The Proficiency Testing Matrix

1. The Proficiency Testing Matrix A2LA Annual Conclave - Plenary Session March 12, 2005, Columbia, MD By Trace McInturff, A2LA Operations Manager

2. Proficiency Testing Requirements • Just a reminder - If you still don’t like it: • Call Warren Merkel - 301 975 5888 American Association for Laboratory Accreditation

3. Proficiency Testing Requirements • 2 activities/yr every year rotated to cover entire scope in 4 years • Documented PT plan • Results to be submitted quarterly American Association for Laboratory Accreditation

4. PT Matrix • Similar concept of the 17025 Test Method Matrix • Means for assessor(s) to provide consistent reporting of all PT results reviewed during assessment • Should include all past scheduled PT activities that have not been reviewed by the applicable LSO American Association for Laboratory Accreditation

5. PT Matrix - Sub discipline • List as outlined in the A2LA PT Requirements document • ex. Tensile - metal, Tensile - Plastic, Hardness, Corrosion • If not listed in Requirements, list what you reviewed - ex. ESD, Radiated Emissions (< 1GHz) American Association for Laboratory Accreditation

6. PT Matrix - Program • List program the lab participated in • ex. ASTM, CTS, Quamatec, Interlaboratory Comparison, Round Robin, etc. American Association for Laboratory Accreditation

7. PT Matrix - Date Tested • Record when actual participation occurred - NOT report date. American Association for Laboratory Accreditation

8. PT Matrix - Outlier & Details • If lab received an outlier, detail the extent of the outlier • ex. Inconsistent data, Data for sample 123 are high, etc. • Comments - any other pertinent information • ex. CAR implemented, Results Pending, etc. American Association for Laboratory Accreditation

9. PT Matrix - OK • If all elements of the PT results are acceptable and/or non-conformance resolved, please date the ‘OK’ box • Otherwise - Lab Services will request corrective action/further info American Association for Laboratory Accreditation

10. PT Matrix - Other • Note placed on Matrix: • NOTE: Lab has completed two PT activities in the past year and has a plan to complete all required PT activities during the four year window. American Association for Laboratory Accreditation

11. Contact Information Trace McInturffA2LA5301 Buckeystown Pike Suite 350Frederick, MD, USA 21704 Direct line: 301 644 3223 Main: 301 644 3248 Fax: 301 662 2974 tmcinturff@A2LA.org www.A2LA.org American Association for Laboratory Accreditation