Proficiency Testing Programs for Laboratories
SHAPYPRO organises proficiency testing programs for laboratories that need to assess their performance, demonstrate technical competence and meet accreditation requirements.
The programs enable participants to compare results, identify opportunities for improvement and strengthen confidence in the analytical methods and processes they use.
- ISO/IEC 17043:2023
- Disinfectant efficacy test
- International participation
- Confidential results
SHAPYPRO is the only provider worldwide accredited under ISO/IEC 17043:2023 for proficiency testing programs in biocidal efficacy.
ISO/IEC 17043 Accredited Programs
Accreditation according to ISO/IEC 17043:2023 recognises SHAPYPRO’s competence to plan, organise and evaluate proficiency testing programs within its accredited scope.
Programs included in this scope are managed under requirements covering impartiality, confidentiality, traceability, item homogeneity and stability, statistical treatment and clear communication with participants.
The scope of accreditation focuses on proficiency testing programmes related to biocidal efficacy testing of chemical disinfectants and antiseptic products.
What Proficiency Testing Is
Proficiency testing is a form of interlaboratory comparison used to assess participant performance against previously established criteria.
Each laboratory analyses the same item or sample in accordance with the program instructions and submits its results for joint evaluation.
The information obtained helps laboratories verify result reliability, detect deviations, review internal procedures and provide objective evidence of technical competence.
Programs, Matrices and Scopes
SHAPYPRO develops programs primarily for laboratories working with antiseptics, chemical disinfectants, biocidal efficacy and microbiological control.
Each round clearly identifies the reference standard or method, item or matrix, parameters assessed, dates, participation instructions, statistical criteria and whether the program is covered by accreditation.
Programs related to bactericidal, fungicidal, yeasticidal, sporicidal and other activities covered by standards applicable to antiseptics and disinfectants.
Exercises focused on the evaluation of microbiological results and the monitoring of participant technical competence.
The standards, matrices and parameters available may vary between rounds. Program documentation defines the applicable scope and conditions before registration.
How Participation Works
Participation follows a structured process so that each laboratory understands the exercise conditions and receives the necessary documentation at every stage.
1
Program Review
The laboratory reviews the standard, scope, dates, price and technical requirements of the round.
2
Registration
Participation is confirmed through the registration process and acceptance of the program conditions.
3
Item Shipment
SHAPYPRO prepares and sends the test item together with handling, storage and analysis instructions.
4
Test Performance
The laboratory performs the analysis within the established period and submits its results through the indicated channel.
5
Evaluation and Report
Results undergo the planned statistical treatment and each participant receives the corresponding documentation and performance evaluation.
Statistical Performance Evaluation
Statistical analysis enables results to be compared objectively, trends to be identified and participant performance to be evaluated.
Depending on the characteristics of the program, the evaluation may consider an assigned value, a standard deviation for proficiency assessment and scores such as the z-score.
When a z-score is used, the usual interpretation distinguishes between acceptable results, warning signals and unacceptable results. Each program report specifies the criteria applied and helps the laboratory determine whether its processes should be reviewed.
Acceptable Result
The result falls within the performance criteria established for the exercise.
Warning Signal
The result requires follow-up or review, although it does not necessarily indicate a critical failure of the method or laboratory.
Unacceptable Result
A significant deviation has been identified and should be investigated through root cause analysis and, where appropriate, corrective action.
Benefits for Laboratories
Regular participation provides useful information for continuous improvement and helps laboratories demonstrate that the quality of their results is under control.
Demonstration of Technical Competence
Provides objective evidence of the laboratory’s ability to perform tests according to defined technical criteria.
Support for Accreditation
Helps address ISO/IEC 17025 requirements and applicable policies on participation in proficiency testing within the laboratory’s scope.
Detection of Deviations
Supports the identification of issues related to methods, equipment, reagents, execution or result processing.
Confidence in Results
Strengthens confidence among the laboratory, its clients and other interested parties in the reliability of the results issued.
Customised Proficiency Testing Programs
In addition to scheduled programs, SHAPYPRO can assess the development of customised exercises for laboratories, corporate groups, technical networks or organisations that need to evaluate a specific method, matrix or parameter.
Feasibility is assessed considering the purpose of the exercise, expected number of participants, item preparation and stability, statistical design, schedule and confidentiality requirements.
Customised programs are defined through a specific technical proposal and are clearly identified as accredited or non-accredited according to their inclusion in the current scope.
Upcoming Proficiency Testing Programs
SHAPYPRO periodically consults laboratories about their needs in order to plan new rounds and prioritise standards with the greatest technical interest.
Laboratories can indicate the biocidal efficacy standards in which they would be interested in participating. This information helps assess their possible inclusion in future program schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions about Proficiency Testing
Who can participate in the programs?
Testing laboratories from different countries may participate, provided that they have the technical capability to perform the method specified in the round.
Are all programs accredited?
Not necessarily. The documentation for each round expressly states whether the program is included in SHAPYPRO’s ISO/IEC 17043 accreditation scope.
How is confidentiality protected?
Each participant is identified by a code and individual information is managed confidentially during analysis, evaluation and report preparation.
What happens if a result is unacceptable?
The result should be reviewed within the laboratory’s quality system. Root cause analysis, method verification and corrective or follow-up actions may be required.
Can a program be requested for a specific need?
Yes. SHAPYPRO can assess the feasibility of a customised program according to the matrix, method, parameter, number of participants and technical objective.
Participation in Proficiency Testing
SHAPYPRO supports laboratories throughout the different stages of the program and provides clear information on registration, item shipment, result submission and performance evaluation.
Participation provides technical evidence that supports accreditation, process improvement and confidence in analytical results.
