PJLA Blog

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Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA) joyfully welcomed assessors back to Troy, Michigan, for our first in-person Annual Training since December 2019. The gathering, held on December 7th and 8th, marked a pivotal moment, fostering an atmosphere for teamwork and professional growth.

Tracy Szerszen, Tamara Norris, Doug Berg, Matthew Sica, Julie Snelling, Leeza Akimenko, and Mike Kramer diligently educated PJLA’s core group of assessors on a diverse array of topics, ranging from common findings and program changes to the latest updates on relevant standards and programs.

One of the highlights on the agenda was an enlightening FDA LAAF update, shedding light on critical developments in the field. Additionally, the discussion on Lessons Learned from the DoD/DOE Annual Meeting provided valuable insights into best practices and emerging trends. The session on The Future of Cannabis Testing offered a glimpse into what is happening in this rapidly evolving sector, igniting discussions on improvement and compliance within the cannabis testing accreditation domain.

Amidst the training sessions, PJLA took a moment to honor two of its shining stars, Tamara Norris, and Eddie Clemmons, by presenting them with Employee of the Year and Assessor of the Year. Their dedication, tireless efforts, and exceptional service has left an indelible mark on our company. Their commitment to excellence serves as an inspiration to their peers and stands as a testament to PJLA’s core values.

Overall, the return to in-person gatherings not only facilitated an exchange of new ideas but also rekindled the sense of community among PJLA managers, staff, and assessors. The camaraderie during this event will undoubtedly contribute to further collaboration and advancement within PJLA in 2024 and beyond.

Contact PJLA today to get started on your journey to accreditation. Email us at [email protected] or call (248) 519-2603 to speak to a Program Manager in your area.

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In the constantly evolving landscape of the laboratory industry, staying attuned to current trends and foreseeing future developments is paramount for success. Today, we’ll explore five prominent shifts shaping the industry and how they impact the dynamics of hospital-based laboratories.

1. Consolidation of Systems: The trend of smaller healthcare entities merging into larger systems is reshaping the industry. This consolidation streamlines operations and serves as a lifeline for struggling independents, paving the way for dominant health systems.
2. Increase in Employed Providers: More healthcare providers are affiliating with larger systems, altering traditional business models. This shift grants them access to integrated support systems, influencing their engagement with laboratory services.
3. Staffing Shortages and Innovative Solutions: Shortages in lab personnel prompt creative solutions such as automation and upskilling programs for existing staff, maximizing efficiency without significantly expanding the workforce.
4. Digital Pathology and AI: Integrating digital pathology with AI offers hospitals specialized expertise and advanced analysis tools for better patient outcomes. Investing in these technologies proves beneficial for future healthcare practices.
5. Patient Consumerism: Patients increasingly engage in at-home testing for various health screenings. Offering user-friendly apps for result viewing and streamlining access to records and scheduling enhances patient satisfaction and loyalty.

To thrive in this dynamic environment, laboratories must adapt by embracing patient-centric approaches. Establishing a presence on electronic medical record portals, enabling convenient scheduling, registration, and result access are crucial steps toward enhancing patient satisfaction and loyalty. Beyond merely observing trends, adaptability and creativity are indispensable traits for effective laboratory leadership in today’s dynamic healthcare landscape.

Contact PJLA today to get started on your journey to accreditation. Email us at [email protected] or call (248) 519-2603 to speak to a Program Manager in your area.

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Call For Presenters: TNI Hosting PFAS Virtual Workshop
Wednesday, February 7, 2024, 10:00am – 4:00pm ET

Guidance published by the US EPA, the Department of Defense, and several states indicate many precautions should be taken when collecting samples and field blanks are an essential component of the analytical workflow. Now that thousands of field blanks have been analyzed, is there any data to support this costly endeavor? The NELAC Institute (TNI) is holding this virtual workshop to explore best practices for sampling drinking water and wastewater for PFAS and the analysis of the associated field blanks.

TNI is soliciting speakers to address topics such as:

• How prevalent are PFAS in field blanks?
• Is there any evidence that shows such precautions are not required?
• How do laboratories analyze their work flows to process field blanks in the most expeditious manner?
• Is there any evidence that all of the precautions such as clothing, makeup, sunscreen, and food are required to minimize false positive results?

Following the presentations, the presenters will come back together as a panel to continue discussions. The presentations and summary of the panel discussion will be provided to key regulators to give them input into modifying their guidance.

If you are interested in presenting, please RSVP by December 18, 2023 to Ilona Taunton making sure to include your time preference as well as your name and title.

