Universal Laboratories

Universal Laboratories is committed to producing accurate and precise data in accordance with the appropriate methodology remains unwavering. Nearly twenty (20) percent of the analytical workload run by the laboratory represents quality control samples in an effort to produce the most reliable results possible. Quality is more than just having a plan in place that specifies how analysis is to be run. It represents the commitment of the company to develop a culture that values and places its highest priority results that are as near to the true value as possible and that will repeat no matter how many times the analysis is run or which analysts performs the analysis. This commitment stretches from the moment an order is placed to the issuance of the final report to the customer and beyond. Questions from the customer regarding analytical results receive our highest attention. The results and quality control package are reviewed by the quality control officer and appropriate personnel; an appropriate review of the data is conducted to assure it's integrity and that all of the client's questions are answered. Customer data inquiries remain an important part of the program as they are "real world" observations of the effectiveness of our program. In addition to through reviews of data prior to reporting, each analyst has demonstrated competency in each test and procedure that they perform. Blind quality control samples are run along with the normal workload to evaluate systemic and individual performance. Internal audits are conducted on a regular basis with observations and finding being reported to upper management. Corrective action reports are issued in a timely manner and steps taken to insure data quality. External audits are routinely performed by customers and accrediting agencies with their observations and findings being dealt with in the same timely manners as internal audits. Observations and findings are viewed as opportunities to improve the program and as a result to improve the reliability of our data. Quality also extends to the purchasing of supplies and equipment that meets the specifications necessary to perform the analysis in an accurate and precise manner. It requires that customer requirements specified in their purchase orders are accurately transmitted to the laboratory and that analysts are free from any undue financial pressures regarding the performance of the work. It is on this basis that Universal Laboratories commitment to quality is made.