Abstract: An assembly is provided for receiving, maintaining and storing blood samples taken from individuals some of whom may have a disease which can contaminate anyone handling the sample. The assembly includes a glass tube which may be evacuated for facilitating and receiving a blood sample coaxially retained within a plastic tube which retains the sample and the general integrity of the assembly in the event that the glass tube cracks or breaks during handling. Thus, the glass tube maintains a long shelf-life for the evacuated tube, and does not react adversely or interfere with blood chemistries, while the outer plastic sleeve protects the user from broken glass and/or contamination. A special interlock ring holds the glass tube coaxially in place relative to the plastic tube.