This practice is consistent with a performance-based approach wherein the frequency of re-calibration and instrument testing is linked to a laboratory’continuing performance with its quality control results. Under the premise of this practice, a laboratory demonstrates that its instrument performance is acceptable for analyzing sample test sources.

When a laboratory demonstrates acceptable performance based on continuing instrument quality control data (that is, QC charts), batch QC samples (that is, blanks, laboratory control samples, replicates, matrix spikes, and other batch QC samples as may be applicable) and independent reference materials, traditional schedule-driven instrument recalibration is permissible but unnecessary.

When continuing instrument QC, batch QC, or independent reference material sample results indicate that instrument response has exceeded established control or tolerance limits, instrument calibration is required. Other actions related to sample analyses on the affected instruments may be required by the laboratory QM.

The data obtained while following this Practice will most likely reside in computer storage. This data remains in the computer storage where it is readily retrievable and as necessary is used to produce plots, graphs, spreadsheets and other types of displays and reports. Frequency and performance of data storage backup should be specified in the laboratory QM.

1.1 This practice covers consensus criteria for the calibration and quality control of nuclear instruments. This practice is provided for establishing appropriate quality control parameters at instrument startup, calibration of nuclear counting instruments and the continuing monitoring of quality control parameters. Calibrations are usually performed to establish the operating parameters of the instrument. This practice addresses the typically used nuclear counting instruments: alpha spectrometer, gamma spectrometer, gas proportional counter and liquid scintillation counter.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.