The Importance of Third-Party Controls #LABWEEK2021
The Importance of Third-Party Controls #LABWEEK2021
In the clinical laboratory, Quality Control (QC) refers to the process of detecting analytical errors to ensure both the reliability and accuracy of patient test results. Poor performance can result in misdiagnosis, delayed/inappropriate treatment, increased costs and may even be potentially life threatening for the patient. Third party controls offer a better solution to ensure optimum performance and accuracy.
When the laboratory professional runs the QC material on their instrument, they can compare the obtained result with the expected result. If these values are comparable, then the laboratory professional can be confident that their instrument is reporting accurately. Essentially, QC is a ‘practice run’ to ensure the testing system is working correctly.
Benefits Of Using Third-Party Controls
Third party controls have been designed to deliver an independent, unbiased assessment of performance with any instrument or method helping you gain accreditation. Below are some of the key benefits of third party controls:
- Values assigned using a large number of independent laboratories ensuring statistically valid targets.
- Highly consolidated controls allow for space, time, and ultimately, cost savings.
- Boosted shelf life ensures continuity of supply and reduced costs
- Reduced preparation times by removing the need for multiple instrument controls
Importance Of Third-Party Controls In The Midst Of COVID-19
Quality Control is a hugely important part of laboratory quality. Around 70% of clinical decisions are made based on laboratory results, so it is plain to see how significant Quality Control practices can be in relation to global health care. Having faith in the performance of the Quality Control used within the lab, as well as benefits gained from highly consolidated controls, allow for space, time, and ultimately, cost savings. These benefits would prove highly beneficial for any laboratory operating in the fast-paced environment posed by the pandemic.
How Randox Can Help
Randox Acusera true third party quality controls offer complete test menu consolidation for laboratory Internal Quality Control. Providing accurate and reliable sample material and delivering results you can trust.
Find out more: https://www.randox.com/laboratory-quality-control-acusera/
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Contact us or visit our Acusera page to learn more.
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Randox launches COVID-19 Travel Centre in Letterkenny
22 April 2021: Randox launches COVID-19 Travel Centre in Letterkenny
An €89 COVID-19 Testing Service launches this week in a new Randox Health Travel Centre in Letterkenny.
The testing service from Randox, a laboratory partner in the UK’s National COVID-19 Testing Programme, utilises robust and reliable method PCR testing, currently recognised and approved by every country worldwide for its accuracy and sensitivity in the detection of COVID-19.
The launch of the Travel Centre, which offers rapid next day delivery of results, can be used for pre-departure screening, on-arrival testing to reduce quarantine timeframes, or simply for peace of mind.
Sophie Boyd, Project Manager for the Randox COVID-19 Testing Service, explained;
“In addition to our Travel Centres in Dublin, Limerick, Sligo, Cork and Galway, we are pleased to expand our testing service to Letterkenny, to serve the Donegal area with our accurate and cost-effective COVID-19 test.
“Whilst restrictions and guidance during the pandemic continue to evolve, testing will remain a key part of the response to COVID-19 – not only to identify outbreaks, isolate cases and prevent further spread, but also to assist with a return to social and economic normality.”
Randox recently reduced announced their support for those undertaking international travel by reducing the cost of their PCR travel tests.
The cost of an in-clinic appointment in a Randox Health Travel Centre has been reduced from €99 to €89.
Sophie continued;
“In recognition of the needs of both the travel industry and the general public at this unprecedented time, Randox has reduced the all-inclusive cost of our PCR testing.
“We are committed to providing competitive, effective and efficient testing to support holidaymakers and those undertaking international travel and the opening of the Randox Health Travel Centre in Letterkenny is another positive step towards the normalization of travel and other social activities.”
The Randox €89 Express COVID-19 Testing Service is open to all asymptomatic individuals and operates from the Radisson Blu Hotel at Letterkenny Retail Park.
