboratory for testing and identification.

[0006] The results of these tests can be affected by various factors including how the swab was taken, whether any cross-contamination has occurred (for example by the person conducting the swab), and sometimes by mistakenly mixing up swabs from one source with swabs from another source.

[0007] Current systems require complex procedures, highly trained personnel conducting the swabs and/or the use of additional equipment such as gloves worn by the person conducting the swabs in an effort to ameliorate the difficulties described above. [0008] The arrangements disclosed herein address or at least ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of current arrangements.

SUMMARY

[0009] According to a first aspect, there is provided a sampling device comprising: a sampling sheet; and a support, the support comprising: a substantially flat support region for supporting the sampling sheet; a sampling sheet retainer for at least temporarily retaining the sampling sheet to the support; and a folding region for allowing the support to be folded to enclose the sampling sheet therein.

[0010] According to a second aspect, there is provided a kit for use by a user, the kit comprising: a first sampling device according to the first aspect for sampling a surface by the user; a second sampling device according to the first aspect for sampling the surface of the user’ s hand; and instructions for the use of the first sampling device and the second sampling device

[001 1 ] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method of sampling a surface by a user, the method comprising; wiping the surface with the sampling device according to the first aspect;

closing the sampling device; and sending the closed sampling device to a laboratory for identification of a substance sampled by the sampling device.

[0012] According to the fourth aspect, there is provided a support for use in a sampling device and for supporting a sampling sheet, the support comprising: a substantially flat support region for supporting the sampling sheet; a sampling sheet retainer for at least temporarily retaining the sampling sheet to the support; and a folding region for allowing the support to be folded to enclose the sampling sheet therein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] Various aspects described herein will be described in detail with reference to the following Figures in which:

[0014] Figure 1 A - shows a plan view of a support according to an aspect described herein;

[0015] Figure 1 B - shows a side view of the support of Figure 1 A; [0016] Figure 2 - shows the support according to some embodiments with a sampling sheet retainer;

[0017] Figure 3 - shows a support according to some embodiments with a folding region;

[0018] Figure 4 - shows a support according to some embodiments with a securer;

[0019] Figure 5 - shows the support of Figure 4 with the securer provided by a securer tab and a securer aperture;

[0020] Figure 6 - shows the support of Figure 1 with a unique sampling device identifier;

[0021] Figure 7 - shows the support of Figure 1 with a sampling sheet attached thereto to provide a sampling device;

[0022] Figure 8 - shows a support according to some embodiments;

[0023] Figure 9 - shows the support of Figure 8 in a partially-folded state;

[0024] Figure 10 shows the support of Figure 9 with a sampling sheet being loaded thereon;

[0025] Figure 1 1A - shows the sampling device according to some embodiments;

[0026] Figure 1 1B shows the sampling device with reinforcement according to other embodiments

[0027] Figure 12 - shows the sampling device in use in sampling a surface;

[0028] Figure 13 - shows the sampling device being folded to close;

[0029] Figure 14 - shows the sampling device in a more-closed state;

[0030] Figure 15 - shows the sampling device in a closed state in the process of being secured in the closed state;

[0031] Figure 16 - shows the sampling device secured in the closed state; [0032] Figure 17 - shows the sampling device of Figure 16 with a unique sampling device identifier;

[0033] Figure 1 8 - shows the sampling device being inserted into a sealable bag;

[0034] Figure 19A - shows a first screen of an App used to upload the unique sampling device identifier;

[0035] Figure 19B - shows a second screen of an App used to upload the unique sampling device identifier;

[0036] Figure 19C - shows a third screen of an App used to upload the unique sampling device identifier;

[0037] Figure 19D - shows a fourth screen providing test results to the test result recipient;

[0038] Figure 20 - shows a schematic view of a system according to some embodiments;

[0039] Figure 21 - shows a kit according to some embodiments;

[0040] Figure 22 - shows an instruction card that can be provided in the kit of Figure 21 according to some embodiments;

[0041 ] Figure 23A - shows a first side of a card provided in a kit according to another embodiment;

[0042] Figure 23B - shows the reverse side of the card of Figure 23A;

[0043] Figure 24A - shows a kit according to another embodiment for use in a Flome environment;

[0044] Figure 24B - shows a set of instructions accompanying the kit of Figure 24A;

[0045] Figure 24C - shows a sampling card for use with the instructions of Figure 24B; [0046] Figure 25A - shows a set of instructions accompanying another kit according to another embodiment for use in a Business environment;

[0047] Figure 25B - shows a sampling card for use with the instructions of Figure 25A;

[0048] Figure 26A - shows a set of instructions accompanying another kit according to another embodiment for use in a Personal environment;

[0049] Figure 26B - shows a sampling card for use with the instructions of Figure 26A;

[0050] Figure 27 - shows a sampling device with two extender securers for connecting the sampling device to an extender;

[0051 ] Figure 28 - shows a flowchart of a general method of sampling a surface according to some embodiments;

[0052] Figure 29 - shows a variation of the method of Figure 23 according to some

embodiments; and

[0053] Figure 30 - shows a flowchart of a general method of providing test results to a test result recipient according to some embodiments;

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0054] Figures 1 A and IB show a general arrangement for a support for a sampling sheet, which together form a sampling device in accordance with various aspects as described in more detail below.

