Laboratory assessors play a pivotal role in ensuring organizations meet the highest standards of quality and compliance. At Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), our assessors are the backbone of our commitment to excellence, guiding laboratories through the accreditation process with precision and expertise. But what exactly makes an assessor? Here, we highlight the top skills and qualities that contribute to effective accreditation assessments.

1. Technical Expertise: Assessors must have a strong technical background in their respective fields. Whether it’s calibration, testing, inspection, etc., assessors need to be well-versed in industry-specific standards and methodologies. This expertise enables them to evaluate processes and equipment with a keen eye for detail.
2. In-Depth Knowledge of ISO/IEC Standards: A deep understanding of standards such as ISO/IEC 17025, ISO/IEC 17020, and ISO/IEC 17043 is essential. Assessors must not only understand the requirements but also interpret and apply them in real-world settings. Staying updated on revisions and changes to these standards is also a critical part of the role.
3. Analytical Thinking: Effective assessors are natural problem solvers. They must be able to analyze complex systems, identify potential issues, and offer constructive feedback. This requires critical thinking and the ability to assess both technical and organizational aspects of an organization’s operations.
4. Attention to Detail: Accreditation assessments require meticulous attention to detail. Assessors must carefully review documentation, observe procedures, and evaluate compliance with standards. Even minor oversights can have significant consequences, making this skill indispensable.
5. Strong Communication Skills: From conducting interviews to preparing assessment reports, clear and effective communication is key. Assessors must convey their findings in a way that is both professional and constructive, ensuring laboratories understand what is needed to achieve and maintain accreditation.
6. Interpersonal Skills: Building rapport with staff is an important part of the job. Assessors must be approachable and professional, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages open dialogue and continuous improvement.
7. Time Management: Assessments often involve tight schedules and multiple tasks. Assessors must prioritize effectively, ensuring all aspects of the evaluation are completed within the allotted time while maintaining a high standard of quality.
8. Adaptability: Every client is unique, and no two assessments are the same. Assessors must be adaptable, capable of navigating different environments, processes, and challenges with ease.
9. Commitment to Continuous Learning: The world of laboratory accreditation is constantly evolving. Assessors need to stay informed about industry advancements, new technologies, and changes to accreditation standards. A commitment to professional development is crucial for long-term success.
10. Ethical Integrity: Above all, assessors must uphold the highest standards of integrity and impartiality. They are entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring companies meet critical quality benchmarks, which requires unwavering honesty and professionalism.

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Ready to Make a Difference?

Do you have what it takes to be an exceptional assessor? Want to join a network of professionals dedicated to providing the best accreditation experience possible? Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA) is always looking for skilled individuals to join our team.

Apply today and become part of a global leader in laboratory accreditation!
Visit our website to learn more.

Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA) is excited to announce its comprehensive schedule of free virtual training workshops for 2025, now open for registration. These workshops are designed to support laboratory professionals, quality assurance personnel, and technical staff in achieving excellence through ISO/IEC 17025 compliance and best practices.

The workshops, led by PJLA’s Technical Program Manager, Matthew Sica, will provide practical, discussion-based learning experiences covering a range of critical topics, from calibration and method validation to data integrity and quality control. Each session is tailored to equip participants with actionable insights that can immediately enhance laboratory performance and compliance.

Highlights of the 2025 Educational Series:

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1. Determining Calibration Intervals for Laboratory Equipment – REGISTER NOW!
Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2025 | Time: 1:00 PM EST
Description: Learn to set optimal calibration intervals to ensure accuracy, reliability, and compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 standards.

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2. Quality Control and Monitoring for Consistent Laboratory Performance (Clause 7.7) – REGISTER NOW!
Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 | Time: 1:00 PM EDT
Description: Explore QC tools and techniques to sustain high-quality results and improve processes.

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3. Method Validation and Verification for Reliable Results (Clauses 7.2.1.1 to 7.2.2) – REGISTER NOW!
Date: Tuesday, April 15, 2025 | Time: 1:00 PM EDT
Description: Master the essentials of validating and verifying laboratory methods for accuracy and reliability.

