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Abstract: Several proficiency tests were organized within the framework of a European project, called SWIFT-WFD, involved in implementing the Water Framework Directive (WFD). Among others, the parameters studied were polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and pesticides in organic standard solutions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the state of the art in Europe and possible sources of bias in calibration procedures. More than 30 laboratories across Europe took part in this study. These laboratories used their regular in-house analytical methods. We discuss the analytical results obtained. The averages of the results for all analytes partly agreed with the values of gravimetric sample preparation. Most of the participants in both exercises obtained satisfactory Z-scores. However significant outlier rates (in most cases around 20% of the data sets submitted) indicated that laboratories across Europe need to improve the quality of the analytical data that they deliver. We also raise some questions regarding the use of Z-scores to evaluate the laboratory performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Recently, the International Measurement Evaluation Programme (IMEP) organized an interlaboratory comparison on total concentrations of eight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in natural inland waters. It was carried out in support to the European Union Water Framework Directive (EU-WFD) that lists these eight as priority substances. As sample matrix, we used groundwater spiked with humic acid as a model for the colloidal substances that are present in natural inland waters. Humic substances can adsorb PAHs, but we found that some laboratories did not apply analytical procedures that sufficiently accounted for this. One of these laboratories was involved in establishing the reference values. We show how this impacted on the reliability of their measurements. Many participants accepted our invitation to report their measurement uncertainties. We assessed their results against our reference values and uncertainties, and provided z and zeta scores. Although the overall measurement capability appears satisfactory, there is room for improvement of analytical procedures as regards the use of measurement standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The main objective of the project “Screening methods for Water data InFormaTion in support of the implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive” (SWIFT-WFD) was to support the successful implementation of the WFD, which strongly depends on the quality and the comparability of monitoring data from river basin to river basin. In order to evaluate the performance of the laboratories using both classical and screening/emerging methods involved in the analysis of priority substances listed in the WFD, project activities included organization of three Proficiency Testing (PT) schemes at the European level for the determination of trace elements, major components, polyaromatic hydrocarbons and pesticides in water matrices, using the quality-control materials prepared within the project activities. The results of the three PT schemes were evaluated to provide a basis of information about the performance and thus the capacities of European analytical laboratories to comply with the requirements set out in the WFD. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

During recent years, the awareness of quality assurance and quality control in environmental analyses has constantly increased, especially due to the implementation of new guidelines and regulations at both the national and international level. Achieving comparable results by using certified reference materials is one of the primary concerns of the scientific community. As a result, there is a growing demand for certified reference materials to cover different matrices and pollutants. Moreover, these CRMs should be in close relationship to the determinants and target concentrations required by environmental bodies and European Directives as well. Supplementary information to this paper presents an inventory of reference materials available on the market from different suppliers against the priority pollutants listed in the Water Framework Directive. These CRMs cover matrices such as water, sediment and biota. The use of CRMs in relationship to appropriate analytical methods and relevant determinants is discussed and the need for matrix-CRMs, particularly for organic pollutants is emphasised. The use of proficiency testing schemes as an alternative for the lack of appropriate CRMs and future trends in the production of CRMs within the BCR framework are also discussed.