Aims and Scope

Measurement results from different laboratories are anonymously compared to identify possible deviations. Participating in this PT provides valuable insights into your laboratory’s performance, helps maintain and improve quality, and serves as a reliable tool for both quality assurance and risk management.

The RIAB (Ringonderzoek Identificatie Asbest in Bulk Solids) comparison is designed for laboratories involved in the identification of asbestos in bulk materials, based on the NEN 5896 standard.
This PT is not accredited according to ISO/IEC 17043:2010 and is not covered by the EA-MLA, IAF-MLA, or ILAC-MRA agreements.

VSL organizes PTs with the highest care. When organizing PT RIAB Asbestos, VSL will:

• provide suitable samples;
• provide an independent assessment report.

This PT consists of four rounds per year, and participation automatically covers all rounds. Each round, the participant receives four representative practical samples (e.g. building, construction and insulation materials) for analysis using light microscopy (stereo- and polarization microscopy).

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 usual sampling and analysis methods, along with the equipment used for routine measurements. Laboratories should calibrate their equipment according to their standard procedures.

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, 2028
Round 2: June 1, 2028
Round 3: August 1, 2028
Round 4: October 1, 2028

Registration is valid for one year and includes participation in all four rounds.

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.