The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is
marking a significant milestone today – 25 years of continuous
recognition as a Designated Laboratory for the Organisation for
the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).
Since 1999, Dstl has
successfully maintained this prestigious status through rigorous
annual proficiency testing, establishing itself as one of the
world's leading chemical analysis facilities in support of the
Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
Dstl's
Chemical and Biological Analysis and Attribution Capability
represents a critical UK
sovereign capability that supports both homeland incidents and
international government priorities. The team delivers
high-impact science to identify and attribute hazardous chemical
and biological substances and weapons.
Professor Andy Bell, Dstl's Chief
Science and Technology Officer, said:
Dstl's
Designated Laboratory is of critical importance to the
UK.
This sovereign capability forms part of our wider work where we
are able to deliver internationally in matters relating to the
Chemical Weapons Convention thus advancing the world towards
being free from chemical weapons.
The OPCW
network currently comprises 30 national laboratories across 25
countries. The annual testing regime maintains a network of
highly performing laboratories that can analyse samples to
support investigations of alleged chemical weapons use, thereby
deterring chemical weapons attacks and holding perpetrators
accountable.
The proficiency testing process demands exceptional expertise and
dedication.
Sarah, Dstl
scientist, said:
You get 15 days to turn around everything from the first opening
of the samples to reporting the result.
It's a stressful time, working weekends and long hours, but with
a great team work ethic and professionalism.
Dstl recently
assisted the OPCW
in designing, preparing and shipping environmental samples for
the 56th Official OPCW
Environmental Proficiency Test. This involved creating realistic
test scenarios that simulate investigations of suspected chemical
weapons releases, with months of extensive quality assurance
testing to ensure samples met stringent OPCWstandards.
Chris, senior team member at Dstl, said:
We're seen as one of the top laboratories and well respected
around the world. People come to us for advice. We train some of
the OPCWinspectors.
To mark this significant milestone, Dstl is
hosting a special event today, bringing together current and
former employees, cross-government stakeholders, and OPCW
representatives to celebrate this extraordinary achievement.
Professor Andy Bell concluded:
Sharing knowledge is an absolute critical aspect of our
day-to-day work.
Maintaining this type of international-level performance for 25
years is phenomenal and is absolutely testament to the fact that
across those 25 years, we have had phenomenal people at the heart
of it.
