Quality Assurance of Chemical Measurments

Very often there are quality issues in the laboratory, which affect the standards that are intended and mean that quality can be in doubt for our clients. During various stages of processing we need to use quality tools to maintain confidence in the products. The analysis of each stage means that total confidence can also be achieved. This course is designed specifically for Laboratory technicians and those involved with quality control during the chemical process utilizing the most accurate tools and terms of measure for control. It contains full explanations in an easy to understand format and regular discussions to reinforce learning throughout.

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, the delegates will be able to:

• Introduction to quality assurance in the laboratory and how principles of measurement are understood and utilized
• Principles of chemical measurement and the principles of quality assurance involved and used to their maximum
• Accurate measurement and recording of analysis and results of sampling of each step of chemical processes using quality tools

Course Outline

Day 1

Pre Test

Introduction

• Philosophies
• Modern lab role
• Historical quality changes

Fundamentals of quality assurance (qa)

• QA=QA/QC, QA hierarchy, Costs/benefits of providing quality lab data and validation
• Budgeting and planning, QA location/function, Quality cycles, external/internal data validation
• Strategy of meeting user quality needs, specifications for QA leader
• Glossary of terms and acronyms, safety-OSHA lab standard

Day 2

Basic QA statistics: A brief overview

• Process merits, uncertainty types, Comparing data, comparing labs, control charts (SPC)
• Systematic/random error, outliers/assignable cause/detection methods

Lab vs field sampling error, accuracy/precision, Significant figures/reporting data

Measurement as a process

• Design/implement/monitor lab QA, macro/micro auditing, Internal and external lab auditing
• Screening and confirmatory analysis, Analyst certification, keeping staff current
• Development of QA programs
• Standards and reference materials, independent calibration verification
• Lab responsibilities, user responsibilities, Data handling/review/archiving/maintenance
• Lab certifications/accreditation

Day 3

Sampling

• General principles, criteria for developing sampling plans
• Sampling methods, fluids/solids, required information on samples

Sample handling

• Labeling, containers, filtering
• Preservation, holding times, conditions, transporting
• Blanks, chain-of-custody

Day 4

Sample preparation

• Procedures and protocols, reagent blank, miscellaneous topics

Instrumental analysis

• Instrument log, signal-to-noise ratio, instrumental parameters
• Calibration initial and continuing
• Causes and minimization of calibration drift
• Training of staff, cross-training
• Maintenance log, documentation, validation

Day 5

Standard operating procedures (SOP)

• Preparation recommendations, five W's, record keeping
• Changes to SOP, archives, distribution, OSHA and EPA compliance

Post Test

Course Methodology

A variety of methodologies will be used during the course that includes:

• (30%) Based on Case Studies
• (30%) Techniques
• (30%) Role Play
• (10%) Concepts
• Pre-test and Post-test
• Variety of Learning Methods
• Lectures
• Case Studies and Self Questionaires
• Group Work
• Discussion
• Presentation