PJLA Blog

“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.

Dive into the importance of traceability in lab equipment calibration, emphasizing how PJLA accreditation helps avoid scary mismeasurements.

It’s spooky season, and while the streets may be filled with costumes and candy, the last thing any laboratory wants is a chilling mismeasurement lurking in their data! At Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), we understand that accuracy isn’t just a trick of the trade – it’s essential for safety, compliance, and performance. Calibration is the cornerstone of reliable testing, and when done right, it brings more treats (trusted results) and fewer tricks (measurement errors). In this blog, we’ll dive into the importance of calibration traceability and how PJLA accreditation helps keep scary surprises out of your lab.

What is Calibration, and Why Does Traceability Matter?

Calibration is the process of comparing an instrument’s measurements with a standard of known accuracy. This ensures that your equipment provides correct readings. But calibration is only as good as its traceability – the ability to trace the measurement back through an unbroken chain to an internationally recognized standard, such as those maintained by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Without proper traceability, your calibration becomes a gamble, introducing uncertainties that could lead to faulty results, regulatory noncompliance, and even product recalls. Think of it like eating unwrapped candy on Halloween – are you sure you want to take that risk?

The Scary Consequences of Poor Calibration

An uncalibrated instrument or one calibrated without traceability might seem accurate at first, but lurking beneath the surface could be errors that impact your data. Imagine the following frightening scenarios:

• Medical testing labs delivering incorrect bloodwork results.
• Environmental labs reporting inaccurate pollutant levels in drinking water.
• Pharmaceutical manufacturers distributing improperly dosed medications.

These kinds of errors aren’t just costly – they can be dangerous. For testing laboratories, calibration with traceability isn’t just a best practice; it’s a necessity to ensure public safety and trust.

PJLA Accreditation: Your Safety Net Against Spooky Measurements

At PJLA, we accredit laboratories to ISO/IEC 17025, the internationally recognized standard for testing and calibration laboratories. Our accreditation process ensures that your lab has the proper systems and competencies in place to carry out accurate, traceable calibrations. With PJLA accreditation, your clients and regulators can rest easy knowing your equipment and measurements meet the highest standards.

We provide accreditation services across a range of industries – from healthcare to automotive testing – ensuring that your lab’s measurements aren’t just accurate, but traceable to the highest level of confidence. And like any good Halloween costume, your calibration certificates should leave no room for doubt – they must clearly reflect that your measurements can be trusted.

Tricks to Avoid When It Comes to Calibration

Not every calibration process is created equal. Here are a few common “tricks” labs should avoid:

1. Skipping regular calibration intervals – Calibration isn’t a one-and-done deal. Be sure to follow manufacturer recommendations and re-calibrate on schedule.
2. Using uncertified providers – Always verify that your calibration provider is accredited to ISO/IEC 17025.
3. Assuming “close enough” is good enough – Inaccurate measurements compound quickly. Even a minor error can escalate, especially in industries with strict tolerances.

Traceability: The Treat That Keeps on Giving

When you invest in calibration with traceability, you build trust – not only within your organization but also with customers, regulators, and auditors. PJLA accreditation ensures that your calibration methods meet rigorous standards and that your data can be relied on across the entire supply chain.

This Halloween don’t let calibration errors haunt your lab! By ensuring traceability, you protect your reputation, deliver reliable results, and avoid the scary consequences of mismeasurement. With PJLA by your side, you can be confident that your lab has all the right tricks – and plenty of treats – in its calibration toolkit.

Let’s Make This Halloween Scary-Good for Your Lab!

Whether you need initial accreditation or want to maintain your ISO/IEC 17025 status, PJLA is here to help. Reach out to us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your lab stay accurate, traceable, and compliant all year round. Because when it comes to calibration, precision is no trick – it’s a treat you can rely on.

Happy Halloween from all of us at PJLA!

Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA) is excited to announce our participation in the upcoming Wisconsin Lab Association Fall Conference 2024! Mark your calendars for Tuesday, October 29, and Wednesday, October 30, as we head to La Crosse, Wisconsin, for two days of learning, networking, and discussion on the future of laboratory accreditation.

Representing PJLA at this event is our Regional Sales Manager, Sean Donnellan. Sean will be on hand to discuss all things ISO/IEC 17025, diving deep into how PJLA’s accreditation services can elevate your lab’s performance, ensure compliance, and give your organization a competitive edge.

