Analytical intercomparison exercises and harmonization within environmental laboratories from developing countries

Since the early 60's, the IAEA implements a Quality Assurance (QA) programm e for the Member States. As part of this programme, the IAEA organized more than 150 analytical intercomparison exercises and produced more than 70 Ce rtified Reference Materials for a wide range of determinands, encompassing radionuclides, trace elements, petroleum hydrocarbons, pesticides and PCBs. From the IAEA - Marine Environment Laboratory in Monaco, analytical Qualit y Assurance services are provided for non-nuclear contaminants in marine ma terials. Results of recently organized worldwide intercomparison exercises using the sample materials IAEA-142 (mussel tissue homogenate) and IAEA-140 (seaweed homogenate), show that some progress was achieved worldwide in the analyse s of the more common environmental contaminants. However, results also Show that difficulties in obtaining accurate data for trace elements and especi ally for organic contaminants are still widespread, particularly in develop ing countries. Therefore, the success of international cooperative programm es as well as of many regional environmental monitoring progammes, depends on improved quality and comparability of data which has to be achieved stil l through reinforced Quality Assurance programmes. To this aim, the IAEA/UN EP/IOC-UNESCO inter-agency programme on marine pollution promotes the adopt ion of Reference Methods for harmonization of techniques used in developing and developed countries, organizes frequent intercomparison exercises, and produces certified marine Reference Materials which are made available to laboratories worldwide.