Community Support
      Back to home
      1. Help Center
      2. Community Support

      How to Collect Air Test Samples

      Instruction for collecting air test samples.

      Purpose:

      To instruct on sterile and successful sample collection for the TUMI Genomics air test

      Download the Guide, here.

      Materials Needed:

      • Gloves
      • 70% ethanol in a spray bottle
      • Safety goggles (optional)
      • Lab coat or apron (optional)

      Procedure:

      1. On arrival day:

        1. Remove zip lock bags from the shipping box and make sure plates are not broken. Please try to not open the zip lock bag until ready to use. 
        2. For storing plates, put ziploc bags with plates as they were shipped in the fridge upside down (lids on the bottom). 

      2. Day 1 - Acclimation
        1. Before handling plates make sure to use 70% ethanol to wipe the working table. Remember to use clean gloves to handle plates. 
        2. Remove plates from the zip lock bag and for each plate carefully remove the individual wrap. Try not to open any of the lids at this point. 
        3. Set each plate on a table with the lid closed and facing up (lid on top) for at least 24 hrs. Do not stack plates on top of each other.  

      3. Day 2 - Sample Collection and Mailing

        1. Place plates on benches in areas between rows of plants. Remove lids and set them aside with the lid facing up. 
        2. Please do not remove lids on the control plates. These lids should always remain closed as they provide a way to control for not specific contamination. 
        3. Leave the open dishes for 60 minutes and then replace the lids.  
        4. Wrap each dish with the parafilm plastic wrap provided. Control plates should also be wrapped.  
      4. Put all plates, Control plates included, into a ziploc bag and ship to the TUMI Genomics lab. 
        1. Plates must be shipped the same day they are used to collect samples. 
        2. Recommend shipping the plates in a cardboard box versus an envelope to avoid breakage during shipping. 
        3. Ship to:
          ATTN: Tassa Saldi, PhD
          TUMI Genomics 
          320 East Vine Drive, Suite 129
          Fort Collins, 80524

      If you have any questions or need help selecting the best areas of your water system to test, please connect with our team at 720.807.8864 or help@tumigenomics.com