Laws of Tanzania ActiveThe Government Chemist Laboratory Authority Act
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©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.655 CHAPTER 177 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [PRINCIPAL LEGISLATION] Arrangement of Sections Section Title part i PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS 1. Short title. 2. Application. 3. Interpretation. part ii THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY 4. Establishment of Government Chemist Laboratory Authority. 5. Functions of Authority. 6. Directorates, zones, units and sections. part iii ADMINISTRATION AND INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENT 7. Establishment of Board. 8. Functions and powers of Board. 9. Establishment of Technical Committees. 10. Appointment of Chief Government Chemist. 11. Functions and powers of Chief Government Chemist. 12. Powers to delegate. 13. Appointment and functions of Government Laboratory Analyst. 14. Appointment of inspectors. 15. Powers of inspectors. part iv MANAGEMENT OF SAMPLES AND ANALYTICAL RESULTS 16. Management of samples. 17. Laboratory analytical report and its effect. 18. Issuance of laboratory analytical reports. 19. Expert witness. RESULTS 16. Management of samples. 17. Laboratory analytical report and its effect. 18. Issuance of laboratory analytical reports. 19. Expert witness. ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 656 part v THE AUTHORITY SERVICES (a) Forensic Science and DNA Services 20. Forensic science laboratory services. (b) Products Quality Laboratory Services 21. Products quality laboratory services. (c) Chemicals Management Services 22. Chemicals management laboratory services. 23. Conclusiveness of report. part vi REGULATION OF LABORATORIES (a) Registration of laboratory 24. Registration of laboratories. 25. Issuance of certificate. 26. Cancelation of registration of laboratory. 27. Appeals. 28. Notification of closure or change of ownership. (b) Inspection of laboratory 29. Inspection of laboratory. (c) Record Keeping and Reporting 30. Record keeping. 31. Reporting. part vii NATIONAL HUMAN DNA DATABASE 32. National Human DNA Database. 33. Access to information. part viii NATIONAL POISON CONTROL CENTRE 34. National Poison Control Centre. 35. Designation of information nodes. atabase. 33. Access to information. part viii NATIONAL POISON CONTROL CENTRE 34. National Poison Control Centre. 35. Designation of information nodes. ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.657 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] part ix FINANCIAL PROVISIONS 36. Sources of funds. 37. Estimates of income and expenditure. 38. Supplementary budget. 39. Annual report. 40. Submission of annual financial statement. 41. Management and control of funds. 42. Operational principles. 43. Powers to invest. part x GENERAL PROVISIONS 44. Power of Minister to make regulations. 45. Protection of members of Board and officers of Authority. 46. Ownership of assets and liabilities. 47. Transfer of staff and their rights. 48. Remuneration of members of Board technical committees and staff. 49. Welfare and safety of staff. 50. Conflict of interests. 51. Confidentiality and disclosure of information. 52. Powers of Minister to give directives. 53. Offence against tempering with documents or reports. 54. Liability of body corporate and partnership. 55. Powers to compound offences. 56. General penalty. SCHEDULES tempering with documents or reports. 54. Liability of body corporate and partnership. 55. Powers to compound offences. 56. General penalty. SCHEDULES ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.658 PART I PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS 1. This Act may be cited as the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority Act. 2. This Act shall apply to Mainland Tanzania. 3. I PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS 1. This Act may be cited as the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority Act. 2. This Act shall apply to Mainland Tanzania. 3. In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires- “Authority” means the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority established under section 4; “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Authority established pursuant to section 7; “chemical” means any industrial chemical, consumer chemical or any chemical product thereof which is- (a) a substance in any form, whether by itself or in a mixture or preparation; and (b) either manufactured or obtained from nature; “Chief Government Chemist” means a person appointed under section 10; “consumer chemical” means any chemical or chemical product used or intended for use in domestic household or in a non-industrial process; Short title Application Interpretation CHAPTER 177 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT An Act to provide for the establishment of the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority; to provide for its powers and functions; and to provide for matters related thereto. [5th April, 2017] [GN. No. 248 of 2017] Act No. 8 of 2016 hority; to provide for its powers and functions; and to provide for matters related thereto. [5th April, 2017] [GN. No. 248 of 2017] Act No. 8 of 2016 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.659 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. ed. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.659 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] “dealer” means a person engaged in the sale, distribution, use or handling of a chemical in any means; “DNA” has the same meaning ascribed to it under the Human DNA Regulation Act; “forensic science” means discipline of forensic toxicology, chemistry and biology used to discover information about crime by scientifically examining objects or substances involved in a crime; “Government Laboratory Analyst” means a person appointed by the Minister to perform duties of laboratory analysis as provided for under this Act or any other written law; “industrial chemical” means any chemical or chemical product used or intended for use in an industrial process; “inspector” means a chemical, forensic science or human DNA laboratory inspector appointed under section 14; “laboratory” means any facility undertaking testing or analyzing samples or matters related to chemical, forensic science, microbiology, DNA, and training laboratories; “laboratory analytical report” means a laboratory report showing results from an analysis of a sample conducted, and includes a certificate of analysis issued under this Act; “Minister” means the Minister responsible for health; “Ministry” means the Ministry responsible for health; “poison” means substances that cause harm or death to organism; “requesting authority” means a person or institution which initiates the process of sample analysis as provided for under section 16; “sample” means a specimen or an exhibit submitted for laboratory analysis; “Technical Committee” means a forensic science services or poison control committees established under section 9; and “testing” means any investigation or inspection made for the purpose of detecting, identifying or quantifying usually qualified by the method used. nd “testing” means any investigation or inspection made for the purpose of detecting, identifying or quantifying usually qualified by the method used. Cap. 73 Cap. 73 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 660 PART II THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY 4.–(1) There is established a body to be known as the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority also known by its acronym as “GCLA”. (2) The Authority established under subsection (1), shall be the supreme and referral laboratory of the Government of the United Republic, and shall perform other functions as stipulated under this Act. (3) The Authority shall be a body corporate with perpetual succession and shall have a common seal and, in its own name, be capable of- (a) suing and being sued; (b) acquiring, holding and alienating movable and immovable property; (c) borrowing and lending; (d) entering into contract or other transaction; and (e) doing all such other acts which a body corporate may lawfully perform. (4) Notwithstanding the preceding provisions of this section, the Attorney General shall have the right to intervene in any suit or matter instituted by or against the Authority. eding provisions of this section, the Attorney General shall have the right to intervene in any suit or matter instituted by or against the Authority. (5) Where the Attorney General intervenes in any suit or matter, the provisions of the Government Proceedings Act shall apply in relation to the proceedings of that suit or matter as if the suit or matter had been instituted by or against the Government. (6) For the purpose of subsections (3) and (4), the Authority shall have the duty to notify the Attorney General of any impending suit or matter by, or against the Authority. 