HIWU Suspends Probationary HEAL Accreditation for 'Ohio Lab'

Samples collected in Ohio will be directed to the Kenneth L. Maddy Equine Analytical Chemistry Laboratory at the University of California, Davis for analysis.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Ohio Department of Agriculture's ('Ohio Lab') probationary HISA Equine Analytical Laboratory (HEAL) accreditation status has been suspended for a minimum of six months by the Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit (HIWU) due to nonconformities associated with HEAL compliance. HIWU will review the Ohio Lab's response and corrective actions before potentially restoring the probationary accreditation status.

Why it matters

The HEAL accreditation program is a critical component of the HISA Anti-Doping and Medication Control Program, ensuring that Program laboratories maintain high standards. The suspension of the Ohio Lab's accreditation raises concerns about the integrity of drug testing in the state and the need for robust oversight and compliance measures.

The details

HIWU's independent Laboratory Expert Group recommended the suspension of the Ohio Lab's probationary HEAL accreditation due to nonconformities associated with HEAL compliance. HIWU will review the Ohio Lab's response and associated corrective actions before potentially restoring the probationary accreditation status.

  • The suspension of the Ohio Lab's probationary HEAL accreditation began on February 9, 2026.
  • HIWU's review of the Ohio Lab is ongoing, and any impact on resolved or pending ADMC Program cases will be publicly disclosed in accordance with Program rules.

The players

Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit (HIWU)

The organization responsible for overseeing the HEAL accreditation program and evaluating the performance of Program laboratories.

Ohio Department of Agriculture ('Ohio Lab')

The laboratory that had its probationary HEAL accreditation suspended by HIWU.

Kenneth L. Maddy Equine Analytical Chemistry Laboratory

The laboratory at the University of California, Davis that will now analyze samples collected in Ohio.

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What’s next

HIWU, in consultation with its Laboratory Expert Group, will review the Ohio Lab's response to this suspension and associated corrective actions. Probationary accreditation status will not be restored unless and until the laboratory is in full compliance with HEAL.

The takeaway

The suspension of the Ohio Lab's probationary HEAL accreditation highlights the importance of maintaining high standards and compliance within the HISA Anti-Doping and Medication Control Program. It underscores the need for robust oversight and accountability measures to ensure the integrity of drug testing in the horseracing industry.