Enforcement will begin on or after March 1, 2000. Laboratories performing lead analysis should be aware of these deadlines which will require all samples be sent to laboratories recognized under the National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Act. If your laboratory expects to continue performing lead analyses for target housing and child-occupied facilities, you should apply for accreditation now. Obtaining accreditation is not an instantaneous process. Participation in the proficiency program for lead is just one part.
Accreditation also requires an application review and an on-site visit.
Therefore, don't wait for the deadline or you may find your laboratory has been left out of this critical area. AIHA has been involved in laboratory accreditation since 1974. In addition to the lead programs, AIHA also offers Laboratory Quality Assurance Programs and Performance Testing Programs in industrial hygiene, environmental microbiology as well as a registry for asbestos analyst. Performance Testing Programs includes proficiency samples for organics, silica, bacteria, fungi, bulk asbestos, asbestos in air, lead and other metals. Accreditation assures your customers that their laboratory is among the best performers in their field.