[0055] Figure 1 A shows a plan view of the support 50, which in this aspect, provides a substantially flat region 54 on which the sampling sheet (not shown in this view) will be disposed in use, and sampling sheet retainer 55 for retaining the sampling sheet to the support 50. The provision of a flat region of support provides for an improved sampling of a flat surface over existing means such as simply holding a swab in the user’ s fingers.

[0056] Figure 1 B shows a side view of the support 50, indicating at least a portion for the support providing the substantially flat region 54. It will be appreciated that the specific configuration of the support can vary, provided that there is at least a portion of the support which provides a substantially flat region to allow a certain amount of surface area of the sampling sheet to come into contact with the surface being sampled. This region can be any suitable size including between about 0.5cm2 to about 20cm2, including about 0.5cm², about 1 cm², about 2cm², about 3cm², about 4cm², about 5cm², about 6cm², about 7cm², about 8cm², about 9cm², about 10cm², between about lOcm² to about 15cm² and between about 15cm² and about 20cm².

[0057] It will also be appreciated that the provision of a controlled and known substantially flat surface area assists in the analysis process by reducing the number of variables between different samples.

[0058] In some embodiments, the support 50 may have regions which are not substantially flat, as can be seen in the general aspect shown in Figure I B.

[0059] In some aspects, the support 50 comprises a sampling sheet retainer 55 for retaining the sampling sheet to the support. The sampling sheet retainer may be provided by any suitable retaining means including a slit or aperture provided in the support, an area of adhesive, a button, a magnetic element, a hook and loop connector such as that provided by Velcro BVBA under the trade mark Velcro ™. In some embodiments, the sampling sheet retainer 55 is provided by one or more arms that push down onto the sampling sheet to retain it to the support as will be described in more detail below.

[0060] Figure 2 shows a plan view of support 50 in which in some embodiments, the sampling sheet retainer 55 is provided by a slit or aperture in the body of support 50. In such embodiments, a portion of the sampling sheet is pushed into and received by the slit or aperture to thereby retain it to the support.

[0061] It will be appreciated that the support 50 may be provided by any suitable material, including paper, cardboard, plastics, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and metals.

[0062] According to another aspect, as shown in Figure 3, there is provided a folding region 51 which in use, allows the support 50 to be folded over to cover at least a portion of the sampling sheet. In some embodiments, this is provided simply by the material of the support which can be folded upon application of force by the user. In some embodiments, this is provided by a region of weakened strength such as by perforation, scoring or reduced thickness. In some embodiments this is provided by a hinge. In some embodiments, the support is merely rolled into a cylinder to cover the sampling sheet therein.

[0063] In another aspect as shown in Figure 4, there is provided a securer 52 for securing the support 50 in the closed or folded state after folding, closing or rolling the support as previously described. Securer 52 can be provided by any suitable means, including one or more of a recess or aperture for receiving a corresponding tab, an area of adhesive, a button, a magnetic element, and/or a hook and loop connector such as that provided by Velcro BVBA under the trade mark Velcro™.

[0064] Figure 5 shows an embodiment of Figure 4 in which the securer 52 is provided by a securer recess or aperture 53b for receiving a corresponding securer tab 53a. This aspect will be described in more detail below.

[0065] The ability to fold the support over the sampling sheet provides the advantage of

“closing” the sampling sheet within the support to reduce contamination of the sample after the sampling action has been completed, and while the sampling device is transported to the laboratory or otherwise handled. This aspect will be described in more detail below.

[0066] In another aspect, the support 50 is provided with a unique sampling device identifier 56, which uniquely identifies the sampling device 100 (specifically the support 50) for use in associating “client” details with the sampling device. The identifier 56 may be provided by any means which allows unique identification of the support and thus the sampling device. In some embodiments, the unique sampling device identifier 56 is a code embedded within the support such as a radio frequency identification system (RFID) which can be read by a reader held by the user and one held by the laboratory. In other embodiments, the unique sampling device identifier 56 is a printed indicia, such as a bar code, a QR code, or serial number. In some embodiments, the use of blockcham is made. The use of the unique sampling device identifier 56 will be described in more detail below

[0067] Figure 7 shows a sampling device 100 according to some aspects, in which is provided a sampling sheet 10 retained to the support 50 by sampling sheet retainer 55.

[0068] Surface samples are collected by wiping or swabbing dry or moistened absorptive media across a surface such as a non-porous surface. There are several absorptive non-reactive swab and/or wipe media available to provide the sampling sheet, such as filter-paper, woven cotton, Teflon, rayon, and polyester. Surface activated versions of absorptive swab and/or wipe materials (e.g. PDMS, Carbowax etc) are available. The preferred environmental sampling media will be ascertained in accordance with the preferred applied analytical procedures used for a particular analysis. In some embodiments, the sampling sheet 10 is a cellulosic fabric provided by Smiths Detection, Inc.

[0069] In the case of environmental wipe sampling for contamination of narcotics residues from the surfaces of the built environment, the sampling sheet can be either wet or dry. In narcotic surface sample screening methodology there is no requirement for the sample collection media to be sterile. However physical controls arc required to minimise cross-contamination of the environmental wipe sampling either directly by interface with the sample collector or from other environmental wipe samplings. Because of the small surface area of environmental wipe samplings, they are best utilised for smooth surfaces that do not have a large accumulation of dust. A larger surface area (>100 square centimetres [cm²]) can generally be sampled with environmental wipe sampling materials.

