OIKOS is launching a new proficiency-testing programme in 2026: PT-Cr(VI) — an interlaboratory comparison covering the determination of hexavalent chromium compounds on collection filters. The round is offered as a supplement to our standard PT-010 schedule and is open to all interested laboratories, not only those who routinely participate in PT-010.
Why a dedicated Cr(VI) round
Hexavalent chromium is one of the most strictly regulated workplace and environmental contaminants in Europe. It is classified as a CMR substance (carcinogenic, mutagenic, reprotoxic) under Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008, the occupational exposure limits enforced in Poland are among the lowest in the EU, and recent revisions of the EU Carcinogens Directive have tightened airborne limits further still.
Reliable Cr(VI) measurement is technically demanding — sample stability, matrix interferences and method-specific recovery all affect the result. A dedicated round helps laboratories demonstrate their performance for accreditation audits and internal quality reviews.
Programme details
- Matrix: filters representative of typical workplace and stack-emission sampling
- Determinand: Cr(VI) compounds (reported as Cr)
- Round: 1st round of 2026; additional dates are listed in our online schedule
- Eligibility: any laboratory running Cr(VI) determinations — participation is independent of PT-010 enrolment
- Operating scope: the PT-Cr(VI) programme is offered outside our PT-010 PCA-accredited scope
How to register
The programme outline (konspekt), registration form and full schedule are published in the Proficiency Testing area of our website. For specific questions about test items, deadlines or shipment logistics, contact us at sekretariat@oikoslab.pl.
Each participant receives a complete evaluation report after the round closes, including z-score, En-score and trend information against earlier OIKOS Cr(VI) data where available.
