New lab for scientists who test everything from fish to vodka (From Worcester News)

New lab for scientists who test everything from fish to vodka

5:30pm Tuesday 20th April 2010 in

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SCIENTISTS who test everything from asbestos levels to what goes in your chip shop fish have moved to a new laboratory.

Experts from the Worcestershire County Council scientific services team have completed a move to new premises at Berkeley Business Park, Worcester.

They had been based in Stourport-on-Severn.

The 24-strong team were praised as “excellent staff” and the unsung heroes who are constantly monitoring food and drink outlets to make sure what they’re selling is as advertised.

Lab staff have recently been testing alcohol, particuarly vodka, which can contain dangerous chemicals to help producers make it more cheaply.

They also helped secure a recent conviction against a Worcestershire chip shop selling Vietnamese cobbler as Atlantic cod.

But the staff led by county analysts Liz Moran and head of service Steve Birch also carry out testing of agricultural produce, monitoring of asbestos in buildings and product testing for consumer protection, including toy safety.

Head of environmental services Councillor Derek Prodger helped formally launch the new lab in March. He said: “This lab is forging ahead, having built up a reputation as one of the best labs in the country.

“The excellent staff have coped well with the move and we have been told about the high regard in which this team is held by fellow analysts in the UK.”

The lab has managed to survive in a highly competitive sector and brings in revenue to the county council and taxpayer.

Dr Duncan Campbell, president of the association of public analysts, said he was “impressed” by the staff and facilities.