[0070] Figures 8 to 1 1B show a support 50 according to some embodiments. In these embodiments, support 50 is provided by a sheet of cardboard having a substantially flat region 54 and a sampling sheet retainer provided, in some embodiments, by arms 55, 55’. Figure 8 shows a plan view of the support 50. In some embodiments, arms 55, 55’ are provided simply by providing slits in the surface of the cardboard sheet to allow the arms to be moved away from the plane of the substantially flat support region 54. In other embodiments, additional pieces of material are provided as strips adhered or otherwise connected at each end to the surface of support 50 to allow the centre of the strips to lift away from the surface of the support 50.

[0071] In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, there is also provided a folding region 51, to allow folding of the support 50. In some embodiments, this folding region 51 is provided by a scored, creased or otherwise altered region of the cardboard to provide a guide for the folding. In some embodiments, there is no specific folding region and the user simply folds the support 50 at an appropriate location.

[0072] A particular advantage of the support being made of cardboard is that it is simple and cost-effective to mass-produce, and may be done by a printer.

[0073] Also shown in the embodiment of Figure 8 is securer 52, in some embodiments provided by securer tab 53a and securer aperture or recess 53b.

[0074] Figure 9 shows the support 50 of Figure 8 in a semi-folded state. In this state, the support

50 has begun to be folded inwards, causing arms 55, 55’ to rise above the plane of the substantially flat support region 54. This separation creates gaps within which a portion of a sampling sheet 10 may be inserted when loading the support with the sampling sheet, as shown in Figure 10.

[0075] In some embodiments, the sampling device 100 will be provided to the user pre-loaded with the sampling sheet 10 by the supplier. In other embodiments, the user may load the support 50 with the sampling sheet 10 to provide the sampling device 100, but in this situation, care will need to be taken to ensure that this process does not result in contamination of the sampling sheet.

[0076] Figure 1 1A shows the sampling device 100 comprising the support 50 with the sampling sheet retained thereto by the sandwiching or pinching of the portion of the sampling sheet 10 between the arms 55, 55’ and the remainder of the support 50 when arms 55, 55’ return to the plane of the support 50.

[0077] In some embodiments, the sampling sheet 10 is stretched between the arms 55, 55’ across the substantially flat support region to provide some tension across the sampling sheet. This provides some resistance to crumpling of the sampling sheet when in use, to further provide a more controlled and consistent sampling surface to facilitate later analysis, and facilitate the sampling process for the user.

[0078] It will also be appreciated that in some embodiments, sampling sheet 10 is pennanently secured to the support 50 and is not able to be removed without tearing the sampling sheet 10 and/or the support 50. In some embodiments, the sampling sheet and/or sampling device are reinforced to increase the robustness of the sheet and device. As shown in Figure 1 IB, in some embodiments, the sampling sheet 10 is stitched around its periphery to reduce the likelihood of the sheet tearing during the swabbing process. In some embodiments still, as shown in Figure 1 1 B, some of the stitching 1 1 is provided over a part of the sampling sheet retainers 55, 55’ to more robustly secure the sampling sheet 10 to the support 50

[0079] In some embodiments, the sampling device 100 is provided with a double (or more) layer of sampling sheet 10 to provide a more robust sampling device to reduce the effect of the top sampling sheet 10 tearing or wearing through when multiple samples are taken with the same sampling device.

[0080] The sampling device 100 is now ready to be used to sample a surface. [0081 ] Figure 12 shows a user 500 holding the sampling device 100 and wiping it across a surface 200 such as a wall. It will be appreciated that the support 50 provides a physical barrier between the sampling surface of the sampling sheet and the user, so as to reduce the risk of contamination by the user. This barrier also reduces the need for the user to wear special gloves, further increasing the simplicity and convenience to the user of the swabbing process.

[0082] Figure 13 shows the sampling device after the swabbing process is complete, with sampled substancc/particulatc 300 on the surface of the sampling sheet 10, and shows the sampling device 100 in a semi-folded state as the user 500 begins to close the sampling device to contain the sampling sheet 10.

[0083] Figure 14 shows the sampling device of Figure 13 in a more closed folded-state and

Figure 15 shows the user 500 inserting the securer tab 53a into the securer recess 53b to secure the closed state of the sampling device 100.

[0084] In some embodiments, the arms 55, 55’ can be pulled outwards away from the support during this folding process to extend outside of the support 50 when folded. This can provide a“handle” to hold the folded support 50.

[0085] Figure 16 shows the sampling device 100 in this closed state. It will be appreciated that in this state, the sampling surface of sampling sheet 10 is covered and protected to reduce the risk of contamination between this point and the time when the sampled particulate 300 is analysed or tested by a laboratory or testing facility.

[0086] As previously described, in some embodiments, sampling device 100 has associated therewith, a unique sampling device identifier 56 to uniquely identify the specific sampling device and to associate it with a client, or entity to which the results of analysis of the sampled particulate may be provided. In the embodiment of Figure 17, the unique sampling device identifier is provided as a bar code.

