ISO/IEC 17043 Conformity Assessment - General Requirements for Proficiency Testing Providers Training

Proficiency Testing Guide

Proficiency testing (PT) is a vital tool for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results. ISO 17043 is an international standard that provides requirements for proficiency testing (PT) providers. This standard outlines the principles and procedures that proficiency testing (PT) providers must follow to ensure the quality and impartiality of their services.

What is ISO 17043?

ISO 17043 is a standard that specifies the general requirements for the operation of proficiency testing schemes. It covers all aspects of proficiency testing (PT), from the design and implementation of PT schemes to the reporting of results. The standard is applicable to all proficiency testing schemes, including environmental testing, food testing, and medical testing.

Why is ISO 17043 important?

ISO 17043 is important because it provides a framework for proficiency testing (PT) providers to ensure the quality and impartiality of their services. By following the requirements of the standard, proficiency testing (PT) providers can ensure that their proficiency testing schemes meet the needs of their clients and provide reliable results.

Benefits of ISO 17043 Training

ISO 17043 training can provide individuals and organizations with several benefits, including:

• Better understanding of proficiency testing (PT) principles and procedures
• Increased confidence in the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results
• Enhanced ability to design and implement proficiency testing (PT) schemes
• Improved understanding of the role of proficiency testing (PT) in quality management systems
• Improved communication and collaboration with other stakeholders in the proficiency testing (PT) process

Who should attend ISO 17043 Training?

ISO 17043 training is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including:

• Laboratory managers and technicians
• Quality managers
• Proficiency testing (PT) scheme coordinators
• Regulatory affairs professionals
• Consultants

What does ISO 17043 Training Cover?

ISO 17043 training generally covers the following topics:

• Principles and objectives of proficiency testing (PT)
• Requirements of ISO 17043
• Design and implementation of proficiency testing (PT) schemes
• Evaluation and reporting of proficiency testing (PT) results
• The role of proficiency testing (PT) in quality management systems
• Use of proficiency testing (PT) data for improvement

ISO 17043 is an important standard that provides requirements for proficiency testing (PT) providers. By attending ISO 17043 training, individuals and organizations can enhance their understanding of proficiency testing (PT) principles and procedures and ensure the quality and impartiality of their proficiency testing (PT) schemes.

ISO 17043 Standard Training Scope

ISO 17043 is a globally recognized standard summarizing the requirements for laboratory proficiency testing. It provides guidance for the design, implementation, and operation of proficiency testing schemes. It is essential for laboratories and individuals participating in proficiency testing to understand the training requirements to comply with ISO 17043.

Key Training Areas for ISO 17043

Understanding the Standard:

• Objectives and scope: Clarifying the aims and applicability of ISO 17043.
• Requirements: Detailed understanding of the standard’s sections, including roles and responsibilities, scheme design, sample preparation, data analysis, and reporting.

Designing a Proficiency Testing Plan:

• Objectives: Defining specific goals and target participants for the plan.
• Sampling selection: Criteria for selecting representative samples that cover the range of activities the plan encompasses.
• Sample distribution: Ensuring secure and timely delivery of samples to participants.

Sample Preparation and Handling:

• Homogeneity: Techniques to ensure that samples are well-mixed and representative.
• Stability: Methods for maintaining sample integrity during storage and transport.
• Traceability: Creating a chain of custody to guarantee the authenticity of the sample.

Data Analysis and Interpretation:

• Statistical methods: Applying appropriate statistical techniques to analyze participant results.
• Z-scores: Understanding the concept of Z-scores and their use in assessing laboratory performance.
• Outlier detection: Identifying and handling outlier results.

Reporting and Feedback:

• Report creation: Generating clear and informative reports summarizing scheme results.
• Providing feedback: Offering constructive feedback to participants to help them improve their performance.

Quality Assurance and Control:

• Internal audits: Conducting regular internal audits to evaluate compliance with ISO 17043.
• External assessments: Participating in external evaluations to validate the quality of the scheme.

Training Options

• Classroom training: Instructor-led sessions with practical exercises.
• Online courses: Modules allowing participants to progress at their own pace with interactive content and exams.
• Workshops: Intensive training sessions focusing on specific aspects of ISO 17043.
• On-the-job training: Gaining practical experience under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Benefits of ISO 17043 Training

• Improved laboratory performance: Enhanced understanding of proficiency testing leads to better laboratory practices and results.
• Increased confidence: Trained personnel approach proficiency testing with more confidence and competence.
• Enhanced reliability: Compliance with ISO 17043 can improve a laboratory’s reliability and reputation.
• Regulatory compliance: Many industries require laboratories to participate in proficiency testing programs, and ISO 17043 training ensures compliance with these regulations.

By investing in ISO 17043 training, laboratories can equip their personnel with the necessary knowledge and skills to participate effectively in proficiency testing programs and deliver high-quality laboratory services.

Target Audience: Laboratory managers, laboratory personnel, those seeking to implement, develop, and manage systems according to ISO 17043, and those pursuing careers in laboratory standards may attend this training.

Exam: A test may be conducted at the end of the training.

Instructor: Delivered by International Lead Auditors and Training Experts. Announcement made prior to training.

Training Date: Announced before training.

Duration: 3 days.

Location: Online / In-house.

Certificate: Certificate provided to participants at the end of the training.