Israel laboratories gain EU recognition
Five Israeli laboratories were officially recognised by the European Union in January as complying with principles of good laboratory practice in their areas of expertise. The move comes within the context of the OECD (organisation for economic cooperation and development) agreement on mutual recognition of good laboratory practice principles which entered into force on 1 May 2000. This agreement allows two years for the introduction of a national verification system of good laboratory practice. The European Union monitors the progress in compliance during this period, and recognises those laboratories which have achieved full compliance. The five laboratories that have been given official recognition are Harlan Biotec Israel, Hervot, which specialises in toxicity studies; two Aminolab laboratories in Hervot, specialising in chemical trials and chemical and clinical analysis; Agan chemical manufacturers; Makteshim chemical works in Beer Sheva and Analytical laboratory and Ashdod, both specialising in chemical trials. Israel and the EU are linked by a scientific and technological cooperation agreement signed in 3 March 1999.