scope:

This handbook provides a structured means for laboratory management and personnel to develop a quality manual for the first time or to restructure and revise a quality manual from a laboratory's existing administrative and quality documents.

This handbook can be used by:

New and current laboratory management personnel to learn about the QMS policies, processes, and procedures in their laboratory

Laboratory quality managers for developing needed quality processes, procedures, and forms and for ensuring effective implementation of the QMS

Medical and public health laboratories

Blood gas laboratories

Research laboratories

Veterinary laboratories

Applicable portions of this handbook can also assist public health and environmental laboratories meet international requirements for quality manuals.³