Proficiency Testing

Schemes
2025
Food & Feed Consumer Safety
Beverage Clinical
Water & Environment Forensic

lgcstandards.com/AXIO

ISO/IEC 17043

0001
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Contents LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing

operates schemes in a wide range
of sectors from Food to Forensic,
Consumer Safety to Clinical.
Whatever your quality and testing
needs, AXIO will have the scheme
and sample options that will deliver
Intro the confidence in your results that
04 What is Proficiency Testing?
you are looking for.
06 Why AXIO?
08 Introducing the PORTAL Reporting Platform
10 The LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing Process

Food & Feed Beverage Water & Consumer

Environment Safety
17 Food Microbiology 46 Brewing Analytes 62 
Water and 88 Pharmaceutical and
QMS BAPS Environmental Dietary Supplements
22 Food Chemistry 48 Alcoholic Drinks Chemistry PHARMASSURE
QFCS DAPS AQUACHECK 92 Cannabis & Related
29 Meat & Fish 52 Malt Analytes 72 Water Microbiology Products
QMAS MAPS QWAS CANNABIS
33 Dairy Chemistry 54 Soft Drinks & Fruit Juice 74 Air & Stack Emissions 94 Cosmetics, Toiletries
QDCS QBS AIR & Detergents
78 Hygiene Surface COSMETICS
36 Chocolate and Cocoa 58 Sugars
QCS SUPS Monitoring 96 Toys and Consumer
HYGIENE Product Testing
38 Animal Feed
80 Contaminated Land TOYTEST
AFPS
CONTEST 98 Nickel Migration
40 Shiga Toxin E.coli
84 Cryptosporidium NiMS
STEC
CRYPTS
42 Gelatine
QGS

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Clinical Forensic FAQs

102 Immunosuppressants 118 Forensic Analysis for 124 FAQs

IPT Explosives
104 Therapeutic Drug FAE
Monitoring 120 Forensic Blood
TDM Toxicology
108 Toxicology QUARTZ
TOX 122 Forensic Isotope Ratio
110 Drugs of Abuse in Urine Mass Spectrometry
DAU FIRMS
112 Drugs of Abuse in
Oral Fluid
DOF
114 Drugs of Abuse in Hair
DAH

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

What is Proficiency Testing?

DRIVING QUALITY TOGETHER

WHAT IS PROFICIENCY TESTING?

Proficiency testing (PT) is a mechanism for objectively evaluating a
laboratory’s performance by the use of independent external means,
and includes regular comparisons of a laboratory’s measurement or
test results with those of other laboratories. PT is widely recognised
as an essential tool for demonstrating the competence of
laboratories, providing the infrastructure for a laboratory to monitor
and improve the quality of its routine analytical measurements. PT
can provide both evidence of competence and an indication of an
underlying or emerging problem.

WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER WHEN

SELECTING A PT SCHEME?
Test items Participants
Real/simulated materials, properties, National/international, number,
concentrations, reporting units. methods being used, type of
laboratory.
Distribution
Frequency, flexible participation, Results
fit for purpose. Deadlines, format, choice of method,
reportability of measurement
Reports
uncertainties, statistical approach.
Speed, language, information, format,
evaluation criteria, confidentiality. PT provider
Scope of PT schemes offered,
feedback/assistance provided, quality
(accreditation), provision of surplus/
repeat test items.

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WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS

OF PT PARTICIPATION?
• Identifying measurement or test problems
• Comparing methods or procedures
• Comparing operator capabilities
• Comparing analytical systems
• Improving performance
• Verification of method performance
• Educating staff
• Instilling confidence
• Assessing measurement uncertainty
• PT test items as internal quality controls

WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER WHEN

INTERPRETING PT RESULTS?
Putting performance into wider context
• The overall results in the round
• Measurement or test method performance
• Test item factors
• Bimodal result distribution
• PT scheme factors

Trends in PT performance
• Performance over time
• Common groups of properties
• Performance of methods
• Performance of analysts

PT performance errors
• Non-analytical errors – transcription, units, format, calculations
• Analytical errors – calibration, methodology, property, sample
extraction/clean-up, test items, analyst

ACCREDITATION & PT
Proficiency Testing (PT) is a requirement for accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO 15189.
Using an accredited PT provider gives you assurance in the quality and reliability of the
service. LGC is a UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) accredited proficiency
testing provider (ISO/IEC 17043) No. 0001. In addition, we are certified to ISO 9001.
The most up-to-date sample data can be found in the Scheme Descriptions and
Application Forms.

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Why AXIO?
What makes us your partner in proficiency?

DRIVING QUALITY TOGETHER

Global participation
LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing is a truly global provider of proficiency
testing schemes, providing PT to more than 13,000 laboratories in over
165 countries every year. This enables our global laboratory network
to compare their results with a large number of peers from around the
world, ensuring consistency in product, safety and quality from one side
of the world to the other.

Fast reporting
LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing is proud to provide fast report turnaround
times. When participating in one of our PT schemes, your laboratory will
be provided with a performance report, on average, within 6 working
days, so you can quickly address any performance issues identified.

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Watch our video to discover more.

Local support
LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing is a global leader in proficiency testing solutions, but
our teams are local. We support local laboratories, with local PT experts, who can
assist in local language. Whether that is needing advice on which PT scheme best
meets your requirements, or questions surrounding test results or shipments, we
have a team on the ground to support.

Real-world test materials

LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing, where possible, offers real-world samples whose
analytical results are comparable with routinely tested samples. AXIO offers the
widest range of microbiological organisms, and our analytes are available at a range
of concentrations, offering you the closest match to your routine samples.

Investing in your lab’s future

LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing moves with the times, continuing to invest and develop
our PT schemes and associated test materials to meet your laboratory’s future needs.
This year we have released over 40 new proficiency tests to meet new industry
challenges and ever-changing regulatory requirements.

Flexibility in your participation

LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing is proud to supply over 2,700 proficiency tests every
year. Many of our test materials are offered multiple times over a 12-month period,
and some of our most popular proficiency tests are available up to 12 times a year.
This means your laboratory can choose when to participate and at a frequency that
suits you.

Flexibility in your reporting

When participating in an LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing scheme, our reporting system
PORTAL enables you to submit up to 13 results per analyte, allowing you to compare
results between different analysts, methods or instruments. All of the results will
receive performance scores, although only 3 nominated results, using different
methods, contribute to the statistical analysis.

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Driving Quality Together

When you participate in an LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing scheme you gain access to
our best-in-class reporting platform PORTAL.

Introducing PORTAL
PORTAL sits at the core of the LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing process, it is your gateway to improving
laboratory performance: an online hub for result submissions, report downloads, data export and
trend analysis – anytime, anywhere. So that our global laboratory network can maximise the benefits
of their proficiency testing participation, we have developed a number of tools and materials; some
of which are available in local language. If you have any further suggestions or can’t find what you’re
looking for, please contact us at [email protected].

