WADA revokes the accreditation of Bloemfontein Laboratory

On 14 May, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) revoked the accreditation of the anti-doping laboratory in Bloemfontein, South Africa, due to its inability to satisfactorily address multiple non-conformities against the International Standard for Laboratories (ISL). WADA’s Laboratory Expert Group (Lab EAG) recommended the revocation to the Agency’s Executive Committee, who then endorsed it by way of circulatory vote. The Bloemfontein Laboratory was apprised of and did not challenge the Lab EAG’s recommendation.  

The Bloemfontein Laboratory, which was already suspended, remains ineligible to analyze doping control samples for Anti-Doping Organizations that are compliant with the World Anti-Doping Code (Code). An Analytical Testing Restriction (ATR) for the Gas Chromatography / Combustion / Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (GC/C/IRMS) analytical method was imposed on the Laboratory in September 2023. In March 2024, WADA imposed a six-month suspension due to non-conformities with the ISL and Technical Documents (TDs) and the continued ATR, among other issues. The suspension was subsequently extended to 12 months, until March 2025.     

The Bloemfontein Laboratory was also informed that if it wished to seek WADA accreditation in the future, it must apply for WADA accreditation as a new laboratory in accordance with ISL Articles 4.1 and 4.6.6.2. 

WADA is responsible for accrediting and re-accrediting anti-doping laboratories, thereby ensuring that they maintain the highest quality standards. When a laboratory does not meet ISL requirements, WADA may decide to suspend or revoke the laboratory’s accreditation. This monitoring process is conducted in conjunction with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) assessment by independent national accreditation bodies that are full members of the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC).  

As stipulated within the ISL, this decision is hereby communicated to all relevant national public authorities, national accreditation bodies, National Anti-Doping Organizations, National Olympic Committees, International Federations, and the International Olympic Committee.  

The full list of accredited laboratories can be found on WADA’s website.