Proficiency testing schemes operate by providing participating laboratories with test samples for analysis. Laboratories analyse the test samples, preferably as part of their normal routine, and reports the results to the scheme organisers. They are then provided with a report showing how closely their results agree with the accepted values. Regular participation in a proficiency-testing scheme 

• Provides staff with an insight into their laboratory's performance
• Benchmarks performance with that of other participant laboratories
• Demonstrates to end users of analytical data, regulatory bodies and accrediation bodies that there is a commitment to measurement quality 

HSL Proficiency Testing Schemes

HSL operates the following proficiency testing schemes in support of workplace and environmental risk assessments: 

• Asbestos in Materials Scheme (AIMS): Asbestos fibre identification in different bulk materials.
• Regular Inter-laboratory Counting Exchange (RICE): Filters for counting asbestos fibres in air.
• Workplace Analysis Scheme for Proficiency (WASP): Metals, quartz and organic components in air.

The schemes are open to both UK and overseas participants.

HSL Proficiency Testing Stock Samples and Asbestos Reference Materials

Test samples are also available, surplus from previously completed PT rounds (WASP Stock Samples) and (AIMS Stock Samples) for training of new analysts or for laboratories to take corrective action prior to the next official proficiency test round. Asbestos reference materials are also available as set up samples or identification test samples (Asbestos Reference Materials).

Nitrogen Dioxide in Ambient Air Proficiency Testing Schemes 

As part of their provision of support to UK Local Authorities for air quality management, Defra and the Devolved Administrations provide a set of centralised QA/QC services, to assist Local Authorities using diffusive samplers for monitoring of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) concentration in ambient air. These services are managed by AEA. HSL assists in this process by 

• providing the WASP NO₂  PT scheme 
• assisting in the operation of a NO₂ field intercomparison exercise

Further details can be found in the NO₂Network page.

The WASP NO₂  PT scheme is open to both UK and overseas participants. The NO₂ field intercomparison exercise supports UK laboratories undertaking diffusion monitoring for NO₂  using  the Palmes diffusion sampler design. Non-UK participants, including laboratories employing alternative sampler designs, wishing to participate are asked to contact HSL in the first instance.

For more information on the scheme or to join please email proficiency.testing@hsl.gov.uk or contact:

The Proficiency Testing Team
Health and Safety Laboratory
Harpur Hill
Buxton
Derbyshire
SK17 9JN

Tel: 01298 218553
Fax: 01298 218572