Randox Health PCR Testing is also available at Terminal 2 at Dublin Airport, and in Leopardstown Dublin, Limerick, Sligo, Cork and Galway.
Visit booking.randox.ie to book your appointment. Results are returned the next day.
For further information on Covid testing at Ireland please contact the Randox Covid Customer Support team on covidcustomersupport@randox.com or 0800 2545 201.
For press enquiries please contact Amy Millar in the Randox PR team on amy.millar@randox.com or 028 9442 2413
Want to know more?
Contact us or visit the Randox Health Travel Centre booking page
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Further expansion at Randox labs with recruitment drive for 400 new staff
Further expansion at Randox COVID labs with recruitment drive for 400 new staff
Randox Laboratories is hiring a further 400 new staff in support of its COVID-19 testing operations at the Randox Science Park in Antrim.
The healthcare diagnostics company has increased its workforce by over 850 staff since the beginning of the pandemic and continues to recruit to enhance its laboratory capacity within the UK’s National COVID-19 Testing Programme, and for those requiring PCR testing before travel.
Vacancies are available across science, accessioning, manufacturing and customer support.
Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing Director of Randox Laboratories, commented;
“With our headquarters in the Randox Science Park in County Antrim, we are fortunate to benefit from Northern Ireland’s incredible talent pool across a variety of disciplines, and so many have already responded to our call for support in fighting the coronavirus.
“Our staff have risen to the challenge this pandemic has created, been incredibly resourceful and flexible, and pulled together as a team to make an impact in the fight against COVID-19. They are our best asset and we are very proud of their efforts.”
Earlier this month Randox reached a significant testing milestone, with 12 million tests completed since its testing began.
Thanks to significant private investment, Randox’s testing capacity, which in March 2020 was just 150 tests per day, has now increased to 120,000 daily COVID tests, making Randox the most productive laboratory in the UK and Ireland.
Dr FitzGerald continued;
“The completion of over 12 million gold-standard PCR tests for the UK’s National Testing Programme, representing approximately 21% of all PCR tests executed in the UK, is testament to the hard work and dedication of all our staff.
“We continue to play a vital role in the national network of testing, which is of critical importance and remains a key part of the response to COVID-19 – not only to identify outbreaks, isolate cases and prevent further spread, but also to assist with a return to social and economic normality.”
Anyone interested in joining Randox’s COVID-19 Testing Programme should apply at https://randox.getgotjobs.co.uk/
For press enquiries please contact Amy Millar in the Randox PR team on amy.millar@randox.com or 028 9442 2413
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Randox Covid Test Centre Opens at Belfast City Airport
Randox has today opened a new Covid-19 testing facility with Belfast City Airport.
The test centre, purpose-built by leading Belfast building firm H&J Martin, offers quick and affordable PCR and antigen (lateral flow) tests, with its opening coinciding with the resumption of international flights from Belfast City Airport.
Airport Operations Manager, Judith Davis, explained:
“Flights have resumed today from Belfast City to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport with our airline partner KLM, which is another positive step as airlines across the world rebuild and restart their networks.
“Currently the Dutch Government requires all passengers entering the Netherlands to have taken and returned a negative result from both a PCR and an antigen (lateral flow) test. Providing this service on-site is the ultimate convenience for our passengers, which is something we pride ourselves on and continually strive to enhance.”
PCR tests by Randox at Belfast City Airport are available at the reduced price of £85, with antigen tests available for £45. Judith details further the benefits this offers the people of Northern Ireland;
“These tests, which must be pre-booked, aren’t just reserved for passengers flying from Belfast City Airport but are also available for non-flying members of the general public.
“The fact that results from the antigen tests are returned within one hour, and a digital ‘safe to fly’ certificate is issued directly to the passenger’s mobile device, is also another huge bonus and adds a further layer of convenience for our customers who need to travel.”