5.–(1) The Authority shall be the referral laboratory and its analytical results shall be final and conclusive on matters related to laboratory analysis. Establishment of Government Chemist Laboratory Authority Cap. 5 Functions of Authority final and conclusive on matters related to laboratory analysis. Establishment of Government Chemist Laboratory Authority Cap. 5 Functions of Authority ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.661 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. ed. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.661 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] (2) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), the Authority shall- (a) conduct research activities, laboratory analysis and advise the Government on matters relating to forensic toxicology, forensic biology, DNA, illicit drugs, forensic chemistry, food, drugs, occupational health, industrial and consumer chemicals and products and environmental samples for executing health, legal, social wellbeing and environmental interventions; (b) regulate chemical, forensic science and human DNA laboratories to ensure compliance with the prescribed standards; (c) provide, manage and regulate operation of the National DNA Database in accordance with the Human DNA Regulation Act, or any other written laws; (d) coordinate national chemical management programmes, forensic science and human DNA services; (e) manage National Poison Control Centre; (f) regulate and conduct training and outreach programmes on matters related to chemicals management, human DNA services and any other matters regulated by this Act; (g) develop and provide guidance, instructions, opportunity, coaching and mentor scientists within and beyond functional expertise in functions of the Authority; (h) collect, identify and analyse scientific evidence pertaining to legal matters; (i) registration, suspension or cancellation of chemical, forensic science and human DNA laboratories; (j) registration, suspension or cancellation of industrial chemical, consumer chemical or chemical dealers; (k) cancel research permits or licence for DNA; (l) condemn and order destruction or disposal of articles, chemicals and chemical products; (m) advise the Minister on the appointment of inspectors, sampling officers and Government Laboratory Analysts; Cap. chemicals and chemical products; (m) advise the Minister on the appointment of inspectors, sampling officers and Government Laboratory Analysts; Cap. 73 73 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 662 (n) take sample for laboratory testing; (o) call upon and make laboratory analysis on any matter of national or public interest to which forensic science, product quality or chemicals management may be required; (p) conduct inspection for premises or services regulated by the Authority; and (q) perform any other functions as the Minister may assign. (3) For the purpose of subsection (1), the Authority shall register and de-register- (a) chemical and forensic science laboratories including human DNA laboratories; (b) industrial and consumer chemicals and dealers; and (c) any person involved in conducting training and outreach programmes on matters related to chemicals management, human DNA services and other functions under this Act (4) The Authority may provide consultancy services on any matter stipulated under this Act. ent, human DNA services and other functions under this Act (4) The Authority may provide consultancy services on any matter stipulated under this Act. (5) Prior to the performance of the functions specified under subsection (2) (i), (j), (l) and (m), the Chief Government Chemist shall obtain the approval of the Board. 6. The Authority, for the purpose of the management of its functions after consultation with the Minister, the Minister responsible for Finance and the Minister responsible for public service shall- (a) establish such number of directorates, zones, units and sections with prescribed functions as the Board may determine; and (b) employ such number of staffs in various categories and designations to perform functions of the Authority as may be required. Directorates, zones, units and sections ber of staffs in various categories and designations to perform functions of the Authority as may be required. Directorates, zones, units and sections ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.663 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] PART III ADMINISTRATION AND INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENT 7.–(1) There shall be a Board of the Authority which shall be responsible for management of the affairs of the Authority. (2) The Board shall consist of a Chairman appointed by the President from amongst persons with ten years managerial experience in public service, experience in science and not more than seven members to be appointed by the Minister as follows: (a) a representative from Tanzania Police Force; (b) a representative from the Ministry responsible for health; (c) two representatives from higher learning or research institutions whose speciality is either- (i) pathology; (ii) chemical and mining; (iii) chemistry; or (iv) molecular biology or biotechnology; (d) a Law Officer nominated by the Attorney General; (e) a representative from the Ministry responsible for finance who has knowledge in matters related to accounting and finance; and (f) a representative from an umbrella organisation of laboratory technicians. ance who has knowledge in matters related to accounting and finance; and (f) a representative from an umbrella organisation of laboratory technicians. (3) The Chief Government Chemist shall be Secretary to the Board. (4) The Board may, where it considers necessary, co-opt any person to attend its meeting provided that such person shall not have a right to vote. (5) The tenure of members, proceedings of the Board and other matters relating to the Board shall be as set out in the First Schedule to this Act. (6) When appointing members of the Board and technical committees under this Act, the Minister shall take into account Establishment of Board his Act. (6) When appointing members of the Board and technical committees under this Act, the Minister shall take into account Establishment of Board ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 664 gender and persons with disabilities representation, senior members who possess requisite knowledge and experience. (7) The Minister may, by order published in the Gazette, alter, amend or add anything in the First Schedule to this Act. 8.–(1) The functions and powers of the Board shall be to- (a) make guidelines, rules and orders to facilitate implementation of this Act; (b) exempt payment of any fees for services rendered by the Authority; (c) approve the Authority’s budgets, annual financial statements and accounts; (d) approve and advise the Minister on strategic policy matters for implementation by the Authority; (e) approve fees payable for services rendered by the Authority; and (f) advise the Minister on performance of the management on set targets and the carrying out of policy priorities. (2) The Board may delegate its functions to the Chief Government Chemist, committee of the Board or employee of the Authority. t of policy priorities. (2) The Board may delegate its functions to the Chief Government Chemist, committee of the Board or employee of the Authority. (3) The Board shall for the purpose of facilitating the performance of its functions, appoint such number of committees to perform specific functions of the Board. 9.–(1) There shall be the Forensic Science Services Technical Committee and Poison Control Technical Committee to be appointed by the Minister after consultation with the Board. (2) The Committees established under subsection (1), shall be responsible for advising the Chief Government Chemist on technical matters relating to forensic science and poison control. (3) The composition, appointment, functions and procedures of the committees shall be as set out in the Second and Third Schedules to this Act. Functions and powers of Board Establishment of Technical Committees the committees shall be as set out in the Second and Third Schedules to this Act. Functions and powers of Board Establishment of Technical Committees ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.665 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 10.