| Agency overview | |
|---|---|
| Formed | 1972 (1972) |
| Headquarters | Richmond, Virginia |
| Agency executive |
|
| Parent agency | Virginia Department of General Services |
| Website | |
Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratories (DCLS) is a public health agency located in Richmond, Virginia. 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. 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.
History
DCLS was formed in 1972 from the consolidation of several Virginia agencies responsible for laboratory testing.
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. The $63 million, 194,5000 square-foot facility also contains a BSL-3 lab and training space.
References
- ^ "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.