[0087] According to one aspect described herein, a user 500 may scan the bar code using an appropriate scanning device (e.g. such as on a smart phone in conjunction with an App), to allow the user to enter client details to associate with the barcode. [0088] The user can then place the closed sampling device 100 into an envelope 400 or a bag

605 as shown in Figure 18, and send this to the laboratory for analysis.

[0089] According to another aspect described herein, there is provided a method of reducing the risk of the used sampling device being mixed up with another used sampling device of another user. In this aspect, use is made of the unique sampling device identifier. In this aspect, the user uploads the unique sampling device identifier 56 to a website and associates it with details of a party such as the user, and/or a test result recipient. Sometimes the user will also be the test result recipient. Sometimes the test result recipient will be another party. Such details can include name, client number and/or address to for the laboratory to send the test results. The address may include a postal address and/or an electronic address such as an email address, a phone number or a website address.

[0090] In some embodiments, this process is facilitated by an Application (or App) loaded onto a smart device such as a smart phone. The App may be accessed and downloaded from any suitable source.

[0091] Once loaded onto the user’s device, the user can initiate the App by clicking on the icon associated with that App. In some embodiments, the App will lead the user through the process. In some embodiments, upon activating the App, the user is presented with a screen such as that shown in Figure 19A This screen provides the user with the option of performing a new scan of a unique sampling device identifier 56, or view all previous scans. If the user selects the“View All” option, a screen such as shown in Figure 19B is presented to the user. This view shows all historical scans including details associated with the relevant ID scan.

[0092] If the user selects the“New Scan” option, the user is presented with a screen such as shown in Figure 19C. From this screen, the user is prompted to input an address to which the test results of the analysis of the used sampling device are to be sent from the laboratory, as well as a reference, which can be a client number or other data. The“client” can be the user and/or the test result recipient or other interested party.

[0093] The user is then prompted to press the scan button which causes the smart device to scan the unique sampling device identifier 56 using the smart device’s scanning capabilities as will be understood by the person skilled in the art. [0094] In some embodiments, an additional option may be provided to upload further documents such as any notes or further information relevant to the matter.

[0095] The user then sends the used sampling device 100 to the laboratory for analysis. In some embodiments, the user can take the sampling device directly to the laboratory. In some embodiments, the user can post the used sampling device 100 to the laboratory. In some embodiments, the user can use a courier to deliver the used sampling device 100 to the laboratory.

[0096] Figure 19D shows an example screen of a Report issued by the laboratory to the client. In some embodiments as shown, the results can be presented in a table with a“Result” presented next to a particular substance. The indication can be presented in any suitable manner including as a word, a colour, a tick/cross or any other indicia indicating the presence or absence of a particular substance.

[0097] The results of the tests can be provided to the client in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, a link to a website page is provided via text, email or any other communications medium. In some embodiments, an electronic copy of the report is sent to the client via any suitable

communications medium, including by post.

[0098] Figure 20 shows an illustrative arrangement of a system for effecting the steps described above. The system, generally denoted 700, comprises a laboratory or test facility 730 for analysing the used sampling sheets 10 from the received sampling devices 100. The laboratory or testing facility is able to conduct suitable tests 740 or analysis to detect whether there are any substances on the sampling sheets and if so, identify those detected substances. The types of test and analysis techniques that may be used by the laboratory or testing facility will be described in more detail below.

[0099] The system 700 also comprises a database 720, in some embodiments provided with a website to which a user can upload the unique sampling device identifier 56 of the sampling device 100 and client or test recipient information 60 for use by the laboratory.

[00100] In some embodiments, the system also comprises a piece of software such as an App 715 for facilitating the uploading of the unique sampling device identifier 56 and test recipient information 60 to the website or database 720. This software or App 715 may be loaded on any suitable device for executing the software or App, such as a computer or smart device 710 such as a smart phone. In some embodiments, the smart device 710 will incorporate a scanner to scan and upload the unique sampling device identifier 56. In some embodiments, the scanner is a separate component. [00101 ] The system 700 also comprises a means, such as an envelope 400, for providing the used sampling device 100 to the laboratory 720 via pathway 410. In some embodiments, the envelope is a self-addressed envelope provided in a kit as described in more detail below.

[00102] As previously described, once the laboratory or testing facility 730 has received the used sampling device and conducted the relevant tests 740, the test results 741 are associated with test result recipient information using the unique sampling device identifier 56 associated with the sampling device tested, and the same unique sampling device identifier 56 associated by the user with the test result recipient information 60, and the test results are sent to the test result recipient. This feature reduces the risk of accidentally sending the test results to the wrong recipient.

[00103] It will be appreciated that the laboratory or test facility 730 will use any suitable machine or analysis technique to analyse and identify a substance collected by the sampling device 100.

[00104] The types of analytical techniques that could be expected from environmental wipe samples used in the systems and methods described herein, include colorometric and associated spectrometries (visible, ultra violet, infrared, Raman, X-ray, atomic absorption, inductively coupled plasma, nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectrometry, laser induced fluorescence), and

separation/chromatographic methods such as capillary electrophoresis, gas chromatography, head-space sampling, liquid chromatography (inclusive of high pressure), and ion mobility spectrometry.

Instruments to measure DNA/RNA and microbes could also be used as required.

[00105] Similarly, any suitable machines and equipment may be used, such as rapid ultra-trace ion mobility spectrometry, including machines with mass spectrometry functionality.