–(1) There shall be a Chief Government Chemist appointed by the President from amongst public servants who have- (a) at least a masters degree in chemistry or any other associated discipline from an accredited institution; and (b) over ten years of experience in matters relating to chemical laboratory, leadership skills and a proven probity. (2) The Chief Government Chemist shall be- (a) the chief executive officer and Accounting Officer of the Authority, and shall be responsible for the day to day management of the affairs of the Authority; (b) the Registrar of chemical, forensic science and human DNA laboratories; (c) Regulator of human DNA service appointed under the human DNA Regulation Act; and (d) Registrar of chemical and chemical dealers appointed under the Industrial and Consumer Chemicals (Management and Control) Act. Regulation Act; and (d) Registrar of chemical and chemical dealers appointed under the Industrial and Consumer Chemicals (Management and Control) Act. (3) The Chief Government Chemist shall hold office for a term of five years and subject to his satisfactory performance be eligible for re-appointment for another one term. 11.–(1) The Chief Government Chemist shall perform the following functions: (a) upon approval of the Board- (i) register, delete, vary, alter, or de-register any name or entries in the register; (ii) issue certificate to a successful applicant; (b) keep and maintain register of- (i) chemical, forensic science and human DNA laboratories; (ii) industrial or consumer chemicals or dealers; (iii) human DNA Database; and (iv) Government Laboratory Analyst; Appointment of Chief Government Chemist Cap. 73 Cap. 182 Functions and powers of Chief Government Chemist ase; and (iv) Government Laboratory Analyst; Appointment of Chief Government Chemist Cap. 73 Cap. 182 Functions and powers of Chief Government Chemist ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 666 (c) oversee the management and development of the organization, and discipline of the employees of the Authority; and (d) perform any other functions as may be assigned to him by the Board. (2) The Chief Government Chemist shall, in performing his functions, have and exercise the following powers: (a) make guidelines to facilitate implementation of this Act; and (b) after due process, condemn and order destruction or disposal of articles, chemicals and chemical products. (3) The Chief Government Chemist shall, in addition to powers under subsection (2), exercise power vested in him under the Industrial and Consumer Chemicals (Management and Control) Act and the Human DNA Regulation Act. 12.–(1) Functions and powers of the Chief Government Chemist may be performed or exercised by any officer of the Authority. Human DNA Regulation Act. 12.–(1) Functions and powers of the Chief Government Chemist may be performed or exercised by any officer of the Authority. (2) The Chief Government Chemist may, in consultation with the Minister, and by notice published in the Gazette, delegate to any other person, institution or body of persons some of his functions or powers on such terms, conditions and limitations as may be specified in the instrument of delegation. (3) Delegation made under this section shall not prevent the Chief Government Chemist from exercising powers conferred upon him by this Act. 13.–(1) The Minister may, on the advice of the Board and by notice published in the Gazette, appoint officers from the Authority or any other relevant institutions having the necessary qualifications to be Government Laboratory Analysts for the purposes of enforcement of this Act or any other written law. Cap. 182 Cap. 73 Powers to delegate Appointment and functions of Government Laboratory Analyst es of enforcement of this Act or any other written law. Cap. 182 Cap. 73 Powers to delegate Appointment and functions of Government Laboratory Analyst ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.667 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] (2) The Government Laboratory Analyst shall perform laboratory analysis of various samples as provided for under this Act or any other written law. (3) The powers, functions, conduct, qualifications and procedures for Government Laboratory Analyst shall be as prescribed in the regulations. 14.–(1) The Minister may, upon advise of the Board and by notice published in the Gazette, appoint such number of chemical, forensic science and human DNA laboratory inspectors. (2) The inspectors appointed under the Industrial and Consumer Chemicals (Management and Control) Act and Human DNA Regulation Act shall be deemed to be appointed under this Act. 15.–(1) The inspectors appointed under section 14(1), shall have and exercise such powers as may be necessary for the better implementation of the provisions of this Act. rs appointed under section 14(1), shall have and exercise such powers as may be necessary for the better implementation of the provisions of this Act. (2) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), the inspectors shall have the following powers: (a) enter into any premise or premises dealing with a service regulated under this Act at any reasonable time for the proper performance of such duty or the making of such inspection; (b) issue directives after inspection on areas requiring correction; (c) order temporary closure of premises pending corrections or Board’s directives; (d) seize anything or property used in the commission of an offence as evidence; (e) upon Board approval, impose fines on several offences at such rate as may be determined by the Minister; (f) in collaboration with any other authority, supervise proper disposal of samples, chemicals or any article regulated under the Act; Appointment of inspectors Cap. 182 Cap. 73 Powers of inspectors upervise proper disposal of samples, chemicals or any article regulated under the Act; Appointment of inspectors Cap. 182 Cap. 73 Powers of inspectors ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 668 (g) where necessary, with the assistance of police, arrest any person; (h) conduct special or strategic inspection; (i) provide advice or recommendations on the proper implementation of the provisions of the Act as per the practice; (j) adduce evidence before the court; and (k) perform any other duty as may be directed by the Chief Government Chemist. the Act as per the practice; (j) adduce evidence before the court; and (k) perform any other duty as may be directed by the Chief Government Chemist. (3) A person who- (a) fails to give or refuses access to any person, officer or inspector referred to this section, if he requests entrance to any article, vehicle or premises; (b) obstructs or hinders him in the execution of his duties under the Act; (c) fails or refuses to give information that may lawfully be required to give to that officer, person or inspector; (d) gives to an officer or person false or misleading information knowing it to be false or misleading, commits an offence and, on conviction, shall be liable to a fine of not less than one million shillings but not exceeding three million shillings or imprisonment for a term of not less than twelve months, or to both. PART IV MANAGEMENT OF SAMPLES AND ANALYTICAL RESULTS 16.–(1) The sample for laboratory analysis shall be submitted by the requesting authority accompanied by a letter, form or any other written document stipulating the details of the sample submitted to the Authority. (2) Without prejudice to subsection (1), the Chief Government Chemist, may cause samples to be submitted for laboratory analysis if that change does not affect the original nature of chemical composition. Management of samples ause samples to be submitted for laboratory analysis if that change does not affect the original nature of chemical composition. Management of samples ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.669 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 669 (3) A sample shall be managed, retained and disposed of in a manner prescribed in the regulations. (4) The Authority shall not be liable for any change of form or alteration to a sample that may occur during and after analysis if that change does not affect the original nature of chemical composition. 17.–(1) Where a sample for analysis is delivered to the Authority, a laboratory analytical report specifying the result shall be issued to the requesting person. (2) A sample submitted for analysis shall be deemed to be a fair sample possessing in all respects the same properties as the whole sample from which it was obtained. mitted for analysis shall be deemed to be a fair sample possessing in all respects the same properties as the whole sample from which it was obtained. (3) A person who uses a certificate of analysis issued under this Act for the purposes of advertisement without a written consent from the Chief Government Chemist, commits an offence and on conviction, shall be liable to- (a) a fine of not less than five million shillings or imprisonment for a term of not less than one year or to both, if an offender is a natural person; or (b) a fine of not less than twenty million shillings or cancellation of registration certificate issued under this Act, if an offender is a body corporate. 18.