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Proficiency Testing Scheme
KFS are proud to be a UKAS accredited Proficiency Testing Provider (PTP) offering a range of proficiency tests specifically designed for the forensic marketplace.
Partaking in an ISO/IEC 17043:2010 accredited proficiency testing scheme offers you assurance that your tests are set-up, processed and managed in such a way that fair and meaningful inter laboratory comparison (ILC) analysis can be carried out on results obtained by all participants completing the same test at the same time.
ILC is an essential part of the ISO/IEC 17043:2010 standard and provides a unique opportunity to ensure reproducibility of results between laboratories working to the same standard.
About our Scheme
KFS’ Proficiency Testing Scheme (PTS) is an open, simultaneous testing scheme with a set annual schedule offering services relating to the examination and recovery of biological evidence (blood, saliva and cellular material) from a range of substrates. Our tests are challenging, realistic and comprehensive, all designed by KFS experts using their knowledge and experience. KFS proficiency tests are unique as they evaluate the end-to-end forensic process from the storage and handling of exhibits through to the sampling of exhibits for subsequent DNA profiling and therefore offer exceptional value for money.
Our tests range in complexity from simple item examination and DNA recovery to complex examinations requiring the use of presumptive testing and enhanced search techniques such as microscopy. All aspects of our tests are set-up, processed and reported by KFS experts in line with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited procedures ensuring samples are handled with the same level of sensitivity and integrity as casework samples.
Following the completion of a test, participants are issued with an individual report detailing whether they have met the expectations of the test and providing tailored feedback on the way the test has been handled. Inter laboratory comparison (ILC) analysis is carried out on all samples produced by participants completing the same test at the same time offering a unique opportunity for good practice to be anonymously shared amongst participants and encourage continuous improvement. A minimum of 2 participants are required for ILC to be completed. If the minimum number is not met, tests will still go ahead with individual participants reports being issued.
To participate in our PTS, we ask that you ensure you select tests appropriate to your schedule of accreditation and ensure you can complete examinations in line with the scope of the tests you order. You must be maintaining or working towards ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation and must be based in the United Kingdom (UK). KFS are obligated to check eligibility prior to acceptance to the PTS. In turn, should a change in circumstances affect your eligibility to participate, we ask that you inform KFS at the earliest opportunity.
Should one or more of the eligibility criteria not be met, we’ll contact you to discuss your requirements. We may be able to offer you bespoke, single occasion tests to satisfy your process. Results from bespoke tests will not be included in interlaboratory comparison reports.