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quality assurance objectives
The following CSL quality assurance objectives are described below: precision, accuracy, representativeness, completeness and comparability (PARCC).
The laboratory objective for precision is to equal or exceed the precision demonstrated for these analytical methods and to meet or exceed precision data for these analyses published by the U.S. EPA. Precision is defined as the degree of reproducibility of the measurements under a given set of conditions. Precision is documented on the basis of replicate analyses, usually duplicate or matrix spike duplicates.
Accuracy (A)
The laboratory objective for accuracy is to equal or exceed the accuracy demonstrated for these methods on similar samples and to perform better than the recovery data published by the U.S. EPA. Accuracy is defined as the bias in a measurement system. Accuracy is documented on the basis of recovery of matrix spikes, spiked reference materials introduced into selected samples of a particular matrix.
Representativeness (R)
The laboratory objective for representativeness is to provide data, which are representative of the sample medium. Representativenesss is defined as the degree to which data represent a characteristic of a set of samples. The representativeness of the analytical data is a function of the procedures and carefulness used in procuring and processing the samples. The representativeness can be documented by the relative percent difference between separately procured, but otherwise identical sample aliquots.
Completeness (C)
The completeness objective for an analysis is to provide sufficient data of the acceptable quality such that the goals of the analytical project can be achieved within the required time frame. The overall project completeness is expressed as the percentage of unqualified data for the entire project.
Comparability (C)
The comparability objective is to provide analytical data for which the accuracy, precision, representativeness, completeness and detection limit are similar to these quality indicators for data generated a) by other laboratories for similar samples; and b) data generated by CSL over time. The comparability objectives is documented by interlaboratory studies carried out by regulator agencies or carried out for specific projects or contacts; and by comparison of periodically generated statements of accuracy, precision and detection limits with those of other laboratories.
In addition, CSL has the following objectives:
- To maintain a continuing assessment of the accuracy and precision of data generated by analysts within the laboratory.
- To ensure the scientific reliability of laboratory data.
- To provide a measure of the accuracy and precision of analytical methods and to identify weak methodology.
- To provide a permanent record of instrument performance as a basis for validating data and projecting repair or replacement needs.
- To upgrade overall quality of laboratory performance through intralaboratory and interlaboratory quality control programs.
- To improve record keeping and report writing and to help ensure sample integrity.
- To help ensure that the analytical work produced by the laboratory withstand legal scrutiny in regulatory actions.
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