Overview of the Department of Defense Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (DoD ELAP)
The Department of Defense Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (DoD ELAP) is an agreement between the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and U.S. Navy for environmental laboratory accreditation and analytical testing to support DoD projects and DoD programs. The DoD ELAP, which originated in October 2009, covers environmental programs at DoD operations, activities, and installations, which also includes formerly used defense sites (FUDS). The Department of Energy (DOE) recently became part of the DoD ELAP for DOE sites and programs.
The DoD ELAP accreditation is specific to sample matrix, analytical method, parameters, compounds, and elements. DoD ELAP accreditation is based upon the DoD Quality Systems Manual (DoD QSM). The QSM was developed by the DoD Environmental Data Quality Workgroup (EDQW) and the DOE Consolidated Auto Program (DOECAP).
Conformance to the DoD QSM is mandatory for environmental laboratories performing analytical testing in support of DoD projects. The DoD QSM provides baseline requirements for the establishment and management of quality systems for laboratories performing analytical testing services. The QSM is based upon Volume 1 of the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Conference Institute Standards, which incorporates ISO 17025.
Merit Laboratories maintains DoD ELAP accreditation. Merit is also designated a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) and Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE). Merit’s DoD ELAP accreditation includes aqueous and solid sample matrices for a diverse range of analytical methods for organics, wet chemistry, and metals. Please contact Merit to learn more how about it can assist you on your next DoD project.