PORTAL in numbers…
Last year, PORTAL:
processed more than 3.8m results
delivering reports in an average of 5.8 working days
to 36000 labs
with a 97% on-time delivery rate,
and 600K+ report interactions

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

PORTAL user guides

PORTAL has many tools available to you and your laboratory, tools that we are
continuously developing which make it easier for our customers. To support laboratories
who have just joined us, or have been with LGC AXIO for over 10 years, we have developed
the PORTAL User Guide. The user guides are a series of short videos, which take you
through the step-by-step functions of PORTAL. The guide is available in multiple languages,
including English, Chinese, Spanish, Polish, German, French, Italian and Portuguese.

PORTAL: Maximising the benefits of your

proficiency testing participation with LGC AXIO
Learn more by watching our webinar:

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

The LGC AXIO Proficiency

Testing Process

How to select How to join a Order

a scheme scheme confirmation Week 1
Details of each scheme In order to join a scheme, Once a participant has Test materials and
are provided in the participants should joined a scheme, an instructions are sent to
AXIO PT Catalogue, the complete the relevant Order Confirmation will participants from our
Application Forms and Application Form, be sent to the requester, dedicated PT site in Bury,
the PT Webshop. They indicating which test which confirms the UK. We also include in
provide information materials they wish to tests materials selected all of our samples a QR
about the distribution receive during the scheme and distribution dates. code, which takes you
dates, the sample format, year. Alternatively, the Participants can amend an directly to PORTAL where
matrices, analytes, and participants can register order up to one week prior to participants will find
the costs of participation. for an account and the distribution date, subject instructions for the round
A Scheme Description is place an order via to test material availability. and FAQs.
also available, providing our PT Webshop. Any amendments to a
technical and statistical participant’s order will be
information specific to confirmed to them in writing.
that scheme.

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

In under 6
Week 2-4 Week 5 working days
Participants analyse test All participating Reports are issued, and
materials. The scheme laboratories are provided participants are notified
allows participants to with performance scores, through PORTAL when
change the configurations and compared using they are available.
of methods and appropriate statistical
instruments. Participants techniques.
will report their results
through PORTAL within
the specified deadline
and instructions.

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Local Offices
1. China 6. Middle East 11. Spain
T: +86 400 9216156 T: +49 (0)281 9887 0 T: +34 (0)93 308 4181
E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

2. France 7. Nordic countries 12. United Kingdom

T: +33 (0)3 88 04 82 82 T: +49 (0)281 9887 0 T: +44 (0)161 762 2500
E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

3. Germany 8. Poland 13. USA + Canada

T: +49 (0)281 9887 0 T: +48 22 751 31 40 T: +1 231 668 9700
E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

4. India 9. South Africa If your country is not listed

T: +91 98491 87576 T: +27 (0)11 466 4321 above please contact:
E: [email protected] E: [email protected] T: +44 (0)161 762 2500
E: [email protected]
5. Italy 10. South America
T: +39 02 22476412 T: +44 (0)161 762 2500
E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

13 12 8
3
2

5
11

10

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Distributors
LGC distributes its products throughout the world via a combination of direct field and office-based
customer service teams, our extensive webshop, and a network of authorised distributors.
We rely on our distributors to deliver our proficiency testing samples around the world to participants
who rely on our schemes to monitor the quality of their testing.
We work with a number of quality distributors globally, who will be able to assist
you with sourcing products from our ranges in your area.

Find your nearest distributor

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Food and Animal Feed

Schemes
AXIO Proficiency Testing is a key provider of
schemes for the food and feed industries. We are
proud to support many of the top 20 global food
businesses with their proficiency testing needs.
This includes managed PT solutions as well as
participation in our routine schemes.
AXIO operates a diverse range of food schemes.
Food Microbiology, our largest scheme, has over
3,000 participating laboratories worldwide,
enabling participants to compare their
performance on a truly global scale.

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Schemes available
Food Microbiology Chocolate & Cocoa
QMS QCS

Food Chemistry Animal Feed

QFCS AFPS

Meat and Fish Shiga Toxin E.coli

QMAS STEC

Dairy Chemistry Gelatine

QDCS QGS

NEW Food & Animal Feed

PT samples for 2025
Sample
Sample Name Analytes
Code

PT-CH-77 Quality parameters in Skimmed/non-fat milk Protein; Calcium; Total solids; Lactose
PT-CH-78 Diacetyl in Butter 2,3 butanedione (diacetyl)
PT-CT-721 Salmonella in Cocoa liquor Detection of Salmonella species
PT-CT-722 Hygiene indicators in Cocoa liquor Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration of
Enterococci; Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms; Yeast; Mould
PT-FC-863FF Fermented wheat flour Propionic acid
PT-FC-889 Curcuminoids in Powdered turmeric Curcumin; Demethoxycurcumin; Total Curcuminoids
PT-FC-902 Fumonisins in Maize flour Fumonisin B1; Fumonisin B2; T-2; HT-2
PT-FC-903 DON/ZON mycotoxins in Maize oil Deoxynivalenol (DON); Zearalenone (ZON)
PT-FC-904 Analysis of Plant-based cheese Total fat; Protein; Salt; Ash; Moisture; Water activity; pH
PT-FC-905 Ethylene oxide in Cereal Ethylene oxide (sum of ethylene oxide and 2-chloro-ethanol
expressed as ethylene oxide); Ethylene oxide; 2 chloroethanol
PT-FC-906 Bulk index of Dried onions/garlic Bulk index
PT-FC-907 Analysis of Dairy alternative milks Total fat; Protein; Carbohydrate (total & available);
Total sugars; Salt; Ash; Total solids; pH
PT-FC-908 Quality parameters of Walnuts Water activity; Peroxide value; Free fatty acids (acidity); Moisture
PT-FC-909 Powdered Baby Food Vitamin C
PT-FC-910 PFAS in Egg powder Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA); Perfluorooctanoic
acid (PFOA); Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS);
Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS); Sum of 4 PFAS
PT-FC-911 MOAHs in Rice Total MOAH; MOAH ≥n-C10 to ≤n-C16; MOAH >n-C16 to
≤n-C25; MOAH >n-C25 to ≤n-C35; MOAH >n-C35 to ≤n-C50
PT-FC-912 Colours as additives in Tomato sauce Dyes
PT-MC-55 Indicator organisms in Nuts Yeast; Mould; Yeast and mould
PT-MT-766 Heavy metals in Offal Total Arsenic; Cadmium; Mercury; Lead

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Food Microbiology
QMS

“The most extensive analyte range

in the world…”

