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Limit of Quantification Update

Following the introduction of SI 464 of 2017 European Union (Drinking Water) (Amendment) Regulations 2017, the drinking water regulatory requirements are transferring from the use of precision, bias and limit of detection (LoD) to prescribe the quality of analytical results to using the uncertainty of measurement (UoM) and limit of quantification (LoQ). These changes must be put in place by all accredited laboratories from 1st Jan 2020.

We have reviewed our operational data and can confirm that we meet the updated drinking water regulations as defined by these new measurement requirements. We will continue to use our in-house control procedures and data to monitor the UoM and LoQ specifications throughout the year to confirm our continuing ability to meet the directive requirements. Just as with the current legislation, where bias and precision are not included, results will be issued without any estimated uncertainty of measurement being applied. You will notice a difference where an accredited water parameter result would previously have been reported as < LoD figure as this will now have to show < LoQ figure so these minimal reporting levels will be higher than previous due to the re-calculations required by the amendment. There will be no impact to the end-user as Fitz Scientific will continue to remain accredited for the testing of specific parameters to the new regulations as detailed in our scope of accreditation and which has already been independently assessed by our accreditation body. This change only affects parameters specifically listed under the drinking water regulations.

Fitz Scientific will continue to maintain all customer information in the strictest confidence which is legally enforceable.

Limit of quantification (LoQ) –
A stated multiple of the limit of detection at a concentration of the determinand that can reasonably be determined with an acceptable level of accuracy and precision. The limit of quantification can be calculated using an appropriate standard or sample, and may be obtained from the lowest calibration point on the calibration curve, excluding the blank (EU directive 2009/90/EC).

Uncertainty of Measurement (UoM) –
A non-negative parameter characterizing the dispersion of the quantity values being attributed to a measurand, based on the information used (ISO/IEC Guide 99, 2007).

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