Reference materials: an inquiry into their use and prospects in Europe

Abstract

The use of certified reference materials (CRMs) is one of the cornerstones for the verification of the accuracy of analytical measurements. In addition, common reference materials (RMs) play a vital role for daily quality control purposes (e.g. the establishment of control charts). However, the awareness of the impact of such materials by European laboratories leaves much to be desired. The European Commission therefore launched a study to evaluate requirements with respect to CRM and RM use and production. A questionnaire was mailed on the use and needs for reference materials and the results were discussed in a workshop attended by representatives from different sectors (industry, research, government laboratories, environmental studies, food/agriculture and pharmaceutical/clinical sectors, as well as reference material producers and distributors). Eighteen countries participated in the study and were represented at the workshop. This article summarises the main features of the discussions and gives an outline of the inquiry report.