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What are Good Laboratory Practices?

1. Performing Audits and Inspections

Routinely performing audits and inspections help make sure procedures are being followed, data integrity is applied, teams’ responsibilities are assigned, and more. This includes conducting both internal and external audits, allowing you to verify whether the labs’ practices are working or if changes are needed to improve procedures. External audits and inspections are performed by a third party. They research protocols, procedures, reporting, and so on.

2. Good Data Recording Practices

Good data documenting practices preserve the data integrity and accuracy of important documents and records. To avoid errors, data must be logged correctly. This includes validating what the test was, how it was performed when it was carried out, and who performed it (also who else was involved). Wrong data is detrimental to your lab. Impeccable record-keeping ensures accurate transcribing and traceability.

3. Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

Every laboratory must set a standard operating procedure within EPA guidelines if their work involves using chemicals, radioactive, biological, or physical materials. This process is a set of written instructions that provides information in detail about how the laboratory maintains safety and effectiveness during experiments and processes. Standard Operating Procedures ensure standards are met, production is efficient, and research results are reliable.

4. Correct Use of Equipment and Instruments

If wrong or uncalibrated equipment is used, it will accumulate inaccurate data. Before any tests are performed, the equipment must be calibrated. The instrument must also be maintained and only used as intended.

How Implementing ALPACA LIMSProvides Good Laboratory Practices

The way in which data and environmental safety is generated, handled, and reported has continued to evolve with the development of a specific innovative technology called ALPACA LIMS. This software helps integrate laboratory operations into the lab itself. Laboratory operators are required to provide detailed information within a strict time limit. This pressure can easily lead to human error

ALPACA LIMS provides your lab with simplified technology that speeds up testing processes, streamlines the data management system, and minimizes human error. The system generates regular laboratory reports to identify the person working, the equipment used, and notifies you of any issues. Some of the data the ALPACA LIMS platform can collect for your lab include:

• who recorded the sample
• how was the sample attained
• who is working on the project
• outline current compliance standards
• how workers should store samples and instruments
• suggest the type of instrument for a particular stage
• workflow stages
• detailed lab backlog

Contact BTSoft to Find Out More

Every non-clinical laboratory that generates and stores large amounts of data stands to benefit from using LIMS. This technology improves laboratory operations, manages data, streamlines workflows, and enhances data quality. Implementing ALPACA LIMS will benefit your lab. BTSOFT has been in the software industry since 2002 and is committed to excellence. If you want to learn more about ALPACA LIMS request a demo today!

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What is a NELAP Audit and Why is it Necessary?

The NELAC Institute (TNI) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to foster the generation of environmental data of known and documented quality through an open, inclusive, and transparent process that is responsive to the needs of the community. Its vision is a true national accreditation program, whereby all entities involved in the generation of environmental measurement data within the United States are accredited to one uniform, rigorous, and robust program that has been implemented consistently nationwide and focuses on the technical competence of the entity pursuing accreditation. To do so, the institute operates the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP) sends auditors to visit facilities, laboratories, and worksites to determine how well they comply with government and local regulations. This audit process includes:    

• Interviewing lab representatives 
• Reviewing records and reports 
• Collecting samples 
• Taking photographs 
• Observing operations 

How to Prepare for a NELAP Audit

There are many reasons for auditors to show up at your laboratory, but no matter the reason, your lab must be adequately prepared. NELAP auditors typically look for certain key factors. Does your lab workspace and area have hazardous materials? How are the laboratories maintained? Do your employees have certain responsibilities for a specific area and are they aware of these responsibilities? Where do you store your paperwork? Can you find certain documents when asked? Is everything organized within the laboratory or facility?    

The first thing you need to do is determine the status of your lab, research, and identify any operational gaps so you can address them. Conducting these audits regularly helps determine any compliance gaps. This includes staying organized and having all documents and records available that are current, accurate and up to date. Make sure you prepare your team and staff for the audit and let them know what will be required of them. Let them familiarize themselves with questions that may be asked, including where to find and access documents and records.  

Preparing for a NELAP audit should be an ongoing practice. Your lab should always be prepared to ensure its compliance with regulations.  

Achieve a NELAP Accredited Laboratory

Preparing your lab for a NELAP audit can be intimidating and overwhelming. Oftentimes lab directors and chemists have too many responsibilities on their plate and cannot take hours out of their schedule to navigate through extensive amounts of detail that go into an audit. But with BTSOFT’s Laboratory Information Management System Software (ALPACA LIMS), the process is much faster and easier.     

ALPACA LIMS automates workflow, simplifies processes, and improves productivity. This software can help prepare for a NELAP audit by ensuring efficient quality management and automating processes that support compliance. ALPCA LIMS can handle multiple data systems while allowing a smooth and automated workflow for all laboratory processes. This allows labs to manage samples, studies, documents, staff training, protect data, and much more! Contact us today to learn more about ALAPCA LIMS. 

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