Scanning Electron Microscopy Fibre Counting Scheme
SEMS QC Samples Available
Upon Request - Subject to Availability
Please contact the PT Team
for further information
* * * *
SEMS R14
Samples Will Be Despatched
26th August 2024
Results Deadline will be
25th October 2024
Proficiency Testing Scheme Overview
Our SEM Fibre Counting Scheme (SEMS) aims to assess the
proficiency of laboratories counting asbestos fibres in air using
Scanning Electron Microscopy. The SEM scheme is operated by HSE
Testing and monitoring in association with APC, Germany and TNO,
Netherlands. HSE Testing and monitoring oversees the management,
registration, and membership matters together with distribution of
the samples and processing the laboratory 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. 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.
What are the Recommended Methods?
The recommended methods of analysis are the ISO 14966 (2019) and the VDI 3492 (2014).
The participant handbook provides a comprehensive overview
of the operation of the SEM PT scheme and can be found under
'Useful Links'.
Operation of the Scheme
There is one sample distribution per year, with samples normally
dispatched in October. 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. Upon submission
of results participants receive a Group Summary Report. 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.
- Samples are distributed by an approved hazardous materials
carrier.
- The Group Summary Report will be sent within one month of
completion of each round.
Contact details
The Proficiency Testing Team
The HSE Science and Research Centre
Harpur Hill
Buxton
Derbyshire
SK17 9JN
email: proficiency.testing@hse.gov.uk
Tel: +44 (0) 203 028 3382
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