Abstract
The customers for analytical measurement services have international requirements; they require data of proven validity that will be accepted internationally. This means that well researched and tested analytical methods must gain better international acceptance. The methods should be capable of producing results to the accuracy required by the customer. They need to be supported by the use of appropriate certified reference materials, and the analyst, in reporting results, should give an estimate of the accuracy obtained. In addition, an independent accreditation is needed of the quality assurance procedures of the laboratory to assure customers that the analytical methods have been used correctly.