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4. Managing Proficiency Testing for Continual Improvement (Clause 7.7) – REGISTER NOW!
Date: Tuesday, June 24, 2025 | Time: 1:00 PM EDT
Description: Discover how to leverage proficiency testing outcomes to drive ongoing laboratory improvements.

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5. Data Integrity and Records Management in Laboratory Practice (Clause 7.11) – REGISTER NOW!
Date: Tuesday, July 15, 2025 | Time: 1:00 PM EDT
Description: Gain strategies to safeguard data integrity and maintain robust records in compliance with ISO/IEC 17025.

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Each workshop offers a blend of expert-led discussions, real-world examples, and interactive engagement, empowering participants to confidently implement best practices in their laboratories.

“At PJLA, we are committed to advancing the knowledge and capabilities of the laboratory community,” said Matthew Sica, Technical Program Manager. “Our free training workshops are designed to deliver practical, hands-on insights that help laboratories enhance their processes, ensure compliance, and achieve sustained success.”

Don’t Miss Out!

Seats are limited, so register early to secure your spot. Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to laboratory operations, these workshops provide a unique opportunity to stay ahead in the evolving field of laboratory accreditation and quality management.

For additional details, visit PJLA’s Training Page or contact us at [email protected].

As 2024 draws to a close, all of us at Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA) want to take a moment to thank our clients, partners, and industry contacts for another successful year.

This season is a time to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together and to look ahead to the opportunities and possibilities of the new year. We are proud to have been part of your journey, helping ensure the quality and excellence of your services through our accreditation programs. Your commitment to precision and reliability inspires us every day.

As we celebrate this festive time, we also want to remind you that PJLA’s offices will be closed on December 25th and January 1st to allow our hardworking team to spend time with their loved ones and recharge for the year ahead.

From all of us at PJLA, we wish you and your families a holiday season filled with joy, peace, and celebration. May 2025 bring health, happiness, and continued success in all your endeavors.

Thank you for trusting us to support your accreditation needs—we look forward to working with you in the new year!

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

As one of the most recognized standards for laboratory testing and calibration, ISO/IEC 17025 has become essential for organizations seeking to demonstrate their technical competence and ensure reliable results. At Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), we frequently receive questions about this accreditation and its importance. Today, we’re diving into the Five Whys of ISO/IEC 17025 to help you better understand its significance and how PJLA can assist in your journey.

1. Why Was ISO/IEC 17025 Created?
ISO/IEC 17025 was established to provide a globally recognized framework for laboratories to prove their competence in testing and calibration activities. As industries rely heavily on accurate measurements and testing, this standard ensures that laboratories deliver results that are not only precise but also consistent and reliable, regardless of location. By adhering to ISO/IEC 17025, laboratories can build trust with clients and stakeholders while supporting global trade and regulatory compliance.

2. What Is ISO/IEC 17025?
ISO/IEC 17025 is an international standard that outlines the general requirements for the competence, impartiality, and consistent operation of laboratories. It encompasses both management and technical requirements, addressing everything from the quality of the equipment used to the qualifications of personnel performing tests and calibrations. Laboratories accredited to this standard demonstrate their ability to produce valid results and operate effectively.

3. Where Can Organizations Achieve This Accreditation?
Organizations can achieve ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation through recognized accreditation bodies like PJLA. As a trusted provider, PJLA offers accreditation services across various industries, including environmental testing, food and beverage analysis, medical device calibration, and more. With our expertise and customer-focused approach, we guide laboratories through the accreditation process, ensuring compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.

4. When Was ISO/IEC 17025 Established?
The first version of ISO/IEC 17025 was published in 1999 by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It was later revised in 2005 and most recently in 2017 to reflect advancements in technology and changes in laboratory practices. These updates ensure the standard remains relevant to today’s testing and calibration environments.

5. Why Should Organizations Consider Getting This Accreditation?
Obtaining ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation offers numerous benefits to organizations:

• Enhanced Credibility: Accredited laboratories gain recognition as technically competent and trustworthy.
• Global Recognition: ISO/IEC 17025 is recognized internationally, facilitating easier market access and global partnerships.
• Improved Processes: Implementing the standard encourages better management practices, leading to improved efficiency and accuracy.
• Customer Confidence: Clients can trust the validity and reliability of your test and calibration results.
• Regulatory Compliance: Accreditation helps laboratories meet industry and regulatory requirements, avoiding potential penalties or setbacks.

