ORAU’s Laboratory for Beryllium Lymphocyte Proliferation Testing Receives Accreditation from the College of American Pathologists

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 2, 2009
FY09-65

OAK RIDGE, Tenn.—Oak Ridge Associated Universities’ (ORAU) laboratory for beryllium lymphocyte proliferation testing (BeLPT) has been awarded accreditation by the College of American Pathologists (CAP), based on the results of a recent on-site inspection.

BeLPT detects the sensitization of a worker to beryllium and helps identify workers who have or are at risk for developing chronic beryllium disease.

The laboratory’s director was recently advised by CAP representatives of this national recognition and congratulated for the “excellence of the services being provided.” ORAU’s laboratory for BeLPT is one of nearly 7,000 CAP-accredited laboratories nationwide, but is one of only four labs in the country that process the lymphocyte proliferation test.

The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program, begun in the early 1960s, is recognized by the federal government as being a highly stringent inspection program for laboratory quality assurance. During the CAP accreditation process, inspectors examine the laboratory’s records and quality control of procedures for the preceding two years. CAP inspectors also examine the entire staff’s qualifications, the laboratory’s equipment, facilities, safety program and record, as well as the overall management of the laboratory.  This inspection program is designed to specifically ensure the highest standard of care for the laboratory’s patients.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment for the lab,” said Dr. Donna Cragle, ORAU director of Occupational Exposure and Worker Health Programs.  “The rigorous certification process was led by Linda Nichols, MT(ASCP),  MS,  and her capable staff.”

The College of American Pathologists (CAP) is the world’s largest association composed exclusively of pathologists and is widely recognized as the leader in laboratory quality assurance. The CAP is an advocate for high quality and cost-effective patient care. During the CAP accreditation process, inspectors examine the laboratory’s records and quality control of procedures for the preceding two years. CAP inspectors also examine the entire staff’s qualifications, the laboratory’s equipment, facilities, safety program and record, as well as the overall management of the laboratory.  This stringent inspection program is designed to specifically ensure the highest standard of care for the laboratory’s patients.