Ala. Admin. Code r. 335-7-13-.06

Current through Register Vol. 42, No. 11, August 30, 2024

Section 335-7-13-.06 - Certification Process

A laboratory must hold a valid certification issued by the Department before analyzing parameters that require certification and submitting the results to the Department.

(1) The certification of a laboratory is effective for one year.

(2) In order for a laboratory located in Alabama to be certified, the laboratory must complete the following:

(a) Submit a completed ADEM-approved application form. This form must include the parameters for which the laboratory is seeking certification.

(b) Submit the appropriate application fee.

(c) Submit a satisfactory set of PE samples for the parameters, using the EPA-approved drinking water analytical method for which the laboratory is applying to be certified.

(d) Successfully pass an on-site audit, conducted by an on-site auditor, within the previous three years.

1. For a laboratory seeking certification for the first time, the audit will not be scheduled until after submittal of the application and fee.

2. As a result of the on-site audit, the Department may require a corrective action plan that includes the steps to be taken to satisfactorily address any deficiencies noted in the audit report. The corrective action plan must be submitted within 60 days of receipt of the audit report.

(3) In order for a laboratory located outside of Alabama to be granted certification reciprocity, the laboratory must complete the following:

(a) Submit a completed ADEM-approved application form. This form must include the parameters for which the laboratory is seeking certification.

(b) Submit the appropriate certification fee.

(c) A copy of the certification package (certificate and scope of analysis) for the appropriate parameters, from the CA which issued the laboratory's original certification. This certification shall come directly from the CA and may not be submitted by the applicant.

(4) A certified laboratory must notify the CA in writing within 30 days of major changes in personnel, equipment, or laboratory location.

(a) A major change in personnel is the loss or replacement of the laboratory supervisor or a situation in which a trained and experienced analyst is no longer available to analyze a particular parameter for which certification has been granted.

(b) Upon notification by the Department that the change has resulted in a deficiency, the laboratory shall correct the deficiency by the deadline established by the Department.

(5) If a complete renewal application with satisfactory PE results, audit report, and fee is not received by the certification expiration date:

(a) The laboratory may apply to renew its certificate up to 30 days after expiration.

(b) After 30 days, the laboratory may submit a complete application for initial certification if it wishes to resume analyzing drinking water samples.

Ala. Admin. Code r. 335-7-13-.06

New Rule: Filed November 7, 1997; effective December 12, 1997. Repealed: Filed October 23, 2012; effective November 27, 2012.

Adopted by Alabama Administrative Monthly Volume XXXIX, Issue No. 07, April 30, 2021, eff. 6/14/2021.

Authors: Aubrey H. White III, James M. Arnold

Statutory Authority:Code of Ala. 1975, § 22-23-49.