Important Dates:

• RSVP by Monday, December 18, 2023
• Abstracts due Friday, January 12, 2024
• Final presentations due Wednesday, January 31, 2024

You can contact Ilona Taunton or Tracy Szerszen – NEFAP Executive Committee Chair with any questions.

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The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and of course, delicious meals shared with loved ones. As you embark on creating culinary delights, it is crucial to prioritize safety in the kitchen. Here are some tips to keep in mind for a safe and stress-free cooking experience during the season.

1. Practice Fire Safety: Keep flammable items such as kitchen towels, oven mitts, and wooden utensils away from the stove. Install a smoke alarm nearby and have a fire extinguisher on-hand in case of emergencies.
2. Proper Food Handling: Food safety is vital during holiday meal preparations. Thaw frozen foods safely in the refrigerator or under cold running water to prevent bacterial growth. Use separate cutting boards for raw meats and vegetables to avoid cross-contamination, and wash hands frequently when handling different food items.
3. Educate and Involve Everyone: If you’re cooking with family or friends, brief them on kitchen safety guidelines. Encourage open communication about safety measures to ensure everyone is on the same page.
4. First Aid Preparedness: Have a stocked first aid kit readily available in the kitchen. Familiarize yourself with basic first aid procedures for minor burns, cuts, or other kitchen-related injuries.

By prioritizing safety measures in the kitchen, you can create a secure environment for everyone. Embrace the joy of entertaining family while keeping safety at the forefront of your holiday festivities.

Wishing you a safe and delightful holiday season!

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The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) held their much-anticipated IAF-ILAC Annual Joint Meetings in Montreal, Canada, from November 6th to 15th, 2023. This event brought together key industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders from across the globe to discuss and strategize on matters pivotal to accreditation and conformity assessment. Among the attendees was Tracy Szerszen, President and Matthew Sica, Technical Program Manager. Their presence marked PJLA’s commitment to staying at the forefront of industry standards and best practices.

The thorough schedule included meetings of the ILAC Inspection Committee (ILAC IC), the ILAC Executive Committee, the IAF/ILAC Joint Development Support Committee (JDSC), as well as 15 working groups (WGs) and five task forces (TFs). These meetings provided attendees with opportunities to forge new partnerships, exchange ideas, and explore potential areas for cooperation. These interactions were crucial in strengthening relationships among accreditation bodies and fostering a spirit of collaboration in the industry.

In recent years, ILAC and IAF opted for virtual meetings due to the pandemic and were therefore unable to have official MRA signing ceremonies for new accreditation bodies and those that had expanded into new areas. Since returning to in-person meetings, PJLA was finally recognized this year for our expansion into Proficiency Testing Provider Accreditation (PTP).

As the meetings drew to a close, there was a sense of optimism and commitment among participants to work towards further enhancing the credibility and effectiveness of accreditation practices. The 2023 IAF-ILAC Annual Joint Meetings set the stage for continued advancements and collaborations that will shape the future of accreditation and conformity assessment on a global scale.

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As we celebrate World Quality Week from November 6-10, 2023, the spotlight is on a theme that resonates across industries: “Quality: realizing your competitive potential.” World Quality Week serves as an annual reminder to organizations worldwide about the importance of quality in their operations.

This year’s theme emphasizes the link between quality practices and a company’s ability to thrive in a competitive marketplace. It challenges businesses to look beyond compliance and embrace quality as a tactical advantage. In a global landscape where businesses strive for excellence, one of the cornerstones of achieving and maintaining quality is laboratory accreditation.

Laboratory accreditation is a critical component of the quality assurance process. It provides a formal recognition of a laboratory’s competence to perform specific tests or calibrations, ensuring the reliability and accuracy of the results being produced. Accreditation is not just a badge of honor; it is a strategic asset that directly contributes to an organization’s competitive potential.

In a time where consumers demand transparency and consistency, quality becomes the key differentiator. Organizations that prioritize quality not only meet regulatory requirements but also gain the trust and loyalty of their customers.
As we reflect on this year’s World Quality Week, laboratory accreditation is not only a technical advantage but a competitive necessity. Organizations that recognize the value of accreditation position themselves to realize their competitive potential. By investing in quality practices, embracing accreditation, and prioritizing accuracy and reliability, businesses can stand out in a competitive market, building trust with customers and stakeholders alike.

Contact PJLA today to get started on your journey to accreditation. Email us at [email protected] or call (248) 519-2603 to speak to a Program Manager in your area.

