In today’s world, where demands on product quality and reliability are constantly increasing, proficiency testing programs for testing laboratories are becoming increasingly important. They allow us to assess the level of professional competence of laboratories in various fields, ensuring high standards of quality and reliability of test results.
What is a proficiency testing (PT) program?
Testing laboratory proficiency testing programs are a set of measures aimed at assessing the ability of laboratories to conduct testing with a high level of accuracy and compliance with established standards. The main goals of such programs include:
- Assessing the level of qualifications and compliance with the requirements of accreditation bodies.
- Proof of ability to perform certain tests.
- Identifying needs for additional training or staff development.
Types of comparison tests
There are many types of proficiency testing programs for testing laboratories, each of which has its own characteristics and purposes. Examples of famous programs:
- ILC (Interlaboratory Comparison) – interlaboratory comparative tests to assess the accuracy of test results.
- Proficiency Testing – professional testing programs that assess the ability of laboratories to conduct certain types of tests.
Process for verifying the qualifications of testing laboratories
The process of verifying the qualifications of testing laboratories usually includes several stages:
- Preparation – collecting the necessary documents, completing training courses for staff.
- Testing – conducting tests according to established methods, participating in interlaboratory comparative tests.
- Evaluation of results – analysis of the data obtained, rendering a verdict on compliance with standards.
Examples of successful proficiency testing programs
There are many successful proficiency testing programs for testing laboratories across industries. For example, PT Schemes (Proficiency Testing Schemes) from the international organization ILAC (International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation) for laboratories involved in the analysis of food products and environmental samples.
Accreditation of proficiency testing providers
To ensure the reliability and validity of proficiency testing programs, accreditation of providers is important to ensure compliance with established standards and regulations. Accreditation bodies such as ISO/IEC 17043 provide standardization and improvement in the quality of programs. For example, LLC “CMLS” is a certified provider trusted by laboratories throughout Ukraine.
The results of proficiency testing can be used to confirm laboratory competence, obtain accreditation, and also as proof of quality for clients and partners.