Proficiency Testing
Proficiency testing (PT) provides a laboratory with an independent verification of accuracy in analysis, and is an important part of a Quality Assurance system. Regular participation in a PT scheme demonstrates a commitment to the maintenance and improvement of performance, and provides valuable proof of the competence of the laboratory for its customers.
IOM operates two international PT schemes for assessing the proficiency of laboratories measuring the concentrations of asbestos fibres in air. The schemes operate by sending out reference samples for evaluation by optical microscopy. The participating laboratories evaluate the samples and return their data to IOM. IOM compares the fibre counts with reference values.
The IOM, on behalf of the UK Health and Safety Executive, developed the RICE scheme, which assesses the proficiency of UK laboratories counting asbestos fibres. For over twenty years, IOM managed the scheme on behalf of the UK Health and Safety Laboratory. However, the RICE scheme is now managed directly by the Health and Safety Laboratory. IOM continues to contribute to the HSE committee overseeing the operation of UK PT schemes.PT fibre schemes operated by IOM are:
- AFRICA An international scheme for counting of asbestos fibres in air
- WHO/Euro An international scheme for MMMF run on behalf of the World Health Organisation.
The participating laboratories in these international schemes include national laboratories and other high profile laboratories and service providers in several countries.
The IOM deleveloped UK fibre counting PT schemes RICE Regular Inter-laboratory Counting Exchanges and UK/MMMF