What must an officer do if the owner of the premises is absent during sample collection?

Section 11 – Power to take sample and procedure to be followed in connection therewith Authority to Take Samples

• The Central Government or its authorized officer can collect samples of air, water, soil, or other substances from factories, premises, or any place for analysis.

Use of Sample Analysis in Legal Proceedings

• The analysis cannot be used as evidence in a legal case unless proper procedures are followed.

Procedure for Sample Collection

• The officer must:

(a) Inform the owner, manager, or person in charge through a written notice. (b) Collect the sample in their presence. (c) Seal and sign the sample containers, with signatures from both the officer and the  person in charge. (d) Send the sample promptly to a government-approved laboratory.   What Happens if the Owner is Absent or Refuses to Sign?

• If the owner is not present intentionally, the officer can still collect and seal the sample.
• If the owner refuses to sign, the officer will sign and document the refusal.
• In both cases, the sample will be sent to the government laboratory, and the officer will inform the Government Analyst about the situation.