Proficiency Testing

What this topic covers

External comparison exercises used to evaluate laboratory performance.

Core testing ideas

Participating laboratories test common or comparable items and compare results.

Performance should be reviewed in the context of assigned values and uncertainty.

Unsatisfactory results can indicate method, calibration, training or data issues.

Measurement and method limits

Traceability requires documented measurement relationships, not simply a calibration sticker.

Evidence and traceability

Laboratory competence includes people, methods, equipment, environment, records and impartiality.

Using the result

Quality-control checks should detect drift or abnormal method performance before questionable results accumulate.