IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Inter-laboratory comparison

Abstract

Although biological monitoring techniques can be used to measure occupational exposure to toxic substances, the analytical methods involved are complex, and inter-laboratory results may be inconsistent.

The proficiency of 42 laboratories in analyzing a variety of toxic substances (e.g. lead, cadmium, arsenic) in blood and urine was analyzed over a three-year period.

Some of the participating laboratories demonstrated an inability to produce analytical results appropriate for use in biological monitoring programmes.

A quality control and accreditation programme for industrial toxicology laboratories was established by the IRSST and the Centre de toxicologie du Québec (Québec Toxicology Centre). Between 1979 and 1988, the number of participants in the programme increased from 40 to 101, while the number of analytes increased from 4 to 11.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0078-0020
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 1982
Team:
  • Jean-Philippe Weber (Centre de toxicologie du Québec)