Speaking of the partnership with Belfast City Airport, and the importance of this test facility at the UK and Ireland’s most convenient airport, Project Manager at Randox, Sophie Boyd, said:
“Randox are committed to supporting those wishing to undertake international travel, including holidays, and the travel industry. In doing so we believe we will be improving wellbeing and supporting employment.
“As flights resume and we open the Randox Health Travel Centre at Belfast City Airport we will provide competitive, effective and efficient testing to support the travelling public.
“We are delighted to be working in partnership with Belfast City Airport and wish them every success in re-establishing their international travel links.”
(l-r John McConnell of H&J Martin, Judith Davis, Airport Operations Manager, and Sophie Boyd, Project Manager at Randox)
This Covid-19 testing facility is the latest health and safety measure to be implemented at Belfast City Airport, which was the first airport in Northern Ireland to achieve the ACI’s Airport Health Accreditation for its extensive, thorough, and best-in-class passenger safety procedures.
“The wellbeing of our passengers and staff remains of paramount importance to us and those travelling to the airport can be reassured that stringent measures are in place for their safety,” Judith concluded.
Covid-19 testing at the Airport is available by appointment only and slots can be booked now at https://booking.randox.com/
For further information on Covid testing at Belfast City Airport please contact the Randox Covid Customer Support team on covidcustomersupport@randox.com or 0800 2545 201.
For press enquiries please contact Amy Millar in the Randox PR team on amy.millar@randox.com or 028 9442 2413
Want to know more?
Contact us or visit the Randox Health Travel Centre booking page
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Banned substance furazolidone (AOZ) detected in shrimp at French border
14 April 2021: Banned substance furazolidone (AOZ) detected in shrimp at French border
As per an alert through RASFF – the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed for the EU, shrimp imported from India has been rejected at the French border in March 2021 for containing a banned substance, known as furazolidone (AOZ). The shrimp product has since been destroyed and did not make it into the market for distribution.
Nitrofuran antibiotics, the parent compound of AOZ, were banned for use in animal food production in the EU in 1995 and 2009 in the US for its reported carcinogenic and mutagenic characteristics. However due to the drugs low cost and effectiveness in controlling disease it is still in use despite the ban.
Randox Food Diagnostics
Randox Food Diagnostics have developed a highly accurate and reliable immunoassay array which detects Nitrofuran residues including AOZ, AMOZ, AHD and SEM.
Available on the Evidence Investigator, our Antimicrobial Array III utilises our patented Biochip Array Technology which provides screening of up to 54 meat and seafood samples. The Evidence Investigator provides results for multiple drug residues and toxins in just 2.5 hours, saving the user both time and money compared to other screening and confirmatory methods.
Randox Food Diagnostics also provide a vast variety of ELISA kits to test for antibiotics in meat and seafood tissue, offering excellent cross-reactivity and unrivalled limits of detection. With results providing great correlation with confirmatory methods, we ensure that better science means safer food.
Want to know more?
For more information on tissue screening methods from Randox Food Diagnostics please visit the links below.
www.randoxfood.com/meat-and-seafood-analysis/
Alternatively contact us via email: info@randoxfooddiagnostics.com
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Randox Covid-19 PCR Tests Reduced to Ā£60 for Overseas Travel
Tuesday 13th April 2021
Randox Covid-19 PCR Tests Reduced to £60 for Overseas Travel
Randox, the UK’s largest Covid-19 PCR testing provider, today announced their support for UK holidaymakers seeking trips overseas by reducing the cost of PCR tests to support travel to £60 per test. Currently PCR tests can cost from £100 each, and often much more.
This announcement comes hot on the heels of the Department for Transport’s plans to open-up overseas travel, potentially from as early as 17th May, but dependent on PCR testing pre-departure and on return. Specific PCR testing requirements will be based on the grading of destination countries within a green, amber and red traffic light system.
Last week UK transport secretary Grant Shapps sought to lower the cost of coronavirus testing to help encourage foreign holidays this summer – and Randox have led the response.
