Please read the enclosed instructions carefully before opening the product.
The recommended sample volume is particularly important – it is usually determined by the manufacturer after careful review of the certification data. The use of a smaller amount is one of the most common sources of error.
Some reference materials can be toxic or potentially hazardous and therefore require special care during handling. Although processing procedures eliminate most known bacteria and viruses, it cannot be guaranteed that all certified reference materials (CRMs) with a biological matrix are completely free of infectious agents.
Some manufacturers do use gamma irradiation to increase the stability of natural matrices. However, this does not provide an absolute guarantee of sterility.