PJLA

In the bustling city of Nashville, Tennessee, the manufacturing community recently converged for a leading event – The Quality Show South 2024. This inaugural gathering, presented by Quality Magazine, aimed to foster connections among southern manufacturing professionals and provide a platform for interaction with premier suppliers and industry experts. Among the attendees this year was Courtney Smith, representing Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA).

For PJLA, an organization dedicated to providing accreditation services to laboratories worldwide, events like The Quality Show South are invaluable opportunities to engage with the industry and showcase their commitment to quality and excellence.

Courtney Smith, equipped with her expertise and enthusiasm, navigated through the event, immersing herself in the vibrant atmosphere of innovation and collaboration. As a representative of PJLA, Courtney’s primary objective was to connect with professionals from various sectors, share insights on accreditation processes, and explore potential collaborations.

During her time at The Quality Show South, Courtney had the pleasure of running into one of PJLA’s esteemed clients, Holts Precision, Inc. Holts Precision, Inc. holds ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, a testament to their dedication to quality and precision. PJLA has been privileged to accredit Holts Precision, Inc. for many years, fostering a relationship built on trust and mutual respect.

With events like these paving the way for collaboration and innovation, the future of manufacturing looks brighter than ever.

April 24, 2024, marks the celebration of National Administrative Professionals Day, a day dedicated to honoring the invaluable contributions of administrative professionals across various industries. At Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), we recognize the importance of our administrative professionals in keeping our operations running smoothly. They are the unsung heroes who form the backbone of our efficiency, and today, we want to express our deepest gratitude for their hard work and dedication.

In every organization, administrative professionals play a pivotal role in ensuring seamless day-to-day operations. From managing schedules and appointments to coordinating communications and providing vital support to staff, their responsibilities are essential.

At PJLA, our administrative professionals go above and beyond to support our mission of promoting quality and excellence in laboratory accreditation. They are the friendly voices on the other end of the phone, the meticulous organizers behind the scenes, and the problem solvers who keep things running like clockwork. Their attention to detail, organizational skills, and unwavering commitment are instrumental in upholding the high standards we are known for.

“To all of the PJLA administrative staff, I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks and recognition for your invaluable contributions. You are essential to the smooth functioning of our organization. Happy Administrative Professionals’ Day!” – Tracy Szerszen, PJLA President

As we commemorate Earth Day, we are reminded of the collective responsibility we bear towards our planet and the imperative need to protect and preserve it for future generations. At Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), we are committed to promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship not only within our own organization but also among the countless businesses and laboratories we accredit worldwide. Today, we extend our efforts beyond accreditation standards to share actionable steps that organizations can implement to contribute to a greener world.

1. Embrace Renewable Energy: Transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, or hydroelectric power can significantly reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact.
2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Implementing effective waste management practices is essential in minimizing environmental footprint. Encourage employees to reduce paper usage, recycle materials, and invest in reusable products.
3. Adopt Sustainable Procurement Practices: Choose suppliers and vendors who prioritize sustainability in their operations.
4. Invest in Energy-Efficient Technologies: Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances, lighting systems, and HVAC systems to conserve energy and reduce operating costs. Implementing smart building technologies and energy management systems can optimize energy usage and enhance sustainability performance.
5. Support Environmental Conservation Initiatives: Engage in corporate social responsibility initiatives that support environmental conservation efforts. Partner with nonprofit organizations, participate in tree planting campaigns, or organize community clean-up events to contribute to local environmental preservation.

At PJLA, we stand ready to support organizations in their journey towards sustainability through our accreditation services and commitment to environmental stewardship. Together, let us pave the way towards a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow.

Happy Earth Day from the team at Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA)!

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As Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), a leading internationally recognized accreditation body, we’ve encountered numerous misconceptions surrounding laboratory accreditation. Accreditation plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and reliability of testing and calibration performed by laboratories. However, misinformation can lead to misunderstandings about its purpose and benefits. In this article, we aim to debunk some of the most common misconceptions about laboratory accreditation.

Misconception 1: Accreditation is Optional

One prevalent misconception is that laboratory accreditation is optional or merely a bureaucratic formality. In reality, accreditation is a voluntary process that demonstrates a laboratory’s commitment to quality and competence. While accreditation is not mandated by law in many cases, it is often required by regulatory agencies, industry standards, and clients. Accreditation provides assurance to stakeholders that a laboratory meets internationally recognized standards and operates with integrity.

