Iraq launches first Proficiency Testing Scheme

Thus, participation in PT can be very useful for laboratories, irrespective of its outcome. An unsatisfactory performance in PT aids in the identification and correction of problems in the measurement process. Such corrections might, for example, include additional operator training, modification of methods or equipment and improvement of data processing.

Satisfactory performance in PT gives third parties confidence in a laboratory's ability to perform a given measurement. These parties include potential customers, regulatory authorities and accreditation bodies.

According to the Iraqi Central Organization for Standardization and Quality Control (COSQC), the umbrella organization of IQAS, the PT program in Iraq will soon include cement testing laboratories in addition to material and mechanical (Hardness) testing laboratories.

COSQC is the central governmental organization in Iraq for quality control and standardization issues with the mandate of managing the national quality infrastructure (Standards, Testing, Quality and Metrology) with the aim of supporting the country trade capacities and consumer protection.

The project JAWDA (Arabic for Quality) aims to enhance the trade capacity of Iraq and fostering the country's integration into the regional and multilateral trading system through upgrading its national quality system.

(Source: UNIDO - United Nations Industrial Development Organization)