What is an ILC/PT?

Inter-Laboratory Comparison (ILC)

Interlaboratory comparison programs provide organization, performance and evaluation of calibrations or tests on the same or similar items or materials by two or more laboratories in accordance with predetermined conditions.

Interlaboratory comparisons are used to:

• Assist in developing a laboratory's uncertainties
• Cross-training of laboratory personnel
• Establish correlation between labs
• Check individual testing performance of laboratory personnel
• Determine characteristics of a material to a particular degree of accuracy

Proficiency Testing (PT)

Proficiency testing is the determination of laboratory performance by means of comparing and evaluating calibrations or tests on the same or similar items or materials by two or more laboratories in accordance with predetermined conditions.

Proficiency tests are used to:

• By accreditation bodies to assess the ability of a laboratory to display technical competence.
• Ensure compliance to published quality standards
• Ensure conformance to uncertainties stated in scopes and accreditation
• Determine the performance of individual laboratories for specific tests or measurements
• Monitor laboratories' continuing performance
• Identify process improvement opportunities