Proficiency Testing

Course Description:

Proficiency Testing (PT) introduces the principles, objectives, and practical application of external performance evaluation within testing and calibration laboratories. Rather than treating PT solely as an accreditation requirement, this course explains how interlaboratory comparisons strengthen confidence in measurement quality and provide objective evidence of laboratory competence. 

Participants learn how comparison programs are designed, how assigned values and performance statistics are established, and how results are interpreted. The course addresses z-scores, En values, performance evaluation, statistical interpretation, measurement uncertainty, corrective action, root cause investigation, and the evaluation of unexpected outcomes. 

Learners also examine how external comparisons complement internal quality control by providing an independent perspective on laboratory performance. This broader view helps laboratories identify improvement opportunities, evaluate measurement capability, and support continual improvement. 

Key Topics

• Standards and Documents Associated with Proficiency Testing
• Related Basic Statistics
• Proficiency Testing Schemes (with examples)
• Data Interpretation