The Western Cape has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first province in South Africa to establish a public forensic toxicology laboratory with international accreditation.

Located in Observatory, this lab received ISO/IEC 17025 certification from the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS), marking a major advancement for forensic science.

The facility specializes in detecting carbon monoxide poisoning and analyzing drugs in forensic specimens, aiding investigations into fires, suspected poisonings, drug overdoses, and unexplained deaths.

Western Cape Health and Wellness MEC Mireille Wenger emphasized the importance of forensic toxicology in providing clarity to families during unclear death circumstances, ensuring evidence meets global standards for use in legal proceedings.The accreditation validates the lab's testing methods and quality controls, enhancing reliability and reducing turnaround times.Chief forensic toxicologist Bronwen Davies highlighted the commitment to maintaining high standards, reinforcing trust in public sector services.

This development strengthens collaboration between forensic pathologists, police, and courts while supporting public health initiatives by identifying emerging risks.