Improving the calibration and testing capabilities of laboratories
What is proficiency testing?
Proficiency testing (PT) assesses a laboratory’s ability to carry out a measurement. Regular proficiency testing provides evidence of a laboratory’s measurement capabilities, with accreditation bodies considering participation in proficiency testing a demonstration of a laboratory’s commitment to quality.
A PT scheme provides a way of assessing the performance of laboratories by a series of regular inter-laboratory comparisons. Proficiency testing schemes are used by laboratory accreditation bodies as part of the process to assess the ability of laboratories to perform tests and measurements competently for which accreditation is held. UKAS policy on proficiency testing is laid out in their document: TPS 47- : TPS 47 'UKAS Policy on Participation in Proficiency Testing'. The policy states that “all accredited testing laboratories shall participate in PT/ILCs where such schemes are available and relevant to their scope of accreditation”.
Speak to our team today
We are a global leader in the provision of proficiency testing schemes.
Contact us to discuss your proficiency testing needs and how NPL can work with your business.
Proficiency testing schemes and exercises to suit your business needs
Natural gas and refinery gas proficiency testing
Validates laboratory performance in analysing natural and refinery gas composition to support regulatory compliance and accurate energy assessments.
Hydrogen purity and contaminant proficiency testing
Ensures accurate measurement of hydrogen purity and trace contaminants for industrial, energy, and safety‑critical applications.
Environmental stack emissions proficiency testing
Assesses a laboratory’s ability to measure stack emissions reliably for air‑quality monitoring and environmental reporting. Participation in a proficiency testing scheme for stack monitoring is strongly advised by the UK Environment Agency's Monitoring Certification Scheme (MCERTS).
Environmental Radioactivity Proficiency Test Exercise
Helping laboratories demonstrate the quality and reliability of their radioactivity measurements through independent performance assessment.
Medical measurement proficiency testing exercise
Evaluates laboratory accuracy in medical‑related measurements to support healthcare quality, safety, and accreditation needs.
Solid reference material proficiency testing exercise
Tests laboratory consistency in analysing solid materials, ensuring reliable results for industrial, environmental, and research applications.
Nuclear industry measurement proficiency testing exercise
Assesses performance in specialist nuclear measurements essential for operational safety, compliance, and regulatory assurance. This exercise is intended for laboratories who routinely handle and perform non-destructive measurements of waste drums.