Sponsored By: Applied Analytical Toxicology and Toxicology Resource Committees

 

Webinar: Going Paperless - Shredding the Barriers to a More Efficient and Greener Laboratory Operation
Date & Time: September 10, 2025
10:00 AM - 12:30 PM PST / 1:00 - 3:30 PM EST 
Chairs: 
  • Sabra JonesRegional Toxicology Liaison, Northeast, Regional Toxicology Liaison Program
  • Rebecca WagnerChemistry Research Section Supervisor, Virginia Department of Forensic Science

Audience Knowledge Level: Basic
Registration: Free for SOFT members/$35 for non-members

register for the webinar here

Keep the Conversation Going: SOFTopics – Going Paperless

Date & Time: Thursday, September 18, 2025
11:00 AM PST / 2:00 PM EST
Who Can Attend: All webinar registrants and all SOFT members, regardless of webinar attendance.
Registration: Free for all members, and free for non-members who register for the webinar

 

To keep the conversation going from the webinar, join us the following week for a moderated discussion: SOFTopics: Going Paperless. Be ready to ask questions and discuss tips for making the transition from being buried in paper to having no paper in sight! This session is open to all webinar registrants, whether or not they are SOFT members, as well as all SOFT members, regardless of webinar registration or attendance. SOFTopics will be held at 11 am Pacific/2 pm Eastern on Thursday, September 18.

register for SOFTopics here

Webinar Abstract:

In the evolving field of forensic toxicology, adopting a paperless environment through advanced Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) is becoming increasingly essential. This webinar will explore the transformative impact of digital solutions on forensic laboratories, focusing on the challenges encountered during the transition and the significant improvements in operational efficiency.

Key Topics:

  • Understanding LIMS in Forensic Laboratories: An overview of Laboratory Information Management Systems and their role in modernizing forensic operations.
  • Challenges in Going Paperless: Identifying common obstacles such as data security concerns, staff resistance to change, and the complexities of integrating new technologies into existing workflows.
  • Enhancing Efficiency Through Digital Solutions: Discussing how LIMS streamline data management, reduce manual errors, and accelerate case processing times.
  • Case Studies and Real-World Applications: Examining successful implementations of paperless systems in forensic settings, highlighting tangible benefits and lessons learned.
  • Best Practices for Implementation: Guidance on planning, training, and supporting staff to ensure a smooth transition to a paperless environment.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this webinar, participants will:
  1. Gain a comprehensive understanding of LIMS and their application in forensic laboratories.
  2. Recognize the challenges associated with transitioning to a paperless system.
  3. Learn strategies to enhance efficiency and accuracy through digital solutions.


Agenda (Eastern Times)

1:00 PM-1:10 PM: Introduction
1:10 PM-1:40 PM: Paper or Not to Paper - Considerations, Hurdles and Tips, Dr. Stephen Raso, DC OCME
1:40 PM–1:50 PM: Q&A
1:50 PM-2:20 PM: Rock, Paper, Scissors: Lab Strategies for Winning the Game Without Paper, Gregory Janis, LabCorp
2:20-2:30 PM: Q&A
2:30 PM-2:35 PM: Break
2:35 PM–3:00 PM: Cutting Through the Paper: Streamlining Specimen Submission, Review, and Reporting, Scott Larson, NMS
3:00 PM–3:30 PM: Panel Discussion 

 

Speakers

Stephen Raso, Deputy Chief Toxicologist, DC OCME 
Gregory Janis, Research and Development, AVP Mass Spectrometry Co-Discipline Director, LabCorp
Scott Larson, Forensic Toxicologists, NMS Labs