The first of multiple planned expansions in the Medical Device Testing division at Smithers has opened at the Bounce Innovation Hub in Akron, Ohio.
The third-party testing, consulting and validation firm said the new laboratory will have the ability to qualify pen, jet and auto injectors; pre-filled syringes; cartridge and pump dispensers; injection vials and caps; transfusion and IV sets; smart patches and patch pumps; and metered-dose inhalers, among other medical products, the company said.
The lab extends the company's medical device testing services in North America to match those found in the company's United Kingdom facilities.
"Smithers has been a partner to the life sciences industry for many years, and we are constantly seeking feedback from our clients regarding their testing and validation needs," said Gael Peron, the firm's vice president of Medical Device Testing. "Our North American clients have asked for a functional and mechanical device testing laboratory in the United States with the same capabilities and expertise as our established lab in the United Kingdom. This expansion of our global portfolio will result in faster turnaround times and more efficient product development processes for our clients here in North America."
In 2017, Smithers became one of the few contract research organizations offering extractables and leachables assessments in both North America and Europe, with an analytical chemistry laboratory in Akron.
The United Kingdom facility and those in the U.S. have continued to increase those medical testing capabilities. Smithers said the new Akron lab is the first of multiple planned expansions under Peron's leadership.