| To "accredit" means to recognize an agency or institution as conforming to a body of standards related to a specific discipline. Accreditation is defined as the process of considering or recognizing as outstanding. It gives official authorization to, and approval for, operations, recognized for conforming to, and maintaining, higher quality standards of performance. On December 13, 2004, the ASCL became an accredited laboratory through the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors - Lab Accreditation Board (ASCLD-LAB) Legacy Program. In order to maintain accreditation, the ASCL must conduct internal audits every year and participate in an external audit every five years as well as supply training for all analysts/examiners annually. The ASCL renewed this accreditation in December 2009. Accreditation is just one component of the ASCL’s quality assurance program which also includes proficiency testing, continuing education, and other programs to help the laboratory provide better overall service to the criminal justice system. Accreditation is a means to demonstrate to law enforcement agencies, the court system and to the public that the laboratory is meeting established standards. |
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