The NWQL has an extensive Quality Management System (QMS) that defines internal quality system processes and requirements. The NWQL also develops and revises a wide variety of Standard Operating Practices to assure consistency and comparability in results over time. The use of comprehensive internal and external QA/QC (Quality Assurance and Quality Control) processes to monitor method and analyst performance insures that NWQL meets its commitment to publish high quality data of known and documented quality. External, independent oversight is provided by the USGS Quality Services Branch as well as accrediting agencies such as the NELAC Institute.
The NWQL's Quality Assurance Section (QAS) provides oversight of all quality programs documented in the lab's comprehensive Quality Management System. The QAS coordinates the NWQL's internal and external QA/QC processes and performance testing. The QAS staff has expertise in modern analytical science.
Performance Testing, Audits and Evaluations
The NWQL demonstrates exceptional proficiency in testing for a wide range of constituents in various sample matrices by participating in inter-laboratory testing and certification programs administered by third-party agencies. The NWQL takes part in national and international proficiency testing studies coordinated by the following organizations: Environment Canada, New York State Department of Health for the Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP), North Carolina State, and the USGS Quality Systems Branch (QSB). Results of such studies offer an independent check of performance and capability while providing a means for laboratories to be uniformly evaluated.
Internal and external audits are independent, documented, systematic processes used to determine the adequacy of compliance and performance with established requirements and/or good laboratory practices by investigation, examination, and/or evaluation of objective evidence.
External quality assurance assessments performed at the NWQL include but are not limited to laboratory on-site accreditation assessments performed by either the primary or a secondary accrediting authority, proficiency testing results, and data validation assessments.
