WADA Suspends Beijing Doping Lab

(ATR) The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) put a halt to China’s anti-doping laboratory in Beijing as a result of a doping probe into swimmers in China.

China cannot analyze any blood or urine samples for the next four months and must send its samples to a lab not currently sanctioned by WADA. The lab may choose to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within the next 20 days.

"During the period of suspension, the laboratory is required to take five remedial steps highlighted by the Disciplinary Committee in its recommendation, in addition to addressing non-conformities identified in its External Quality Assessment Scheme (EQAS) program and any other non-conformities identified during WADA site visits during the suspension period," WADA said in a statement but failed to provide specifics of the steps needed.

The China Anti-Doping Agency (CHINADA) says the Beijing lab reported two false negative results to WADA officials during a double blind test in October 2015. Chinese state news agency Xinhua quoted the lab as saying the false negatives were a result of "technical errors" because the lab had yet to update its testing methods.

"At present, the laboratory is undergoing a complete review and improvement of its detection methods, in order to meet WADA's latest requirements," the Beijing lab said according to Xinhua.

No matter the cause, CHINADA plans to resolve the situation as soon as possible.

"Beijing Laboratory will complete its Corrective Actions and then apply for reinstatement of accreditation after WADA’s review," CHINADA said in a statement.

Written by Kevin Nutley

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