This year’s Fall Conference promises a robust agenda, covering a range of critical topics for laboratory professionals. Some of the highlights include:

• ISO/IEC 17025 Accreditation and Accreditation Panel
• ESG/Sustainability in Food Safety
• Root Cause Analysis (RCA)/Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA)
• Disability Accommodations/Inclusivity in the Lab
• Meat Food Safety and Organisms of Concern

The Wisconsin Lab Association Fall Conference is a must-attend event for laboratory professionals seeking to stay ahead in today’s fast-evolving scientific landscape. Whether you’re focused on accreditation, sustainability, or food safety, this conference provides valuable insights and practical tools you can take back to your lab.

PJLA is proud to support laboratories across the nation as they strive for excellence in their testing processes. We look forward to connecting with you at this year’s conference and showing how PJLA can help your lab achieve its quality and accreditation goals.

Don’t miss the opportunity to speak with Sean Donnellan and explore the benefits of ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for your lab. We can’t wait to see you in La Crosse!

At Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), we believe that quality is at the heart of everything we do. Our commitment to maintaining high standards in accreditation is supported by dedicated assessors like Mark Rudek, who plays a pivotal role in ensuring that laboratories meet the stringent requirements. In this blog, we take a closer look at what it’s like to be a PJLA assessor, as Mark shares his insights, experiences, and advice for laboratories aiming to achieve or maintain accreditation.

Providing Value Through Quality Assessments

When asked about his role, Mark emphasizes that being an assessor is more than just conducting assessments – it’s about adding value to the client’s processes.

“My role is to provide value-added assessments to clientele on behalf of PJLA, ensuring they meet the minimum requirements of accreditation standards and the policies of the accreditation body,” Mark explains. “It’s about quality, understanding the subject matter, and finding a balance that benefits all parties involved.”

Assessors like Mark help laboratories not only meet compliance but also identify areas for improvement, which ultimately strengthens their quality management systems (QMS) and long-term profitability.

Becoming an Assessor: Experience, Patience, and Passion

Becoming an assessor requires a blend of technical knowledge and experience in the field of calibration and testing. Mark emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific scope of work and developing alliances with other professionals who can provide accurate, objective information in areas that may be outside one’s expertise.

“Patience, common sense, technical knowledge, objectivity, and passion are the key characteristics of a fair and effective assessor,” Mark notes. “No company is perfect, but when nonconformities (NCRs) are identified, they present an opportunity to close weaknesses in the QMS, which sustains future improvement.”

The Preparation Process: No Surprises

Preparation is key to a successful assessment. Mark starts by ensuring all PJLA documentation is in place and creating a folder for each client with the necessary forms and data.

“I reach out to the laboratory to introduce myself and send them a list of items they need to upload to SharePoint,” Mark explains. “Once the documents are uploaded, I review them in advance. This level of preparation allows me to arrive on-site fully prepared, avoiding surprises and ensuring the assessment process runs smoothly.”

Challenges and Rewards: The Journey of an Assessor

Mark has conducted over 6,000 audits & assessments since 1982 and has encountered both challenging and rewarding experiences along the way. While travel is often demanding – whether it’s rushing between gates at airports or dealing with unpredictable weather – there are moments that make it all worthwhile.

“The most rewarding experiences are when you meet clients who genuinely believe in what they’re doing and fully understand the requirements,” Mark shares. “There’s so much to learn from people and industries. Even after all these years, I’m still learning.”

Tools of the Trade: Listening and Observing

When asked about the tools and resources he relies on during assessments, Mark’s response is simple: ears and eyes. Listening and observing are critical to conducting thorough assessments.

“My beautiful wife always reminds me that God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason,” Mark says with a smile. “I also follow my instincts – when I’m satisfied with one assessment trail, I move on to another.”

The People Behind the Accreditation

For Mark, one of the most enjoyable aspects of being an assessor is working with people – whether it’s PJLA staff, the clients, or other professionals in the field.

“I’ve been with PJLA since it first started offering laboratory accreditations about 30 years ago,” Mark reflects. “We are like a family, and that sense of trust and support is something I value deeply.”

Mark has played a significant role in mentoring new managers and helping PJLA achieve recognition for calibration and testing accreditations. His long-standing relationship with PJLA is a testament to his dedication and passion for quality.

Advice for Laboratories: Value the Process

For laboratories aiming to achieve or maintain accreditation, Mark’s advice is clear: Read the standards carefully, believe in the process, and approach accreditation as an opportunity to add value.

