Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratories
| Agency overview | |
|---|---|
| Formed | 1972 |
| Headquarters | Richmond, Virginia |
| Agency executive |
|
| Parent agency | Virginia Department of General Services |
| Website | [1] |
Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratories (DCLS) is a public health agency located in Richmond, Virginia.[1] The organization performs clinical (human) testing on infectious disease agents of public health significance. DCLS is also responsible for certifying and accrediting commercial and non-commercial laboratories to ensure regulations are met.
In addition to clinical testing, DCLS also conducts environmental testing to safeguard public health.[2] In 2014, the agency established the Virginia Biomonitoring Program to increase the commonwealth's capacity to assess environmental exposures in Virginians.
The agency is currently led by Dr. Denise Toney.[3]
History
[edit]DCLS was formed in 1972 from the consolidation of several Virginia agencies responsible for laboratory testing.[1]
In 2003, the Virginia DCLS opened a BSL-4 lab designated for research and testing involving hazardous microorganisms of the highest biocontainment level, such as Bacillus anthracis.[4] The $63 million, 194,5000 square-foot facility also contains a BSL-3 lab and training space.[5]
References
[edit]- ^ a b "About DCLS". dgs.virginia.gov. Retrieved 2024-12-30.
- ^ CDC (2024-04-24). "Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services Funding". National Biomonitoring Program. Retrieved 2024-12-30.
- ^ CDC (2024-12-18). "The Laboratory Workgroup". About CDC. Retrieved 2024-12-30.
- ^ Lepley, Pamela DiSalvo. "One of most advanced labs in U.S. is latest addition to new East Coast Center for Biosciences". VCU News. Retrieved 2024-12-30.
- ^ Lepley, Pamela DiSalvo. "State of the art laboratory opens in Richmond". VCU News. Retrieved 2024-12-30.