–(1) The document or report made or issued by the Government Laboratory Analyst under this Act shall be under the custody of the Chief Government Chemist. (2) A document or report made under the hand of any Government Laboratory Analyst, upon any matter or thing dully submitted for laboratory analysis, may be used as evidence in any inquiry, trial or other proceedings. (3) Where a report is used in any proceedings in a court of law other than an inquiry, the court may, summon and examine the Chief Government Chemist or Government Laboratory Analyst on the veracity of the report. other than an inquiry, the court may, summon and examine the Chief Government Chemist or Government Laboratory Analyst on the veracity of the report. Laboratory analytical report and its effect Issuance of laboratory analytical reports Laboratory analytical report and its effect Issuance of laboratory analytical reports ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 670670 19. A report issued by the Government Laboratory Analyst shall be admissible and a sufficient evidence of the facts or observations stated in the report unless the opposite party requires that the Chief Government Chemist or Government Laboratory Analyst who issued it be summoned as a witness. PART V THE AUTHORITY SERVICES (a) Forensic Science and DNA Services 20.–(1) There shall be within the Authority, a laboratory responsible for matters related to forensic science and DNA services. (2) For the purpose of subsection (1), the Authority shall make analysis using discipline on forensic science such as: (a) toxicology; (b) chemistry and illicit drugs; and (c) biology and human DNA, as may be required by any authority or as provided in the Criminal Procedures Act, Human DNA Regulation Act, the Drugs Control and Enforcement Act and other written laws. y any authority or as provided in the Criminal Procedures Act, Human DNA Regulation Act, the Drugs Control and Enforcement Act and other written laws. (3) Without prejudice to the services rendered under subsection (2), the forensic science and DNA laboratory may perform any other analysis of samples of civil nature as the need may require. (b) Products Quality Laboratory Services 21.–(1) There shall be within the Authority, the laboratory responsible for matters related to product quality services save for regulatory purposes. (2) For the purpose of subsection (1), the Authority shall perform- (a) testing of food, drugs, cosmetics and respective raw materials; (b) microbiological testing; (c) instrumental analysis; and Expert witness Forensic science laboratory services Cap. 20 Cap. 73 Cap. 95 Products quality laboratory services sting; (c) instrumental analysis; and Expert witness Forensic science laboratory services Cap. 20 Cap. 73 Cap. 95 Products quality laboratory services ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.671 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] (d) testing of traditional medicine. (3) The Authority may render any other service to be performed by the product quality laboratory as the exigency may require. (c) Chemicals Management Services 22.–(1) There shall be within the Authority the laboratory which shall be responsible for chemicals management services. (2) For the purpose of subsection (1), the Authority shall perform analysis on- (a) chemicals, chemical products and their raw materials in accordance with the Industrial and Consumer Chemicals (Management and Control) Act; (b) samples related to occupational health in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and environmental pollution in accordance with the Environment Management Act; and (c) any other services as the need may require. 23. A report on analytical results issued by the Authority on services rendered in relation to forensic science and DNA, products quality and chemicals management shall be final and conclusive. y the Authority on services rendered in relation to forensic science and DNA, products quality and chemicals management shall be final and conclusive. PART VI REGULATION OF LABORATORIES (a) Registration of Laboratory 24.–(1) A laboratory shall not offer chemical, forensic science or DNA laboratory services regulated under this Act unless the laboratory is registered under this Act. (2) A laboratory shall not be registered unless it has staff who possess relevant qualifications and the laboratory premises containing facilities that meet standards prescribed in the regulations. Chemicals management laboratory services Cap. 182 Cap. 297 Cap. 191 Conclusiveness of report Registration of laboratories escribed in the regulations. Chemicals management laboratory services Cap. 182 Cap. 297 Cap. 191 Conclusiveness of report Registration of laboratories ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 672 (3) An application for registration shall be in the manner prescribed in the Fourth Schedule to this Act and accompanied by a fee as prescribed in the regulations. (4) The Chief Government Chemist shall keep and maintain a register of laboratories in which information and particulars of registered laboratories shall be entered. (5) A person who contravenes this section commits an offence and on conviction, shall be liable, to a fine of not less than five million shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or to both. 25.–(1) A certificate shall be issued by the Chief Government Chemist in respect of- (a) registered chemical; (b) chemical dealers; (c) training laboratory; (d) chemical; (e) forensic science; and (f) human DNA laboratory. (2) The procedures for registration and certification of services regulated under this Act shall be as prescribed in the regulations. DNA laboratory. (2) The procedures for registration and certification of services regulated under this Act shall be as prescribed in the regulations. 26.–(1) The Chief Government Chemist may, upon approval by the Board, cancel registration of any chemical, forensic science or human DNA laboratory where- (a) the certificate was procured in violation of any of the provisions of this Act; and (b) the operations of the laboratory breaches any of the conditions attached to the registration. (2) The Board, before cancelling registration of laboratory under this section shall afford the owner of such laboratory an opportunity to be heard. (3) A cancellation of the registration of the laboratory under this section shall be published in the Gazette. Issuance of certificate Cancelation of registration of laboratory registration of the laboratory under this section shall be published in the Gazette. Issuance of certificate Cancelation of registration of laboratory ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.673 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 27.–(1) A person who is aggrieved by the decision of the Board may, within three months from the date of notification of the decision, appeal to the Minister. (2) The Minister may, within thirty days, allow any appeal, alter or vary the decision of the Board and make any order as he deems fit. (3) The Minister shall, within one month after determination of the appeal, supply a copy of such determination to the appellant. 28.–(1) An owner of a laboratory who intends to close his laboratory or change of ownership of the laboratory shall notify the Chief Government Chemist three months before closure or change of ownership. (2) Without prejudice to subsection (1), an owner shall, within three months before closure, submit the laboratory closure program to the Chief Government Chemist as prescribed in the regulations, for approval, supervision and inspection. ure, submit the laboratory closure program to the Chief Government Chemist as prescribed in the regulations, for approval, supervision and inspection. (3) A person who fails to notify the Chief Government Chemist commits an offence and on conviction, shall be liable to a fine of not less than ten million shillings or imprisonment for a term of not less than three years, or to both. (4) Where the owner of the laboratory dies or is unable for any reason to manage the laboratory, his heirs, close relative or an administrator of estate shall be required to notify the Chief Government Chemist within three months of the owner’s death or inability to perform his duties. (b) Inspection of Laboratory 29.–(1) The Chief Government Chemist may, for the purpose of ensuring compliance with the provisions of this Act, conduct or cause to be conducted inspection in any premises or services. (2) The Minister shall, upon the advice of the Board, make regulations prescribing for: Appeals Notification of closure or change of ownership Inspection of laboratory shall, upon the advice of the Board, make regulations prescribing for: Appeals Notification of closure or change of ownership Inspection of laboratory ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 674 (a) appointment, designation, powers and qualification of inspectors; and (b) the manner of conducting inspections for the purpose of this Act. (c) Record Keeping and Reporting 30. An owner or operator of a registered laboratory shall keep records of services offered, recommendation from the previous inspection and mitigation measures, if any. 31.