Key Topics

Overview

The results of analytical measurements need to be fit for their purpose and results obtained in different locations or at different times should be consistent. Laboratories make measurements to fulfil specific customer requirements. If results are not fit for purpose then performing the analysis is a waste of time and money. If a laboratory knows, or suspects, that results are unreliable then it will incur the costs associated with repeating the measurements. The release of unreliable results to customers carries a risk and therefore a potentially significant cost to the laboratory.

Valid measurements and agreement between laboratories can be achieved by implementing a set of basic principles. The six principles of Valid Analytical Measurement (VAM) provide a framework to enable organisations to deliver reliable results first time, every time, and achieve bottom line improvements through increased operational efficiency and reduction in risk. Laboratories that adopt VAM provide customers and users of data with increased confidence that results of analytical measurements are valid and fit for purpose.

The VAM Principles were developed by LGC and NPL, as part of the Valid Analytical Measurement programme, to set out a philosophy which is appropriate for any laboratory carrying out analytical measurements. The principles were designed to encapsulate the key issues for achieving valid measurements and to provide a useful reminder for those already familiar with the concepts.

The VAM principles are summarised below. Click on the links for further information.

Principle 1

Analytical measurements should be made to satisfy an agreed requirement.

Principle 2

Analytical measurements should be made using methods and equipment which have been tested to ensure they are fit for purpose.

Principle 3

Staff making analytical measurements should be both qualified and competent to undertake the task.

Principle 4

There should be a regular independent assessment of the technical performance of a laboratory.

Principle 5

Analytical measurements made in one location should be consistent with those elsewhere.

Principle 6

Organisations making analytical measurements should have well defined quality control and quality assurance procedures.

Implementation of the VAM principles is supported by a range of publications and training resources which are available from this site.