Recall Tip - Make sure the lab is correct!

May/09

If you get a result from your laboratory that suggests a problem with your product it only takes a few minutes to check with the lab to ensure that the result is reliable. But what should you ask? This will vary depending on the type of test, but here are a few suggestions:

  1. Did the lab run standard control samples with known levels / limits at the same time as running the test on our sample(s)?
  2. Did the standard control samples provide the expected correct result?
  3. Did the lab run a "blank" at the same time as our sample?
  4. Did the "blank" produce a result of "zero" or "not detected"?
  5. Did the lab have other samples on the same day that produced results outside expected levels (too high or too low)?
  6. Is there any possibility of cross-contamination?
  7. Is the equipment calibrated to ensure the readings are accurate?