Certifications. Until a "mandatory" national accreditation program for laboratories is in place, the terms "approved", "recognized",
and "certified" must be questioned when claims are made by a laboratory. Ask what was required to obtain the status...performance
evaluations, on-site audits, etc. Request that the laboratory provide you with copies of its certification or accreditation documents.
Sample
Collection. Make sure the laboratory abides by the temperature control protocol set by EPA sampling requirements. For microbiological
samples aseptic collection, temperature control and rapid transfer to the laboratory for log-in and analysis is essential. Be certain
that you and the laboratory agree on sample collection and delivery procedures. Ask about regional pick-up service.
Making a Decision
Visit.
Once you've narrowed your choices, visit each laboratory to meet with client services, QA/QC director, laboratory director, and analysts
to be sure that the quality of service, facilities, and QA/QC program meet your expectations. A visit gives you the opportunity to
audit laboratory practices and see how your samples and data will be handled.
Performance Evaluation samples. As a last step in making
a final decision, you may send a set of "performance evaluation samples" to the laboratories you have chosen to prove that they can
meet your requirements. The samples should be uniform in composition, with levels of analytes already known to you.
Cost and turnaround
time are also important. After visiting the few laboratories and reviewing their qualifications and experience, submit your request
for a fee quotation. Be very specific in your request and require very specific information in return. At this point, an accurate
comparison of qualified labs can be made with regard to cost.
The above information is also found in a pamphlet from ACIL.
Argus is
a full service analytical firm dedicated to providing quality analysis in a timely fashion. Simply call and we will be delighted to
help you with the analytical requirement of your projects. Our vast experience and extensive expertise enables us to assist you with
all the analytical aspects of your project, no matter how complex. Please call concerning parameters, methods, detection limits, or
any similar questions.
Argus' Client Services group is alway available to assist you with all your requirements.
Copyright (C) 2007 Argus Analytical, Inc.
Last update:
Mon, 5 May 2005
