Labquality now accredited
as provider of proficiency testing

In December 2011, 36 of Labquality’s External Quality Assessment (EQA) schemes were granted accreditation by FINAS. The schemes accredited are in the fields of clinical chemistry, haematology and microbiology.

“Accreditation is a significant step forward for Labquality Oy and its clients. Accreditation is proof of Labquality’s competence as a provider of EQA programmes,” says Labquality Group Quality Manager Kirsi Miettunen.

The schemes are accredited in accordance with ISO 17043 standard. A list of the accredited EQA programmes is available on Labquality’s website under News & Events.

Next year’s target accreditation of over half of the schemes

FINAS launched the 17043 standard early last year. The preliminary assessment of Labquality was undertaken on 21 April 2011 and the full accreditation assessment on 24 August 2011. Tuija Sinervo of FINAS was the Lead Auditor in the assessment. The technical experts were Ritva Heikkilä, Kari Mattila and Jean-Claude Libeer.

According to preliminary plans, the first follow-up audit will be undertaken in autumn 2012, when the aim is that more EQA programmes will be accredited.

“Our target is to get over 50 percent of our schemes accredited in 2012,” says Miettunen.

She believes accreditation of individual schemes and implementation of the requirements of 17043:2010 standard in the operations of Labquality have improved the company’s management system and operation of schemes.

“Accreditation will be apparent to our clients and experts through operating the EQA schemes in a more consistent way than before.”

Accreditation especially important in Europe

Accreditation of proficiency testing operations and EQA programmes is especially important for Labquality’s foreign clients. There are countries in Europe where the authorities require accreditation of a foreign provider of external quality assessment services. Accreditation to 17043 standard specially emphasizes the professional skill and proficiency of the providers of services.

Implementation of the requirements of 17043:2010 standard as part of Labquality’s management system and operation of schemes was facilitated through intensive education and active participation of the entire staff.

“We have all our staff, experts and collaboration partners to thank for this success,” Miettunen stresses.