Cannabis Testing Lab Evaluation Checklist

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best cannabis testing lab:

Key Factors	What to Look For
Accreditation	ISO/IEC 17025, state certifications
Testing Capabilities	Range of tests, modern equipment
Quality Management	Standard procedures, data tracking
Staff Expertise	Qualified personnel, ongoing training
Turnaround Time	Fast results, high sample capacity
Customer Service	Multiple contact methods, quick responses
Reports	Clear, secure, compatible with your systems
Regulatory Compliance	Up-to-date knowledge of laws
Performance Checks	Participates in proficiency testing
Pricing	Transparent costs, good value
Reputation	Industry standing, positive client feedback
Facility	Clean, secure, proper sample handling

When selecting a lab:

Check their certifications and testing abilities
Evaluate their quality control and staff expertise
Consider turnaround times and customer service
Review their reporting and regulatory compliance
Assess their reputation and facility standards

Regularly monitor your chosen lab’s performance to ensure ongoing quality and reliability.

2. Lab Accreditation and Certification

2.1 ISO/IEC 17025 Standard

When picking a cannabis testing lab, check if they have ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation. This standard shows that a lab can give accurate and reliable results. It’s important in the cannabis industry because lab results affect product quality and safety.

ISO/IEC 17025 Accreditation Benefits
Shows technical skill
Proves ability to give accurate results
Shows commitment to quality

2.2 State Certifications

Cannabis testing labs also need state certifications. These differ by state and may include:

Regular inspections
Staff training
Equipment checks

State certifications show that labs follow local rules. They help customers trust that products meet required standards.

2.3 Other Industry Certifications

Labs can get other certifications too. These show extra skills in specific areas, like:

Certification Area	What It Shows
Pesticide testing	Skill in finding harmful chemicals
Heavy metal analysis	Ability to detect dangerous metals

These extra certifications help labs stand out. They show customers that the lab has special skills and good equipment.

When choosing a cannabis testing lab, look for:

ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation
State certifications
Other industry certifications

These show that a lab can give good, trustworthy results. Picking a lab with these certifications helps make sure your products are safe and meet all the rules.

3. Lab Testing Capabilities

3.1 Types of Tests Offered

When picking a cannabis testing lab, check what tests they do. Good labs should offer many tests to make sure cannabis products are safe and good quality. Here’s a list of common tests:

Test Type	What It Checks
Cannabinoid Profiling	Levels of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids
Terpene Analysis	Types and amounts of terpenes
Residual Solvent Testing	Leftover solvents in products
Pesticide Testing	Harmful chemicals used in growing
Microbial Testing	Bacteria, yeast, and mold
Heavy Metal Testing	Dangerous metals like lead or mercury

A lab that does all these tests can tell you more about how good and safe a cannabis product is.

3.2 Testing Equipment

The tools a lab uses matter a lot. They need to give correct results. Look for labs that use these machines:

HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)
GC-MS (Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry)
ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma with Mass Spectrometry)
qPCR (Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction)

These machines help labs find and measure different things in cannabis samples very well.

3.3 Method Accuracy Checks

Good labs make sure their tests are right. They do this by:

Check	Why It’s Important
Regular equipment checks	Keeps machines working well
Using known samples	Makes sure tests are correct
Joining testing programs	Compares results with other labs
Quality control	Catches and fixes mistakes

These checks help make sure test results are right. This helps people trust that cannabis products are safe and good quality.

When looking at a cannabis testing lab, think about what tests they do, what machines they use, and how they make sure their results are right. A lab that does well in all these areas can give you good information about cannabis products.

4. Quality Management

4.1 Standard Procedures

When checking a cannabis testing lab, look at how they manage quality. Good labs have clear steps for their work to make sure tests are always done the same way and give correct results. These steps should be written down and followed by all workers.

Look for labs that have ISO/IEC 17025. This shows the lab knows how to:

Do tests well
Keep their tools working right
Handle data properly

4.2 Quality Control

Quality control helps make sure lab tests are right and the same every time. Good labs should:

Quality Control Action	Purpose
Check tools often	Keep equipment working well
Use known samples	Make sure tests are correct
Compare with other labs	Check if results match up
Fix mistakes quickly	Keep tests accurate

4.3 Data Tracking

Keeping track of data is very important in a cannabis testing lab. It makes sure all information is correct and can be checked later.

Good labs use a computer system to manage their data. This system should:

Record when samples come in
Keep track of test results
Make it easy to find old data

Data Tracking Feature	Why It’s Important
Record all steps	Shows how tests were done
Save all results	Allows checking later
Easy to search	Helps find old information quickly

When picking a lab, make sure they have good ways to manage quality, control their work, and keep track of data. This helps ensure the lab’s results are trustworthy.