–(1) An owner or operator of a registered laboratory shall submit to the Registrar report concerning the registered laboratory two times in a year in such a manner as prescribed in the regulations. (2) Subject to the provisions of subsection (1), a person who fails to submit a report, his certificate or permit shall be cancelled or suspended. PART VII NATIONAL HUMAN DNA DATABASE 32.–(1) There shall be within the Authority, a National Human DNA Database, which shall serve as the central depository for human DNA records. (2) There shall be designated human DNA laboratory as provided for under the Human DNA Regulation Act. s the central depository for human DNA records. (2) There shall be designated human DNA laboratory as provided for under the Human DNA Regulation Act. (3) A designated human DNA laboratory shall submit data to the Authority. (4) The data to be submitted to the Authority shall contain such information as prescribed in the Fifth Schedule to this Act. (5) The Board may review or vary the list of information to be contained in the database. 33.–(1) The Chief Government Chemist shall, with or without fee, authorise access to information contained in the human Record keeping Reporting National Human DNA Database Cap. 73 Access to information without fee, authorise access to information contained in the human Record keeping Reporting National Human DNA Database Cap. 73 Access to information ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.675 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] DNA database upon written request on matter prescribed in the regulations. (2) Information contained in the human DNA database may be accessible by- (a) any person that the Chief Government Chemist may authorise; and (b) Government institutions, agencies and departments. (3) A person who access, disseminates or publishes information contained in the database without written authorisation by the Chief Government Chemist, commits an offence and on conviction shall be liable to a fine of not less than ten million shillings or imprisonment of a term not less than five years or to both. PART VIII THE NATIONAL POISON CONTROL CENTRE 34.–(1) The National Poison Control Centre shall be established and managed by the Authority. (2) The Authority shall coordinate and manage poisoning incidences. (3) The Authority’s Zonal Laboratory may serve as sub- centre to the National Poison Control Centre. shall coordinate and manage poisoning incidences. (3) The Authority’s Zonal Laboratory may serve as sub- centre to the National Poison Control Centre. (4) Without prejudice to subsection (1), the National Poison Control Centre shall perform the following functions: (a) disseminate information to the public on poisoning; (b) cause to be conducted a laboratory analysis of poison; (c) collect information from the information nodes on diagnosis and treatment of poisoning incidences; (d) conduct training and research on matters related to poisoning; and (e) keep records of poisoning cases, incidences and scientific information regarding poisons. National Poison Control Centre related to poisoning; and (e) keep records of poisoning cases, incidences and scientific information regarding poisons. National Poison Control Centre ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 676 35.–(1) The Authority shall designate health facilities and other institutions to serve as information nodes providing information on poisoning incidences. (2) A designated information node shall submit information on poisoning incidences to the Authority. (3) The procedures and operations of information nodes shall be as prescribed in the regulations. PART IX FINANCIAL PROVISIONS 36.–(1) Sources of funds of the Authority shall include- (a) monies as may be appropriated by Parliament; (b) any funds or assets which may be vested in or accrued from other sources; (c) fees imposed and other charges collected from services rendered; (d) proceeds derived from sale of assets and any other source of income identified by the Authority; (e) gifts, grants and donations; and (f) any other money borrowed, received by or made available to the Authority for the purpose of its functions. y; (e) gifts, grants and donations; and (f) any other money borrowed, received by or made available to the Authority for the purpose of its functions. (2) Subject to the provisions of subsection (1), the Government shall, within each financial year, allocate and disburse to the Authority moneys appropriated by the Parliament to cover expenditures for the activities of Authority. (3) The fees and charges collected from services shall be as prescribed in the regulations. (4) Fees and charges imposed for services rendered in respect of samples or exhibits relating to criminal matters, disasters, defence and security or any other sample of public interest shall be borne by Government. 37.–(1) The Chief Government Chemist shall prepare and submit to the Board an estimate of the revenue and expenditure Designation of information nodes Sources of funds Estimates of income and expenditure d submit to the Board an estimate of the revenue and expenditure Designation of information nodes Sources of funds Estimates of income and expenditure ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.677 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] for the Authority three months before the commencement of every financial year. (2) The Board shall forward to the Minister the estimate of the revenue and expenditure prepared under subsection (1) for approval. (3) Expenditure shall not be made out of the funds of the Authority unless the expenditure is approved by the Minister under subsection (2). 38.–(1) Where, in any financial year, the Authority requires to make any disbursement not provided for or of an amount in excess of the amount provided for in the annual budget for that year, the Board shall approve a supplementary budget detailing the disbursement. (2) The annual budget and every supplementary budget shall be in the form and include the details which the Board may direct. 39.–(1) The Chief Government Chemist shall, at the end of each financial year, prepare an annual implementation report on the activities of the financial year and submit the report to the Board. at the end of each financial year, prepare an annual implementation report on the activities of the financial year and submit the report to the Board. (2) The Chief Government Chemist shall ensure that, the annual financial statements are prepared and submitted to Controller and Auditor-General within six months after the end of financial year. (3) The financial statements shall include- (a) statement of financial performance; (b) statement of financial position; (c) statement of cash flows; (d) statement of changes of equity; (e) notes to the financial statements; and (f) directors report. 40.–(1) The Chief Government Chemist shall, within six months after the close of each financial year, submit to the Minister a Supplementary budget Annual report Submission of annual financial statement ix months after the close of each financial year, submit to the Minister a Supplementary budget Annual report Submission of annual financial statement ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 678 report dealing generally with the activities and operations of the Authority during that year and be accompanied by- (a) a copy of the audited accounts of the Authority; (b) a copy of the Auditor’s report on the accounts; and (c) such other information as the Minister may direct. (2) The Minister shall, as soon as practicable, lay before the National Assembly the audited accounts and the annual report of the Authority. 41.–(1) The Authority shall keep books of accounts and maintain proper records of its operations in accordance with National Accounting Standards. (2) The Authority shall prepare and keep proper books of accounts and record with respect to- (a) the assets and liabilities; (b) the receipt and expenditure of monies and other financial transactions; and (c) a statement of financial position and a statement showing details of the financial performance to be prepared in every financial year. ctions; and (c) a statement of financial position and a statement showing details of the financial performance to be prepared in every financial year. (3) The funds and resources of the Authority shall be used for the better carrying out of its objective under this Act. (4) The expenditure of the Authority shall be subject to monitoring and review by the Board. 42.