“If it’s difficult, take it on – never quit. The process of accreditation is not just about compliance; it’s about ensuring that the calibrations and tests conducted by the laboratory meet industry expectations and produce results that can be relied upon.”

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At PJLA, we are proud to work with experienced assessors like Mark Rudek, who bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to every assessment. Their dedication ensures that accredited laboratories continue to meet the highest standards of quality and reliability, benefiting industries across the globe.

Interested in joining PJLA’s team of assessors? Click Here to apply now.

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In today’s fast-paced, competitive world, trust is everything. Whether you’re a business owner, manufacturer, or healthcare provider, the reliability and accuracy of testing results are crucial to your success. That’s where third-party accreditation plays an essential role, particularly for laboratories that serve as the backbone of quality control, compliance, and safety.

At Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), we understand that when you rely on a laboratory’s data, you’re making decisions that could impact product quality, regulatory compliance, and even public safety. But how can you ensure that the results you’re receiving are both accurate and dependable? The answer is clear: third-party accreditation.

What is Third-Party Accreditation?

Third-party accreditation is an independent assessment process in which a laboratory’s competence, quality, and capability are evaluated against recognized international standards. As a private, third-party accreditation body, PJLA uses both international (ISO/IEC) and national standards to validate laboratories in various sectors—from testing and calibration to sampling and inspection. Our process ensures that labs meet stringent quality management criteria, which provides peace of mind for both laboratories and their customers.

But why does third-party accreditation matter to you, the customer? Let’s break down the key reasons:

1. Ensures Confidence in Test Results

When you choose an accredited laboratory, you’re not just picking a lab; you’re selecting one that has been rigorously evaluated for its technical competency. At PJLA, we ensure that accredited labs demonstrate they can consistently produce accurate, reliable, and traceable results. This means you can trust the data they provide, allowing you to make informed decisions—whether that’s about product safety, compliance with regulations, or the integrity of research findings.

2. Global Recognition and Compliance

In a world of international trade and ever-evolving regulatory landscapes, achieving accreditation isn’t just beneficial—it’s often essential. Organizations accredited by PJLA operate under recognized international standards like ISO/IEC 17025 (for testing and calibration laboratories) and ISO/IEC 17043 (for proficiency testing providers). This global recognition assures you that they adhere to the highest standards, and their results will be accepted across borders, helping you meet both domestic and international regulatory requirements.

3. Demonstrates Impartiality and Objectivity

When a laboratory is accredited by a third-party organization, you can trust that the accreditation was granted based on objective, impartial assessments. Since we are not affiliated with the laboratories we accredit, our sole interest is in ensuring their competence and adherence to rigorous standards. This level of impartiality enhances trust, knowing that the lab is held to unbiased, verifiable standards.

For customers, this transparency and objectivity mean that results are not influenced by external pressures, ensuring the data is credible and reliable.

4. Reduces Risk and Liability

Relying on non-accredited labs can open up a world of uncertainty. Inaccurate results can lead to costly mistakes, regulatory non-compliance, and even safety risks. By choosing an accredited lab, you’re significantly reducing the risk of errors, non-conformance, and subsequent legal or financial ramifications. Accreditation minimizes these risks by ensuring that the laboratory’s processes are fully documented, verified, and continuously improved.

5. Reinforces Your Commitment to Quality

Partnering with an accredited lab not only enhances trust in the results but also reflects well on your own organization. When you prioritize quality and reliability by choosing an accredited laboratory, you demonstrate a commitment to excellence that resonates with stakeholders, customers, and regulators alike. It shows that you are taking every step to ensure your products, processes, or services are backed by validated data and meet the highest standards of quality and safety.

Ready to Build Trust? Choose a PJLA-Accredited Lab

When accuracy, reliability, and trust matter most, choosing an accredited laboratory isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity. Trust PJLA to be your partner in ensuring that the laboratories you work with meet the highest standards of competency, so you can focus on what you do best with confidence. To find an accredited laboratory, visit https://www.pjlabs.com/search-accredited-organizations today.

At Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), we believe that sustainability is more than a trend – it’s a responsibility that laboratories across the globe are increasingly adopting. As environmental awareness grows, laboratories are rethinking their practices to align with green initiatives, and laboratory accreditation plays a key role in fostering this shift toward sustainability.