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As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, ensuring product safety and quality has become vital. Cannabis testing laboratories play a critical role in this process by analyzing samples for potency, contaminants, and other crucial parameters. To meet the highest standards of quality assurance and compliance, laboratories can pursue ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation. This internationally recognized standard outlines the requirements for the competence, impartiality, and consistent performance of testing and calibration laboratories. Here are 9 ways ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation can impact a cannabis testing laboratory.

1. Enhanced Credibility and Trustworthiness: ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation is a globally accepted mark of quality and competence. Laboratories that achieve this accreditation are recognized for their commitment to accuracy, precision, and reliability. This credibility not only boosts the lab’s reputation but also instills confidence in clients and regulatory bodies, leading to increased trust in the lab’s results.

2. Improved Consistency and Reliability: Accreditation requires labs to implement strict quality management systems, including standardized operating procedures, personnel training, and equipment calibration. These measures ensure that test results are consistent, dependable, and reproducible over time. This level of consistency is crucial for building long-term client relationships.

3. Greater Compliance with Regulatory Requirements: ISO/IEC 17025 aligns closely with many regulatory requirements governing cannabis testing. By achieving accreditation, a lab demonstrates its commitment to meeting these standards, reducing the risk of non-compliance issues. This helps in avoiding costly penalties, product recalls, and reputational damage.

4. Expanded Market Access: In many regions, ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation is a prerequisite for labs to participate in cannabis testing programs or to bid on contracts for government or large-scale projects. Accreditation opens doors to new markets and opportunities, allowing labs to expand their client base and increase their revenue streams.

5. Efficient Risk Management: Accredited labs implement rigorous risk assessment and management protocols. This helps identify potential sources of error, ensuring that they are mitigated or eliminated. By reducing the likelihood of errors, labs can provide more accurate results and decrease the chances of costly mistakes.

6. Attracting and Retaining Talent: Accreditation signifies a commitment to excellence in laboratory practices. This reputation can attract high-caliber professionals seeking to work in environments that prioritize quality and precision.

7. Improved Customer Satisfaction: Accredited labs often have a customer-centric approach, emphasizing clear communication, responsiveness, and a focus on meeting client needs. This dedication to customer satisfaction leads to stronger relationships, repeat business, and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

8. Increased Efficiency and Productivity: Accreditation requires labs to optimize their workflows, ensuring that processes are streamlined, and resources are allocated efficiently. This leads to quicker turnaround times for clients, reducing bottlenecks and increasing overall productivity.

9. Continuous Improvement Culture: Accreditation fosters a culture of continuous improvement within a laboratory. It encourages ongoing training, process refinement, and the adoption of innovative technologies. This dynamic approach ensures that labs stay at the forefront of industry advancements and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

In all, ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation is a transformative step for cannabis testing laboratories seeking to excel in accuracy, compliance, and customer satisfaction. By adhering to this international standard, labs not only enhance their own operations but also contribute to the overall safety and quality assurance of the cannabis industry.

Contact us at (248) 519-2603 or [email protected]

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The 5th biennial Quality Show held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL, from October 24-26, 2023, brought together industry leaders, experts, and innovators in the field of quality technology and equipment. Among the attendees was Sean Donnellan, Regional Sales Manager representing Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA). With a keen eye for the latest trends in dimensional inspection, calibration, and testing, his presence at the event marked a significant return for PJLA to a show that has previously been a staple for the PJLA team. After a hiatus, Sean expressed his delight in being back at the show, highlighting its importance in the growth and development of their team.

Prior to the official opening of the show, Sean had the pleasure of reconnecting with Frey & Weiss Precision Machining, a longtime client based in Wood Dale, IL. This reunion was just the beginning of what turned out to be a fruitful event. The exhibition floor was a testament to the industry’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of quality technology.

The show floor featured an impressive array of the latest advancements in dimensional inspection, calibration, and testing. Attendees had the opportunity to witness firsthand the groundbreaking solutions that are shaping the future of quality control. From state-of-the-art equipment to innovative techniques, the Quality Show provided a comprehensive overview of the industry’s progress.

Among the standout exhibitors were Ken and Ryan Losacco from Assurance Technologies, Inc., an Elgin, IL-based family-owned business specializing in ISO 17025 accredited calibration and metrology services. Their meticulously designed booth showcased their commitment to excellence, attracting potential partners and highlighting the vital role these services play in ensuring precision and accuracy in manufacturing processes.

