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Water Supplies laboratory awarded accreditation

In recognition of its competence to carry out a number of environmental tests, the Mainland East Laboratory of the Water Supplies Department was today (Wednesday) presented with an accreditation certificate issued by the Hong Kong Laboratory Accreditation Scheme (HOKLAS).

Speaking at the presentation ceremony held in the Sha Tin Water Treatment Works where the laboratory was located, the Director of Water Supplies, Mr Hu Man- shiu, said the accreditation was a significant milestone for the department.

"It provides a driving force for us to conduct and maintain an ever improving quality assurance system in our laboratories.

"It also reinforces the department's total commitment in delivering a quality service to the consumers." he said after receiving the certificate from the Director- General of Industry, Mrs Regina Ip.

Mr Hu was very pleased that the Mainland East Laboratory had been formally accepted as an accredited laboratory by HOKLAS.

"The accreditation covers the testing of a number of pesticides, herbicides and other trace organics under the environment testing category.

"These test parameters in drinking water are of health significance and continuous monitoring of their levels in the drinking water supply is essential in the provision of a safe and wholesome water supply to the public of Hong Kong," he stressed.

The laboratory of the Water Science Division monitors water quality throughout the entire water supply system to ensure continuous compliance with the guideline values recommended by the World Health Organisation for drinking water quality.

Accreditation was awarded after the laboratory had been thoroughly assessed and satisfactorily proved to be technically competent in performing the above analyses.

"Accuracy and reliability of measurements can be assured by operating a satisfactory laboratory quality assurance system and by using validated state-of-the-art test methods, properly calibrated equipment and competent personnel.