Food poisoning outbreaks are not just dangerous for

consumers, but also potentially ruinous to consumer
confidence, brand reputation and value, as well as company
profitability. At their worst, with the potential to cause
serious illness and even death, responsibility for outbreaks
can be met with civil or criminal charges.
Laboratories performing microbiological testing of food
must therefore maintain constant vigilance in their ability
to detect potential pathogens, indicator organisms, and
spoilage – as well as demonstrating that their results are
accurate and meaningful enough to form part of a robust
quality assurance programme.
To support laboratories across the world with this dual
challenge, the AXIO Food Microbiology Scheme provides
the most exhaustive offer on the market in terms of
analytes – including routine pathogens and indicators, as
well as rare analytes like Shigella, psychrotrophic bacteria,
osmophilic yeast and mould or probiotic bacteria.
QMS also supplies a wide variety of matrices reflecting
the real-world range of substances that our participating
laboratories demand – including a wide selection of
samples where Salmonella is the target analyte, but also
more specialised items requested by our customers.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-MC-03D Skimmed milk powder 10g Enumeration of Salmonella species 1

PT-MC-04D Skimmed milk powder 25g Detection of Cronobacter species in 10g; 3
Cronobacter species in 25g
PT-MC-04F Oatmeal 25g Detection of Cronobacter species in 10g; 1
Cronobacter species in 25g
PT-MC-05D Skimmed milk powder 10g Enumeration of Osmophilic yeast; Osmophilic 1
mould; Osmophilic yeast and mould
PT-MC-05F Oatmeal 10g Enumeration of Osmophilic yeast; Osmophilic 1
mould; Osmophilic yeast and mould
PT-MC-06CF Chicken faeces Vial + 25g Detection of Salmonella species 1
PT-MC-06D Skimmed milk powder 25g Detection of Salmonella species 4
PT-MC-06CH Hard Cheese Vial + 25g Detection of Salmonella species 1
PT-MC-06EG Egg powder Vial + 25g Detection of Salmonella species 1
PT-MC-06F Oatmeal Vial + 25g Detection of Salmonella species 8
PT-MC-06HB Herb Vial + 25g Detection of Salmonella species 2
PT-MC-06NS Seeds and Nuts Vial + 25g Detection of Salmonella species 1
PT-MC-06SP Spice Vial + 25g Detection of Salmonella species 2
PT-MC-06TE Tea Vial + 25g Detection of Salmonella species 1
PT-MC-06VG Salad and Vegetables Vial + 25g Detection of Salmonella species 1
PT-MC-07CH Cheese Vial + 25g Detection of Listeria species; Listeria 1
monocytogenes
PT-MC-07D Skimmed milk powder 25g Detection of Listeria species; Listeria 4
monocytogenes
PT-MC-07F Oatmeal 25g Detection of Listeria species; Listeria 8
monocytogenes
PT-MC-07HB Herb Vial + 25g Detection of Listeria species; Listeria 1
monocytogenes
PT-MC-07VG Salad and Vegetables 25g Detection of Listeria species; Listeria 1
monocytogenes
PT-MC-08D Skimmed milk powder 10g Detection of Listeria species; Listeria 2
monocytogenes
PT-MC-08F Oatmeal 10g Detection of Listeria species; Listeria 4
monocytogenes
PT-MC-09D Skimmed milk powder 10g Enumeration of Enterococci (faecal 6
streptococci)
PT-MC-09F Oatmeal 10g Enumeration of Enterococci (faecal 4
streptococci)
PT-MC-10D Skimmed milk powder 10g Detection of Clostridium species; Clostridium 4
perfringens Enumeration of Clostridium
perfringens; Clostridium species
PT-MC-10F Oatmeal 10g Detection of Clostridium species; Clostridium 10
perfringens; Enumeration of Clostridium
perfringens; Clostridium species
PT-MC-11D Skimmed milk powder 10g Enumeration of mesophilic aerobic bacterial 2
spores; Thermophilic aerobic plate count;
Thermophilic aerobic bacterial spores; High
heat resistant thermophilic aerobic spores
(HHR-TSC)

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
18 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-MC-11F Oatmeal 10g Enumeration of mesophilic aerobic bacterial 1

spores; Thermophilic aerobic plate count;
Thermophilic aerobic bacterial spores; High
heat resistant thermophilic aerobic spores
(HHR-TSC)
PT-MC-12F Oatmeal 25g Detection of Shigella species 1
PT-MC-13F Oatmeal 25g Detection of Vibrio species; Vibrio 3
parahaemolyticus
PT-MC-14D Skimmed milk powder 25g Detection of Yersinia species; Yersinia 2
enterocolitica
PT-MC-15D Skimmed milk powder 10g Total anaerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration 2
of anaerobic sulphite-reducing bacteria;
Mesophilic anaerobic spores; Sulphite-reducing
Clostridium spores
PT-MC-15F Oatmeal 10g Total anaerobic mesophilic count Enumeration 2
of anaerobic sulphite-reducing bacteria;
Mesophilic anaerobic spores; Sulphite-reducing
Clostridium spores
PT-MC-16D Skimmed milk powder 10g Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration of 12
Coliforms; Enterobacteriaceae; Escherichia coli
PT-MC-16F Oatmeal 10g Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration of 12
Coliforms; Enterobacteriaceae; Escherichia coli
PT-MC-17D Skimmed milk powder 10g Enumeration of Staphylococcus species; 6
Coagulase positive staphylococci; Bacillus
species; Bacillus cereus
PT-MC-17F Oatmeal 10g Enumeration of Staphylococcus species; 12
Coagulase positive staphylococci; Bacillus
species; Bacillus cereus
PT-MC-18D Skimmed milk powder 10g Detection of Escherichia coli; 2
Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms Enumeration of
Escherichia coli; Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms
PT-MC-18F Oatmeal 10g Detection of Escherichia coli; 2
Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms Enumeration of
Escherichia coli; Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms
PT-MC-20D Skimmed milk powder 10g Enumeration of Escherichia coli; Thermotolerant 2
coliforms
PT-MC-20F Oatmeal 10g Enumeration of Escherichia coli; Thermotolerant 1
coliforms
PT-MC-21 Lyophilised test material + Vial + min. Detection of Campylobacter species in 10g; 4
Matrix 25g Campylobacter species in 25g
PT-MC-22D Skimmed milk powder 25g Detection of Escherichia coli O157 1
(non-toxigenic strain)
PT-MC-22F Oatmeal 25g Detection of Escherichia coli O157 3
(non-toxigenic strain)

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-MC-16 - Indicator Combination

This sample covers the enumeration of total mesophilic aerobic flora, coliforms,
Enterobacteriaceae and Escherichia coli, all important criteria for indicating inadequate
processing or post-processing contamination, and routinely tested in all food microbiology
laboratories. We have several hundred laboratories participating in every round, testing either
the food or dairy matrix.
12 in food matrix + 12 in dairy matrix