5. Staff Skills and Training

5.1 Staff Qualifications

When checking a cannabis testing lab, look at the staff’s skills. Good labs have workers with:

Qualification	Why It Matters
Degree in chemistry or biology	Gives needed lab know-how
Work experience in labs	Shows they can use lab tools
Safety training for cannabis labs	Helps them work safely with cannabis

5.2 Staff Training

Good labs keep training their workers. This helps staff:

Learn new testing methods
Know about new rules
Understand how to work safely with cannabis

Labs can train staff through:

Classes and meetings
Online lessons
Training at work
Working with other labs

5.3 How Long Staff Stay

It’s good when staff stay at a lab for a long time. This means:

When Staff Stay	What It Means
For a long time	Staff know their job well
For a short time	Lab might have problems

When picking a lab, ask how long staff usually stay. Labs where staff stay longer often do better work.

6. Testing Speed and Capacity

6.1 Test Result Timelines

When picking a cannabis testing lab, check how fast they work. Good labs give results quickly without making mistakes. Here’s how long different tests usually take:

Test Type	How Long It Takes
Potency	5-20 minutes
Terpenes	1-3 days
Pesticides	1-3 days
Leftover solvents	1-3 days
Heavy metals	1-3 days
Microbes	1-3 days
Genetics	1-5 days

6.2 Sample Processing Ability

Good labs can test many samples at once. They use machines and set ways of working to do this. When checking a lab, ask:

How many samples can they test each day?
Do they use machines to help test faster?
How do they make sure tests are done the same way each time?

6.3 Quick Testing Options

Some labs offer faster testing if you pay more. This can help if you need results soon. But make sure the lab still does good work when they test quickly. Ask about:

How much faster the quick tests are
How much extra they cost
How the lab makes sure quick tests are still correct

When looking at how fast a lab works, check:

How long they take to give results
How many samples they can test
If they offer quick testing
How they keep tests correct even when working fast

7. Customer Service

Good customer service is key for cannabis testing labs. It helps build trust and keep clients happy.

7.1 Ways to Contact the Lab

When picking a lab, check how you can reach them. Good labs offer many ways to get in touch:

Contact Method	Description
Phone	A number to call and talk to someone
Email	An address to send messages
Online Form	A form on their website to ask questions
Live Chat	Instant messaging on their website

Having different ways to contact the lab makes it easy for you to get help when you need it.

7.2 Response Time to Questions

How fast a lab answers your questions is important. It shows they care about helping you. Good labs should get back to you within a day. This helps you stay on top of your testing needs.

7.3 Technical Help Availability

Sometimes you might need help understanding tests or results. Good labs offer technical support in different ways:

Type of Help	What It Offers
Support Staff	People who can answer questions and guide you
Online Resources	FAQs, how-to guides, and online classes
On-site Training	Help at your place if you need it

Having access to this help means you can understand and use the lab’s services better.

8. Test Reports and Data Handling

8.1 Clear and Easy-to-Read Reports

When picking a cannabis testing lab, check how they write their reports. Good labs make reports that are easy to understand, even if you’re not a scientist. Look for reports that have:

Feature	Why It’s Good
Clear headings	Helps you find information quickly
Simple formatting	Makes the report easy to read
Key details	Shows test results, sample IDs, and dates
Pictures or charts	Helps explain complex information

Good reports help you make smart choices about your cannabis products and follow the rules.

8.2 Keeping Data Safe

It’s important that labs keep your information safe. Check if the lab:

Uses special codes to protect data
Stores and gets rid of samples safely
Uses passwords to control who can see data
Makes copies of data in case something goes wrong

A lab that keeps data safe helps protect your products and your good name.

8.3 Working with Your Systems

Good labs can work with the computer systems you already use. Look for labs that offer:

Feature	What It Does
API connections	Lets your systems talk to the lab’s systems
Works with common lab software	Fits in with tools you might already use
Custom reports	Lets you get data the way you want it
Uses standard data formats	Makes it easy to share information

When a lab works well with your systems, it makes your job easier and helps avoid mistakes.

9. Regulatory Compliance Knowledge

9.1 Knowing State and Federal Rules

When picking a cannabis testing lab, make sure they know state and federal rules well. This helps your business follow the law. Good labs can:

Guide you through testing
Help you meet required standards
Keep you from breaking rules

Look for labs that know about:

State laws (like California’s Assembly Bill 2188)
Federal guidelines

Picking a lab that knows the rules helps keep your products safe and legal.

9.2 Taking Part in Rule Talks

Good labs join in talks about rules and standards. This shows they care about staying up-to-date. Check if the lab:

Joins groups like ASTM Committee D37 on Cannabis
Works with AOAC INTERNATIONAL Cannabis Analytical Science Program

Labs in these groups know about new rules. This can help you avoid problems with testing.

9.3 Changing with New Rules

Cannabis rules change often. Good labs can change with them. Look for labs that:

Update their testing methods when rules change
Show they’ve kept up with past rule changes

Picking a lab that can change helps keep your products legal.

What to Look For	Why It’s Good
Knows state and federal rules	Keeps your products legal
Joins rule-making groups	Stays up-to-date on changes
Can change with new rules	Keeps your testing current

10. Lab Performance Checks

10.1 Skill Tests

When picking a cannabis testing lab, check if they do skill tests. These tests show if a lab can do good work. Look for labs that join skill test programs from big groups like NIST or AOAC.

