Proficiency testing (PT) schemes provide an objective way of assessing the performance (bias, stability, and repeatability) of laboratories by a series of regular inter-laboratory comparisons.

In this PT scheme, run in accordance with ISO 17043 (ISO Guide 43) and focused on the LNG industry, a number of ISO 17025 synthetic gas samples are sent for analysis to all participating laboratories. Each laboratory then reports back their analytical results, which are then compared to the actual composition values. The closeness of each laboratory’s results to the actual composition forms the basis of a quantitative assessment of their capability and performance. The full set of results for all laboratories are reported anonymously to the whole group, with each participant being made aware of the identity of their own result.

Participation in PT schemes provides laboratories with an objective means of assessing and demonstrating the reliability of the data they are producing. In addition, participants are able to assess their performance in relation to other laboratories. The key features of a PT scheme are that it should be carried out regularly, and that a degree of improvement is sought from both poorly performing participants and in the overall performance of all participants.

Participants in this scheme include all of Shell LNG production sites and a number of other LNG contract laboratories around the World - For more information about participating in the scheme.

Instructions to participants. Click here to download

Participants are required to register for the scheme using the enrolment form and indicate the mixtures and round they wish to participate in. Click here to download