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-MC-23D Skimmed milk powder 10g Enumeration of Yeast; Mould; Yeast and Mould 7
(ISO 21527-1)
PT-MC-23F Oatmeal 10g Enumeration of Yeast; Mould; Yeast and Mould 5
(ISO 21527-1)
PT-MC-24D Skimmed milk powder 10g Enumeration of lactic acid bacteria 2
PT-MC-24F Oatmeal 10g Enumeration of lactic acid bacteria 4
PT-MC-24HB Herb Vial + 10g Enumeration of lactic acid bacteria 1
PT-MC-24SP Spice Vial + 10g Enumeration of lactic acid bacteria 1
PT-MC-25D Skimmed milk powder 10g Enumeration of aerobic psychrotrophic 1
organisms
PT-MC-25F Oatmeal 10g Enumeration of aerobic psychrotrophic 1
organisms
PT-MC-26D Skimmed milk powder 10g Enumeration of Pseudomonas species; 3
Detection of Pseudomonas species
PT-MC-26F Oatmeal 10g Enumeration of Pseudomonas species; 3
Detection of Pseudomonas species
PT-MC-27 Lyophilised test material Vial Enumeration of Bifidobacterium species; 2
Lactobacillus species; Combined Enumeration
of Lactobacillus species and Bifidobacterium
species
PT-MC-29 Tea Vial + 10g Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration of 1
Coliforms; Coagulase positive staphylococci;
Yeast; Mould; Yeast and Mould
PT-MC-32 Lyophilised test material Vial Enumeration of Campylobacter species 2
PT-MC-33 Freeze-dried material Vial Identification of unknown organism (non 2
pathogen)
PT-MC-34 Freeze-dried material Vial Identification of Salmonella species 2
PT-MC-35 Photograph and a scenario – Colony count and calculation of number of 2
microorganisms
PT-MC-36 Skimmed milk powder 2 x Vial + min Quantitative Package (2 samples) Total aerobic 4
20g sample mesophilic count; Enumeration of total
coliforms; Enterobacteriaceae; Escherichia
coli; Bacillus cereus; Coagulase positive
staphylococci; Yeast; Mould; Yeast and mould
Detection of coagulase positive staphylococci
PT-MC-36HB Herb 2 x Vial + min Quantitative Package (2 samples) Total aerobic 2
20g sample mesophilic count; Enumeration of total
coliforms; Enterobacteriaceae; Escherichia
coli; Bacillus cereus; Coagulase positive
staphylococci; Yeast; Mould; Yeast and mould
Detection of coagulase positive staphylococci
PT-MC-36SP Spice 2 x Vial + min Quantitative Package (2 samples) Total aerobic 2
20g sample mesophilic count; Enumeration of total
coliforms; Enterobacteriaceae; Escherichia
coli; Bacillus cereus; Coagulase positive
staphylococci; Yeast; Mould; Yeast and mould
Detection of coagulase positive staphylococci
PT-MC-37 Skimmed milk powder 2 x Vial + min Qualitative Package (2 samples) Detection of 4
200g sample Escherichia coli O157 (non-toxigenic strain);
Listeria species; Listeria monocytogenes;
Salmonella species; Identification of Listeria
species
PT-MC-38 Skimmed milk Vial + min Detection of Clostridium perfringens; 2
20g sample Coagulase positive staphylococci

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
20 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-MC-39D Skimmed milk 10g Bacterial level by Bactoscan; Bacterial level by 2

colony count
PT-MC-40 Skimmed milk 375g Detection of Salmonella species in 375g 2
PT-MC-41 Ready meal Vial + 10g Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration 2
of Coliforms; Coagulase positive
Staphylococci; Yeast; Mould; Yeast and Mould;
Enterobacteriaceaec; Escherichia coli
PT-MC-42 Skimmed milk powder Vial + 25g Detection of Cronobacter species (low level) 1
PT-MC-43 Skimmed milk powder 375g Detection of Cronobacter species in 375g 1
PT-MC-44 Ready-to-eat Vial + min Detection of Escherichia coli O157 1
100g sample (non-toxigenic strain); Listeria species;
Listeria monocytogenes; Salmonella species
Identification of Listeria species
PT-MC-45 Fruit Vial + 10g Enumeration of thermophilic acidophilic 1
bacteria (Alicyclobacillus spp); Detection of
guaiacol producing thermophilic acidophilic
bacteria
PT-MC-46EG Egg powder 2 x 25g Detection of Salmonella Typhimurium and/or 1
Salmonella Enteritidis (2 samples)
PT-MC-47 Skimmed milk powder 125g Detection of Listeria species; Listeria 1
monocytogenes in 125g
PT-MC-48 Infant formula powder 2 x Vial + Detection of Salmonella species in 25g; 1
100g matrix Cronobacter species in 10g or 25g (2 samples)
PT-MC-50 Cheese Vial + 10g Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration 1
matrix of Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms; Coagulase
positive staphylococci
PT-MC-51 Milk 5 x 10ml Commercial sterility; Identification of 1
microorganism
PT-MC-52 Gram-negative panel 3 x 10ml Confirmation and /or Identification of
Gram-negative organisms (including Salmonella) 1
to genus and/or species
PT-MC-53 Gram-positive panel 3 x 10ml Confirmation and /or Identification of
Gram-negative organisms (including Listeria) 1
to genus and/or species
PT-MC-54 Mixed culture 10ml Identification of organisms to genus
1
and/or species

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

NEW Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration of

Nuts Vial + 10g 1
PT-MC-55 coliforms; yeast; mould; yeast and mould

ENHANCED Skimmed milk powder (23D) Identification of yeast and mould to genus and/ 7 (23D)
10g
PT-MC-23 Oatmeal (23F) or species level 5 (23F)

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 21
Food Chemistry
QFCS

“Encompassing more than 500

analytes and over 100 individual
samples…”

International food safety regulations have evolved to

reflect the incredible variety of foods that modern
technology allows us to enjoy year-round, all around the
world. Since the goods we produce can contain potentially
harmful chemicals from multiple sources, extensive
laboratory testing is fundamental for food safety and
stability, as well as quality and customer satisfaction.
Our Food Chemistry Scheme (QFCS) is an extremely
diverse programme aimed at supporting labs to
demonstrate their capability over a vast range of food
analytes, and ensure their regulatory compliance whatever
the market they are selling in.
Encompassing more than 500 analytes and over
100 individual samples, QFCS provides participating
laboratories with a holistic, full-product approach that not
only takes in pesticides, allergens, toxins, trace elements,
etc., but also packaging, nutritional analysis and subtler
aspects of quality – including authenticity for herbs and
olive oil.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-FC-760 Liquid 100ml Sorbic Acid; Benzoic Acid; Sulfur Dioxide 2

