Scheme overview

Our new SEM Fibre Counting Scheme aims to assess the proficiency of laboratories counting asbestos fibres in air using Scanning Electron Microscopy. The SEM scheme is operated by HSL in association with the VDI in Germany. HSL oversees the management, registration, and membership matters together with distribution of the samples and processing the participant data.

Analytes in the scheme

Asbestos and other inorganic fibres are mounted on gold coated polycarbonate filters.

Who should participate?

The UK Control of Asbestos Regulations require laboratories that undertake this type of analysis be accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) to ISO 17025 to undertake this particular analysis. The arrangments in other countries may be different. Any laboratory that is accredited to the ISO 17025 standard for this type of analysis is likely to be required to participate in an appropriate PT Scheme by their national accreditation body. The recommended methods of analysis are the ISO 14966 (2002) and the VDI 3492 (2004).

The participant handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the operation of the SEM Fibre Counting Scheme. 

Participation in the scheme is open to all laboratories.

Planned operation of the scheme

There will be one sample distribution (Round 1) in the first year (2011/12), thereafter there will be two sample distributions per annum, beginning April 2012. Each Round will comprise four samples representing a range of asbestos and other inorganic fibres at concentration ranges typically between 10-150 fibres per mm². The samples are intended to be analysed once only and may be retained by the laboratory after the analysis has been completed. Participants will normally have approximately 25 working days to analyse the samples and report the results. However, for the first round this period will be extended to approximately 35 working days. Upon submission of results participants receive initially a provisonal report and upon completion of the particular round cumulative summary report will be issued (when data from sufficient rounds is available).

Initially participating laboratories will be given feedback on their performance but will not be formally scored. Performance criteria and a final classification will be produced as the scheme develops.

Proposed schedule

• Samples are distributed by an approved hazardous materials carrier.
• Final reports and certificates will be sent within one month of completion of each round.

Contact details for further information

For further details 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 218172