[00106] An example of a particular machine that may be used is the IonScan 400B device provided by Smiths Detection. Inc.

[00107] Using suitable techniques and equipment, it is expected that substances such as nicotine, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, cannabis and ecstasy residues can be reliably detected and identified.

[00108] Other substances that can be sampled and analysed include heavy metals such as lead, organic toxins, bacterial (such as coliform bacteria and antibiotic resistant bacteria), fungal, mould and virus testing. [00109] According to another aspect described herein, there is provided a kit 600 which can be provided to a user for use in sampling an environment.

[001 10] In some embodiments, the kit comprises a first sampling device 100 as previously described, a second sampling device 100’ and a set of instructions to instruct the user as to the use of the two sampling devices 100, 100’. In some embodiments, the first sampling device is for sampling a surface by the user and the second sampling device is for sampling the surface of the user’s hand. This provides a reference in the tests to be conducted on the first sampling device in the event that the user does accidentally contaminate the first sampling device during the sampling process, and this contamination can be identified and accounted for. In other embodiments, use of a temperature sensor can be made to provide temperature information as an indication that the sampling devices and/or samples may have been compromised by exposure to high heat. An example of this application will be described in more detail below. In some embodiments, physical temperature control can be implemented to maintain the kit within a desired temperature range, for example for use in extreme environments. For example, use could be made of certain chemicals such as instant ice, or reusable freezer bricks.

[0011 1] In some embodiments, the kit also comprises a third sampling device 100”, which has a control substance applied to the sampling sheet. This third sampling device 100” can be included in the envelope sent to the laboratory and can provide information in the analysis as to whether any environmental conditions such as heat experienced during the journey from the user to the laboratory may have affected the sampled particulate on the sampling device 100. Such information can be taken into account during the analysis of the sampling device and provides for a more robust result.

[001 12] In some embodiments, the kit also comprises a fourth sampling device 100”’ for use as a trip blank. This fourth sampling device can provide information as to whether the sampling device 100 was exposed to any substances during the trip to the laboratory. This information can be used in the analysis of the sampling device 100 and also adds to the robustness of the analysis and final results. In other embodiments, a“trip blank” is provided or incorporated within the envelope 400 or bag 605 within which the returned samples are transported to the lah.

[00113] In some embodiments, the kit also comprises an envelope addressed to the laboratory for conducting analysis of the sampling sheet of any one or more of the first, second, third or fourth sampling device. This increases the convenience to the user, increases the likelihood of the sampling devices reaching the correct address, and also reduces the risk of undue delay in getting the samples to the laboratory after the swabbing procedure, which can result in a degradation of some sampled substances and may affect or complicate the testing

[001 14] In some embodiments, the kit also comprises an instruction card which provides for a very structured guidance to the user as to how to use the one or more sampling devices 100, 100’, 100”, 100’”, and in some embodiments, also provides a physical location to place and secure the different sampling devices for sending to the laboratory. The instruction card can also guide the user in using the App to upload the unique sampling device identifier and the test result recipient information.

[001 15] Figure 21 shows an example of a kit according to some embodiments as described above. Figure 21 shows first sampling device 100 for sampling the property, second sampling device 100’ for sampling the user’s hand, third sampling device 100” with the control substance, and fourth sampling device 100’” acting as the trip blank (although in some embodiments this will not be required or provided in embodiments where a“trip blank” is provided or incorporated within the envelope or bag or is otherwise deemed unnecessary). Figure 21 also shows instruction card 610 for guiding the user through the process and providing set locations for the user to place the sampling devices. Also shown is the self-addressed envelope 400 for placing the completed instruction card 610 and sending to the laboratory. Figure 21 also shows a kit bag 620 in which all parts of the kit are provided to the user.

[001 16] Figure 22 shows an example of an instruction card 610 according to some embodiments.

It will be appreciated that instruction card 610 can take on any suitable format and need not have all of the features described in this example, or may have more features. Furthermore, it will appreciated that the order of the steps as directed by the instruction card 610 may be changed and need not be done in the order shown in this example.

[00117] In box 610a, the user is directed to wash their hands, and to sign and date the card. In box 610b, the user is directed to remove the sampling device identified as“HAND SAMPLE” (referred to above as the second sampling device 100’) out of the kit bag and to open the sampling device 100’, sample the user’s hand, and to close the sampling device 100’ again. The user is also directed to attach the closed sampling device to the instruction card 610 on box 610c. Any means of attaching the sampling device to the card can be used, including hook and loop, adhesive, tape magnet, or buttons.

[00118] In some embodiments, a slit 606 may be provided which can receive securer tab 53a of the sampling device to thereby retain the sampling device to the instruction card 610 at the appropriate location. This method is simple, convenient and does not introduce any additional substances such as an adhesive, which may contaminate the sample.

[001 19] In box 61 Oe, the user is instructed to remove the sampling device 100 labelled as “PROPERTY SAMPLE” (which is the device used to sample the property and referred to as the first sampling device 100 herein), open the device and wipe the sampling sheet of the sampling device on surfaces at 5 or more locations in the property, and then to close the card and attach it to its place in box 6l0d using the slit 606 provided in box 610d.lt will be understood that the specific directions and details are exemplary only and could be altered depending upon the circumstances. For example, the number of locations for sampling could be 1 , 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more.

