Seven years of gamma-ray spectrometry interlaboratory comparisons in Switzerland

Appl Radiat Isot. 2010 Jul-Aug;68(7-8):1256-60; discussion 1260. doi: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2010.01.013. Epub 2010 Jan 13.

Abstract

Since the 1990s, regular comparisons of gamma-ray spectrometry in Switzerland were organized to improve laboratory abilities to measure the radioactivity in the environment and food stuffs at typical routine levels. The activity concentration of the test samples and the evaluation of the associated uncertainties remained each year the main required test result. Over the years, the comparisons used certified reference solutions as well as environmental samples. The aim of this study is to research the effect of the comparisons on measurement quality. An analysis of the seven last interlaboratory comparisons revealed that the Swiss measurement capability is up to date. In addition, the results showed that the participants now have an improved evaluation of the uncertainties associated with their measurement.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Laboratory Techniques / standards*
  • Environmental Monitoring / methods
  • Environmental Monitoring / standards
  • Food Contamination, Radioactive / analysis
  • Observer Variation
  • Radiation Monitoring / methods
  • Radiation Monitoring / standards*
  • Spectrometry, Gamma / standards*
  • Switzerland