Montreal, July 15, 2024
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has extended the suspension of accreditation imposed on the Bloemfontein Anti-Doping Laboratory (Laboratory), South Africa, for a second period of up to six months.
En March 2024, WADA imposed a six-month suspension due to multiple non-compliances with the International standard for laboratories (SIL), including non-conformities related to technical documents and the maintenance of the analysis restriction with specific regard to the analytical method of gas chromatography – combustion – mass spectrometry with isotope ratio (GC- C-SMRI) of the Laboratory, among other problems. The analysis restriction was imposed in September 2023.
Based on the recommendation of the Laboratory Expert Advisory Group, the Chairman of the WADA Executive Committee confirmed the extension of the suspension of the Laboratory for a further six months, until March 1, 2025, or until the date on which the requirements are met, whichever is earlier .
The suspension, which came into effect on March 1, 2024, prohibits the Laboratory from carrying out any anti-doping activities, including analyzes of urine and blood samples, with the exception of analyzes related to the hematological module of the Biological Passport of the athlete. The extension was granted following the Laboratory's request, which included justifications for the delay, to provide sufficient time to address matters related to the suspension.
During the extended period of suspension, the Laboratory shall address all nonconformities identified by the Laboratory Expert Advisory Group or by WADA, in any corrective or other action request, as well as any nonconformities additional information identified during each WADA follow-up on-site visit. If the Laboratory satisfies the Laboratory Expert Advisory Group by meeting these requirements, it may request reinstatement before the expiration of the extended suspension period.
In accordance with the SIL, WADA is responsible for the accreditation and re-accreditation of anti-doping laboratories, ensuring that they maintain the highest quality standards. This monitoring process is carried out in conjunction with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) assessment by independent national accreditation bodies that are full members of the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC).