[00120] Box 61 Of then directs the user to open the App on the user’s smart device and point the smart device’s camera to the unique sampling device identifier 56 on the sampling device 100. This uploads the unique identifier for that sampling device. The user is then directed to enter the test result recipient information to be associated with the uploaded identifier. In most cases, the test result recipient will be the user.

[00121] In box 610g the user is instructed to place the instruction card complete with the first, second, third and fourth sampling devices attached thereto, into a zip-lock bag (which can also be provided in the kit), and then to place the bag into the addressed envelope to send to the laboratory. Various post tracking facilities may be used.

[00122] In some embodiments, the physical locations of the boxes 610c, 61 Od and 61 Oh are such that when the card is folded and the respective sampling devices 100, 100’, 100”, 100”’ are in place, the respective sampling devices do not come into contact with each other, to further reduce the risk of cross-contammation during the travel to the laboratory.

[00123] In some embodiments, the instruction card 610 can also include a QR code to take the user to a website using their smart device, to provide more detailed instructions or information, or even a help facility, should the user require additional assistance to carry out the procedure.

[00124] The test result recipient (usually the user), will then receive the test results from the laboratory upon completion of the tests. In some embodiments, this will be within 2-3 days, but this may vary according to the specific circumstances. [00125] Figure 23A shows a card 610 according to another embodiment. At step 901 , the user is prompted to check the attached temperature sensor 70 to confirm that the sampling devices provided in the kit have not been exposed to temperatures that could affect the efficacy of the sampling devices. If the temperature sensor indicates that the pack has been exposed to high temperatures (for example, 49°C or greater), then the user will know not to use the pack and to use another pack instead. The temperature sensor 70 can indicate whether the sampling devices have been exposed to too high a temperature by any suitable means including displaying a number, or displaying a certain colour. In some embodiments, the temperate sensor used is a non-reversible temperature label such as that sold under the trade mark Omegalabel™, by Omega Engineering Inc. This label changes colour when exposed to a certain temperature threshold. The label type can be selected according to the temperature threshold at which they are set to change, including 38°C, 43°C, 49°C, 54°C, and 60°C. In the specific embodiment shown in Figure 23A, the label turns black if the label has been exposed to a temperature of 49°C or more and remains black

[00126] In some embodiments the sampling devices, are transported in respective hermetically sealable bags such as aluminium foil laminated bags, and/or PolyethyleneTerephthalate (PET) bags. An example of a suitable bag is such as provided under the trade mark Mylar® branded-bags produced by Dupont Teijin Films U.S. Limited Partnership. These bags can be opened by tearing a section of the bag to access and remove the sampling device sealed therein. After use, the sampling device can be reinserted into the bag and resealed using a sliding lock device such as that provided by US company S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. under the brand name Ziploc™. The individual bags can also be themselves sealed within a larger hermetically-sealable bag to provide further protection from outside

contamination and temperature exposure to further improve robustness of the system.

[00127] In step 902, the user is prompted to clean their hands with a towel provided and then to discard the used towel. This step further reduces the risk of contaminating the samples with any contaminants that may be on the user’s hands or fingers.

[00128] In step 903, the user is prompted to collect a hand sample using one of the sampling devices and then to replace the used sampling device in the resealable bag and to attach the sealed bag to the region 904. As previously described, this sample can be used to cross check whether any substance detected in the samples came from the user, this further increasing the robustness of the system.

[00129] Region 905 provides a region for the user to attach used sampling devices once re inserted and resealed in their respective sealable bags. A plurality of sealed bags can be attached to this section. For example, in some embodiments, each bag may have one or more releasable connectors such as an adhesive, a button, a hook and loop connector or a magnet, which allows connection of one bag to another.

[00130] At step 906, the user is directed to take the necessary samples using the sampling devices and to reseal each used sampling device in its bag and attach it to the card 610. In some embodiments, detailed directions to guide the user through each sample type are provided on the reverse side of the card 610. Figure 23B shows an embodiment of the reverse side of the card 610 of figure 23A. Region 911 provides the front face of the card 610 when folded. Region 912 provides a summary guide of different sampling techniques that the user should use, depending upon the type of sample and sampling technique required for a particular environment. In some embodiments, information providing a source of assistance is provided in the event that the user requires further guidance. In some embodiments, this is a telephone number, in some embodiments, this is a website address and in some embodiments, this is provided by a code such as a QR code which can be scanned by a smart device to direct the smart device to a webpage which may contain Q&A infonnation and/or instructional videos.

[00131] Region 914 provides sampling guidelines to guide the user in the type of sampling to undertake (e.g. Wet or Dry), in which areas and in which specific locations In some embodiments, these guidelines will be tailored on each card 610 according to the type of substance to be detected as they may differ for sampling metals, mould or bacteria.

[00132] Dry sampling can be used for certain types of substances such as nicotine, while the wet sampling can be used for other substances. The wet sampling is accomplished in some embodiments, by the user spraying or wetting the surface of sampling sheet 10 or sampling surface with an appropriate solvent such as isopropyl alcohol. The solvent increases the sample extraction efficiency. The solvent may also have other additives incorporated therein, such as salts, acids or bases to increase sample retention.

[00133] As can be seen in the guidelines provided at 914, for each sampling device provided, the user is prompted to sample surfaces at specific locations within certain areas within a building.

