ASCLD/LAB® Approved Provider since 1995
Rapid turn-around
Body Fluid Identification, Mock Case Scenario and database tests are now available which can be shipped upon demand or per an arranged schedule. Also, the Buccal Swab Database proficiencies now include PowerPlex™ 16 system data and reporting format.
- Allows analysts unable to fit into the regular schedule to still obtain a proficiency.
- Each test is unique. Supervisors, subordinates or multiple analysts in a lab can each take a different test.
- Proficiency testing workloads can be spread over a six or twelve month period so that fewer analysts are taking a proficiency at the same time.
- The normal eight weeks will be allowed for the analyst to return results. The Individual Report will be issued shortly after SERI receives the data.
- Because each test is unique, no consensus report is necessary. The proficiency can be completed in much shorter time than usual if required.
- Proficiencies can be used for qualifying tests because the answers will be immediately available.
Proficiency tests are a quality assurance tool used to fulfill accreditation requirements, monitor analytical performance, verify technical procedures, and identify improvement areas. You may wish to refer to the ASCLD/LAB® Proficiency Review Program document.
SERI provides Body Fluid Identification, Mock Case Scenario and database tests.
Over 25 years of casework and teaching experience direct our efforts to produce PCR DNA, Conventional Marker, and Body Fluid Identification proficiencies which are practical and more closely simulate actual case evidence. Actual body fluids are used and the staff size allows more personal attention.
SERI offers several types of ASCLD/LABŪ approved programs. Each program is briefly described on our order form along with current pricing, shipping dates and order information. More detailed information can be obtained by calling (510)223-7374. It is strongly recommended that orders for other than “off-the-shelf” tests be submitted at least two months prior to the desired ship date to guarantee availability.
Protocol
Proficiency Test Programs
Schedule
Ordering Information
The spreadsheet includes a form to indicate whether or not each analyst's results are to be released to ASCLD/LAB. If the results are to be released, a confirming signed hardcopy of the release form must be sent to SERI.
An individual report is issued to each participant, within a few days of the date results are due. The report shows the expected target results and describes how the samples were manufactured.
Several days are allowed for the analyst to review the information recorded for them and to request corrections if necessary. After this review period a Summary Report is issued. This report anonymously tabulates the results of all participants allowing each lab to compare their results to all other participants.
After the Summary Report is issued, SERI forwards a report summarizing the released Individual reports data to ASCLD/LAB. SERI retains the Individual reports for one year, after which it is the responsibility of the individual analyst or lab.
Body Fluid Identification
Each set contains five (5) stains of common forensic interest (blood, saliva, semen, etc.) as single source or mixtures. These proficiencies are designed to test identification methods and interpretation only and do not include genetic marker typing. The five stains are not related and the sets do not include case scenarios.
Mock CaseThese proficiencies include a description of a mock case scenario and allow the analyst to interpret results and draw conclusions. Each contains three (3) unknown stains and appropriate blood and/or saliva reference stains. A Blood scenario and a Sexual Assault scenario are offered in each year.
Mock Case Proficiencies are designed to test PCR DNA marker typing per Identifiler™, Cofiler™, Profiler™, YSTRs and mtDNA HV1 and HV2. For an additional charge, these proficiencies can be used to test conventional serology PGM, PGM subtyping, and ABO typing. Each analyst need only report those markers appropriate to his or her requirements. The Off-the-Shelf Mock Case Proficiency test is for PCR DNA only.
Database ProficienciesThese are Off-the-Shelf non-case scenario DNA proficiencies on either FTA cards or buccal swabs. Each set consists of three unrelated unknowns. The FTA cards contain blood stains and the swabs contain saliva. PowerPlex™ 16 system data is now available for the swab database proficiencies. Each swab unknown consists of two buccal swabs from the same source donor.
CustomSERI can also prepare proficiency tests to meet your specific needs.
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| Proficiency Test | Available Off-the-Shelf? | APT Issue Date |
| Body Fluid Identification | YES | June and/or December |
| Case Scenario: Blood Case | YES | March |
| Case Scenario: Sexual Assault | YES | September |
| Database - Buccal Swab | YES | N/A |
| Database - FTA Blood | YES | N/A |
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Contact Information
Call 510-223-7374 or email
proficiency@serological.com
Personnel
Terry Gardner
Brian Wraxall
