India’s First NABL-Accredited Lab for Silica Testing

Press Release (English) Dt.14.01.2026

Raipur’s ‘Arvind Industrial Hygiene Lab’ Becomes India’s First NABL-Accredited Lab for Silica Testing; Sets Global Standards for Worker Safety

Shri Arvind Testing and Research Lab (under the aegis of Arvind Industrial Hygiene Lab), located in Tagore Nagar, Raipur, has achieved a historic milestone. It has become the first laboratory in India to receive NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) accreditation for the testing of Crystalline Silica (Quartz) in respirable dust.

A Critical Step Toward Occupational Health

In industrial hubs like Chhattisgarh, dust emissions from cement, power, steel, and sponge iron plants pose a significant health risk. Inhalation of silica-laden dust leads to Silicosis and other life-threatening lung diseases. Recognizing the gravity of this issue, the Honorable High Court has recently taken strict cognizance of industrial dust management.

Founded by Dr. Avinash Verma, a former official of the Bhilai Steel Plant, the lab is dedicated to ensuring rigorous industrial hygiene standards and safeguarding the health of the workforce.

State-of-the-Art Technology & Global Recognition

The laboratory utilizes advanced FTIR (Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) technology and Personal Breathing Zone Samplers to detect microscopic silica particles with precision.

With this NABL accreditation:

Test reports from this lab will now be accepted in over 50 countries.

Industries will benefit from seamless international compliance and legal adherence.

The accuracy of data will empower industries to implement better safety protocols.

Legacy of Expertise

The institute is led by Dr. Avinash Verma, who brings over 30 years of experience to the field. He has published more than 30 research papers in international journals and is supported by a dedicated team including Mr. Vinod Mishra, Mr. Tikesh Chandrakar, Mr. Sunil Bajpai, and Mr. Aditya Verma.

“Our motto is ‘Healthy Worker – Productive Worker’. This accreditation is not just a certification for us, but a commitment to protecting the lives of those who drive our nation’s industrial growth,” said Dr. Verma.

About Dr. Avinash Verma

Dr. Verma is a globally recognized figure in occupational health. His credentials include:

Recipient of the Medichem International Young Scientist Award.

Research Presenter at the Environmental Health Conference in Brisbane, Australia.

Lead Auditor for OSHA-45001.

Member of the International Commission on Occupational Health (ICOH).

Proven Track Record:

Conducted hygiene surveys for over 150 industries across Chhattisgarh and other states in the last five years.