The Issue According to a 2019 study, “95% of baby foods tested contained one or more toxic heavy metals.” Prolonged exposure to these metals, like arsenic, lead, and mercury, can lead to slowed development, increased cancer risks, cognitive deficits, damage to major organs, behavioral issues, and
Accreditation Case Study: Blue Heaven Technologies
Located in Louisville, KY, Blue Heaven Technologies is an accredited ISO/IEC 17025 testing lab that offers testing and analytical services for the air filtration and environmental emissions industries. They test commercial and residential air filters for a variety of buildings, vehicles, and
Lithium-ion Batteries in Personal Mobility Devices
The Issue Lithium-ion batteries power personal mobility devices, such as electric scooters, e-bikes, and hoverboards. They’re used in children’s toys, the electric-powered bikes people use to get to work, and in the mobility aids of the disabled and elderly. For many people, they depend on
The Importance of Determining the Causes of Nonconformances
While nobody likes it when their organization receives a nonconformance, they are an inevitable part of operating an organization, especially one accredited to ISO/IEC 17025. However, nonconformances can show up in our day-to-day lives, too, like when mistakes are made and things happen outside of
Scope Expansion Guidance for A2LA Accredited DOD ELAP and DOECAP – AP Participant Laboratories
Request Scope Expansions Online Via the TouchStone Customer Portal A2LA has made it easier for accredited DOD ELAP and DOECAP-AP participant laboratories to request scope expansions. Simply log in to the TouchStone Customer Portal and click the “Scope Expansion Request” tab. As you complete the
Testing for Mycotoxins in the Cannabis Industry
The cannabis industry has quickly evolved over the last decade or so, with cannabis use increasing for both medical patients and recreational users across the country. However, the world of cannabis testing is also quickly evolving to keep pace with new products, changing regulations, and consumer
Accreditation Stories: ACT LAB
ACT LAB is one of the largest multi-state cannabis and hemp testing laboratories in the United States and provides services for licensed cultivators and processors. They are currently licensed in six states, including Illinois, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Florida, with plans to
Keeping Consumers Safe Through CPSC Accreditation Requirements
Accreditation is the process in which organizations are formally recognized based on their compliance to international standards, such as ISO/IEC 17025. Accreditation from an established accrediting body, such as A2LA, ensures an organization’s competency and promotes high quality service and








