Resolution Year 2001
Resolution Number 9:
National Method Validation System Vision/Resolution

Whereas, the attendees of the AFDO 2001 Rapid Validation of Methods: A National Laboratory Challenge Workshop overwhelmingly adopted the National Method Validation System Vision/Resolution (as attached), therefore be it

NATIONAL METHOD VALIDATION SYSTEM VISION/RESOLUTION

In the interest of promoting a more uniform, effective and efficient National Food Safety System, we support moving the nation’s food safety laboratories toward the use of AOAC as the primary repository/clearing house for validated methods;

wherein, methods are assigned and organized into categories of method validation, which are based on clearly defined criteria that communicate and demonstrate methods in terms of intended use.

This support is contingent upon:
· These category assignments are based on review by appropriate and internationally recognized scientists.

· AOAC, in this capacity, will make this body of methods available on an Internet based, searchable and downloadable system that includes the ability for input and feedback about the method.

· As the system evolves, methods will be formatted to ISO standards that ensure uniform understanding of the method and compatibility with ISO accreditation requirements.

· AOAC will, in this capacity, act as the source for communication of method naming/identification, nomenclature and reporting specifications to organizations that establish and coordinate national data standards for the electronic transmission of laboratory data.

· AOAC will interface with appropriate accreditation bodies to ensure that method validation criteria meet internationally accepted standards and requirements.

· The necessary strategic investments and application of resources will be made into the AOAC infrastructure from Federal/State agencies and industry to facilitate this transition to a true National Method Validation System.

We also encourage Federal Agencies associated with food safety to support and participate in the development, communication and maintenance of this national system; and that Federal, State, Local government and Industrial food safety laboratories, businesses and organizations, will move methods into this system that are formatted to ISO Standards and have appropriate method validation documentation for category assignment.

And finally, we support that food safety laboratories, businesses, and organization will participate in validation and collaborative efforts to ensure that new methods are quickly adopted into the system.


Resolved, in the interest of promoting a more uniform, effective and efficient National Food Safety System, AFDO supports moving the nation’s food safety laboratories toward the use of AOAC as the primary repository/clearing house for validated methods and be it further

Resolved, that AFDO encourages Federal Agencies associated with food safety to support and participate in the development, communication and maintenance of this national system; and that Federal, State, Local government and Industrial food safety laboratories, businesses and organizations, to move methods into this system that are formatted to ISO Standards and have appropriate method validation documentation for category assignment and be it further

Resolved, that AFDO supports and encourages the participation of food safety laboratories, businesses, and organizations in validation and collaborative efforts to ensure that new and revised methods are quickly adopted into the system.