By achieving ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, laboratories not only meet industry expectations but also position themselves as leaders in their respective fields.

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Learn More with PJLA

At PJLA, we are dedicated to supporting laboratories on their journey toward ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation. We offer free resources and downloads to help you better understand the accreditation process and its requirements. Visit our website to access these materials: Free Downloads.

If you’re ready to start your accreditation process, want to transfer your existing accreditation, or have questions about how PJLA can assist your organization, contact us today: Apply for Accreditation. Together, we can ensure that your laboratory meets the highest global standards of quality and reliability.

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PJLA is here to be your partner in achieving excellence. Let us help you set the standard for quality in testing and calibration.

PJLA will soon host a webinar revealing the Common Findings from 2024 Assessments and offering actionable guidance to help laboratories tackle these challenges. Keep an eye out for the webinar announcement and mark your calendars – you won’t want to miss this opportunity to learn from industry experts and enhance your laboratory practices.

In the meantime, take this moment to assess your own processes. Are you prioritizing internal audits and document control? Are your methods properly validated? Reflecting on these questions now can prepare your laboratory for success in 2025 and beyond.

Looking back, here were the Top Ten Common Findings observed in 2023:

1. 7.2 Selection, Verification, and Validation of Methods
2. 6.4 Equipment
3. 7.8 Reporting of Results
4. PL-1 Proficiency Testing
5. SOP-3 & The Use of Accreditation Symbols and References to Accreditation
6. 8.3 Control of Management System Documents
7. 7.6 Evaluation of Measurement Uncertainty
8. 6.5 Metrological Traceability
9. PL-3 Uncertainty
10. 8.8 Internal Audits

As we move into 2025, we encourage laboratories to reflect on their own assessment findings from this year. What patterns are emerging in your nonconformities? How do they compare to the common findings we observed in 2023? Identifying these trends early can help you address systemic issues and ensure your lab remains compliant and efficient.

For more information, contact us at [email protected] or call (248) 519-2603.

This past week, Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA) welcomed program managers from across the country to our headquarters in Troy, Michigan, for our Annual Sales Training event. It was a time to reflect on 2024’s milestones, gain insights into exciting program updates, and strengthen connections as a team.

Throughout the week, we celebrated the incredible achievements of our program managers over the past year. Their dedication to advancing PJLA’s mission of delivering world-class accreditation services has not only fueled our growth but also reinforced our reputation for excellence. From expanding our reach to new industries to consistently exceeding client expectations, our program managers truly shone in 2024.

Tracy Szerszen, President, provided an in-depth look at some exciting program updates that are on the horizon for 2025. These included details about the latest addition to PJLA’s list of standards —ISO/IEC 17065. The sales team is now equipped with the tools and knowledge to introduce this offering to clients, showcasing our commitment to staying at the forefront of the accreditation field.

Beyond the training sessions, the week was an opportunity for program managers to catch up, network, and enjoy the camaraderie that makes PJLA such a special place to work. From brainstorming new strategies to sharing stories from the field, the event fostered a sense of collaboration as we gear up for another impactful year.

Thanksgiving is a time to gather around the table, express gratitude, and share the joys of a bountiful feast. At Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), we take pride in knowing that laboratories accredited through our rigorous processes play a crucial role in ensuring that the Thanksgiving table is filled with safe, high-quality, and sustainable foods. From the farm soil to the feast on your plate, PJLA-accredited laboratories uphold safety and integrity every step of the way.

Every Thanksgiving dish begins at the source – the soil. Accredited laboratories play a vital role in testing soil health, ensuring that it is free from harmful contaminants and rich in the nutrients necessary to grow robust crops. By analyzing soil composition and detecting toxins like heavy metals or pesticides, laboratories accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 help farmers adopt sustainable and safe agricultural practices, fostering better yields and environmental stewardship.

From harvesting to processing, accredited laboratories help maintain food safety at every checkpoint. They conduct microbial testing to detect pathogens like Salmonella or E. coli, ensuring that your Thanksgiving turkey, green beans, and pumpkin pie ingredients are safe for consumption. These laboratories also verify allergen labeling, helping families avoid potentially dangerous reactions during their celebrations.