Laboratories are essential to scientific advancements and their operations can have a substantial environmental impact due to high energy consumption, waste generation, and the use of hazardous materials. Laboratory accreditation provides a framework for adopting more sustainable practices without compromising the quality or reliability of testing.

Through ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, for example, laboratories are encouraged to streamline processes, which often leads to reduced energy use and waste. By requiring stringent controls over quality management, accredited laboratories are more likely to embrace efficient workflows that save both resources and costs.

One of the primary benefits of accreditation is the emphasis on continual improvement. Laboratories that are accredited must regularly review their operations and identify opportunities to optimize performance. This can result in lower energy consumption through better equipment maintenance, efficient lab design, and automation of certain processes, reducing unnecessary energy expenditure.

For instance, implementing energy-efficient laboratory equipment and refining ventilation systems are changes that laboratories often adopt to meet the standards set by accreditation bodies. These improvements not only cut down on energy usage but also support sustainability goals in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Sustainable waste management is another area where accredited laboratories shine. The accreditation process encourages the development of comprehensive waste management plans, including the safe disposal of hazardous materials and reducing overall waste. By integrating these principles into their daily operations, laboratories can minimize their environmental footprint.

Furthermore, laboratories that are ISO 17025 accredited often employ procedures that prevent contamination and pollution – essential for protecting not just the environment, but also the integrity of the data they produce. Proficiency in managing chemical and material waste leads to safer practices that benefit both the laboratory and the broader ecosystem.

At PJLA, we recognize that our role extends beyond accreditation. We are committed to supporting laboratories in their journey toward sustainability by continually evolving our accreditation programs to reflect the latest environmental standards and green practices. We work with laboratories across industries to ensure that they not only meet regulatory and quality benchmarks but also contribute to a sustainable future.

By encouraging energy efficiency, waste reduction, pollution prevention, and sustainable resource management, laboratory accreditation is paving the way for greener laboratories around the world.

When we think about proficiency testing in the world of laboratory accreditation, the importance of accuracy, reliability, and consistency in testing results cannot be overstated. ISO/IEC 17043, the international standard for Proficiency Testing Provider Accreditation, is a crucial for laboratories worldwide to ensure that their data is reliable. At Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), we are proud to offer ISO/IEC 17043 accreditation as part of our comprehensive services. To fully appreciate the value of this accreditation, let’s dive into the “Five Why’s” that define its significance.

1. Who Created It?
ISO/IEC 17043 was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in collaboration with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). These organizations are renowned for setting global standards across industries, ensuring consistency and quality. Their expertise in developing ISO/IEC 17043 means that the standard is built on a foundation of industry knowledge and experience, reflecting the best practices in proficiency testing.

2. What Is It?
ISO/IEC 17043 specifies the general requirements for the competence of organizations that provide proficiency testing (PT). Proficiency testing involves the comparison of a laboratory’s test results with those from other labs to assess performance. This standard ensures that the providers of these comparisons – often critical in validating a lab’s testing procedures – are competent, impartial, and reliable. Essentially, it helps maintain the integrity of laboratory testing processes by establishing a robust framework for proficiency testing providers.

3. Where Can Organizations Achieve This Accreditation?
Organizations looking to achieve ISO/IEC 17043 accreditation can turn to Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA). As a leading accreditation body, PJLA offers expert guidance and a rigorous assessment process to help proficiency testing providers meet the ISO/IEC 17043 standards. Our experienced team works closely with organizations to ensure they not only achieve accreditation but also benefit from the continual improvement of their proficiency testing processes.

4. When Was It Established?
ISO/IEC 17043 was officially published in 2010, although its principles have been in development for much longer. The standard was established to fill a growing need for a uniform and reliable method of assessing proficiency testing providers. Over the years, it has become an essential benchmark for quality and competence in proficiency testing, recognized and adopted by organizations worldwide.

5. Why Should Organizations Consider Getting This Accreditation?
Organizations should consider obtaining ISO/IEC 17043 accreditation because it demonstrates a commitment to quality and reliability. Accreditation under this standard not only enhances the credibility of the proficiency testing provider but also assures laboratories and their clients that the results of proficiency testing are trustworthy. This accreditation can lead to increased customer confidence, better market opportunities, and alignment with international best practices. By partnering with PJLA to achieve this accreditation, organizations can be confident in meeting the highest standards of excellence in proficiency testing.

At PJLA, we believe that ISO/IEC 17043 accreditation is a vital step for any proficiency testing provider looking to excel in their field. We’re here to support organizations on this journey, providing the expertise and dedication needed to uphold the integrity of laboratory testing worldwide.

