EPTIS: The new European database of proficiency testing schemes for analytical laboratories

Quality represents a cornerstone in the credibility of analytical laboratories. Their performance must be systematically checked through participation in proficiency testing schemes, co-ordinated by independent providers. These establish the organisational arrangements and the interpretation of results for evaluating the technical competence of the laboratories. The EPTIS database (European Proficiency Testing Information System) aims to establish an important link between all potentially participating laboratories and proficiency testing scheme organisers, as well as the systematisation of all relevant European information. This article describes the promotion of this new database and how the proficiency testing schemes operate in Portugal. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.