Interlaboratoryvergelijkingen

Interlaboratoryvergelijkingen, also known as interlaboratory comparisons or proficiency testing, are systematic exercises that allow analytical laboratories to evaluate the performance of their measurement methods against those of other laboratories. The objective is to assess the accuracy, precision, and traceability of analytical results and to identify areas for improvement. In these exercises, each participating lab receives identical samples, measures a specified quantity, and submits the results to a coordinating body. The coordinator aggregates the results, calculates statistical parameters such as bias, root‑mean‑square deviation, and relative standard deviation, and then distributes a performance report back to the participants.

The concept originated in the mid‑20th century when the need for quality assurance in analytical chemistry and related sciences became evident. Over time, interlaboratoryvergelijkingen have expanded beyond elemental or inorganic analysis to include fields such as bioanalysis, environmental monitoring, and food safety. International organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the Federation of European Laboratory Accreditation Bodies (FELAB) have developed guidelines and standards, including ISO/IEC 17043, which specifies the general requirements for the competence of proficiency testing or interlaboratory comparisons.

Participation in interlaboratoryvergelijkingen is often a prerequisite for laboratory accreditation and is increasingly required by regulatory agencies, manufacturers, and research institutions. By providing an objective, third‑party evaluation of analytical performance, these comparisons foster continuous improvement, enhance confidence in data, and promote harmonization of measurement methods across the scientific community.