Procedure where a sample is to be analysed
6.—(1) An authorised officer who has procured a sample under section 29 of the Act and who considers that it should be analysed shall (subject to paragraph (4) below) forthwith divide the sample into three parts.
(2) If the sample consists of sealed containers and opening them would, in the opinion of the authorised officer, impede a proper analysis, the authorised officer shall divide the sample into parts by putting the containers into three lots, and each lot shall be treated as being a part.
(3) The authorised officer shall–
(a)if necessary place each part in a suitable container and seal each container;
(b)mark each part or container;
(c)as soon as it is reasonably practicable to do so, give one to the owner and give him notice that the sample will be analysed;
(d)submit one for analysis; and
(e)retain one for future submission under regulation 7.
(4) If the authorised officer is of the opinion that division of the sample into parts is either not reasonably practicable or likely to impede a proper analysis, he shall as soon as it is reasonably practicable to do so give to the owner notice that it will be analysed and shall submit it for analysis.