Dr Peter FitzGerald, Randox Managing Director said;
“In recognition of the needs of both the travel industry and the British public at this unprecedented time, Randox will reduce the all-inclusive cost of PCR testing for those in the UK undertaking international travel to £60 per test. We can see the pressures faced by the both the travel industry and the general public and are committed to effective and economical testing to support holidaymakers and those undertaking international travel.
The £60 PCR test is based on a testing kit ordered, on-line, for home sample collection with the sample returned to the laboratory for testing. The cost is inclusive of VAT and logistics. In order to achieve the £60 price, which is limited to those undertaking international travel, purchasers will need to apply a discount code which can initially be obtained from airlines when booking travel.
Those passengers wishing to order a Randox PCR COVID-19 home test should visit: https://www.randoxhealth.com/covid-19-home-testing-kit/
Randox have been active in Covid-19 testing since early 2020, and currently have the largest Covid-19 testing network within the UK.
Background Notes
The Department of Transport report, produced by the Global Travel Taskforce and released on 9th April, shows how international travel could resume from 17 May 2021 at the earliest, in an accessible and affordable way. This includes the removal of the permission to travel form – meaning passengers would no longer need to prove they have a valid reason to leave the country.
The UK is a global leader in genome sequencing, which in positive cases allows the identification of variants of concern.
The risks posed by these variants remain significant, and restrictions for inbound passengers, such as 10-day managed quarantine, home quarantine, and stringent testing will remain in place – but will apply to people differently depending on whether the destination visited is categorised as ‘green’, ‘amber’ or ‘red’.
Green: arrivals will need to take a pre-departure test as well as a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on or before day 2 of their arrival back into the UK – but will not need to quarantine on return (unless they receive a positive result) or take any additional tests, halving the cost of tests on their return from holiday
Amber: arrivals will need to quarantine for a period of 10 days and take a pre-departure test, and a PCR test on day 2 and day 8 with the option for Test to Release on day 5 to end self-isolation early
Red: arrivals will be subject to restrictions currently in place for ‘red list’ countries which include a 10-day stay in a managed quarantine hotel, pre-departure testing and PCR testing on day 2 and 8
Testing remains an essential part of protecting public health as restrictions begin to ease – with all arrivals who are not exempt required to book a pre-departure, day 2 and day 8 test before travelling.
For further information on our £60 PCR test please contact the Randox Covid Customer Support team on covidcustomersupport@randox.com or 0800 2545 201.
For press enquiries please contact Amy Millar in the Randox PR team on amy.millar@randox.com or 028 9442 2413
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Rachael Blackmore wins the Randox Grand National on Minella Times
Saturday 10th April 2021: Rachael Blackmore wins the Randox Grand National 2021 on Minella Times
Rachael Blackmore made history when she became the first female jockey to win the Randox Grand National, on Saturday 10th April 2021.
Upon Henry de Bromhead-trained Minella Times, owned by JP McManus, the odds of a victory for Rachael were 11-1.
Blackmore and Minella Times rode over 30 fences and were first past the post in the 2021 running of the world’s greatest and most famous horse race, beating Balko Des Flos, who finished second, by six and a half lengths.
“I just cannot believe it,” Rachael said.
“I don’t feel male or female right now, I don’t even feel human!”
Unfortunately there were no crowds at Aintree racecourse this year, in light of restrictions relating to the Covid-19 pandemic, but Blackmore was cheered on by owners, trainers, stable staff and racing officials.
An audience of 8.8 million tuned in to ITV to watch Rachael’s historic win onboard Minella Times.
Dickon White, Regional Director for Jockey Club Racecourses said;
“Minella Times, Rachael Blackmore and Henry d Bromhead have given us a story for the ages and I’m grateful that ITV have helped to ensure it inspires people across our society that it doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from, if you have a dream you should go for it.”
To mark Rachael’s historic win in the Randox Grand National, Randox Health are offering 20% off all health check programmes, until Sunday 18th April. Visit randoxhealth.com to find out more.
