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Environmental Laboratory Approval Program - In the News

ELAP

Changes to Asbestos and Fibers Analyis Requirements

In March 2011, ELAP updated the following Certification Manual Items: 231.1, 198.1, 198.4, and 198.6. In particular, ELAP is requiring a performance-based Demonstration of Capability (DOC) for fibers by PCM if the lab's analyst exceeds analyzing two (2) slides per hour (Item 231.1). In Items 198.1, 198.4 and 198.6, a table was included listing the common asbestos material types, and the analysis that must be performed.

Online Renewal Application

Starting in 2010, the Environmental Laboratory Approval Program's (ELAP) renewal application went electronic. It is accessed through the State's secure Health Commerce System / Health Provider Network. This process replaces the paper-based process used in previous years. ELAP is asking the same questions and requesting verification of the same information as it has in the past. In an effort to assist you, the module is designed to take you sequentially through the renewal process, and you will be able to track your progress.

The deadline for submitting changes for the renewal process is always in March. Please look for the reminder letter issued by ELAP that indicates the exact date (e.g., the 2011-2012 deadline was March 15; the 2012-2013 deadline was March 1). If you submit changes after this date, ELAP cannot guarantee that the changes will be reviewed and processed in time for the beginning of the new certification year, starting April 1st.

Laboratory Information Update

Some of you may have noticed that the "Online Renewal Application" module disappeared on April 1st. This module was replaced with a "Laboratory Information Update" module. Laboratories can update their information electronically throughout the year via the State's secure Health Commerce System / Health Provider Network. This process replaces the paper-based process used in previous years. In an effort to assist you, the module contains specific instructions within each menu item.

SW 846 Final Update IV

ELAP removed (delisted) those "deleted" methods listed in Table 5 of the Final Update IV. Effective April 1, 2011, any laboratory who did not update those methods with another approved method automatically lost them on that date. ELAP had sent reminder emails to laboratories in regards to this delisting throughout Fall 2010 and Winter 2011.

Radon Testing in New York State

In March 2011, ELAP issued an informational letter to Home Inspectors throughout the state of NY. A "radon testing firm" and "radon mitigation firm" are defined in regulation, 10 NYCRR 16.130. These firms may be certified by national organizations (e.g., National Radon Safety Board) and other states (e.g., PA). However, remember that while a certified firm may collect samples for radon analysis, anyone who releases the results of those tests must hold ELAP certification. ELAP certification ensures that the radon results obtained from a firm are accurate and reliable.

This means that while charcoal canisters, alpha track detectors, continuous radon monitors (CRMs), and EPERMS may be deployed by a radon testing or mitigation firm, who is certified by a national organization or other state, the actual test must be analyzed and the results reported by an ELAP certified laboratory. A list of certified radon laboratories is available here.