–(1) The Authority shall- (a) open and operate all sets of books of accounts, ledgers, journal and other subsidiary books of accounts, in accordance with its accounting manual; and (b) review and change its documentation in order to facilitate the proper keeping of books of account as may be directed by the relevant authorities. (2) All cash received shall be deposited to the revenue collection account and payments shall be made from the expenditure account. Management and control of funds Operational principles ited to the revenue collection account and payments shall be made from the expenditure account. Management and control of funds Operational principles ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.679 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 43. Subject to the approval of the Treasury Registrar and Minister, the Authority may invest any monies in a manner as it considers fit. PART X GENERAL PROVISIONS 44. he approval of the Treasury Registrar and Minister, the Authority may invest any monies in a manner as it considers fit. PART X GENERAL PROVISIONS 44. The Minister may, after consultation with the Board, make regulations in relation to- (a) sampling and submission of forensic science samples; (b) standards of chemical, forensic science and human DNA laboratory’s premises, facility and qualifications of staff; (c) procedures for registration and certification of chemical, forensic science and human DNA laboratories; (d) the types and procedures for chemical, forensic science and human DNA laboratories inspection; (e) the reporting format of information for chemical, forensic science and human DNA laboratories; (f) designation, operations and procedures of poison information nodes; (g) retention of records generated from the Authority’s functions; (h) powers, functions, conduct, qualifications and procedures for Government Laboratory Analyst; (i) fees and other charges; (j) DNA analysis and human DNA database; and (k) any other matter for the better carrying out of the provisions of this Act. 45. es and other charges; (j) DNA analysis and human DNA database; and (k) any other matter for the better carrying out of the provisions of this Act. 45. An act or thing that was done by the Chief Government Chemist, any member of the Board, member of the committee, employee or any other person authorised to perform any function under this Act shall not render the member or officer personally liable for that matter or things done if done in good faith in the execution or purported execution of the functions under this Act. Powers to invest Power of Minister to make regulations Protection of members of Board and officers of Authority ution of the functions under this Act. Powers to invest Power of Minister to make regulations Protection of members of Board and officers of Authority ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 680 46. All properties, rights, obligations, liabilities and assets owned by the Authority by virtue of the provisions of the Executive Agencies Act and the Executive Agencies (Government Chemist Laboratory Agency GCLA) Order, shall, on coming into operation of this Act, continue to be under the Authority. 47. An employee or appointee of the Authority established under the Executive Agency Act and the Executive Agencies (Government Chemist Laboratory Agency GCLA) Order, on the coming into operation of this Act, shall continue to be an employee of the Authority in a post comparable to that which the employee held before coming into operation of this Act. 48. Members of the Board, technical committees and staff of the Authority, shall be entitled to a remuneration or allowances as the Minister may determine upon the recommendation of the Treasury Registrar, and any other relevant body. 49. tled to a remuneration or allowances as the Minister may determine upon the recommendation of the Treasury Registrar, and any other relevant body. 49. The Chief Government Chemist shall be responsible for the safety and welfare of staff in the work place in furtherance of the Authority. 50.–(1) An employee of the Authority shall not be allowed to conduct a business regulated by the Act. (2) An employee shall refrain from any undertakings that may conflict his roles as staff of the Authority. (3) An employee shall have the duty of loyalty owed to a client and prohibited from representing any other person with interests adverse to those of a current client or have differing roles that will prohibit him to act impartially or breach a duty of loyalty. (4) An employee shall sign and date conflict of interest disclosure statement disclosing actual or potential conflicts of interest as prescribed in the regulations. (5) Where within one month, an employee fails to sign and date conflict of interest disclosure statement disclosing any actual or potential conflicts of interest without lawful cause, Ownership of assets and liabilities Cap. 245 GN. No. 106 of 2000 Transfer of staff and their rights Cap. 245 GN. No. 106 of 2000 Remuneration of members of Board, technical committees and staff Welfare and safety of staff Conflict of interests rights Cap. 245 GN. No. 106 of 2000 Remuneration of members of Board, technical committees and staff Welfare and safety of staff Conflict of interests ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.681 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] the Board may terminate his appointment or may determine the matter as it deems fit. (6) Forms to be filled by the employee shall be submitted to the Chief Government Chemist for scrutiny and approval. 51.–(1) An employee or authorized agent of the Authority shall maintain confidentiality at all times while dealing with any document, sample or its analytical results. (2) The Chief Government Chemist, members of the Board, Committees, employee of the Authority and authorized agent, shall treat as confidential the source of any information which comes to their knowledge in the course of the performance of their duties. (3) The provisions of this section shall remain in force in respect of all persons involved in forensic science and DNA analysis and issuance of laboratory analytical results for their entire life whether or not such persons have ceased to be engaged or employed in the furtherance of the administration of the provisions of this Act. entire life whether or not such persons have ceased to be engaged or employed in the furtherance of the administration of the provisions of this Act. (4) Notwithstanding the provisions of this Act, the Chief Government Chemist may publish or cause to be published any information furnished to the Authority or the contents of any record of returns made available to the Authority in the form of a summary which does not enable identification of the source of the information, record or returns. (5) A person who is or has been engaged in the administration of this Act and discloses any information acquired in the exercise or purported exercise of his functions under this Act to any other person contrary to the provision of this section, commits an offence and, on conviction, shall be liable to a fine of not less than five million shillings or to imprisonment for a term of not less than five years or to both. 52. The Minister may, subject to the provisions of this Act, give directives to facilitate the implementation and performance of the Authority and the provisions of this Act. Confidentiality and disclosure of information Powers of Minister to give directives n and performance of the Authority and the provisions of this Act. Confidentiality and disclosure of information Powers of Minister to give directives ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 682 53. An employee of the Authority who knowingly or intentionally destroys, varies or alters a document or laboratory analysis report generated in the process of carrying out activities under this Act, commits an offence and, on conviction, shall be liable to a fine of not less than five million shillings or to imprisonment for a period of not less than twelve months or to both. 54.–(1) Where an offence is committed by a body corporate or partnership, a director, chief executive officer or officer of the body corporate, partner or officer of the partnership who had knowledge or should have had knowledge of the commission of the offence, commits an offence. (2) A person shall be personally liable for an offence under this Act, whether committed by him on his own account or as an agent or servant of the person. person shall be personally liable for an offence under this Act, whether committed by him on his own account or as an agent or servant of the person. 55.