10.2 Comparing with Other Labs

See if the lab compares its work with other labs. This helps find any problems in how they test. A good lab should show you how they do in these comparisons.

10.3 Getting Better

Good labs always try to do better. Check if the lab:

What to Look For	Why It’s Good
Has a plan to fix mistakes	Helps make tests more correct
Trains staff often	Keeps workers up-to-date on new ways to test
Uses new tools	Makes tests more exact

When picking a lab, look for one that:

Does skill tests
Compares its work with other labs
Tries to get better all the time

These things help make sure the lab does good work and gives you correct results.

11. Costs and Services

11.1 Clear Pricing

When picking a cannabis testing lab, check how they charge. Good labs tell you all costs upfront. They should show:

Price for each test
Any extra fees
What you get for your money

Labs may charge in different ways:

Pricing Type	How It Works	Good Points	Bad Points
Pay-per-test	Pay for each test you need	Only pay for what you use	Can cost more if you need many tests
Package deal	Get a set of tests for one price	Saves money on multiple tests	Might include tests you don’t need
Monthly fee	Pay each month for a set number of tests	Know your costs ahead of time	Might not work if you test rarely

11.2 Getting Your Money’s Worth

Look for labs that give you good value. This means:

Correct test results
Quick turnaround times
Good customer help
Extra help understanding results

When checking if a lab is worth the cost, ask:

Are their results right?
How fast do they work?
Do they help customers well?
Do they offer extra help?

11.3 Extra Help Offered

Some labs do more than just tests. They might:

Help you understand results
Train you on testing
Teach you about the industry

Extra Service	What It Does
Result help	Explains what test results mean for you
Training	Shows you how testing works
Learning resources	Gives you info to stay up-to-date

When picking a lab, think about these extra services. They can help you use the test results better.

12. Lab Reputation

12.1 Industry Standing

When checking a lab’s reputation, look at how well-known they are in the cannabis industry. Good labs:

Have been around for a while
Give correct test results
Join industry groups
Go to industry events

Check if the lab works with growers, processors, and shops. Labs with good connections are often more trusted.

Industry Group	What They Do
ISO	Set world standards
ASTM	Make testing standards
AOAC	Work on lab methods

12.2 What Clients Say

Look at what other people say about the lab. This helps you know if they do good work. You can:

Read online reviews on Google or Yelp
Ask the lab for client contacts
Talk to their clients yourself

Where to Find Reviews	Type of Info
Google Reviews	Customer ratings and comments
Yelp	Business reviews
Lab Website	Client testimonials

12.3 Industry Links

Good labs know many people in the cannabis world. Check if they work with:

Companies that make lab tools
People who make lab computer programs
Government groups that make rules

Labs with good connections often know about new things in the industry. This can help them do better tests.

Type of Connection	Why It Matters
Tool Makers	Get the best testing equipment
Software Companies	Use up-to-date lab programs
Rule Makers	Stay current on cannabis laws

13. Lab Facility and Security

13.1 Lab Cleanliness

A clean lab helps make sure cannabis tests are correct. Good labs keep their work areas neat and tidy. This stops things from getting mixed up or dirty. Look for labs that:

Follow good lab rules
Have special clean rooms for testing
Clean their spaces often

What to Check	Why It Matters
Neat work areas	Stops mix-ups and keeps things clean
Special clean rooms	Makes tests more correct
Regular cleaning	Keeps the lab clean and safe

13.2 Sample Handling

How labs handle samples is very important. Good labs have a plan for:

Getting samples
Storing samples
Working with samples

They use the right containers and labels. They also keep track of all samples. Look for labs with a good system for managing samples.

Good Sample Handling	Why It’s Important
Right containers and labels	Keeps samples from getting mixed up
Safe storage	Protects samples from damage
Sample tracking	Makes sure tests are done on the right samples

13.3 Security Measures

Good labs keep everything safe. They protect samples, test results, and equipment. Look for labs that:

Control who can enter the lab
Use cameras to watch the lab
Have safe places to store things

Security Measure	What It Does
Entry control	Stops people who shouldn’t be there from getting in
Cameras	Watches what happens in the lab
Safe storage	Keeps samples and test results safe

14. Wrap-Up

14.1 Key Points for Picking a Lab

When choosing a cannabis testing lab, look at these main things:

Area to Check	What to Look For
Certifications	ISO/IEC 17025, state licenses
Testing Abilities	Types of tests, equipment used
Quality Control	Standard procedures, data tracking
Staff	Education, training, experience
Speed and Capacity	How fast they work, how many samples they can test
Customer Help	How to contact them, how fast they respond
Reports	Clear results, data safety
Rule Knowledge	Knows current laws, keeps up with changes
Lab Checks	Takes part in skill tests, compares with other labs
Costs	Clear pricing, good value
Name in Industry	What others say, industry connections
Lab Setup	Clean workspace, good sample handling, safety measures

14.2 Keeping an Eye on Lab Quality

It’s smart to check on your lab often. Here’s how:

Look at how they do tests
Check their quality control
See if they’ve gotten new certifications
Ask how fast they help customers
Compare their prices with other labs
Listen to what others in the industry say about them