An External Quality Assessment (EQA) scheme enables laboratories to evaluate and monitor the quality of their testing procedures, analytical methods, reporting strategies, and result interpretations by assessing their performance against established standards and peer laboratories.
As part of participation, laboratories analyse the EQA samples and submit their results to EMQN for assessment. EMQN then evaluates the submitted results and provides detailed performance feedback.
Upon completion of the scheme, participants receive a certificate of participation and performance issued by EMQN, an organisation accredited to ISO/IEC 17043. This certificate can be used as evidence of EQA participation and quality assurance activities when demonstrating compliance to your own accreditation body or regulatory authority.
Participation in EQA schemes helps laboratories monitor performance, identify areas for improvement, and support ongoing accreditation and quality management requirements.