–(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of this Act relating to penalties, where a person admits in writing to have committed any offence under this Act, the Authority may at any time prior to the commencement of the hearing by a court of competent jurisdiction, compound such offence and order such person to pay such sum of money, not exceeding one half of the amount of the fine to which such person would otherwise have been liable to pay if he had been convicted of such offence. (2) Where an offence is compounded in accordance with subsection (1) and proceedings are brought against the offender for the same offence, it shall be a good defence for the offender to prove to the satisfaction of the court that the offence with which the offender is charged has been compounded under subsection (1). (3) A person who is aggrieved by any order made under subsection (1) may appeal to the Minister within thirty days from the date of that order. (4) Where the person fails to comply with the order issued under this section, within the prescribed period, the Offence against tampering with documents or reports Liability of body corporate and partnership Powers to compound offences the prescribed period, the Offence against tampering with documents or reports Liability of body corporate and partnership Powers to compound offences ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.683 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] Authority shall, in addition to the sum of money ordered, require the person to pay an interest at the rate prescribed in the regulations. (5) The Minister shall make regulations prescribing offences to be compounded and procedures for compounding of offences under this Act. 56. A person who commits an offence under this Act, for which a penalty is not specifically provided, commits an offence and, on conviction, shall be liable, to a fine of- (a) not less than one million shillings for a natural person or to imprisonment of not less than six months or to both; and (b) not less than five million for a body corporate. SCHEDULES FIRST SCHEDULE (Made under section 7(5)) TENURE OF MEMBERS, PROCEEDINGS OF THE BOARD AND OTHER MATTERS RELATING TO THE BOARD 1.–(1) The Chairman and members of the Board shall hold office for a period of three years from the date of appointment and shall be eligible for reappointment for one more term. ers of the Board shall hold office for a period of three years from the date of appointment and shall be eligible for reappointment for one more term. (2) Members appointed by virtue of their office shall cease to be members upon ceasing to hold the office entitling appointment to the Board. (3) A member of the Board shall cease to be a member if he- (a) dies or resigns for any reasons; (b) fails without good cause to attend three consecutive meetings of the Board; (c) is convicted of a criminal offence for a term of or beyond six months; or (d) becomes mentally ill. (4) Where an office of a member follows vacant for any of the reasons under subparagraph (3), the Minister may appoint a person to fill the vacancy during the remainder of the term for which the vacating member was appointed. General penalty Tenure of office ay appoint a person to fill the vacancy during the remainder of the term for which the vacating member was appointed. General penalty Tenure of office ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 684 2.–(1) The Board shall ordinarily meet at least once in every three months at such times and places as it deems necessary for transaction of its business. (2) Notwithstanding subparagraph (1), the Chairman may, upon approval of two thirds of members, call an extraordinary meeting to transact on matters requiring immediate attention. (3) In the absence of the Chairman, members present at the meeting shall elect one member from amongst the member present to act as a chairman for that meeting and the member who is so elected shall be responsible for reporting the findings of such meeting to the Chairman. (4) The Board shall cause to be recorded and kept minutes of all business conducted or transacted at its meetings, and the minutes of each meeting of the Board shall be read and confirmed at the next meeting of the Board and signed by the Chairman and Secretary at the meeting. 3.–(1) The quorum at any meeting of the Board shall be two thirds of the members in office. d and signed by the Chairman and Secretary at the meeting. 3.–(1) The quorum at any meeting of the Board shall be two thirds of the members in office. (2) Matters proposed at a meeting of the Board shall be decided by a majority of the votes of the members present. (3) The validity of any act or proceedings of a properly constituted Board meeting shall not be affected by the absence of any member or by the defect subsequently raised by the absent member. 4. All orders, directives, notices of the Board shall be signed by the Board Chairman, or the Secretary. 5. Subject to this Schedule, the Board shall have power to regulate its own proceedings. 6. A document purporting to be signed by the Chairman or the docu- ment Secretary as resolution of the Board, shall be receivable in courts of law or tribunals or other bodies authorized to receive evidence, and, unless the contrary is shown, be deemed, without further proof, to be sufficient evidence of what is contained in the document. receive evidence, and, unless the contrary is shown, be deemed, without further proof, to be sufficient evidence of what is contained in the document. SECOND SCHEDULE (Made under section 9(3)) APPOINTMENT, COMPOSITION, TENURE AND PROCEDURES OF THE FORENSIC SCIENCE TECHNICAL COMMITTEE 1.–(1) The Minister shall appoint the Chairman and other six members of the Forensic Science Technical Committee as follows: (a) representative from the Directorate responsible for Forensic in the Police Force; Meetings Quorum Directives of Board Proceedings Proof of document Appointment of members and composition responsible for Forensic in the Police Force; Meetings Quorum Directives of Board Proceedings Proof of document Appointment of members and composition ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.685 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] (b) senior biochemist from any recognized university in the country; (c) a representative from forensic Pathologist from public institution; (d) a representative from Drugs Control Commission; (e) a Law Officer nominated by the Attorney General; (f) a representative from the Wildlife Department from the responsible Ministry. (2) The Director responsible for matters related to forensic science and human DNA services shall be the Secretary to the committee. (3) When dealing with a specific matter for which extra expertise is required, the committee may co-opt persons who have the relevant expertise; such co-opted persons shall have no right to vote and shall cease to be members when the matter is determined. 2. The functions of the committee shall be to advise the Chief Govern- ment Chemist on matters related to forensic science services. er is determined. 2. The functions of the committee shall be to advise the Chief Govern- ment Chemist on matters related to forensic science services. 3.–(1) The Chairman and members of the committee shall, unless his appointment is terminated by the Minister, or he ceases in any other way to be a member, hold office for a period of three years and shall be eligible for reappointment for another term. (2) Members appointed by virtue of their office shall cease to be members upon ceasing to hold the office entitling appointment to the committee. (3) A member of the committee shall cease to be a member if he- (a) dies or resigns for any reasons; (b) fails without good cause to attend three consecutive meetings of the committee; (c) is convicted of a criminal offence for a term of or beyond six months; or (d) becomes mentally ill. (4) Where an office of a member is vacant for any reasons the Minister may appoint a person to fill the vacancy during the remainder of the term for which the vacating member was appointed. 4.–(1) The committee shall ordinarily meet at least once in every three months at such times and places as it deems necessary for transaction of its business. (2) The Chairman may, upon approval of two thirds of members, call an extraordinary meeting to transact on matters requiring immediate attention. ess. (2) The Chairman may, upon approval of two thirds of members, call an extraordinary meeting to transact on matters requiring immediate attention. (3) In the absence of the Chairman, members present at the meeting shall elect one member from amongst themselves to act as a chairman for that meeting. (4) The committee shall cause to be recorded and kept minutes of all business conducted or transacted at its meetings, and the minutes of each meeting of the committee shall be read and confirmed at the next Functions of committee Tenure of office Meetings of committee and the minutes of each meeting of the committee shall be read and confirmed at the next Functions of committee Tenure of office Meetings of committee ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 686 meeting of the committee and signed by the Chairman and Secretary at the meeting. 5.–(1) The quorum at any meeting of the committee shall be two thirds of the members in office. (2) Matters proposed at a meeting of the committee shall be decided by a majority of the votes of the members present. (3) The validity of any act or proceedings of a properly constituted committee meeting shall not be affected by the absence of any member or by the defect subsequently raised by the absent member. 6. Subject to this Schedule, the Committee shall regulate its own pro- ceedings. any member or by the defect subsequently raised by the absent member. 