LGC, Quality Management and Aquacheck announce joint venture in proficiency testing

09-01-2005: LGC has successfully concluded negotiations to form a joint venture focusing on proficiency testing (PT) with Quality Management Limited (QM), and Aquacheck, both independent providers of proficiency testing schemes. The combined operation will encompass over 4000 participating laboratories from across the world to become a major international provider of PT services.

QM provides PT schemes in microbiology and chemistry for the meat, dairy, food, and environmental industries, whilst Aquacheck provides the PT scheme for the water and environmental testing markets. LGC manages a number of PT schemes, covering a varied industry base including brewing, distilling, food, environment, forensic and consumer safety (e.g. toys). The established PT schemes of the joint venture are recognised as essential tools in demonstrating laboratory competence, and are all accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS).

PT schemes enable laboratories to monitor and improve analytical measurements by providing an external quality assessment system to complement their own internal quality control processes. Participation in a PT scheme is integral to laboratory accreditation and often supports regulatory requirements, such as the UK Environment Agency's Monitoring Certification Scheme (MCERTS).

Both Dr John Mason, Director of Corporate Development at LGC, and Antony Meier, Chairman of QM, become directors of the joint venture holding company, which will be based in Bury, Lancashire, at the facilities of QM and Aquacheck. Customers have been advised that the running of current schemes will remain unchanged and future plans for the joint venture include working closely with PT scheme steering committees.