Reference Materials (RMs)

The use of Reference Materials (Reference Samples) is an integral part of demonstrating a laboratory's capability to provide accurate test results.

LabChek's procedures for the selection, handling, and description of Reference Materials  have been developed in accordance with ISO Guide 34; 2000 "General Requirements for the Competence of Reference Material Producers".

Following presentation in Proficiency Testing Schemes, material batches are assessed for suitability as Reference Materials for use by laboratories as check samples or QC samples. These materials are used by laboratories for instrument calibration, validation of quality control of methods, method comparison and development, technician training, and other purposes.

Assessment of the suitability of a RM takes account of the quality of test results (including blind duplicates where available), the distribution of test data for each test (or method), the strength of consensus between participating laboratories, and the apparent homogeneity and stability of the material.

An expected value and an uncertainty are recorded on a certificate provided with the sample. If the assessment criteria are not met, the values may be provided, but are denoted as "not certified".

To find out more about our Dairy and UHT milk chemistry reference materials, click here. For more information on available Soil RMs, click here, and for available Plant RMs, click here.