PJLA News & Events

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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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In the dynamic world of testing and analysis, the choice between an accredited and a non-accredited laboratory can significantly impact the reliability and credibility of results. Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA) stands as a beacon of quality assurance, and we’re here to shed light on the undeniable benefits of choosing an accredited laboratory over a non-accredited one.

Rigorous Standards: Accreditation by PJLA signifies adherence to the highest industry standards. Our assessments ensure laboratories meet stringent criteria, covering technical competence, quality management, and impartiality. When you choose an accredited laboratory, you are investing in results that have undergone rigorous scrutiny, providing you with unwavering confidence in the accuracy and reliability of the data.

International Recognition: PJLA accreditation is recognized internationally, facilitating seamless acceptance of your results across borders. Whether you are a multinational corporation or a local business with global aspirations, choosing an accredited laboratory ensures that your data holds weight on the international stage.

Enhanced Confidence: PJLA-accredited laboratories stand as models of adherence to industry regulations. By choosing an accredited laboratory, you are not just meeting regulatory requirements; you are exceeding them. This commitment to compliance translates into enhanced confidence from regulators, clients, and stakeholders, setting you apart in a competitive landscape.

Continuous Improvement: Accreditation is not a one-time achievement but a commitment to continuous improvement. Accredited laboratories undergo regular assessments, fostering a culture of ongoing enhancement and innovation. This commitment to excellence ensures that you receive results that not only meet current standards but also reflect the latest advancements in the field.

Elevate your expectations! Choose PJLA-accredited laboratories, and experience the unmatched benefits of precision, reliability, and international recognition. Use our Search Accredited Laboratories feature on our website to find an accredited laboratory today!

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With a robust network of international offices, PJLA is uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive assistance to organizations worldwide. Our global presence ensures that clients can access accreditation services tailored to their specific needs, regardless of geographical location. The diverse expertise of our team, coupled with in-depth understanding of regional regulatory frameworks, enables seamless navigation through the accreditation process.

Matthew Sica, the Technical Program Manager at Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA), conducted a productive visit to our Tokyo office last week after performing an assessment for a laboratory in Okinawa for an environmental drinking water laboratory. During his stay, Mr. Sica engaged in a series of successful meetings to discuss and strategize the development of new programs. His visit underscores PJLA’s commitment to global excellence in laboratory accreditation and its dedication to tailoring our programs to the distinct requirements of different regions. The outcomes of these discussions will serve as a foundation for the continued growth and effectiveness of PJLA’s presence in Japan.

Whether you are seeking accreditation for a laboratory, inspection body, or other conformity assessment services, PJLA’s global offices stand ready to facilitate the entire accreditation journey. From initial technical and customer support to on-site assessments and ongoing support, PJLA is committed to upholding the highest standards of accreditation across borders.

By choosing PJLA, you not only gain access to a world-class accreditation body but also benefit from the convenience and efficiency of a global service provider. Our international offices are dedicated to fostering excellence and promoting confidence in conformity assessment results on a global scale.

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In the intricate world of accreditation, where precision is paramount and accuracy is everything, the pursuit of excellence is never-ending. To stand out in this competitive landscape, companies must go above and beyond the norm, and accreditation is the key that unlocks the doors to success. Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation, Inc. (PJLA) emerges as the guiding light on your accreditation journey, offering a comprehensive range of accreditation services, including Proficiency Testing Provider Accreditation, Inspection Body Accreditation, Laboratory Accreditation, and Click Here for more.

Embarking on the journey towards accreditation with PJLA is akin to cultivating a garden of roses. The process may require diligence and dedication, but the blossoms of success are worth every effort. PJLA guides organizations through the accreditation process, providing them with tools, free resources, and the expertise needed to navigate the intricate landscape of quality assurance.

Whether seeking Proficiency Testing Provider Accreditation, Inspection Body Accreditation, Laboratory Accreditation, or any other specialized accreditation we offer, organizations can trust PJLA to be the compass that leads them to excellence. Choose PJLA and let your organization’s ability be recognized by the world.

The accreditation glow, a radiant hue,
A testament to diligence, tried and true.
In the garden of science, where knowledge blooms,
Accreditation, like roses, dispels the gloom.

To find out more about how PJLA can help guide your organization to accredited excellence, please email [email protected] or call (248) 519-2603.

