This guide provides essential practical advice to analysts and laboratory managers on how to establish the traceability of their results to reliable and appropriate measurement standards. Such traceability is the key to obtaining results that are fit-for-purpose, particularly in terms of accuracy, between-laboratory comparability, and consistency of data over periods of time. Following the guidance given here should ensure compliance with the traceability requirements of ISO 17025.
The main aim of the present guide is to provide an interpretation for analysts of the practical requirements associated with the recently published Eurachem/CITAC document Traceability in Chemical Measurement. Hence the guide focuses on those essential practical steps involved in a typical analytical procedure for which traceability must be established, and explains how the analyst can judge what is required in their particular circumstances.
The guidance is illustrated using examples of several analytical methods and standard operating procedures taken from the food and environmental measurement sectors. These examples are based on real analytical procedures, simplified where necessary to aid clarity. They will facilitate an understanding of the principles of traceability and prove useful for both private study and training courses.