This Thanksgiving, as you enjoy your favorite dishes with loved ones, remember the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every bite is as safe as it is satisfying. From farm to feast, accredited laboratories are here to protect the traditions that bring us together.

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at PJLA!

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Want to learn more about PJLA and how our accreditation programs support food safety and sustainability? Contact us today to discover how accreditation can make a difference.

If you’re considering transferring your laboratory’s accreditation, Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA) is the ideal choice. We are known for our streamlined approach, dedicated customer support, and responsive team, making the transfer process smoother than you might expect. We recently sat down with Courtney Smith, a Sales Account Manager at PJLA, to learn more about the process and benefits of switching to PJLA.

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Q: What are the first steps an organization should take if they’re considering transferring their accreditation to PJLA?
Courtney: The first step is as simple as giving us a call. Our team is always ready to listen and guide you through the process. You can request a free quote or call us directly at (248) 519-2603 to connect with a representative who can outline the next steps.

Q: Could you walk us through the typical timeline of the transferring process?
Courtney: Transfers can be done immediately through a documentation review. Upon approval of the documentation review, a certificate is issued based on the former accreditation body’s certificate scope and expiration date. A routine assessment is then scheduled based upon the former accreditation body’s assessment schedule.

Q: What are some common challenges organizations face during the transfer process?
Courtney: A common challenge arises when a customer begins transferring to PJLA near the expiration date of their accreditation or the scheduling deadline with their current Accreditation Body (AB). This timing can leave insufficient time for PJLA to complete the transfer process. We strongly encourage anyone considering a transfer to PJLA to familiarize themselves with their current AB’s suspension and withdrawal policies. Additionally, starting the application process with PJLA as early as possible will help prevent any lapse in accreditation.

Q: What advantages does PJLA offer organizations that may already be accredited elsewhere?
Courtney: Clients often find our responsiveness and knowledgeable approach refreshing. At PJLA, we aim to minimize requirements and avoid unnecessary hurdles. The PJLA Operational Team are particularly helpful in finding ways for clients to succeed.

Q: What distinguishes PJLA’s approach to accreditation from other accrediting bodies in the industry?
Courtney: PJLA offers a straightforward accreditation process, without hidden fees or surprises. We host a large pool of assessors and prioritize real-time solutions. It’s this transparent, client-first approach that sets us apart.

Q: What are some of the most common reasons organizations choose PJLA for their accreditation needs?
Courtney: The client experience is a huge factor. Often, organizations transfer to PJLA after encountering issues with their previous accreditation body. Our high client retention rate speaks to the fact that, once clients experience our service, they see why PJLA is different.

Q: How does PJLA’s support extend beyond the initial transfer—what ongoing benefits can clients expect?
Courtney: PJLA goes beyond the basics with continuous training and a dedicated scheduling team. We’re aware of the demands on our clients’ time, so we do our best to ensure their accreditation stays on track.

Q: What advice would you give to an organization that’s on the fence about transferring their accreditation to PJLA?
Courtney: I’d say give us a call. You’ll find a real person ready to listen and answer your questions. Talking through your needs with one of our representatives often makes it clear why PJLA is the right choice.

Q: In your experience, what feedback do you hear most often from organizations after they’ve completed the transfer and settled in with PJLA?
Courtney: Clients are overwhelmingly happy with their decision to switch to PJLA. Our retention rate is a testament to our commitment to their satisfaction.

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PJLA is committed to simplifying the accreditation process, and as Courtney shared, transferring can be a straightforward experience backed by our exceptional support. With transparent processes, dedicated team members, and a focus on client satisfaction, PJLA is prepared to be a reliable partner in your accreditation journey.

For more information or to begin the transfer process, request a free, no commitment quote.

“Don’t let hidden issues sneak up on you – regular assessments will bring everything to light.”

In the world of accreditation, it’s easy to get caught up in day-to-day operations, believing that once accreditation is achieved, the hardest part is over. But at Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), we know that accreditation is an ongoing journey, not a one-time achievement. This is where the importance of regular assessments comes into play.

Imagine running a laboratory with seemingly flawless operations until an unnoticed inconsistency disrupts results or leads to noncompliance. Regularly scheduled assessments act as an essential “early warning system,” identifying and addressing potential issues before they escalate. By catching these discrepancies early, your lab stays ahead of potential setbacks that could harm your reputation or bottom line.