Misconception 2: Accreditation is a One-Time Achievement

Some believe that once a laboratory obtains accreditation, its work is done. However, accreditation is an ongoing process that requires continuous improvement and adherence to standards. Accredited laboratories must undergo regular assessments to maintain their accreditation status. This ensures that they continue to meet evolving requirements and uphold the highest levels of quality and competence.

Misconception 3: Accreditation is Cost-Prohibitive

Another misconception is that accreditation is too costly for laboratories, especially smaller ones. While there are associated costs with the accreditation process, such as assessment fees and implementation of standard requirements, these expenses are an investment in the laboratory’s advancement and continued success. Moreover, accreditation can lead to cost savings in the long run by reducing the need for rework, improving efficiency, and increasing customer confidence.

Misconception 4: Accreditation is Only for Large Laboratories

Some believe that accreditation is only relevant for large laboratories with extensive resources. In reality, laboratories of all sizes can benefit from accreditation. Accreditation standards are scalable and can be tailored to the size and scope of the laboratory’s operations. Small and medium-sized laboratories can enhance their competitiveness, gain access to new markets, and demonstrate their capabilities through accreditation.

Misconception 5: Accreditation Guarantees Perfect Results

While accreditation demonstrates a laboratory’s commitment to quality, it does not guarantee perfect results. Like any human endeavor, testing and calibration are subject to uncertainties and limitations. Accreditation does, however, provide assurance that a laboratory follows standardized procedures, maintains appropriate equipment, and employs qualified personnel. It also includes mechanisms for addressing non-conformities and continuously improving processes.

Laboratory accreditation is a vital tool for ensuring the quality and reliability of testing and calibration services. By debunking common misconceptions, we hope to clarify the importance and benefits of accreditation for laboratories of all sizes. Accreditation is not optional but rather a strategic investment in quality, competence, and customer satisfaction. As a leading accreditation body, PJLA remains committed to supporting laboratories in their pursuit of excellence through accreditation.

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In the realm of quality assurance and compliance, the terms “accreditation” and “certification” are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion among businesses seeking to enhance their credibility and reliability. Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), a globally recognized accreditation body, aims to shed light on this matter by elucidating the critical differences between accreditation and certification.

What is Accreditation?

Accreditation is a formal recognition granted to organizations or facilities, signifying their competence, credibility, and compliance with specific standards and requirements set forth by accrediting bodies. It involves a rigorous assessment process conducted by independent, third-party evaluators to ensure that the accredited entity adheres to established criteria, regulations, and best practices.

For laboratories, accreditation demonstrates technical proficiency, reliability, and impartiality in testing, calibration, and measurement activities. Accredited laboratories are held to stringent standards, such as ISO/IEC 17025 for testing and calibration laboratories, ISO 15189 for medical laboratories, and ISO/IEC 17020 for inspection bodies.

The Significance of Certification

Certification, on the other hand, is a voluntary process through which an organization attests to its compliance with specific standards, guidelines, or regulations relevant to its industry or sector. Unlike accreditation, certification is often conducted by certification bodies or registrars accredited by accreditation bodies.

Certification serves as a tool for organizations to validate their adherence to industry-specific standards, such as ISO 9001 for quality management systems, ISO 14001 for environmental management systems, and ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety management systems. Achieving certification signifies that an organization has implemented robust processes and procedures to meet the requirements outlined in the respective standard.

Key Differences

1. Scope: Accreditation encompasses a broader evaluation of an organization’s overall competence and compliance with applicable standards, while certification focuses on specific management systems, processes, or products.
2. Third-Party Assessment: Accreditation involves assessments conducted by independent accreditation bodies, whereas certification typically involves audits by certification bodies accredited by those accreditation bodies.
3. Voluntary vs. Mandatory: Accreditation is often voluntary, although it may be required by regulatory authorities or industry associations in certain sectors. Certification, while also voluntary, may be necessary for regulatory compliance, contractual obligations, or market competitiveness.
4. Continuous Improvement: Accreditation emphasizes continuous improvement and adherence to evolving standards and best practices, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. Certification encourages organizations to maintain compliance with established standards but may not necessarily prioritize ongoing improvement to the same extent.

While accreditation and certification share the common goal of enhancing organizational credibility and reliability, they differ in scope, assessment process, and focus. Accreditation validates an organization’s overall competence and compliance with industry standards, whereas certification verifies adherence to specific management systems or product standards.

