16th Edition of Relationship Testing Standards Takes Effect Jan. 1

The 16th edition of Standards for Relationship Testing Laboratories will take effect Jan. 1, 2024. AABB’s Relationship Testing (RT) Standards Committee made several changes and additions to the 16th addition, including the following updates:

• The 16th edition integrates the updated quality systems essentials template, including refreshed language and new sections focused on key concepts and key terms. It also provides examples of objective evidence.
• The new edition now encompasses forensic genetic genealogy testing activities throughout its content, expanding its scope.
• The RT Standards Committee created new standards that enable individuals seeking roles as a laboratory director or technical leader—regardless of whether their experience was gained in an AABB-accredited laboratory—to petition AABB to determine if their experience would be equivalent.

The 16th edition is available in the AABB Store in an electronic format and print format. A bundle of 16th edition (in print) and the Guidance for Standards for Relationship Testing Laboratories is also available. Organizations interested in adopting the Standards can participate in a complimentary two-week trial of the electronic version of the 16th edition in the Standards Portal.

Individuals with questions regarding the standards should contact standards@aabb.org.