[00134] The kits and processes described above can be used in some embodiments, by building owners, landlords, or real estate agents, who wish to provide a level of certainty to their clients regarding the safety of the environment in which their client is to live. [00135] Other potential users include parents in their own home who may wish to obtain an indication as to whether their children or guests may be introducing harmful substances into the home; employers in a business who may wish to obtain an indication as to whether any employees or contractors coming into the business are introducing harmful substances into the office. Specifically- tailored“paired-down” or“simplified” kits can be provided with one or more tailored sampling devices and instructions.

[00136] In the case of a home assessment, a person may request a“HOME” kit to be sent to them. In some embodiments, the HOME kit comes in a tin container 620, and contains in some embodiments as shown in Figure 24A, a sampling device 100 sealed in a hermetically sealed bag 101 , a pre-addressed envelope 400, a sampling card 611 and instructions 610 (which in some embodiments can be provided printed on the inside of the lid of the tin 620, on a separate sheet as shown, or on a website which can be accessed via a QR code or other link code. In some embodiments still, a solvent 612 may be provided if the testing benefits from a Wet sampling process as previously described.

[00137] Figure 24B shows an example of instructions provided in the HOME kit and Figure 24C shows an example of a sampling card for use by the user in carrying out the sampling process.

[00138] Figure 25A shows an example of instructions provided in the BUSINESS kit and Figure 25B shows an example of a sampling card for use by the user in carrying out the sampling process.

[00139] Figure 26A example of instructions provided in the PERSONAL kit and Figure 26B shows an example of a sampling card for use by the user in carrying out the sampling process.

[00140] Once the sample is taken, the user re-seals the used sampling device 100 in the sealable bag 101 and places it in the envelope 400 together with the sampling card 611, and sends it to the laboratory for testing. In some of these specific applications, use of the App need not be made, and the test results can simply be sent to the user according to a“return address” such as a phone number or an email address. The form of reply to the“return address” can be an SMS or email containing a link to a website containing the test results. In this way, test results can be essentially anonymous and useful where discrete testing is required.

[00141] In other applications, other solvents can be used, such as sterile water for sampling of bacteria or dust samples such as lead, pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The appropriate solvent may be provided in a specific kit for a specific sampling application. [00142] It will be appreciated that in some of the sampling procedures, the user is directed to sample certain locations that are out of general reach, for example the surface of a fan blade. Or an air- conditioning duct. These locations can be good for sampling, since some substances may be carried through the air and deposited on these surfaces. To assist the user in sampling these surfaces, an extender, such as a small pole or extending device may be used to allow the user to reach these locations.

[00143] Figure 27 shows an embodiment of a sampling device 100 having one or more extender securers 57 for allowing the sampling device 100 to be secured to an extender 80. Extender securer 57 can be any suitable device, including an adhesive patch, magnet, button or hook and loop device, to interact with a corresponding device on the extender 80. Figure 27 shows the sampling device 100 with two hook and loop devices 57 that cooperate with corresponding hook and loop device 57’ on the extender 80. In some embodiments, the sampling device 100 need not have any extender securers but may still be secured to an extender 80 by sliding a part of the sampling device 100 into a corresponding slit in the extender 80. Any other suitable means for securing the sampling device 100 to the extender 80 may be used.

[00144] According to another aspect described herein there is also provided a method of sampling a surface by a user. Figure 28 shows a general method, comprising, at step 800, wiping the surface with the sampling device, at step 805, closing the sampling device, and, at step 810, sending the closed sampling device to a laboratory for identification of a substance sampled by the sampling device.

[00145] According to another aspect, as shown in Figure 29, the method is the same as the method described with reference to Figure 28, except that the step of sampling the user’s hand with a second sampling device (hand sampling device) and closing the device is conducted in step 806, after step 805. In other embodiments, this step 806 may be conducted before step 800.

[00146] In other aspects, a method is also provided in which the step 810 of sending the first and second sampling devices also comprises sending a third sampling device, the third sampling device having a control substance applied to the sampling sheet of the third sampling device, and a fourth sampling device for use as a trip blank, to the laboratory.

[00147] In other aspects, the method further comprises uploading a unique sampling device identifier and associating further data with the unique sampling device identifier. [00148] According to another aspect, as shown in Figure 30 there is provided a method of providing test results to a test result recipient comprising, at step 820, receiving a sampling device as described above, the sampling device having associated therewith a unique sampling device identifier; at step 825, identifying a substance sampled by the sampling device by conducting one or more tests to provide test results, at step 830, obtaining test result recipient information associated with the unique sampling device identifier of the sampling device, and, at step 835, providing the test results to the test result recipient using the obtained test result recipient information.

[00149] It will be appreciated that the“user” (i.e. the person conducting the sampling) can be any interested party, including a prospective tenant of a building, a prospective purchaser of a building, an agent managing the rental of a building, an individual, a care provider, an employer, or even a law- cnforccmcnt officer needing to conduct tests for law enforcement purposes.

[00150] It will be appreciated that through the provision of the sampling device 100 described herein, the required training of the user is minimal, and does need the involvement of a highly-trained specialist as may be the case with existing systems and methods. Accordingly, users such as agents can be provided with the necessary training to allow them to conduct the required sampling themselves as and when the need arises, without having to arrange for the services of a specialist sampler to conduct the sampling. This provides savings in both direct costs charged by the sampling service, as well as more indirect costs and time savings such as needing to schedule appropriate times to conduct the sampling.

