SLIPTA Checklist for Laboratory Quality Improvement

17 items · Health · Medium difficulty · 30 min

Practical SLIPTA steps to improve lab quality and readiness for accreditation.

• Define laboratory scope and services

  List tests, services, operating hours, and referral limits.

• Appoint a quality manager

  Designate a person responsible for the quality management system.

• Document quality policy and objectives

  Write measurable goals that align with laboratory scope.

• Develop and maintain SOPs for key processes

  Cover sample handling, testing, reporting, and safety steps.

• Review and update SOPs annually

  Set a review cycle and record version history.

• Train staff and document competency assessments

  Provide initial and refresher training; keep records.

• Calibrate and maintain equipment on schedule

  Keep calibration logs and service records for each device.

• Establish inventory and reagent control system

  Track stock levels, expiry dates, and storage conditions.

• Implement internal quality control and enroll in EQA

  Run controls daily and participate in external programs.

• Record and review test results and turnaround times

  Monitor trends and flag repeated delays or errors.

• Manage nonconformities and implement corrective actions

  Log incidents, investigate root causes, and track fixes.

• Ensure proper sample handling, labeling, and chain of custody

  Use clear IDs and document transfers from collection to storage.

• Maintain safe laboratory environment, PPE use, and waste disposal

  Follow biosafety practices and hazardous waste procedures.

• Keep records and documentation organized and accessible

  Store policies, logs, and reports per retention rules.

• Conduct internal audits and management reviews

  Assess QMS performance and set improvement targets.

• Report audit findings and follow up on corrective actions

  Produce audit reports and track resolution steps.

• Plan for continual improvement and prepare evidence for accreditation

  Compile records and address gaps before external assessment.

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