NMI’s Chemical Proficiency Testing Laboratory will independently assess laboratory test methods and quality assurance programs and provide independent evidence of the validity of your measurements. We are accredited by NATA and comply with ILAC G13 (2007) Guidelines for the Requirements for the Competence of Providers of Proficiency Testing Schemes.   For information about our service contact proficiency@measurement.gov.au.   Program for 2010
Metals in soil (Feb) Caffeine in beverages (Feb) Pesticides in fruit and vegetables (Mar) Folic acid in flour (Mar) Heroin (Mar/Apr) Metals in fresh water (May) Pesticides in water (May) Hydrocarbons in water (May) Cocaine (Aug) Pesticides in soil (Aug)	Hydrocarbons in soil (Aug) Metals in soil (Aug) Pesticides in fruit and vegetables (Sept) Metals in pharmaceuticals (Sept) Pesticides in water (Oct) Hydrocarbons in water (Oct) Metals in saline water (Oct) Amphetamines (Nov) Folic acid in flour (Dec) Metals in food (Dec)

Click here for details of our gas proficiency testing capabilities.

Aims of our Program

• To provide testing laboratories with a tool to improve the accuracy and traceability of their chemical measurements
• To provide Australian chemical testing laboratories and the national laboratory accreditation body, NATA, with information on the current 'state of the practice' in each area of analysis
• To evaluate laboratory capability, and encourage improvements in laboratory methods and performance from 'state of the practice' to 'fit for purpose'
• To enable participating laboratories to assess their performance relative to domestic and international peer laboratories and hence to improve the comparability of results between laboratories and between countries
• To develop and promote a 'fit for purpose' and affordable metrological approach to proficiency testing
• To provide practical advice and support to laboratories regarding traceability of chemical measurements and estimation of measurement uncertainties

Test samples are prepared, homogenised and characterised by NMI. Selected analytes are measured using reference methods, providing an assigned value traceable to the International System of Units. Results returned by participants are collated, statistically analysed and interpreted, then a report is prepared and distributed to participants and regulatory bodies. NMI's Study Protocol explains in more detail how the program operates. Data analysis and scoring of participants is described in our Statistical Manual.

Click here for a fact sheet and here for copies of some of our recent proficiency study reports.

For Sale — Test Samples for Quality Control and Method Validation

We have some surplus test samples from our program which are available for purchase. All samples are homogeneous and have been well characterised. However they have not been produced or certified in strict accordance with ISO Guides 30 to 35 and so are not certified reference materials; in particular, long-term storage stability has not been assessed. The samples are suitable for quality control and method validation. Download the files below for more specific details of the test samples, and here for an order form. metals in soil and water metals in food and pharmaceutical material pesticides in fruit and vegetables folic acid in wheat flour