SEYCHELLES – Laboratory personnel at the Seychelles Bureau of Standards (SBS) and the Seychelles Public Health Laboratory (SPHL) recently completed a two-week capacity-building session led by a French expert in laboratory and food safety.
This training initiative is part of a broader technical assistance effort aimed at enhancing the capabilities of Seychelles’ laboratories engaged in official food safety control, supported by the regional program to bolster food and nutritional security in the southwest Indian Ocean (SANOI).
Andy Ally, Chief Executive of the Seychelles Bureau of Standards (SBS), highlighted the anticipated benefits of the training, emphasizing its potential to enhance the efficiency of laboratory operations and streamline testing processes.
Of particular import is the validation of a new ISO method for histamine testing, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment. This validation not only reinforces the technical prowess of Seychellois laboratories but also paves the way for further accreditation in the near future.
The regional program for food security and nutrition, supported by the European Union and the Indian Ocean Commission, seeks to address malnutrition and food insecurity across the Indian Ocean region.
As reported by Seychelles News Agency, the program endeavors to strengthen food safety protocols and enhance the capacity of laboratories in member states by fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Benoit Glaud, Director of Analytical Laboratory Development in France and the facilitator of the training session, commended the high standards observed in Seychelles laboratories.
Drawing upon his extensive experience spanning over two decades, Glaud stressed the importance of method validation in achieving international recognition and accreditation. By adhering to stringent validation protocols, Seychellois laboratories can bolster their standing within the global laboratory community.
Advancing laboratory practices
During the training, participants explored various aspects of method validation, including measurement accuracy, precision, and uncertainty.
By mastering these essential components, laboratories can ensure the reliability and integrity of their testing procedures, thereby fortifying their position as internationally recognized facilities. Additionally, efforts were made to align testing methodologies with European standards, facilitating smoother trade relations with EU partners.
Cheris Benstrong, a laboratory technician at SBS, emphasized the importance of ongoing training initiatives in fostering professional development and keeping pace with evolving industry standards.
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