Quality isn’t static – it evolves with industry standards, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. Regular assessments help your organization align with these shifts, ensuring that processes remain robust and compliant. These check-ins reinforce that your commitment to excellence isn’t just a declaration but a continuous practice.

At PJLA, we believe in being more than just an accreditation body – we’re a partner in your path to consistent excellence. Our assessments are designed not only to confirm compliance but to provide actionable insights for continuous improvement. With our team’s support, your laboratory gains a roadmap to navigate the complexities of regulatory standards and maintain a competitive edge.

Regular assessments aren’t just a box to check; they are an opportunity to strengthen operations, reinforce best practices, and bolster trust within the industry. Embrace these evaluations as a critical component of your lab’s success strategy. Don’t let hidden issues sneak up on you – partner with PJLA for ongoing assessments that illuminate the path to enduring quality.

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At PJLA, we’re committed to supporting laboratories through each phase of the accreditation process. Whether you’re due for a scheduled assessment or planning ahead, reach out to learn how we can help keep your compliance strong and your operations seamless.

Don’t let unexpected test results haunt your lab – ensure your performance is top-notch with PJLA accreditation.

Halloween may be a time for tricks and treats, but there’s one thing no laboratory wants: spooky surprises creeping into their results. Imagine delivering data to a client only to discover that inaccuracies are lurking behind every decimal point – now that’s a nightmare! Luckily, with proficiency testing (PT) aligned with ISO/IEC 17043, labs can avoid these hair-raising mishaps and ensure their processes are accurate, consistent, and reliable.

At PJLA, we believe that quality results shouldn’t rely on luck or magic potions. Proficiency testing ensures that labs aren’t flying blind in a fog of uncertainty, but rather, they’re operating with precision – confident that every result is scientifically sound. Let’s dive into how PT works its magic and saves the day for accredited laboratories.

ISO/IEC 17043 is the standard that governs proficiency testing providers, ensuring that the PT programs themselves meet the highest quality standards. PT involves sending identical test samples to multiple labs to evaluate whether their results align. Think of it as a way to confirm that your methods are working – and no unwanted surprises are brewing beneath the surface.

By participating in proficiency testing, laboratories can uncover errors before they manifest in real-world testing environments, such as:

• Instrumental calibration issues
• Deviations in testing procedures
• Staff training gaps
• Analytical drift

Without regular PT, even the most experienced laboratories risk overlooking invisible problems that can snowball into larger issues. Here’s how proficiency testing keeps spooky surprises at bay:

Early Detection: Proficiency testing highlights errors before they haunt your lab’s operations. With each PT cycle, your lab can spot small inconsistencies—long before they cause major disruption.

Enhanced Confidence: Accredited laboratories show their clients they’ve been rigorously tested, just like the standards they follow. This builds trust and assures clients that their data is accurate and dependable.

Continuous Improvement: PT helps identify areas for improvement, allowing labs to fine-tune their operations. Regular participation creates a feedback loop, helping laboratories grow stronger with every test.

Proficiency testing isn’t just about passing or failing – it’s about mastering your craft and maintaining consistency. PJLA accreditation ensures that laboratories and PT providers are meeting the requirements of ISO/IEC 17043, giving labs the tools they need to remain at the top of their game. When accreditation is involved, there’s no need to fear ghostly errors or haunted reports – PJLA shines a light on quality and reliability.

Halloween may be a time for spooky fun, but when it comes to laboratory testing, there’s no room for tricks. Unexpected errors can cost time, money, and credibility – but with proficiency testing, laboratories can keep their results reliable and avoid the kind of surprises that no one wants to see in a report.

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Want more information on PT? Join PJLA on Tuesday, November 12th for a complimentary webinar designed to help laboratories navigate the complex landscape of Proficiency Testing (PT) resources.

Tuesday, November 12, 2024 – 1:00pm ET
Identify and Explore PT Resources – Click Here To Register!

Ensuring compliance with accreditation standards requires careful planning and the selection of reliable PT providers. This session will equip participants with the tools and knowledge necessary to make informed decisions regarding proficiency testing.