Section 465.200  Proficiency Testing Samples (PTs)

a)         An environmental laboratory is required to participate in proficiency testing samples (PTs) analyses for each analytical parameter or method for which it seeks or wishes to maintain certification in accordance with the certification procedures of Section 465.130(c), the certification renewal procedures of Section 465.140(a), and the quality assurance requirements contained in Subpart B of this Part. 

b)         PT samples shall be analyzed annually (every 12 months).  PT samples shall be analyzed in the same manner as routine samples. The laboratory shall be able to provide documentation that the analyst analyzing any PT sample is a laboratory employee who routinely analyzes drinking water compliance samples.

c)         Laboratories shall acquire the PT sample from a supplier acceptable to the Department.

d)         For methods used to test the presence or absence of an organism in a sample, each set shall contain ten samples, all shipped at the same time in either a lyophilized, dehydrated, or aqueous state. The set shall include samples, in various combinations, that contain total coliforms, fecal coliforms, E. coli, non-coliforms, and at least one blank. Each set shall be used only with a single analytical method. To be acceptable, a laboratory shall correctly analyze a minimum of nine of ten samples, with no false negative result (i.e., a single false positive result may be acceptable). For quantitative methods, one PT sample may be analyzed.

e)         Unless otherwise specified in Subpart B of this Part, within 60 days after receipt of a PT sample, the environmental laboratory shall analyze the sample and report the test results to the Department.  No fee shall be charged to the Department for the analyses.

(Source:  Amended at 35 Ill. Reg. 14494, effective August 12, 2011)