PJLA Blog

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Embarking on your first accreditation assessment can be a daunting task, much like stepping into the kitchen to prepare a new and complex dish. However, with the right ingredients and a well-thought-out recipe, success is possible. In this guide, we will outline the step-by-step recipe to ensure smooth and successful preparation for your first accreditation assessment.

Ingredients:

1. Knowledge Base: Gather all relevant information about the accreditation process. Understand the standards, criteria, and expectations set by the accrediting body.
2. Documentation: Ensure all necessary documentation is in order. This may include policies, procedures, and evidence of compliance. Proper documentation is the foundation of a successful accreditation assessment.
3. Team Collaboration & Training: Establish a cohesive team. Assign responsibilities to team members based on their expertise. Ensure that your team is well-trained and up to date on relevant skills.
4. Action Plan: Develop an action plan based on the findings from mock assessments. Your organization should strive for continuous enhancement of processes and procedures.

Instructions:

1. Start Early: Begin preparations well in advance of the assessment date. Give yourself ample time to address any unforeseen challenges.
2. Gather Information & Documentation: Collect all necessary information about the accreditation process from your chosen accreditation body. Understand the expectations and requirements thoroughly. Ensure all required documentation is complete and organized, which is crucial for a strong foundation during the assessment.
3. Develop an Action Plan: Develop an action plan based on the lessons learned from mock assessments.
4. Foster Team Collaboration: Assign roles and responsibilities to team members based on their strengths.
5. Invest in Training and Development: Devote time for training and development to enhance the skills of your team. A well-prepared team is essential for accreditation success.
6. Review and Reflect: Review your preparations, reflect on the process, and make any necessary adjustments. Ensure everything is in order for the assessment.

By following this step-by-step recipe, you are well on your way to preparing for a successful accreditation assessment. Bon appétit to your accreditation journey!

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In the dynamic world of accreditation, the significance of outstanding customer service cannot be overstated. A stellar example of this is Sean Donnellan, a National Project Manager at Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA).

Accreditation is more than just a procedural checklist; it’s a collaborative journey between the accreditation body and the organization seeking recognition. Sean Donnellan understands this well, bringing a human touch to the often technical and complex process of accreditation.

Darlene Collis, Vice President of Quality at LINDFAST Solutions Group, shares her experience, highlighting the pivotal role Sean played in their accreditation journey. “I wanted to send a quick note to let you know how much we appreciate your National Project Manager, Sean Donnellan. He is a true asset to your organization,” expresses Collis.

LINDFAST Solutions Group recently faced the challenge of choosing an accreditation body (AB) for their lab’s ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation. Despite considering multiple ABs, Sean’s exceptional customer service set PJLA apart. “Sean’s customer service made my decision incredibly easy. Even after we signed our contract to proceed with PJLA, Sean was there anytime myself or our Lab Manager called, and that is a huge deal to us,” Darlene notes.

Exceptional customer service goes beyond individual transactions; it establishes a foundation for long-term partnerships. PJLA’s commitment to providing this level of service contributes to the overall success and reputation of our accreditation body.

In the world of accreditation, PJLA continues to stand out as a beacon of exceptional customer service. Our Program Managers and support staff are the definition of dedication, providing prompt responsiveness and a collaborative approach that make PJLA shine. Through Darlene Collis’s testimonial, we can witness firsthand the profound impact that outstanding customer service can have on an organization’s accreditation journey.

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Matthew Sica, a Technical Program Manager at Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), recently hosted an informative webinar focused on the integration of Department of Energy Consolidated Audit Program – Accreditation Program (DOECAP-AP) with existing Department of Defense Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (DoD ELAP) accreditation. The session aimed to help laboratories understand the specific requirements of DOECAP-AP and determine suitability for pursuing accreditation.

PJLA plays a major role in various accreditation domains, including testing, calibration, medical laboratories, reference material producers, and inspection bodies. PJLA’s accreditations also extend to government programs like the FDA Laboratory Accreditation for Analyses of Food (LAAF), FDA Accreditation Scheme for Conformity Assessment (ASCA), along with DoD ELAP and DOECAP-AP.

The presentation delved into specific DOECAP-AP requirements, elucidating areas where the program differs from DoD-ELAP. Notably, Sica highlighted the alignment between DOECAP-AP and the TNI 2016 standard, indicating that over 90% of DOECAP-AP criteria overlap with DoD ELAP accreditation. Sica outlined specific clauses unique to DOECAP-AP, focusing on proficiency testing, technical and quality management responsibilities, safety inspections, record-keeping, and hazardous material management.

Key points included the necessity for a proficient technical and quality management team, safety inspection protocols, detailed record-keeping with customer notifications, documentation of deviations from procedures, and stringent waste management and health & safety practices. These points ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, minimize risks, and guarantee the maintenance of a safe working environment.

The presentation concluded with a PowerPoint slide breaking down DOECAP-AP’s unique requirements. A PDF version of that slide is available upon request via email ([email protected]). Acknowledgments were also extended to Steve Clark and Alyssa Wingard from the U.S. Department of Energy for the review of our presentation and for giving PJLA the opportunity to present on this topic.

Want more information on bridging the gap between DoD ELAP and DOECAP-AP? Reach out to PJLA today! Let us help evaluate your readiness and suitability for pursuing DOECAP-AP. Email us at [email protected] or call (248) 519-2603.

To watch the full webinar, head over to the PJLA YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqFCEkW0VKk

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In the realm of food safety, the discourse surrounding Rapid Microbiological Methods (RMM) has been both progressive and contentious. The debate centers on whether these methods, once hailed for their efficiency in pathogen detection, remain indispensable. The landscape has transformed significantly over the years, with an increasing reliance on outsourcing pathogen samples due to safety concerns inherent in in-plant food laboratories.

The growth of RMM has been remarkable, evolving over the past two decades to offer quicker turnaround times, enhancing production efficiency. As highlighted in a recent survey of 250+ global food processors, the adoption of RMM has surged, with PCR, immunoassays, and automated bioburden testing becoming commonplace. This paradigm shift allowed microbiology tests, once taking several days, to be completed in mere hours, reducing holding times and enhancing logistics.

However, despite this growth, there’s been a substantial move towards outsourcing pathogen samples, stemming from the inherent risks associated with in-house analysis. This trend, particularly pronounced in North America and Europe, cites both the availability of qualified labs and risk mitigation as driving factors. The cost differential between in-house and outsourced analysis, although higher, underscores the prioritization of risk reduction over expense.

Notably, this shift has led to a decline in the number of in-plant laboratories, with many companies choosing to outsource non-pathogen microbiology testing as well. The survey data revealed that a majority of U.S. companies no longer operate in-house labs, and those that do often outsource their pathogen samples to meet customer demands for third-party results. In contrast, international companies with in-house labs often outsource fewer samples, primarily for verification purposes or when encountering uncommon pathogens beyond their analytical capabilities.

The ever-evolving technology of RMM continues to shape the narrative of food safety practices. 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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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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