Laboratory Quality Management Systems



Course description

The National Health Laboratory Services is a new laboratory system that has been created to assure access to quality testing services for all the citizens of South Africa. While larger NHLS laboratories are SANAS-accredited, there is recognition of the need to simultaneously improve quality management systems (QMS) throughout the NHLS network. All laboratory testing consists of a series of processes and procedures that must be carried out correctly in order to obtain accurate results. An approach that monitors all parts of the testing system is needed to ensure the quality of the overall process, to detect and prevent errors.

This training workshop improves the knowledge and skills of managers and QA coordinators about implementing QMS with an emphasis on new NHLS standards.
This course provides training in the purpose, implementation and evaluation of laboratory quality management systems. The course consists of content presented through lecture, demonstration, paper-based exercises, group discussion, interactive games and role-play. These methods are used to illustrate the importance of QMS and how to systematically assure the accuracy and reliably of testing. The course also focuses on monitoring, supervising, and evaluating performance in a network of laboratories. Managing common problems encountered within the test system are also covered during the course.

Course goals

Upon completion of the course, the participant will be able to:
  • Adopt a quality management systems approach to improving the quality of laboratory testing
  • Manage and monitor the performance of staff
  • Develop and implement procedures to prevent errors in the testing process
  • Keep appropriate records for quality assurance, reporting, and monitoring and evaluation purposes

Target audience

This course is designed for business managers, quality assurance coordinators and other managers responsible for laboratory operations.