HIWU Suspends Pennsylvania Equine Toxicology Lab’s Probationary Status
The Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit (HIWU) has suspended the Pennsylvania Equine Toxicology and Research Laboratory’s (PETRL) probationary accreditation status for a minimum of six months, effective July 8, 2025.
All samples collected in Pennsylvania are now being redirected to Industrial Laboratories for analysis, according to Wednesday’s announcement.
The suspension follows a recommendation from HIWU’s independent Laboratory Expert Group, which identified nonconformities associated with HEAL (HISA Equine Analytical Laboratory) compliance standards. PETRL must achieve full compliance with HEAL requirements before its probationary accreditation status can be restored.
HIWU officials continue to review PETRL’s operations. Any impact on resolved or pending Anti-Doping and Medication Control Program cases will be disclosed in accordance with Program rules.
The HEAL accreditation program, implemented January 1, 2025, serves as the national laboratory accreditation standard established by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority’s (HISA) Anti-Doping and Medication Control Program. The system builds upon ISO 17025 and Racing Medication & Testing Consortium models while requiring robust external quality assessment protocols to maintain consistent laboratory standards.
HIWU oversees the program to ensure participating laboratories maintain compliance with established testing protocols and quality control measures.
