Olfasense, a leading company in odour and emission measurement, is inviting laboratories worldwide to participate in its 2024 proficiency tests. These tests offer a unique opportunity for laboratories to demonstrate compliance with international performance standards and compare their results with peers globally. The proficiency tests cover volatile organic compounds (VOC), semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOC), and odour assessments for both building products and automotive materials. This initiative is a collaborative effort between Olfasense and the German Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM).
The proficiency tests for building products focus on VOC and SVOC emissions and odour assessments using emission test chambers. Laboratories can register for three independent parts of the test: the emission test chamber method (ISO 16000-6/9 and EN 16516), odour assessment (ISO 16000-28), and an analysis check using transfer standard tubes. These tests will be conducted in November and December 2024, with a registration deadline set for 9 August 2024. Participating laboratories will benefit from a detailed evaluation of their performance, helping them ensure compliance with stringent industry standards.
In addition to the building products test, Olfasense is also offering the 2024 edition of its accredited proficiency test for the automotive guideline VDA 270. This well-established test is key for laboratories working with automotive materials, providing a standard method for assessing odour emissions. This year, Olfasense is including an option to measure real leather samples, available to a limited number of 30 laboratories. This addition aims to enhance the relevance and applicability of the test for participants, reflecting real-world conditions in the automotive industry.
The VDA 270 proficiency test requires measurements to be carried out between 11 and 22 November 2024. Participants must register by 26 July 2024. As part of the test, Olfasense provides training sets to help laboratories prepare and ensure a common understanding of the VDA 270 scale. This preparatory step is designed to standardize procedures and improve the accuracy and comparability of results across different laboratories.
Participation in these proficiency tests not only helps laboratories meet regulatory and customer requirements but also fosters continuous improvement in odour management practices. By engaging in these tests, organizations can benchmark their product's performance, identify areas for improvement, and enhance their technical capabilities.
For further details and to download the announcement and invitation, visit their website here.
