SPSFAM Heavy Metals ERP Book

AOAC FIRST ACTION 2015.01

MULTI LABORATORY TEST

Timeline

The results must be sent to the Study Director within 6 weeks from sample reception.

Laboratory Qualification

Not required. If the laboratory desires to develop method proficiency prior to testing the study they may consult the Official Method and obtain any of the CRM’s mentioned at their own expense.

The Study Director will identify the laboratories which have the capability to run the analysis successfully (by statistical analysis and outliers’ detection). Any found to be unsuccessful will be excluded from the study.

Reporting

An electronic template is provided for data reporting (see Annex E).

Participating laboratories must report using the provided template. Furthermore include microwave conditions used to prepare the samples and any deviations from the method. Laboratories are asked to report final results in µg/kg of sample “as received”, with three significant figures as arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg). ________________________________________

Sample Disposal

It is the responsibility of the participating laboratories to dispose of the study materials. Some of the study materials were imported from outside the United States and are subject to USDA import restrictions. Please be advised that this sample shipment includes one or more samples subject to these requirements.

Post testing please dispose of all samples received (and containers) by one of the approved modes of disposal: Incineration; boiling; or treatment with household bleach [80 mL per liquid gallon of sample] and poured down the drain. (Note: autoclaving is an acceptable form of boiling.)

Retain the disposal record and email a copy to the Study Director.

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