Kontrollprover

Kontrollprover are predefined samples or tests used to verify the accuracy and reliability of a measurement method, a process, or a product. They serve as reference points to detect deviations and to ensure consistent performance over time. The term is used across laboratories, manufacturing, environmental monitoring and food safety.

Typical kontrollprover include calibration standards with known quantities, reference materials with certified properties, and routine quality-control samples such as blanks or positive and negative controls. In manufacturing, control samples can be taken from production lots to monitor adherence to specifications; in analytical testing, they help monitor instrument performance and method validity. The exact composition and arrangement of kontrollprover depend on the context and regulatory requirements.

Implementation involves running kontrollprover at predefined intervals, often in replicates, alongside test samples. Results are compared with predefined acceptance criteria, and statistical tools such as control charts or trend analysis are used to detect drift, bias, or measurement error. When results fall outside limits, investigations and corrective actions are initiated to restore accuracy and reliability.

Regulatory and quality management contexts frequently require kontrollprover as part of method validation, ongoing performance monitoring, and proficiency testing. Standards and guidelines such as ISO 17025, GMP, and GLP emphasize the use of appropriate control samples to demonstrate method robustness and data integrity. In practice, the choice and number of kontrollprover are tailored to the method, matrix, and regulatory obligations.