One of the most significant advantages of attending events like the Quality Show is the chance to connect with like-minded professionals. The show provided a platform for meaningful interactions, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration. For PJLA, this was also an invaluable opportunity to engage with potential assessors in the calibration and testing space.

The Quality Show proved to be a success for PJLA. Sean Donnellan’s presence and observations underscored the importance of events like these in staying at the forefront of the industry. With a showcase of cutting-edge technology, opportunities for meaningful connections, and a platform for knowledge exchange, the Quality Show reaffirmed its status as a crucial event for anyone invested in quality technology and equipment.

Contact us at (248) 519-2603 or [email protected]

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The ACIL 2023 Annual Meeting, held from October 10th to 12th at the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego, California, was a pivotal event for members of the American Council of Independent Laboratories (ACIL). Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc.’s (PJLA) President, Tracy Szerszen, was able to attend this year, participating and cultivating relationships with fellow members.

ACIL is the trade association representing independent, commercial scientific and testing laboratories. Its members are professional services firms engaged in testing, product certification, consulting, and research and development. Affiliated membership is available to manufacturers, laboratories, consultants, and suppliers to the industry.

ACIL’s Vision: Realizing a healthy safe environment for society through the application of unbiased, scientific testing.

ACIL’s Mission: Providing the independent testing community with advocacy, education, and alliances to enable members to better address environmental and product risks to the public.

This year’s meeting brought together industry leaders, offering them a unique platform to engage in meaningful discussions regarding the pressing issues facing their respective labs. The event featured a comprehensive schedule, including a full day dedicated to industry and sector-specific meetings. Attendees had the opportunity to converse with peers who had navigated similar challenges, as well as gain insights from esteemed guest speakers.

The meeting allowed participants to share their priorities and perspectives. Moreover, the Educational Workshops, which focused on laboratory best practices, provided a forum for attendees to learn from the very best in the field.
In addition to its rich content, the ACIL 2023 Annual Meeting was strategically located in the heart of the country, facilitating networking opportunities in a vibrant and dynamic setting. This event exemplified ACIL’s enduring commitment to fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and professional growth within the independent laboratory community.

Contact us at (248) 519-2603 or [email protected]

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The journey of ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation can be both daunting and rewarding. The standard, specifying the general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories, demands meticulous preparation and a keen understanding of its intricacies. Here are some valuable insights I wish I had known before my first ISO/IEC 17025 assessment.

Clearly Defining the Scope of Your Laboratory Services Is Fundamental. Know exactly what tests or calibrations you want to be accredited for. A well-defined scope helps assessors assess your lab’s competency accurately.

Documentation Is Key. Accurate and comprehensive documentation is the backbone of ISO/IEC 17025. Create a robust quality management system with detailed procedures, records, and policies. Thorough documentation not only facilitates the assessment process but also ensures consistency in your lab’s operations.

Invest in Staff Training and Competency Assessments. Competent personnel are essential to the credibility of your laboratory. Regular training programs enhance skills, boost morale, and ensure that everyone understands and adheres to the established procedures.

Proficiency Testing Matters. These exercises not only validate your lab’s capabilities but also help in identifying areas that need improvement. Addressing these gaps before the assessment can significantly enhance your chances of a success accreditation.

Foster a Continuous Improvement Culture within your laboratory. Regularly review your processes, learn from non-conformities, and implement corrective actions. A proactive approach to addressing issues demonstrates your commitment to quality and compliance.

Maintain Active Communication with the Assessors. Maintain open and transparent communication with the assessors. Be prepared to explain your processes, methods, and quality control measures clearly. Address their queries confidently, showcasing your lab’s expertise and compliance with the standard.

Don’t Underestimate Preliminary Assessments. Conduct preliminary assessments internally or hire external consultants to identify potential gaps. These mock assessments provide valuable feedback, allowing you to fine-tune your processes and documentation before the actual assessment, ensuring a smoother experience.

Patience and Perseverance Are Critical. Achieving ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation is not an overnight process. It requires time, effort, and patience. Stay persistent, learn from the challenges, and celebrate the milestones. The journey might be demanding, but the recognition of your lab’s competence is immensely rewarding.

In conclusion, preparing for an ISO/IEC 17025 assessment is a comprehensive endeavor that demands meticulous planning, dedicated effort, and a commitment to quality. Understanding the nuances of the standard and implementing best practices beforehand can significantly enhance your chances of a successful accreditation, paving the way for your laboratory’s excellence in testing and calibration services.

Contact us at (248) 519-2603 or [email protected]

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