A system and method that enables the implementation of quality control rules formulated in accordance with a quality control rule grammar. The system comprises a storage device and a processor operable to maintain in the storage device a database identifying a plurality of laboratory tests and corresponding quality control rules. The processor is also operable to receive a quality control rule for a specified laboratory test, wherein the quality control rule is expressed in accordance with a quality control rule grammar. The processor is further operable to transfer the quality control rule to the database for storage in relation to the specified laboratory test. Various exemplary embodiments of the system and associated method are provided.