At PJLA, we recognize the importance of both accreditation and certification in driving quality, consistency, and trust across various industries. Understanding the distinction between the two empowers organizations to make informed decisions regarding their quality assurance strategies and enhances their ability to meet regulatory requirements, customer expectations, and industry benchmarks. As a trusted partner in accreditation, PJLA stands ready to support organizations in their pursuit of excellence and compliance.

Contact PJLA today to get started on your organization’s accreditation process! Call us at (248) 519-2603 or email us at [email protected].

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In today’s world, where quality assurance and standardization are paramount, laboratories play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability and accuracy of various products and services. Accreditation serves as a hallmark of competence, signifying adherence to stringent standards and best practices. However, the journey towards accreditation is not without its hurdles. As a leading accreditation body, Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA) has encountered and addressed numerous challenges faced by laboratories striving for accreditation. In this blog, we delve into some of the top challenges and provide insights into overcoming them.

1. Understanding and Navigating Accreditation Standards: One of the primary challenges laboratories encounter is comprehending the complex web of accreditation standards. From ISO/IEC 17025 for testing and calibration laboratories to ISO 15189 for medical laboratories, the landscape can be daunting. Laboratories must meticulously interpret these standards, align their processes accordingly, and ensure ongoing compliance. PJLA recognizes this challenge and provides extensive guidance and training to assist laboratories in navigating the intricacies of accreditation standards.

2. Resource Constraints: Resource limitations, both in terms of finances and personnel, pose significant obstacles for laboratories seeking accreditation. Investing in infrastructure, equipment, training, and hiring qualified staff demands substantial financial commitment. Additionally, the accreditation process itself requires dedicated manpower to compile documentation, conduct internal audits, and implement corrective actions. PJLA acknowledges the financial burden on laboratories and offers cost-effective accreditation solutions tailored to their needs.

3. Documenting Policies and Procedures: Accreditation necessitates meticulous documentation of policies, procedures, and quality management systems. Laboratories often struggle with the documentation process, facing challenges such as maintaining version control, ensuring clarity, and demonstrating compliance. PJLA assists laboratories in developing robust documentation systems, providing templates, and offering expert guidance to streamline the documentation process while ensuring compliance with accreditation requirements.

4. Addressing Nonconformities: During the accreditation process, laboratories may encounter nonconformities – deviations from accreditation standards or requirements. Identifying and addressing nonconformities effectively is crucial for achieving and maintaining accreditation. PJLA works closely with laboratories to conduct thorough root cause analyses, implement corrective actions, and establish preventive measures to mitigate future occurrences of nonconformities.

5. Continuous Improvement Culture: Accreditation is not a one-time achievement but rather a journey of continuous improvement. Establishing a culture of continuous improvement within the laboratory is essential for sustaining accreditation and enhancing operational efficiency. PJLA emphasizes the importance of ongoing training, performance monitoring, and process optimization to foster a culture of excellence and innovation within accredited laboratories.

While the road to accreditation may be fraught with challenges, laboratories need not navigate it alone. With the guidance and support of accreditation bodies like Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), laboratories can overcome these challenges and emerge stronger and more resilient. By embracing best practices, fostering a culture of quality, and leveraging accreditation as a catalyst for improvement, laboratories can not only achieve accreditation but also excel in their mission to deliver reliable and accurate testing and calibration services.

Contact PJLA today to get started by calling (248) 519-2603 or email us at [email protected].

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In the realm of laboratory accreditation, the pursuit of precision and accuracy is paramount. Laboratories must consistently demonstrate their competency and reliability in producing accurate test results to ensure the quality and safety of products and services. At the heart of this assurance lies proficiency testing, a critical component in the accreditation process. Let’s delve into the significance of proficiency testing and its role in accreditation, through the lens of Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA).

Proficiency Testing involves the systematic assessment of a laboratory’s performance by comparing its results to those of other laboratories using the same or similar methods. These tests are conducted by independent ISO 17043 accredited proficiency testing providers.

PJLA recognizes the pivotal role proficiency testing plays in ensuring the competence and reliability of accredited laboratories. A laboratory’s participation in proficiency testing (PT) activities is a requirement of the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard and PJLA’s Proficiency Testing Policy PL-1.

Proficiency testing isn’t just about meeting minimum requirements; it’s about driving continuous improvement. Laboratories use the feedback gained from proficiency testing results to refine their methodologies, enhance staff training, and implement corrective actions where necessary. This iterative process fosters a culture of excellence and innovation within accredited laboratories.

