Asbestos (RIAB) - 2029
Aims and Scope
Laboratories participate in Proficiency Tests (PTs) to demonstrate their competence. The results in a PT will give you valuable insights into your performance, help maintain and improve quality, and serve as a reliable tool for quality and risk management. This PT is not accredited by ISO/IEC 17043:2023 and is not covered by the EA-MLA, IAF-MLA and ILAC-MRA agreements.
VSL organizes PTs with the highest care. When organizing PT ROAS Asbestos, VSL will:
- provide a suitable sample;
- deliver a report with an independent assessment per analyst.
Criteria of Participation
Laboratories involved in the (semi-)quantification of asbestos in bulk materials.
Quantities to be Measured
Three different scores for characterization of bulk samples:
• Classification score (or no asbestos-containing material);
• Identification score (types of asbestos);
• Semi quantification score (weight percent of asbestos).
For the semi-quantification, eight weight-weight categories, as specified in NEN 5896 for the identification of asbestos in material samples, will currently be used.
Method and Equipment
Participants are advised to use their routine methods for sampling and analysis and the equipment that is used in routine measurement for this purpose. Laboratories should calibrate their equipment in accordance with their usual practices.
Instructions and Protocol
VSL will provide the protocol before shipping the samples.
Each participant will have three weeks to perform the analysis.
Schedule
Round 1: March 1, 2029
Round 2: June 1, 2029
Round 3: August 1, 2029
Round 4: October 1, 2029
Assigned Value
The consensus value will be used as the assigned values.
Performance Evaluation
The evaluation is based on NEN 5896:
- A maximum score is awarded for correctly characterizing the samples during selection;
- Each sample is worth 10 points;
- In case of errors, points are deducted in the following order:
classification, identification and (semi-) quantification;
- If points have already been deducted for misclassification or incorrect identification, no further deductions will be made for errors in identification or quantification.
Confidentiality Statement
The identity of the participant is confidential, and so is the relationship between any participant, its submitted results and the performance evaluation. Results in the PT scheme will be collated, processed, reported and released in anonymised form. The PT reports are provided to the participants only. PT reports and calibration certificates are subject to copyright. You will receive the reference material certificates after the PT evaluation has been carried out.
Transport
VSL arranges transport to your location. The fee includes transportation costs.
Payment Terms
Payment in advance, at least one month before the start.
Failure to pay on time may result in exclusion from participation, without any right to refund or compensation.
Participants
If fewer than 15 laboratories register, VSL may cancel or postpone the PT. In such case, all registered participants will be notified and, if available, offered alternative options.