COVID‑19 RT‑PCR Test (Workplace)

For the most accurate results, samples should be taken from a symptomatic individual between 1–5 days of symptom onset.

It is different for everyone; however, guidance suggests that it takes from 2–14 days for the infected person to experience symptoms.

The RT-PCR test looks for evidence that the COVID-19 virus is present, by detecting the presence of its RNA in a swab sample from your nose/throat. The RT-PCR test detects the genetic material contained within the virus called RNA. When the sample reaches our laboratory, a process called real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is commenced. If there is viral RNA present, this process starts a ‘chain reaction’ and creates billions of copies of the genetic material contained within the virus so that there is a sufficient quantity of genetic material to be detected and analysed by scientists to enable a positive result to be obtained. In the event of no COVID-19 RNA being detected, we will report the sample as being negative.

An antibody test looks for evidence in a blood sample that your immune system may have responded to the COVID-19 virus already, through the presence of COVID-19 specific antibodies.

If you require a fit to fly certificate for international business travel, we can provide one with our same-day Covid-19 PCR result if your sample is received in our lab by 2pm.

Once you’ve received your COVID-19 PCR test sample collection kit, and you’re ready to collect your samples, you must register your test online. During this registration process you can select the fit to fly certificate option on the online form. Provision of a fit to fly certificate is conditional on you receiving a negative PCR test result and your answers to a series of COVID-19 specific health related questions.

IMPORTANT: Different countries have different requirements regarding entry, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. You are responsible for understanding the requirements of the country you are traveling to and for ensuring our fit to fly certificate and PCR testing service is sufficient for your travel needs. We cannot be held responsible in the event of any country refusing you entry on any grounds.

If we receive your samples after 11am on any working day, please be aware that the samples may not be processed until the next working day.

Your sample collection kit includes a pre-paid ‘Royal Mail Tracked 24’ envelope.

When returning your samples, make a note of the unique barcode reference number displayed on your instructions form, as well as the Royal Mail tracking number, so that you can track your samples if necessary.

Once your kit is sealed, post it into one of Royal Mail’s designated COVID-19 priority post boxes. Follow the link to find your nearest priority post box: www.royalmail.com/services-near-you

Please note, AlphaBiolabs cannot be held responsible for any delays or disruptions to Royal Mail’s postal service when returning your samples. If you want to guarantee AlphaBiolabs’ receipt of your samples, you may want to deliver them in person to our premises located at 14 Webster Court, Carina Park, Warrington, Cheshire WA5 8WD.

An rt PCR test detects the presence of COVID-19-specific RNA within the nose or throat sample. The scientific analysis is 100% accurate and will confirm if the person being tested has an active COVID-19 infection irrespective of if they are displaying symptoms or not (asymptomatic).

Depending on the outcome of the analysis, the report will state if the virus is ‘detected’ or ‘not detected’.

In relation to antibody testing, we can also provide highly sensitive and highly specific laboratory-based testing in addition to instant result COVID-19 immunoassay screening devices as part of your strategy to keep your workplace COVID-19 safe. Ask our specialist Customer Services team on 0333 600 1300 for more information.

Any orders placed before 2pm will be dispatched on the same working day using a next day delivery courier service. For UK delivery, the next day courier fee is £9.95, for international orders, the courier fee is £39.95.

If we receive the sample in our laboratory by 2pm, your employee’s results will be available the same day.

If you receive a positive result, you and your household must self-isolate and follow the latest Government guidance on self-isolation, which can be found here: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/self-isolation-and-treatment/when-to-self-isolate-and-what-to-do/

If you develop the symptoms of a COVID-19 infection, you should follow Government guidance: www.111.nhs.uk/service/COVID-19/

If you have already contracted coronavirus, the rt PCR analysis may not return a positive result as we would be reporting if the COVID-19 virus is currently active and present. To establish a previous infection, you might consider undertaking an antibody test.