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If you’d like to learn more about how PJLA can assist you in achieving ISO/IEC 17043 accreditation, or if you’re ready to begin your accreditation process, contact us today. Together, we can ensure that your proficiency testing services meet the highest global standards.

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This past Monday, August 26th, we observed Women’s Equality Day – a day that marks the anniversary of the 19th Amendment’s passage, granting women the right to vote in the United States. This milestone in the journey toward gender equality serves as a reminder of the progress made and the work still needed in various sectors, including Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

At Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), we recognize the vital role that equality plays in the STEM fields, particularly in laboratories and scientific careers. The contributions of women to science have been monumental, yet historically underrepresented. As a leader in accreditation services, we are committed to fostering an environment that promotes diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender.

STEM fields have long been the backbone of innovation and progress. However, gender disparities have often limited the full potential of these fields. Women, despite making significant strides, continue to be underrepresented in many areas of STEM. This inadequacy is not just a matter of fairness; it’s a critical issue that affects the quality of scientific research and innovation. Diverse teams bring diverse perspectives, which are essential for problem-solving and creativity. When women are equally represented, the entire scientific community benefits from a broader range of ideas and solutions.

Women continue to push boundaries in laboratories across the globe, conducting research that saves lives, improves our environment, and advances our understanding of the world. However, the journey is far from over. Gender equality in laboratories means more than just having women in the lab; it means ensuring they have equal access to opportunities, leadership roles, and recognition for their work.

At PJLA, we believe that accreditation plays a crucial role in promoting equality in laboratories. By adhering to stringent international standards, we ensure that laboratories operate with integrity, impartiality, and without bias. This commitment extends to promoting gender equality, as we recognize that a diverse workforce leads to more robust and reliable scientific outcomes.

As we reflect on Women’s Equality Day, we are reminded of the importance of continuing to strive for equality in all areas of society, particularly in STEM. At PJLA, we are dedicated to supporting a future where women in laboratories and science careers can thrive, free from discrimination and with equal access to opportunities.

At Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), we understand the critical role that continuous education and training play in maintaining the highest standards of quality in your laboratory. That’s why we’re excited to offer three remaining opportunities in 2024 for you to expand your knowledge and sharpen your skills—at no cost! These live workshops, presented by Matthew Sica, are designed to provide you with practical tools and insights that you can immediately apply in your laboratory.

1. Intro to Internal Auditing

September 17, 2024 – 1:00-3:00pm ET

This workshop will guide you through the concepts of internal auditing for a laboratory, helping you develop an audit plan based on risk. You’ll also learn how to use audit trails to conduct efficient and effective audits.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding internal auditing for laboratories
• Developing a risk-based internal audit plan
• Maximizing audit efficiency through audit trails

2. Approaches to Competence for Personnel

October 15, 2024 – 1:00-3:00pm ET

Competence is essential for ensuring the reliability of your laboratory’s results. This workshop dives deep into the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements for personnel competence, offering practical strategies for assessing, developing, and maintaining competence in your laboratory. You’ll gain valuable insights into best practices for training, experience, and continuing education to meet the standard’s requirements.

Key Takeaways:

• Best practices for personnel competence under ISO/IEC 17025:2017
• Developing effective training programs
• Maintaining comprehensive records of competence

3. Documenting & Maintaining a Quality Management System

December 17, 2024 – 1:00-3:00pm ET

A well-documented quality management system is vital for ensuring consistency and reliability in your laboratory’s test results. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to document and maintain a quality management system that aligns with ISO/IEC 17025 standards. From document control to managing nonconformities, this session will equip you with the tools needed to ensure ongoing compliance and continual improvement.

Key Takeaways:

• Key components of a quality management system under ISO/IEC 17025
• Best practices for documentation and document control
• Strategies for managing nonconformities and continual improvement

Why Attend?

These workshops are not only an opportunity to learn from industry experts but also a chance to network with peers and bring new ideas back to your laboratory. Plus, you’ll earn a participation certificate for each workshop, demonstrating your commitment to maintaining high standards in your work.

Ready to take the next step?

Visit our website and register today at https://www.pjlabs.com/training. Don’t miss out on these last chances to enhance your skills in 2024—spaces are limited, so secure your spot now!

At PJLA, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve excellence. Join us in these workshops and continue your journey towards laboratory quality and competence.