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PJLA has gathered data from the ISO/IEC 17025 assessments held in 2023 for both testing and calibration laboratories. Here were the Top Ten Common Findings observed throughout the year:

10. 8.8 Internal Audits

9. PL-3 Uncertainty

8. 6.5 Metrological Traceability

7. 7.6 Evaluation of Measurement Uncertainty

6. 8.3 Control of Management System Documents

5. SOP-3 & The Use of Accreditation Symbols and References to Accreditation

4. PL-1 Proficiency Testing

3. 7.8 Reporting of Results

2. 6.4 Equipment

1. 7.2 Selection, Verification, and Validation of Methods

To watch our recent webinar with Michael Kramer, PJLA Calibration/Inspection Program Manager, where he goes into detail on each finding, please CLICK HERE.

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

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Measurement Uncertainty refers to the doubt or range of values associated with a measurement result. It’s crucial for understanding the reliability of measurements. One approach that is used by calibration laboratories, and may be used for testing laboratories, includes these steps:

1. Identify the Measurement Process: Define the measurement process, including the instrument used, the quantity being measured, the measurement procedure, and any relevant environmental factors.
2. List Sources of Uncertainty: Identify all potential sources of uncertainty that can affect the measurement result. These can include instrument limitations, calibration errors, environmental conditions, operator skill, etc.
3. Classify Uncertainties: Categorize uncertainties into two main types: Type A and Type B.
• Type A: These are evaluated statistically based on a series of repeated measurements. Calculate the standard deviation or standard error of the mean to estimate uncertainty due to random fluctuations.
• Type B: These are assessed using other information sources like calibration certificates, manufacturer specifications, expert opinions, etc. They’re typically evaluated using probability distributions.
4. Quantify Type A Uncertainties: Perform multiple measurements of the same quantity under similar conditions. Calculate the mean and standard deviation of these measurements. The standard deviation represents the Type A uncertainty.
5. Quantify Type B Uncertainties: For each identified source of uncertainty, gather relevant data or information. Estimate the uncertainty contribution from each source using appropriate statistical methods or available information.
6. Combine Uncertainties: Combine Type A and Type B uncertainties to calculate the combined standard uncertainty. This is often done using the root-sum-square (RSS) method. Square each uncertainty component, sum them up, and take the square root of the sum.
7. Coverage Factor: Introduce a coverage factor (usually denoted as k) to account for the confidence level. For a Gaussian distribution (which is often assumed), a coverage factor of 2 corresponds to a 95% confidence level.
8. Expanded Uncertainty: Multiply the combined standard uncertainty by the coverage factor to obtain the expanded uncertainty. This provides a range within which the true value is likely to lie.
9. Report Uncertainty: Present the measurement result along with the expanded uncertainty. This communicates the reliability of the measurement to others.
10. Iterative Process: Measurement uncertainty assessment is not a one-time task. It should be periodically reviewed and updated as new information or data becomes available, or if the measurement process changes.
11. Documentation: Keep comprehensive records of the measurement process, sources of uncertainty, calculations, and any assumptions made during the assessment. This documentation is crucial for traceability and repeatability.

Testing laboratories often find this approach is not practical. Testing laboratories may choose to use a variety of data-driven approaches using laboratory data from calibrations, quality controls, or validation.

Some of the common approaches using laboratory data include:

• NORDTEST NT TR 537 – “Handbook for calculation of measurement uncertainty in environmental laboratories”
• ISO 21748 – “Guidance for the use of repeatability, reproducibility and trueness estimates in measurement uncertainty estimation”
• ISO 11352 – “Water quality – Estimation of measurement uncertainty based on validation and quality control data”

There are two points for testing laboratories to note: 1) These approaches do not identify the major sources of error, as required by the standard and 2) That single value may not define the uncertainty of a method when using one of these approaches. To address the first point, consider listing or using a fishbone diagram to identify the major sources or error. The considerations in addressing the second include the evaluating the impact over the range of the test and the understanding the impacts of different sample preparations of the items or matrices involved.

Remember that measurement uncertainty assessment is both a scientific and mathematical process. It requires a thorough understanding of the measurement process, statistical methods, and relevant data sources.

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

Want more information on Measurement Uncertainty? Join PJLA and Dr. Susan Audino for a complimentary webinar on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 – 1:00pm ET. She will be presenting Measurement Uncertainty and Decision Rules: Why Do They Matter?

To download this QuickStart Guide to Measurement Uncertainty, please CLICK HERE.

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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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