IP 570/14a Proficiency Testing Scheme What is the IP 570 Proficiency Testing Scheme? The IP 570 Proficiency Testing Scheme is an inter-laboratory, quality assurance programme which enables users to continually monitor the performance of their H2S Analyser in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025. This is achieved by testing a sample with a known, but undisclosed, H2S concentration. Aim of Proficiency Testing Proficiency Testing is defined as an evaluation of participant performance against pre-established criteria by means of interlaboratory comparison (ISO/IEC 17043). Proficiency Testing aids laboratories in achieving accurate and reproducible results and therefore provides reassurance in the laboratory’s testing. Method compliance Validation of apparatus performance has now been stated as a mandatory requirement at least every 3 months in IP 570/14a – Determination of hydrogen sulfide in fuels oils – Rapid Liquid Phase extraction Method. Participation in the Seta IP 570 Proficiency Testing Scheme is stated as the preferred means to achieve this requirement as it enables laboratories to evaluate their performance for testing H 2S in the liquid phase using the Seta H2S Analyser. What are the benefits of the IP 570 PT Scheme?          Continual validation of laboratory and apparatus performance Ability to demonstrate compliance with laboratory accreditation requirements (ISO 17025 General Requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories) Diagnostic support provided if incorrect results are reported Inter-laboratory comparison of test results and performance Identifies problems such as inadequate test or measurement processes and procedures Identifies problems with the calibration of laboratory test equipment Repeat samples available for incorrect result investigation Easy online result reporting Z-Score performance indicators Example of the H2S Test Pack E: [email protected] T: +44 (0)1932 575000 F: +44 (0)1932 568363 W: www.seta-analytics.com How does the IP 570 PT Scheme work? The PT Scheme operates on a subscription basis and is available for either a quarterly, 3 month or 12 month subscription. Participants will be registered approximately 1 week before the scheme is due to start. Participants registered onto scheme Test Pack despatched 1 week of that month st Upon registration, participants will receive an email which includes; despatch details, a unique lab code, unique lab ID and further instructions Each monthly test pack will include; verification fluid, activator solution, instruction sheet, syringes, needles and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). Tracking details will be provided to the recipient of the Test Pack. Participants have 1-2 weeks testing time and will be sent a reminder if they have not submitted results. Testing & online reporting Test results are reported online using the ‘unique lab code’ issued in the registration email. Participants will be sent an email with their results and the expected tolerance range. Participants with results outside the expected tolerances will be notified and provided with advice and support including a diagnostic checklist. th th Scheme closes 20 of that month The 20 of that month is the last day participants are able to submit results online. Results which are not reported online will not be included in the end of month summary report. Data gathered & report created Summary report distributed The summary report is distributed to participants by email direct from the PT Scheme website. E: [email protected] T: +44 (0)1932 575000 F: +44 (0)1932 568363 W: www.seta-analytics.com Summary Report content  A table detailing the test data reported  Z-score performance indicators  Advice on the interpretation of the statistical analysis  An evaluation of the findings  Comments relating to statistically inconsistent data  Advice relating to any action required  A summary of the statistical analysis conducted Z-scores are calculated from taking the ratio of the difference between the mean and the mean test result and the test method reproducibility standard deviation. The Z-score is an indication of performance against the published test method precision. Summary Report A comprehensive annual report will be issued. NOTE: Each participating laboratory's test results will be coded for confidentiality Subscription Options  3 Month (Reference SA4030-0) Comprises; 1 PT Scheme kit is sent every month for 3 consecutive months  12 Month (Reference SA4031-0) Comprises; 1 PT Scheme kit is sent every month for 12 consecutive months  Quarterly (Reference SA4032-0) Comprises; 4 PT Scheme kits distributed over a 1 year period. Kits are only distributed in January, April, July and October Available Accessories External Vessel Support Bracket (SA4033-0) E: [email protected] T: +44 (0)1932 575000 F: +44 (0)1932 568363 W: www.seta-analytics.com