PT-FC-761 Liquid 100ml Acesulfame K; Aspartame; Saccharin; Sucralose 2
PT-FC-762 Liquid 100ml Ponceau 4R; Carmoisine; Sunset Yellow; Indigo 2
Carmine
PT-FC-763 Liquid 100ml Allura Red; Tartrazine; Quinoline Yellow; Brilliant 2
Blue
PT-FC-770 Cereal/Crackers/Biscuits 100g Energy; Fat; Carbohydrate; Total Sugars; Total 4
Dietary Fibre; Protein; Salt; Sodium; Ash;
Moisture; Phosphate; Magnesium; Potassium;
Zinc
PT-FC-771 Cereal 200g Vitamin A; B1 (Thiamine); B2 (Riboflavin); B3 2
(Niacin); B5 (Pantothenic Acid); B6; B9 (Folic
acid); B12; C; D; Iron
PT-FC-772 'Ready to eat' product 200g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Mono-unsaturates; 4
Poly-unsaturates; Total trans fatty acids;
Carbohydrate; Total Sugars; Dietary Fibre;
Protein; Salt; Sodium; Ash; Moisture;
Phosphate; Cholesterol; Total dietary fibre
PT-FC-774 Cured meat/Jam/Biscuits/ 50g Water activity 5
Dates/Hard cheese
PT-FC-775 Flour 100g Fat; Protein; Total dietary fibre; Ash; Moisture; 2
Calcium; Iron
PT-FC-776 Bread 100g Fat; Protein; Total Dietary Fibre; Acidity; Ash; 2
Moisture; Sodium; Chloride; Calcium; Iron;
Vitamins B1; B2; B3; pH
PT-FC-777 Dried tea 50g Pesticides, Nicotine 1
PT-FC-778 Coconut oil/Palm oil/ 150g Water; Free fatty acids; Saponification value; 2
Soybean oil/Sunflower oil Unsaponifiable matter; Anisidine value;
Colour; Iodine value; Peroxide value; Fatty acid
composition*
PT-FC-779 Nuts 50g Aflatoxins B1; B2; G1; G2; Total Aflatoxins 2
PT-FC-780 Dried tea 50g Total Arsenic; Cadmium; Mercury; Lead; 1
Selenium; Nickel
PT-FC-781 Flour 25g Gluten 2
PT-FC-782 Mixed Fat Spread 100g Total Fat; Saturates; Mono-unsaturates; Poly- 2
unsaturates; Total trans fatty acids; Omega 3;
Omega 6; Salt; Water; pH; Vitamin A; Vitamin D
PT-FC-783 Tomato paste/puree 150g pH; Brix; Total acidity; Total solids; Ash; Salt; 2
Bostwick Viscosity
PT-FC-784 Cereal 50g Total Arsenic; Cadmium; Lead; Mercury; Nickel 1
PT-FC-785 Edible Oil 50g Total Arsenic; Cadmium; Lead; Mercury 1
PT-FC-786 Dried Fruit 50g Total Arsenic; Cadmium; Lead; Mercury 1
PT-FC-787 Spinach 50g Nitrate 1
PT-FC-788 Snacks (e.g. potato crisps) 50g Acrylamide 1
PT-FC-789 Rice 10g Total Arsenic; Total Inorganic Arsenic; Arsenic III; 1
Arsenic V; Cadmium; Lead
PT-FC-790 Extra virgin olive oil 2 x 200ml & 1 Peroxide value; Free fatty acids (Acidity); Wax 2
x 50ml content; 3,5 Stigmastadienes; Ethylesters; Total
Sterols; -7-stigmastenol; Insoluble Impurities;
Moisture and Volatile Matter at 103°C; Total
Polyphenols; Fatty Acid Composition

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 23
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-FC-791 Olive oil 2 x 200ml Free fatty acids (Acidity); K270; Wax content; 2
beta;-sitosterol (apparent); Campesterol;
Erythrodiol; Uvaol; Accelerated Oxidation
test (Rancimat) at 120 degrees C; 2-glyceryl
monopalmitate; Fatty Acid composition
PT-FC-792 Spinach 50g Perchlorate 1
PT-FC-793 Cake 100g Energy; Fat; Total Sugars; Total Dietary Fibre, 2
Protein; Acidity; Ash; Moisture; Sodium;
Chloride; Calcium; Salt
PT-FC-794 Chilli powder/Paprika 100g Aflatoxins B1; B2; G1; G2; Total aflatoxins; 1
Ochratoxin A (spiked)
PT-FC-796 Frying oil 150g Total polar compounds; Free fatty acids 2
(Acidity); Accelerated oxidation test (Rancimat)
at 120°C
PT-FC-797 Dried Fruit 200g Sulfur dioxide 1
PT-FC-798 Infant vegetable food 100g Nitrate 1
PT-FC-799 Cake mix powder 2 x 20g Egg white protein; Presence/absence of egg white 1
PT-FC-801 Honey 200g Moisture; Electrical conductivity; Ash; pH; Free 2
acidity; Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF); Diastase
enzymatic activity (Diastase number); Fructose;
Glucose; Sucrose; Water insoluble solids;
Apparent reducing sugars
PT-FC-802 Coffee 200g Water; Ash; pH; Total acidity; Total chlorogenic 1
acid; Caffeine; Potassium; Phosphorus;
Magnesium; Calcium; Copper
PT-FC-803 Palm oil 50g Sudan IV 1
PT-FC-804 Dried Fruit 200g Aflatoxins B1; B2; G1; G2; Total Aflatoxins; 1
Ochratoxin A
PT-FC-805 Vegetable oil 50ml Benzo[a]pyrene; Benz[a]anthracene; Benzo[b] 1
fluoranthene; Chrysene;;Sum of EU 4 PAHs
PT-FC-806 Cod liver oil 100ml cis Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA); cis 1
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA); cis
Docosapentaenoic (DPA); cis Docosahexaenoic
(DHA); Monounsaturated fatty acids;
Polyunsaturated fatty acids; Saturated fatty
acids; Total EPA+DHA Omega-3 fatty acids; Total
Omega-3 fatty acids; Total Omega-6 fatty acids;
Total Omega-9 fatty acids; Omega-3 : Omega-6
ratio; Total trans fatty acids; Vitamin A; Vitamin D
PT-FC-807 Barley flour 25g AMPA; Glyphosate 1
PT-FC-808 Rice flour 2 x 20g Almond; Presence/absence of almond 1
PT-FC-809 Rice flour 2 x 20g Soy; Presence/absence of soy 1
PT-FC-810 Infant formula powder 2 x 20g β-lactoglobulin; Presence/absence of 1
β-lactoglobulin
PT-FC-811 Ketchup 200g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Carbohydrate; Total 2
sugars; Protein; Salt; Total dietary fibre; Soluble
solids; pH; Total acidity; Citric acid; Formol
number
PT-FC-812 Mayonnaise 150g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Total trans fatty acids; 2
Carbohydrate; Total sugars; Protein; Salt;
Sodium; pH; Cholesterol; Total acidity
PT-FC-813 Mustard 150g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Carbohydrate; Total 1
sugars; Protein; Salt; Total dietary fibre; pH;
Total acidity; Erucic acid

