Focal Point: Analytical Technology: Quality Assurance of Analytical Data: Measurement Uncertainty and Traceability in View of ISO 17025

Abstract

Definition, determination and consequences of analytical measurement uncertainty were discussed. After a thorough explanation of actual procedures to handle uncertainty, the focus was switched to practical applications in process control, the meaning of qualitative analysis near the limit of detection, a case study involving doping in sports events and the problems involved in setting legal limits (e.g. ILAC rules). Five experts from academia, industry, and governmental organizations as well as from R&D-driven companies gave their interpretation from different points of view.