For consumers, businesses, and regulatory bodies, accreditation serves as a mark of confidence in a laboratory’s capabilities. Accredited laboratories thus become preferred partners in various industries, contributing to overall quality assurance and consumer safety.

In the accreditation landscape, proficiency testing stands as a cornerstone of quality assurance. Through its stringent evaluation processes, proficiency testing not only validates a laboratory’s capabilities but also drives continuous improvement and enhances customer confidence. At PJLA, we recognize the indispensable role of proficiency testing in upholding accreditation standards and ensuring the reliability of laboratory test results. By embracing proficiency testing, laboratories reaffirm their commitment to excellence and contribute to the advancement of quality assurance practices across industries.

Contact PJLA today by calling (248) 519-2603 or email us at [email protected].

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In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms. As this natural psychedelic gains recognition for its possible applications in mental health treatment, the importance of rigorous laboratory testing cannot be overstated.

Laboratory testing is essential to guarantee the purity and quality of psilocybin-containing products. Through analysis, scientists can identify and quantify the concentration of psilocybin and other compounds in mushrooms, extracts, or synthesized forms. This information is crucial for standardizing dosages, ensuring consistency, and minimizing the risk of contaminants that could compromise the safety of users.

Laboratory testing provides the necessary data and evidence to support legal and regulatory approval. For psilocybin to become a recognized and regulated product, it must undergo a rigorous process of legal and regulatory approval. By demonstrating the safety, efficacy, and standardized quality of psilocybin products, testing laboratories contribute to the establishment of a regulatory framework.

Laboratory testing helps build public trust by providing transparency and accountability in the production and distribution of psilocybin-containing substances. As the field of psychedelic testing continues to evolve, ensuring that the public has access to accurate information about the safety and benefits of psilocybin is crucial for overcoming stigma and misconceptions.

In the quest to unlock the potential of psilocybin, laboratory testing emerges as a necessary tool. From ensuring purity and safety to contributing valuable data for regulatory approval, the insights gained through rigorous scientific analysis pave the way for responsible and informed use of psilocybin in human consumption and medicinal applications. As research progresses, the collaboration between scientists, healthcare professionals, and policymakers will be instrumental in harnessing the benefits of psilocybin while prioritizing the well-being of individuals seeking alternative paths to mental health and personal growth.

To find out more about adding this to your current cannabis testing scope, or to begin the accreditation process, contact PJLA today! Call (248) 519-2603 or email us at [email protected].

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This International Women’s Day, Perry Johnson companies proudly shines a spotlight on the outstanding women who lead with passion, innovation, and resilience within our organization. These trailblazers have not only shattered glass ceilings but continue to inspire and empower others to reach new heights.

• Tracy Szerszen | President
• Tamara Norris | Operations Manager
• Carrie Hayden | Vice President of Sales
• Tina Young | General Manager
• Tami Carr | International Client Services and Marketing Manager
• Nadya Zolotaya | Corporate Controller
• Angela Cobb | China Operations Manager
• Monica Ciagne | Director Latin American Division
• Manuela Villa | Manager of Italian Operations

As we celebrate the achievements of women worldwide on International Women’s Day, let us recognize and appreciate the contributions of our female leaders at Perry Johnson companies. Their leadership is a beacon, guiding us towards a future where diversity, equality, and inclusion are not just ideals but integral parts of our corporate DNA.

Thank you to the women who make a difference every day. Happy International Women’s Day!

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Dear Perry Johnson Family,

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of our dear friend and esteemed colleague, Ray Wegner. Ray dedicated an incredible 26 years of his life to Perry Johnson Companies, leaving an indelible mark on our organization and the lives of those fortunate enough to know him.

Ray served as a beacon of commitment and passion, working tirelessly as a Regional Sales Manager in our Chicago office. His unwavering dedication to excellence, coupled with his warm and friendly demeanor, made him an integral part of our company’s success and a beloved member of our close-knit family.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ray was a true friend to many, always ready with a smile, a kind word, and a helping hand. His positive attitude, strong work ethic, and infectious enthusiasm inspired everyone around him, creating a workplace culture that reflected his values of teamwork and mutual support.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Ray’s family during this difficult time, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to them. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Raymond Joseph Wegner, please Click Here.

May he rest in peace!

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