Internal Quality Control (IQC)

Overview

Internal Quality Control (IQC): Ensuring Reliable Laboratory Results

• This practical training program provides a structured understanding of Internal Quality Control (IQC) in testing and calibration laboratories.
• The course is designed to help laboratory professionals plan, implement, monitor, and improve internal quality control activities that support the validity and reliability of laboratory results.
• The program covers the use of blanks, duplicates, spiked samples, reference materials, quality control charts, warning and action limits, trend and shift analysis, management of out-of-control results, corrective actions, and the relationship between internal quality control and proficiency testing.

  Instructor-led interactive sessions incorporating:

1. Practical Exercises
2. Laboratory-Based Case Studies
3. Templates
4. Tools
5. Checklists

Who Should Attend

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the program, participants will be able to: Explain the purpose and principles of Internal Quality Control in laboratory operations.
• Develop and implement an appropriate IQC plan.
• Use blanks, duplicates, spiked samples, and reference materials effectively.
• Interpret quality control charts, warning limits, action limits, trends, and shifts.
• Identify and manage out-of-control situations and implement appropriate corrective actions.
• Integrate IQC activities with proficiency testing and other approaches used to support the validity of laboratory results.

Course Outline

1. Session 1 – Internal Quality Control Planning and Monitoring

   Introduction to IQC, development of quality control plans, use of blanks, duplicates, spiked samples and reference materials, and application of quality control charts.

2. Session 2 – Performance Evaluation and Corrective Action

   Warning and action limits, trend and shift analysis, identification and management of out-of-control results, corrective actions and documentation, and linking IQC with proficiency testing.

Assessment

Participant assessment includes: 1. Attendance and participation 2. Practical exercises 3. Laboratory-based case studies 4. Program assessment Participants who successfully meet the program requirements receive the relevant program certificate.