[00151 ] In the case of an agent, the system described herein can provide the agent with a useful point of distinction from their competitors, as they are able to cost-effectively provide a level of comfort to prospective tenants as well as to landlords who may wish to minimise their exposure to legal problems from providing a potentially-dangerous environment to prospective tenants, or to provide some regular testing in a tenanted building to ensure that a current tenant is not undertaking illegal or dangerous activities while in the building, in breach of their tenant agreement.

[00152] Other potential users of the system are employers, who may wish to ensure that their employees are not using illicit substances at or around the workplace, by swabbing surfaces such as the employee’s desk, keyboard, chair, machinery operated by the employee, or vehicles where the employee operates company vehicles. [00153] Furthermore, the devices, methods and systems described herein may also be used in any other suitable environment indoors or outdoors, where the presence of certain substances is required to be determined.

[00154] Throughout the specification and the claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the words“comprise” and“include” and variations such as“comprising” and“including” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers, but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[00155] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement of any form of suggestion that such prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

[00156] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention is not restricted in its use to the particular application described. Neither is the present invention restricted in its described embodiments with regard to the particular elements and/or features described or depicted herein and is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the scope as set forth and defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A sampling device comprising:

a sampling sheet; and

a support, the support comprising:

a substantially flat support region for supporting the sampling sheet; a sampling sheet retainer for at least temporarily retaining the sampling sheet to the support; and

a folding region for allowing the support to be folded to enclose the sampling sheet therein.

2. A sampling device as claimed in claim 1 wherein the sampling sheet retainer comprises at least one aperture for receiving a portion of and at least temporarily retaining the sampling sheet.

3. A sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 or 2 wherein the sampling sheet retainer provides tension over at least a part of the surface of the sampling sheet when in use.

4. A sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 further comprising a securer for

securing the support in the folded position.

5. A sampling device as claimed in claim 4 wherein the securer comprises a securer tab and a securer aperture for receiving the securer tab.

6. A sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 further comprising a unique sampling device identifier associated therewith uniquely identifying the sampling device.

7. A sampling device as claimed in claim 6 wherein the unique sampling device identifier is able to be uploaded to a database.

8. A sampling device as claimed in claim 7 wherein the unique sampling device identifier is a bar code.

9. A sampling device as claimed in claim 7 wherein the unique sampling device identifier is a QR code.

10. A sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein the sampling sheet retainer comprises at least one arm which in use, adopts a first position away from the support region for receiving at least a portion of the sampling sheet, and a second position towards the support region for retaining the sampling sheet to the support.

1 1. A sampling device as claimed in claim 10 wherein the sampling sheet retainer comprises two arms.

12. A sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 further comprising at least one

extender securer for securing the support to an extender.

13. A sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12 wherein the sampling sheet is stitched to the support.

14. A kit for use by a user, the kit comprising:

a first sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13 for sampling a surface by the user;

a second sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13 for sampling the surface of the user’s hand; and

instructions for the use of the first sampling device and the second sampling device.

15. A kit as claimed in claim 14 comprising a third sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13 comprising a control substance applied to the sampling sheet.

16. A kit as claimed in claim 14 or 15 comprising a fourth sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13 for use as a trip blank.

17. A kit as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16 comprising an envelope addressed to a laboratory for conducting analysis of the sampling sheet of any one or more of the first, second, third or fourth sampling device.

18. A kit as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 17 wherein the instructions further instruct the user to upload a unique sampling device identifier associated with at least one of the first, second, third or fourth sampling devices and to associate test result recipient details with the unique sampling device identifier.

19. A kit as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 18 further comprising a temperature sensor for indicating whether any of the sampling devices in the kit have been exposed to a temperature exceeding a maximum temperature.

20. A kit as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 19 further comprising a solvent for applying to one or more of the sampling devices.

21. A method of sampling a surface by a user, the method comprising;

wiping the surface with the sampling device according to any one of claims 1 to 13; closing the sampling device; and

sending the closed sampling device to a laboratory for identification of a substance sampled by the sampling device.

22. A method as claimed in claim 21 further comprising sampling the user’s hand with a second sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13 and closing.

23. A method as claimed in claim 22 further comprising sending: the closed sampling device, the second closed sampling device, a third sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, the third sampling device having a control substance applied to the sampling sheet of the third sampling device, and a fourth sampling device for use as a trip blank, to the laboratory.

24. A method as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 23 further compri ing uploading a unique

sampling device identification and associating further data with the unique sampling device identification.

25. A method of providing test results to a test result recipient comprising:

receiving a sampling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, the sampling device having associated therewith a unique sampling device identifier;

identify ing a substance sampled by the sampling device by conducting one or more tests to provide a test result; obtaining test result recipient information associated with the unique sampling device identifier of the sampling device; and

providing the test result to the test result recipient using the obtained test result recipient information.

26. A support for use in a sampling device and for supporting a sampling sheet, the support

comprising:

a substantially flat support region for supporting the sampling sheet;

a sampling sheet retainer for at least temporarily retaining the sampling sheet to the support; and