title: [Analysis of the competences of workplace inspecting laboratories for the determination of free crystalline silica (FCS), based on proficiency testing results].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The aim of the study was to evaluate and analyze the technical competences of workplace inspection laboratories for the determination of free crystalline silica (FCS).
  
  
  METHODS
  The study was based on the results of two series of control determinations carried out under the proficiency testing scheme in 2005 and the outcome of the questionnaire on analytical details and the quality system of laboratories. The mean values of proficiency indicies and the frequency of the obtained satisfactory performances were adopted as the basis of laboratory competences comparisons.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In total, 138 laboratories participated in the study, including 104 laboratories covered by one series and 34 by both series of determinations. Satisfactory technical competences were found in 77% of laboratories, regardless of their type and analytical methods applied. It was shown that the positive proficiency appraisal was linked with the regular application of quality control methods, i.e. internal control of FCS determination quality, the participation in laboratory proficiency testing and laboratory accreditation. The analytical equipment and mode of determining crystalline silica with use of the chemical method had no significant effect on the analytical performance.
authors.affiliation: Z Zakładu Srodowiskowych Zagrozeń Zdrowia, Instytutu Medycyny Pracy im prof dra med J Nofera w Lodzi. altema@imp.lodz.pl
authors.forename: Aleksandra
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Maciejewska
mesh_terms: D000395:Air Pollutants, Occupational / Q000032:analysis*; D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques / Q000592:standards / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004391:Dust / Q000032:analysis; D004784:Environmental Monitoring / Q000592:standards* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D007753:Laboratories / Q000592:standards* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000032:analysis*; D011044:Poland; D011786:Quality Control; D012822:Silicon Dioxide / Q000032:analysis*; D017749:Total Quality Management
chemical_list: D000395:Air Pollutants, Occupational; D004391:Dust; D012822:Silicon Dioxide