6. Subject to this Schedule, the Committee shall regulate its own pro- ceedings. THIRD SCHEDULE (Made under section 9(3)) COMPOSITION, APPOINTMENT, FUNCTIONS AND PROCEDURES OF THE POISON CONTROL TECHNICAL COMMITTEE 1.–(1) The Minister shall appoint the Chairman and other six members of the Poisons Control Technical Committee as follows: (a) a representative from Ministry responsible for Agriculture; (b) a representative from Directorate responsible for Forensic in the Police Force; (c) a senior medical Doctor for Quality Control and Improvement Unit, from Muhimbili National Hospital; (d) a representative from National Institute of Medical Research; (e) a representative from Preventive Department, Ministry of Health; and (f) a representative from Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TRHPA). (2) The Director responsible for matters related to forensic science and DNA services shall be the Secretary to the committee. (3) When dealing with a specific matter for which extra expertise is required, the committee may co-opt persons who have the relevant expertise; such co-opted persons shall have no right to vote and shall cease to be members when the matter is determined. 2. ons who have the relevant expertise; such co-opted persons shall have no right to vote and shall cease to be members when the matter is determined. 2. The Poisons Control Technical Committee shall- (a) advise the Chief Government Chemist on technical and administrative matters related to poison control; (b) oversee the overall management and performance of the poison control center and advise the Chief Government Chemist accordingly; Quorum Proceedings Appointment of members composition Functions ance of the poison control center and advise the Chief Government Chemist accordingly; Quorum Proceedings Appointment of members composition Functions ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.687 THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] (c) advice and facilitate national, regional and international collaboration among poison control centers; and (d) advise on development and adoption of data collection, analysis, reporting and dissemination of toxico-vigilance. 3.–(1) The Chairman and members of the committee shall, unless the appointment is terminated by the Minister, or he ceases in any other way to be a member, hold office for a period of three years and shall be eligible for reappointment for another term. (2) Members appointed by virtue of their office shall cease to be members upon ceasing to hold the office entitling appointment to the committee. (3) A member of the committee shall cease to be a member if he- (a) ceases or resigns for any reasons; (b) fails without good cause to attend three consecutive meetings of the committee; (c) is convicted of a criminal offence for a term of or beyond six months; or (d) becomes mentally ill. d three consecutive meetings of the committee; (c) is convicted of a criminal offence for a term of or beyond six months; or (d) becomes mentally ill. (4) Where an office of a member is vacant for any reasons under subsection (3), the Minister may appoint a person to fill the vacancy during the remainder of the term for which the vacating member was appointed. 4.–(1) The committee shall ordinarily meet at least once in every three months at such times and places as it deems necessary for transaction of its business. (2) Notwithstanding subsection (1), the Chairman may, upon approval of two thirds of members, call an extraordinary meeting to transact on matters requiring immediate attention. (3) In the absence of the Chairman, members present at the meeting shall elect one member from amongst themselves to act as a chairman for that meeting. (4) The committee shall cause to be recorded and kept minutes of all business conducted or transacted at its meetings, and the minutes of each meeting of the committee shall be read and confirmed at the next meeting of the Committee and signed by the Chairman and Secretary at the meeting. 5.–(1) The quorum at any meeting of the Committee shall be two thirds of the members in office. d signed by the Chairman and Secretary at the meeting. 5.–(1) The quorum at any meeting of the Committee shall be two thirds of the members in office. (2) Matters proposed at a meeting of the Committee shall be decided by a majority of the votes of the members present. (3) The validity of any act or proceedings of a properly constituted Committee meeting shall not be affected by the absence of any member or by the defect subsequently raised by the absent member. Tenure of office Meetings Quorum meeting shall not be affected by the absence of any member or by the defect subsequently raised by the absent member. Tenure of office Meetings Quorum ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST LABORATORY AUTHORITY ACT [CAP. 177 R.E. 2023] 688 6. Subject to this Schedule, the Committee shall regulate its own pro- ceedings. FOURTH SCHEDULE (Made under section 24(3)) APPLICATION FORM FOR REGISTRATION OF LABORATORY 1. Particulars of the applicant 1.1 Name: ........................................................................................................................... 1.2 Address:........................................................................................................................ 1.3 Telephone:.................................................................................................................... 1.4 Fax:................................................................................................................................ 1.5 E-mail: .......................................................................................................................... 1.6 Certificate Incorporation No: ................................................................................... ................................ 1.6 Certificate Incorporation No: ................................................................................... 1.7 Business Licence: ........................................................................................................ 2. Physical Address 2.1 Plot No: ........................................................................................................................ 2.2 Street No: ..................................................................................................................... 2.3 District: ........................................................................................................................ 2.4 Region: ......................................................................................................................... 3.Proprietor of the Laboratory (if different from (1) above 3.1 Name: .......................................................................................................................... 3.2 Address:....................................................................................................................... 3.3 Telephone:................................................................................................................... .................... 3.3 Telephone:................................................................................................................... 3.4 Fax:............................................................................................................................... 3.5 E-mail: ......................................................................................................................... 4. Requirements for Registration 4.1 Technical staff with required qualification ............................................................. (Attach CVs and copies of certification) 4.2 Nature of laboratory activities (chemical, forensic or DNA tick as appropriate) 4.3 Please attach the following documents: (a) Laboratory Safety Plans (b) Emergence Response Procedures 1 .................................. hereby declare that the above statements are true and correct to the best of my knowledge. Signature .....................................Date ............................................................ For Official Use only: No: ................. Name ................... Sign: ............................. Date: ................. Proceedings ........ For Official Use only: No: ................. Name ................... Sign: ............................. Date: ................. Proceedings ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.FIFTH SCHEDULE (Made under section 32(4)) INFORMATION TO BE CONTAINED IN THE HUMAN DNA DATABASE The information in the Database shall contain but not limited to: (1) Crime Scene index. (2) New Born. (3) Civil index. (4) Convicted offender index. (5) Remandees (6) Violent offenders. (7) Sexual offender. (8) Disaster victims index. (9) Elimination database. (10) Information on national identification. (11) Defense Force, Police Force. ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.
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