For further information please email Amy Millar in the Randox PR team on amy.millar@randox.com or 028 9442 2413
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Randox Grand National 2021 trophy pays tribute to COVID pandemic key workers
Randox Grand National 2021 trophy pays tribute to COVID pandemic key workers
Saturday 3rd April 2021
The headline sponsor of the Randox Grand National has unveiled the trophy for the 2021 event with a tribute to key workers of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Shown to the public for the first time on Saturday 3rd April during ITV Racing’s Opening Show, the 2021 trophy has been designed for the second year by Silversmith Cara Murphy from Northern Ireland.
The unique design of the silver and gold trophy, which includes illustrations of the COVID-19 virus on its base, acknowledges a historic year and the collective efforts of all key workers during this time.
Dr Peter FitzGerald, Randox Managing Director, said;
“It is only fitting that the trophy for the 2021 Randox Grand National recognises the momentous impact COVID-19 has had on all of our lives, and we pay tribute to the incredible dedication and sacrifice of all key workers in fighting the coronavirus.
“In establishing and running the largest throughput COVID-19 laboratory in the UK, Randox staff have stood shoulder to shoulder with our colleagues in the NHS and elsewhere, and we salute their commitment and achievements.
“As we reflect on the year gone by, and importantly, look ahead to the future, it will be vital that we take forward the lessons we have learnt from the pandemic – the importance of early and accurate testing and the role diagnostic technology can play in meeting future health challenges.
“I believe the 2021 Randox Grand National trophy will serve as a reminder of this message, and of the truly important things in life – our friends, our family, and our health.”
In recognition of Randox’s role in the UK National Testing Programme, the 2021 Randox Grand National trophy features an intricate stem made of the DNA double helix that forms the basis of the testing methods used to detect COVID-19.
At the head of the stem is a striking sphere to signify the circle of Randox’s corporate logo that has become synonymous with a blood drop on which so many of the company’s health tests, including those within Randox Health’s world-leading health checks, are conducted.
Silversmith Cara Murphy commented;
“This has been a tough year for everyone and it has been an honour to work with Randox to create the 2021 Randox Grand National trophy to commemorate the incredible and dedicated efforts of Randox staff in the UK’s National COVID-19 Testing Programme.
“Whilst we are unable to meet together in person for the 2021 Randox Grand National, their hard work has played such a key role in bringing us to a more positive place and one step closer to normality.
“In years to come the winner of this year’s trophy will look at the COVID virus engraving on its base and be able to reflect not only on their success in the Randox Grand National, but on the incredible challenges and achievements of these times.”
Another popular element returning for the 2021 Randox Grand National are the team trophies. In their first year as sponsor, Randox introduced the concept of presenting the entire winning team with individual trophies, to celebrate the combined effort that goes in to achieving such a special victory.
For further enquiries please contact Amy Millar in the Randox PR team: amy.millar@randox.com or 028 9442 2413
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Belfast City Airport Announces Covid Testing Centre with Randox
Belfast City Airport Announces Covid Testing Centre with Randox
29 March 2021
Belfast City Airport Announces Covid Testing Centre with Randox
Belfast City Airport has announced an onsite covid testing centre in partnership with leading global diagnostics firm, Randox, in preparation for the return of its international flights in the coming months.
The centre will offer both PCR tests and antigen (lateral flow) tests and will give passengers access to quick and safe testing.
Judith Davis, Airport Operations Manager at Belfast City Airport, said:
“The PCR and antigen tests are a current requirement for passengers heading to the Netherlands, and with our KLM flights due to recommence over the next month, it is imperative that we have the testing facilities in place to enable those travelling for essential reasons to be able to do so in a convenient manner.
“The testing facilities will also help with forward planning for those who are connecting through major hub airports, such as Manchester and London Heathrow, or travelling to sunshine destinations with our new airline partner, Ryanair, allowing them to take the test before they leave Northern Ireland.”
