Delhi Disaster Management Authority Directs ICMR-Accredited Labs for COVID-19 Sample Collection
Labs Mandated to Follow Strict Bio-Safety and Bio-Security Precautions
The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has issued a crucial directive to combat the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in the city. According to the order, only labs accredited by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) are authorized to collect COVID-19 samples. This decision aims to ensure standardized testing procedures and maintain the highest level of accuracy and safety in sample collection.
Qualification Requirements for Personnel Employed by Labs
In alignment with the ICMR’s guidelines, the DDMA emphasized that the personnel employed by labs must possess adequate qualifications set by ICMR or the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL). This measure guarantees that sample collection is performed by trained and competent individuals, reducing the risk of mishandling or contamination.
District Magistrates Tasked with Ensuring Compliance
To enforce these guidelines effectively, the DDMA has tasked district magistrates with conducting surprise inspections and visits to labs and hospitals conducting COVID-19 testing. Their role is to supervise and ensure strict adherence to the directives issued by the DDMA. Non-compliance with these guidelines will lead to appropriate penalties under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
Labs to Adhere to SOPs and Guidelines
The order further stipulates that labs must comply with all the guidelines and directions issued by ICMR, NABL, and the Delhi government. This includes the storage of collected samples according to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and guidelines set forth by ICMR and NABL. Additionally, labs are required to expedite the sample processing and report uploading process within the specified time frame.
COVID-19 Update for Delhi
As of the latest data provided by the city health department, Delhi reported 405 fresh COVID-19 cases on Saturday, with a positivity rate of 2.07 per cent. Notably, no new deaths were reported due to the viral disease on the same day. These statistics indicate a potential improvement in the overall COVID-19 situation in the city.
In these challenging times, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority’s directive to mandate ICMR-accredited labs for COVID-19 sample collection is a crucial step to enhance the city’s testing capabilities. By enforcing strict bio-safety and bio-security precautions, the authorities aim to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure accurate results. Additionally, the involvement of district magistrates will serve as a strong deterrent to any non-compliance. The city’s efforts in adhering to these guidelines and maintaining efficient testing protocols will play a pivotal role in curbing the spread of the virus and protecting public health.
