COURSE OVERVIEW:

The meaning of this course lies in the strategic use of external performance data to validate the internal measurement capabilities of the laboratory. Proficiency Testing (PT) is often viewed as a "Pass/Fail" compliance requirement for ISO 17025, but its true value is found in the quantification of systemic bias and long-term stability. This program provides the statistical tools needed to transform PT scores into actionable data for the rigorous estimation of measurement uncertainty.

The scope of the training focuses on the interpretation of "Z-scores," "En-scores," and "Z'-scores" in the context of laboratory performance. It addresses the methodology for using "Inter-laboratory Comparison" data to provide a "Top-Down" estimate of uncertainty, which often captures sources of variation missed by "Bottom-Up" mathematical models. Participants will explore how to identify "Trends" in PT results and how to execute effective "Corrective Actions" for unsatisfactory performance.

The coverage includes a deep investigation into the requirements of ISO 17043 for PT providers and ISO 13528 for the statistical methods used in PT. The course emphasizes the integration of PT data into the "Quality Management System" (QMS) as a primary tool for continuous improvement and technical defense. By mastering these PT protocols, participants will be able to demonstrate the "Metrological Health" of their laboratory and provide clients with indubitable proof of analytical competence.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Define the role of Proficiency Testing (PT) in ISO 17025.
• Interpret "Z-scores" and their statistical significance.
• Utilize PT data for "Top-Down" uncertainty estimation.
• Calculate "En-scores" to verify the adequacy of uncertainty budgets.
• Identify "Systemic Bias" through long-term PT trend analysis.
• Conduct "Root Cause Analysis" for unsatisfactory PT results.
• Select competent PT providers according to ISO 17043.
• Design "Internal Inter-laboratory Comparisons" for niche tests.
• Utilize the "Horwitz Curve" for evaluating PT performance.
• Document PT results for external accreditation assessments.
• Implement "Corrective and Preventive Actions" (CAPA) for PT.
• Lead a laboratory culture that values PT as a diagnostic tool.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is intended for Quality Managers, Technical Managers, Senior Scientists, and Laboratory Auditors.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximize the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.