Belfast City Airport was recently the first airport in Northern Ireland to achieve the ACI’s Airport Health Accreditation for its extensive and thorough health and safety measures, such as sanitising stations throughout the terminal and requiring anyone entering to wear a face covering.
“The safety of our passengers and staff is at the forefront of our operations and those travelling to the Airport can be reassured that stringent measures are in place” Judith concluded.
David Adamson, Regional Manager at Randox Laboratories, said:
“Along the roadmap out of lockdown, testing will remain a key part of the response to COVID-19 – not only to identify cases and prevent further spread, but also to assist with a return to social and economic normality. The Randox Health Travel Centre at Belfast City Airport, providing accurate and cost-effective antigen and gold standard PCR testing, is another positive step towards the normalization of travel.
“We are pleased to be working with the airport to support their enormous efforts to restore public confidence in international travel and to get people back in the air again if and when they are required to do so.”
Work for the test centre is already underway, with H&J Martin Asset Management Services completing the fit out to include a resting area for passengers who have taken their test, and is expected to be completed over the coming weeks.
For further information please contact Amy Millar in the Randox Public Relations team; amy.millar@randox.com or 028 9442 2413
Randox Health offers a range of COVID-19 testing services for fit to fly, test to release, workplace testing or simply for peace of mind.
Order a home sample collection kit, book an appointment at a Randox Health Travel Centre (available in the UK and Ireland) or visit a Randox Mobile Laboratory (located at Heathrow and Liverpool Airports).
COVID-19 antibody testing is available in Randox Health Clinics.
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Randox is new patron for NI Chamber of Commerce
25th MARCH 2021
Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NI Chamber) has announced that Randox, the UK and Ireland’s largest diagnostics company, is its newest Patron organisation.
As a new NI Chamber Patron, Randox joins a select group of leading businesses, who lend their support to the development of the region’s economy and business community. The partnership offers mutual benefit and will see Randox experience increased brand exposure among the business community and close association with a leading membership organisation.
Announcing the partnership, Ann McGregor, Chief Executive, NI Chamber said:
“Randox has a long relationship with NI Chamber and I am delighted to announce that the company has decided to strengthen its association with us, by coming on board as a Patron.
“Having the support of one of Northern Ireland’s leading exporters is a real endorsement of the work we do and in particular, the support NI Chamber has provided to companies over the past 12 months. As we continue to help firms in all sectors to restart and grow, we look forward to working with Randox and indeed all of our Patrons.”
Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing Director of Randox, added:
“We are delighted to be welcomed as a patron of Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry. As a leading life science company with global export markets, Randox very much values the contribution of the Chamber – particularly so at a time of significant change related to Brexit and the impact of COVID-19. We are ambitious for the future and see the potential for significant growth, as the importance of diagnostics and preventative healthcare grows. We look forward to working with Ann and the Chamber team as we rise to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities to grow our economy – for the benefit of all our people.”
Established in 1982, Randox is the largest diagnostics company from the UK and Ireland; focusing on the provision of accurate and timely health testing. By identifying risk to health, improving clinical diagnoses and promoting preventative healthcare, Randox technologies are used to achieve better health outcomes whilst reducing the burden on clinical services. The company’s innovative and comprehensive portfolio includes tests for diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, stroke and COVID-19. In 2019 Randox manufactured over 4 billion tests, and operated in 145 countries. With over 2000 staff, including more than 450 research scientists and engineers, key facilities are located in Co Antrim and Co Donegal.
Randox joins a list of NI Chamber Patrons which also includes Caterpillar, Danske Bank, DSV, fonaCAB, Investec, Moy Park, Pinsent Masons, Power NI, Queen’s University, Ulster Bank, Ulster Carpets and Ulster University Business School.
For further information please email Amy Millar, Public Relations Team Leader on amy.millar@randox.com or 028 9442 2413