Accreditations

The Saint Lucia Forensic Science Laboratory is First in OECS to Receive A2LA Accreditation

In a significant milestone, Saint Lucia Forensic Science Laboratory has successfully secured ISO 17025:2017 accreditation from the American Association of Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) under certificate number 6490.01.


This accomplishment establishes the forensic lab as the inaugural and sole accredited forensic institution within the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Furthermore, it stands as the second accredited forensic facility in the entirety of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) region.


One of the significant benefits of this accreditation is the competitive advantage to Saint Lucia in that, forensic services are now provided at a standard equivalent to other ISO 17025 accredited  testing laboratories in the world. There are also the new revenue generating opportunities through services provided to sister islands. The national lab also brings financial relief to taxpayers and the government because the laboratory is able to execute highly intricate testing and analysis locally, which translates into substantial cost savings. Rather than exporting samples to laboratories overseas, Saint Lucia can now harness its own expertise, eliminating the need for expensive international collaborations.

A blue and white accredited logo with a globe in the background
A blue circle with the word mra on it

This development underscores the nation's commitment to fostering self-sufficiency and bolstering its scientific infrastructure. By conducting these complex analyses in-country, Saint Lucia is not only saving considerable financial resources but also paving the way for enhanced efficiency and autonomy in the field of forensic science.


The significance of being the lone accredited forensic laboratory in the OECS cannot be overstated. Saint Lucia's forensic science lab is poised to become a regional hub for cutting-edge forensic research and analysis. This accreditation opens doors to potential collaborations with neighboring countries, further solidifying Saint Lucia's position as a leader in the realm of forensic science within the Caribbean.


In conclusion, the accreditation from A2LA elevates Saint Lucia's forensic science laboratory to new heights of recognition and prestige. The capacity to conduct advanced analytical procedures locally not only streamlines processes but also contributes to the nation's scientific and economic advancement. As the first and only accredited forensic lab in the OECS, Saint Lucia stands at the forefront of regional forensic science, ready to make significant strides in the realm of forensic analysis and research.