Who has overall authority for sample collection within a two-person sample collection R&S element?

• A. Sampler 'dirty person'
• B. Team Leader
• C. Safety Officer
• D. Lab Technician

Answer: (A)

In this setup, the person actually handling the contaminated material has control over the sampling process. The sampler is responsible for how and when the sample is collected, ensuring the correct technique, proper containment, labeling, and maintenance of chain-of-custody. The other team member acts as a safety-focused helper, supporting decontamination and PPE checks, and can raise a safety concern, but they do not decide how the sampling is performed. The Team Leader oversees the operation, the Lab Technician assists, and the Safety Officer concentrates on safety oversight rather than directing the collection method. Thus, the authority for how the sample is collected belongs to the sampler who performs the task.