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
24 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-FC-814 Canned fruit 2 x cans Drained weight; pH; Energy; Carbohydrate; Total 2
sugars; Glucose; Fructose; Total dietary fibre
PT-FC-815 Ground pepper 200g Moisture; Total ash; Crude fibre, insoluble index; 2
Volatile oil; Piperine content; Acid insoluble ash;
Non volatile ether extract; Water activity
PT-FC-816 Ground pasta 100g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Carbohydrate; Total 1
sugars; Protein; Ash; Moisture; Total dietary fibre
PT-FC-817 Jam or marmalade 100g Energy; Fat; Carbohydrate; Protein; Total sugars; 2
Fructose; Glucose; Soluble solids; pH; Moisture;
Ash; Total acidity; Brix
PT-FC-818 Sample A / Sample B (both - Presence/absence; Identification of 2
potentially contaminated) foreign body
PT-FC-819 Table salt 300g Purity; Moisture; Sulfate; Iodine; Calcium; 2
Magnesium; Total Arsenic; Lead; Cadmium;
Mercury; Copper, Ferrocyanide
PT-FC-820 Food product 100g Lactose (low level) 2
PT-FC-821 Dehydrated food product 150g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Total trans fatty acids; 2
Carbohydrate; Total sugars; Protein; Salt;
Sodium; Cholesterol
PT-FC-822 Vinegar 100ml Total acidity; Total ash; Density; Total dry extract; 2
Volatile acidity; pH
PT-FC-823 Infant formula powder 50g Alanine (free); Arginine (free); Aspartic acid 1
(free); Glutamic acid (free); Glycine (free);
Histidine (free); Isoleucine (free); Leucine
(free); Lysine (free); Phenylalanine (free); Proline
(free); Serine (free); Threonine (free); Tyrosine
(free); Valine (free); Cystein & Cystine (sum of);
Methionine (free); Tryptophan (total);
N-acetyl-L-methionineN-acetyl-L-methionine
PT-FC-824 Instant coffee 200g Moisture; Solubility in cold water at 16 degrees;; 2
Fat; Carbohydrate; Total glucose; Protein; Total
dietary fibre; Ash; pH; Total chlorogenic acids;
Caffeine; Total xylose
PT-FC-825 Dried oregano/cinnamon/ 15g Confirmation of authenticity 2
cassia
PT-FC-826 Chilli powder/sauce 20g Capsaicin; Dihydrocapsaicin; 2
Nordihydrocapsaicin; Heat unit
PT-FC-827 Infant fruit/vegetable pureé 20g Total Arsenic; Inorganic arsenic; Cadmium; Lead 1
PT-FC-828 Roasted and salted peanuts 150g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Carbohydrate; Total 1
sugars; Protein; Salt; Sodium; Moisture

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-FC-774 - Water Activity

As a result, water activity measurement is used as a critical control point in many food production
processes. As a result water activity is measured with a high frequency, in a range of different
matrices, making it one of AXIO’s most popular food PT samples.
70 participants on average
6 Rounds per Year

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 25
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-FC-829 Dried tea 100g Water extract; Total ash; Water soluble ash; 2
Crude fibre; Moisture; Caffeine
PT-FC-830 Fruit/vegetable purée 20g Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid) 1
PT-FC-831 Ground poppy seeds 15g Morphine; Codeine 1
PT-FC-832 Non-wheat flour 100g Fat; Protein; Total dietary fibre; Ash; Moisture; 3
Calcium
PT-FC-833 Baby food purée 150g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Carbohydrate; Total 1
sugars; Protein; Total dietary fibre; Salt; Sodium
PT-FC-834 Potato chips 100g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Monounsaturates; 1
Moisture; Polyunsaturates; Total trans fatty
acids; Carbohydrate;Total sugars; Protein;
Total dietary fibre; Salt; Sodium
PT-FC-835 Tortilla chips 100g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Monounsaturates; 1
Moisture; Polyunsaturates; Total trans fatty
acids; Carbohydrate; Total sugars; Protein;
Total dietary fibre; Salt; Sodium
PT-FC-836 Pome fruits 2 x 100g Pesticides; Glyphosate, AMPA 1
(spiked &
blank)
PT-FC-837 Citrus fruits 2 x 100g Pesticides; Glyphosate; AMPA; Glufosinate 1
(spiked &
blank)
PT-FC-838 Fruiting vegetables 2 x 100g Pesticides; Glyphosate, AMPA 1
(spiked &
blank)
PT-FC-839 Tuber fruits 2 x 100g Pesticides; Glyphosate, AMPA 1
(spiked &
blank)
PT-FC-840 Pulses 2 x 50g Pesticides; Glyphosate, AMPA 1
(spiked &
blank)
PT-FC-841 Cereals 2 x 50g Pesticides; Glyphosate, AMPA 1
(spiked &
blank)
PT-FC-843 Spices 2 x 50g Pesticides 1
(spiked &
blank)
PT-FC-845 Rice 100g Aflatoxins B1; B2; G1; G2; Total aflatoxins; 1
Ochratoxin A; Zearalenone
PT-FC-846 Food labelling benchmark - Assessment to Regulation (EU) 1169/2011 as 1
amended and the retained law in the UK
PT-FC-848 Vegan food 10g Presence or absence of animal DNA 1
PT-FC-849 Gummy sweets 3 x gummies Cannabidiol 1
PT-FC-850 Vanilla extract 3 x 20ml Vanillin; Ethyl alcohol; Density Refractive index 1
at 20ºC
PT-FC-851 Pasta sauce 25g Gluten 1
PT-FC-852 Processed meat 2 x 20g Gluten; Egg white protein; Presence/absence of 1
gluten; Presence/absence of egg white protein
PT-FC-853 Almond milk 2 x 25g Soy; Milk protein; Presence/absence of soy 1
protein; Presence/absence of milk protein
PT-FC-854 Biscuits 20g Gluten; Egg white protein; Presence/absence of 1
gluten; Presence/absence of egg white protein;
Presence/absence of milk protein
PT-FC-855 2 x Surface to swab - Presence/absence of Gluten 1

