WADA suspends Rio Lab accreditation for IRMS testing

Montreal, Jan 19, 2012 – Rio Lab accreditation, WADA has suspended the accreditation of the UFRJ Rio de Janeiro Doping Control Laboratory in Brazil specifically with regards to conducting isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS)’ testing on samples. The suspension is effective as of January 18, 2012 and prohibits the UFRJ Rio de Janeiro Doping Control Laboratory from carrying out IRMS testing for up to six months.

The Rio Laboratory continues to be accredited to conduct all other anti-doping testing as required in the International Standard for Laboratories (ISL). During the suspension period the Rio Laboratory will continue to receive samples, but in the event IRMS testing is required it must transfer the samples to another WADA-accredited laboratory with the required IRMS accreditation.

The UFRJ Rio de Janeiro Doping Control Laboratory may appeal WADA’s decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport within 21 days of notice. Pursuant to the ISL, WADA is responsible for accrediting and re-accrediting anti-doping laboratories, thereby ensuring that they maintain the highest quality standards.

This monitoring is conducted in conjunction with ISO assessment by independent national accreditation bodies that are full members of the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation. Whenever a laboratory does not meet ISL requirements, WADA may suspend the laboratory’s accreditation.

WADA will re-evaluate the status of the Rio Laboratory with regards to IRMS testing in the course of the suspension period. National Anti-Doping Organizations concerned that their respective contracts with the UFRJ Rio de Janeiro Doping Control Laboratory will be affected by the suspension should contact the Laboratory directly. WADA