The Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratories, located in Salisbury and Frederick, have become the first two animal health labs in the country to receive the updated International Organization for Standardization (ISO)/International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 17025:201 standard, accredited by the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA). The Salisbury lab, which focuses primarily on poultry diseases, was the first to receive the accreditation on July 13, while the Frederick lab, which focuses on horses and food-producing livestock, was the second to receive the accreditation on July 19.
According to MDA, the ISO/IEC 17025-2017 standard serves as an international reference for laboratories carrying out calibration and testing activities around the world. Being in compliance with this standard assures that Maryland’s animal health laboratories are implementing a sound quality system, are technically competent and are able to produce valid and reliable results. Earning this accreditation also allows Maryland to be able to work with and share reporting with other countries. This sharing of data will allow for smoother international trade.
“Every day the staff from the Salisbury and Frederick Animal Health Labs are providing timely and accurate diagnostic services for Maryland’s equine, livestock and poultry industries,” said Maryland Department of Agriculture’s State Veterinarian Dr. Michael Radebaugh. “Achieving accreditation for this high international standard was no small feat as it took an enormous amount of time and effort. I am very proud of the animal health lab staff for their professionalism and dedication to the department and our state’s agriculture industry.”
For more information about the Salisbury and Frederick labs, please visit: mda.maryland.gov/AnimalHealth/Pages/laboratory.aspx