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
26 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-FC-856 Pickled cucumbers 100g pH; Total Acidity; Calcium Chloride; Salt 1
PT-FC-857 Sesame paste 60g Ethylene oxide; 2-chloroethanol as a sum of 1
ethylene oxide and 2-CE; Ethylene oxide; 2
chloroethanol
PT-FC-858 Relish 100g pH; Brix; Total Acidity; Salt 1
PT-FC-861 Garlic powder 300g Moisture; Sulfur dioxide; Allicin; Ash (total); 1
Acid insoluble ash; Bulk index; Bulk density
(Untapped density); Tapped density; Volatile
organic sulfur compounds content
PT-FC-862 Peanut butter 50g Fat; Salt; Moisture 2
PT-FC-863 Bakery products/Fermented 100g Propionic acid (E280); Sorbic acid (E200); 2
flour Benzoic acid (E210); Citric acid (E330); Tartaric
acid (E334); Acetic acid (E260); Malic acid
(E296); Butyric acid
PT-FC-864 Tomato paste 25g Vitamin A; Colour 1
PT-FC-865 Green coffee 25g Moisture 1
PT-FC-866 Ground pepper 10g Total Arsenic; Cadmium; Lead; Mercury 1
PT-FC-867 Ground corn (maize flour) 100g Aflatoxins B1; B2; G1; G2; Total aflatoxins; 1
Ochratoxin A; Zearalenone
PT-FC-868 Spices 20g Ethylene oxide; 2-chloroethanol as a sum of 1
ethylene oxide and 2-CE; Ethylene oxide NEW;
2 chloroethanol
PT-FC-869 Spices 50g Water activity; Moisture 1
PT-FC-870 Paprika 300g Bulk index; Bulk density 1
(Untapped density); Tapped density
PT-FC-871 Herbs 10g Total Arsenic; Cadmium; Lead 1
PT-FC-872 Simulant 50ml Bisphenol A; Bisphenol S 1
PT-FC-874 Simulant 50ml Lead; Cadmium 1
PT-FC-875 Vegetable/seed oil 20ml DEHP; BBP; DBP 1
PT-FC-876 Ketchup/mayonnaise 50g Water activity 1
PT-FC-877 Plant based meat 150g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Mono-unsaturates; 1
Poly-unsaturates; Total trans fatty acids;
Carbohydrate; Total sugars; Total dietary fibre;
Protein; Salt
PT-FC-878 Cereals/grains 5g Qualitative identification of the GM Events; 1
Quantification of GM events detected
PT-FC-879 Herbs 300g Moisture; Acid Insoluble Ash; Ash; Volatile Oil; 1
Water activity
PT-FC-880 Herbs 2 x 50g Pesticides 1
(spiked &
blank)
PT-FC-881 Instant/ground coffee 50g Acrylamide 1
PT-FC-882 2 x Surface to swab - Presence/absence of Peanut protein; Presence/ 1
absence of Sesame protein; Presence/absence
of Soya protein
PT-FC-883 Soya sauce 100ml pH; Total titratable acidity; Total sugars; 1
Sorbic acid (E200);;Salt; Sodium; Magnesium;
Potassium; Calcium
PT-FC-884 Dried dates 50g Total sugars; Total dietary fibre; Protein; Ash; 1
Moisture
PT-FC-885 Food product 20g Titanium dioxide 1
PT-FC-886 Spices 25g Dyes 1

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 27
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-FC-890 Chilli powder/paprika 100g Aflatoxins B1; B2; G1; G2; Total aflatoxins; 1
Ochratoxin A (natural levels)
PT-FC-891 Food product 50g Xylitol; Isomalt; Sorbitol; Maltitol; Mannitol 2
PT-FC-892 Vanilla bean powder 50g Moisture; Vanillin; Vanillic acid; 1
p-hydroxybenzoic acid; phydroxybenzaldehyde
PT-FC-893 Flavouring powder 25g Water by Karl Fisher 1
PT-FC-894 Liquid Vanilla aroma (sugar based) 50ml Water activity; Density; Vanillin; Brix 1
PT-FC-895 Spice mix 100g Salt; Volatile oil; Piperine content 1
PT-FC-896 Cake mix 25g Gluten (quantitative) 1
PT-FC-897 Food product 2 x 25g Peanut (quantitative); Presence/absence of 1
peanut protein
PT-FC-898 Infant breakfast cereals 2 x 25g Milk (quantitative); Presence/absence of milk 1
PT-FC-899 Infant soya formula 2 x 25g Gluten; Milk protein; Presence/absence of 1
gluten; Presence/absence of milk protein
PT-FC-900 Food product Various pH 1
PT-FC-901 2 prepacked products for - Net content 1
net content

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year
NEW Curcumin; Demethoxycurcumin; Total
Powdered turmeric 20g 1
PT-FC-889 Curcuminoids
NEW
Maize flour 125g Fumonisin B1; Fumonisin B2; T-2; HT-2 1
PT-FC-902
NEW
Maize oil 50ml Deoxynivalenol (DON); Zearalenone (ZON) 1
PT-FC-903
NEW Total fat; Protein; Salt; Ash; Moisture; Water
Plant based cheese 100g 1
PT-FC-904 activity; pH
Ethylene oxide (sum of ethylene oxide and
NEW
Cereal 20g 2-chloro-ethanol expressed as ethylene oxide); 1
PT-FC-905
Ethylene oxide; 2 chloroethanol
NEW
Dried onions or garlic 100g Bulk index 1
PT-FC-906
NEW Total fat; Protein; Carbohydrate (total &
Soya, almond or oat milk 150ml 1
PT-FC-907 available); Total sugars; Salt; Ash; Total solids; pH
NEW Water activity; Peroxide value; Free fatty acids
Walnuts 150g 1
PT-FC-908 (acidity); Moisture
NEW
Powdered baby food 20g Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid) 1
PT-FC-909
Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA); Perfluorooctanoic
NEW
Egg powder 30g acid (PFOA); Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS); 1
PT-FC-910
Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS); Sum of 4 PFAS
Total MOAH; MOAH ≥n-C10 to ≤n-C16; MOAH
NEW
Rice 50g >n-C16 to ≤n-C25; MOAH >n-C25 to ≤n-C35; 1
PT-FC-911
MOAH >n-C35 to ≤n-C50
NEW
Tomato sauce 25g Dyes 1
PT-FC-912
ENHANCED
Green tea 50g Nickel 1
PT-FC-780
ENHANCED
Cereal grain 50g Nickel 1
PT-FC-784

ENHANCED
Infant formula 50g N-acetyl-L-methionine 1
PT-FC-823
ENHANCED
Garlic powder 300g Volatile organic sulfur compounds content 1
PT-FC-861
ENHANCED Vanillic acid; para Hydroxy Benzoic acid; para
Vanilla 50g 1
PT-FC-892 Hydroxy Benzaldehyde
The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
28 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Meat & Fish

QMAS

“Official control laboratories must

be accredited to ISO/IEC 17025”

Global demand for high-quality meat, fish and seafood

products remains strong – with the world producing more
than three times as much meat as it did 50 years ago, and
seafood accounting for 7% of our total protein intake.
Customer expectations that such products are both
authentic and free from original, fraudulent or accidental
contamination mean that manufacturing processes are
highly regulated. As a result, official control laboratories
must be accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 and participate in
proficiency testing.
AXIO’s Meat and Fish Scheme (QMAS) is designed to
ensure that the wide range of laboratories involved in
ensuring that products are compliant – from in-house
and contract organisations to government institutions
– can have confidence in the integrity of their results. It
also encompasses a wide range of analyses, from quality
assurance and elemental testing, to authenticity and
contaminant testing employing sophisticated instrumental
analysis.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 29
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-MT-718 Fish 30g Nitrate; Nitrite 1

PT-MT-725 Lyophilised Chicken 2 x 25g Detection of Salmonella Typhimurium; 1
Salmonella Enteritidis;
PT-MT-726 Meat Vial + 10g Enumeration of Campylobacter species 2
sample
PT-MT-727 Lyophilised tablet Vial to be Detection of Escherichia coli O157; 1
reconstituted Detection of Salmonella species
PT-MT-728 Fish 150g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Carbohydrate; Dietary 1
fibre; Protein; Salt; Ash; Moisture; Sugar
PT-MT-729 Meat 50g Sulfur dioxide 1
PT-MT-730 Dried or cured meat 150g Energy; Total Fat; Saturates; Cholesterol; 2
Carbohydrate; Total Sugars; Dietary Fibre;
Protein; Salt; Ash; Moisture; Sodium;
Phosphate; pH
PT-MT-731 Precooked, raw or 150g Energy; Total Fat; Saturates; Cholesterol; 4
processed meat Carbohydrate; Total Sugars; Dietary Fibre;
Protein; Salt; Ash; Moisture; Sodium; Phosphate;
pH; Calcium; Potassium; Iron; Magnesium
PT-MT-732 Lyophilised meat 30g Nitrate; Nitrite 4
PT-MT-733 Meat 150g Hydroxyproline; Starch; Total fat; Saturates; 4
Monounsaturates; Poly-unsaturates; Total trans
fatty acids;
PT-MT-734 Fish 150g Fat; Protein; Salt; Ash; Moisture; pH; Fat (High) 4
PT-MT-735 Lyophilised meat 10g Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration of 4
Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms; Escherichia coli;
PT-MT-736 Lyophilised meat 25g Detection of Salmonella species; 4
PT-MT-737 Lyophilised meat 25g Detection of Listeria species; Listeria 4
monocytogenes; Identification of Listeria
species
PT-MT-738 Lyophilised meat 10g Total anaerobic mesophilic count; 4
Enumeration of Clostridium perfringens;
Sulphite reducing bacteria;
Coagulase positive staphylococci
PT-MT-739 Lyophilised fish or shellfish Vial + 10g Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration of 2
sample Enterobacteriaceae; Escherichia coli; Coagulase
positive staphylococci; Coliforms
PT-MT-740 Lyophilised fish or shellfish Vial + 25g Detection of Salmonella species 2
sample

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-MT-731 - Meat-Based Sample

This is normally either a raw meat used in the production of burgers or sausages, or a cooked/
processed meat product. This sample tends to represent meat products more routinely consumed
in the northern hemisphere, whilst sample 730 (cured meats) represents those more commonly
found in the southern hemisphere.
18 analytes in one sample
4 Rounds per Year

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
30 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-MT-741 Shellfish 50g Total Arsenic; Cadmium; Zinc; Mercury; 2

Lead; Phosphorus
PT-MT-742 Fish 50g Total Arsenic; Cadmium; Zinc; Mercury; 2
Lead; Phosphorus; Methyl mercury
PT-MT-743 Lyophilised meat Vial + 25g Detection of Campylobacter species in 10g; 2
sample Campylobacter species in 25g
PT-MT-744 Lyophilised meat Vial +25g Detection of Escherichia coli O157 2
sample
PT-MT-745 Lyophilised fish or shellfish Vial + 25g Detection of Vibrio species; 2
sample Vibrio parahaemolyticus
PT-MT-746 Lyophilised meat 10g Enumeration of Pseudomonas species; Lactic 4
acid bacteria; Yeast; Mould; Yeast and Mould
PT-MT-747 Meat 50g Total Arsenic; Cadmium; Zinc; Mercury; Lead 2
PT-MT-748 Fish 150g Histamine; Total volatile nitrogen (TVN); 3
Trimethylamine (TMA)
PT-MT-749 Meat 1 x set of 2 Meat authenticity; Species stated to be 4
samples screened for presence of other species of meat,
(2g each) e.g. chicken, pork, horse, beef, lamb.; Analytes
will vary each round.
PT-MT-752 Fish 4 x 20g Fish species identification 2
PT-MT-754 Freeze-dried prawn 10g Detection of Listeria and Listeria monocytogene 1
PT-MT-755 Meat 100g Ractopamine 1
PT-MT-756 Meat 2 x vial + 1 x Quantitative Package: Total aerobic mesophilic 4
mínimum count; Enumeration of Total coliforms;
20g matrix Enterobacteriaceae; Escherichia coli; Bacillus
cereus; Coagulase positive staphylococci; Yeast;
Mould; Yeast and Mould; Detection of coagulase
positive staphylococci
PT-MT-757 Meat 2 x vial + 1 x Qualitative Package 4
mínimum Detection of Escherichia coli O157 (non-
200g matrix toxigenic strain); Listeria species; Listeria
monocytogenes; Salmonella species
Identification of Listeria species;
Salmonella species
PT-MT-758 Lyophilised meat 10g Enumeration of aerobic psychrotrophs 1
PT-MT-759 Lyophilised meat 10g Enumeration of Listeria species; Listeria 2
monocytogenes
PT-MT-763 Meat Powder 375g Detection of Salmonella species 1
PT-MT-764 Meat Powder 125g Detection of Listeria sp. and Listeria 1
PT-MT-765 Fish/meat 30g Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA); 1
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA); Perfluorohexane
sulfonic acid
(PFHxS); Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS);
Sum of 4 PFAS

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 31
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

NEW
Offal 50g Total Arsenic; Cadmium; Mercury; Lead 1
PT-MT-766

ENHANCED
Fish 150g Fat (High) 4
PT-MT-734

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
32 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Dairy Chemistry
QDCS

“Covering a wide range of analytes

from aflatoxins to antibiotics…”

Analytical testing is vital in assuring that dairy products

such as milk, infant formula, whey, cream, and cheese are
free from contaminants and adulterants before they
reach customers.
The AXIO Proficiency Testing Dairy Chemistry Scheme
(QDCS) is suitable for laboratories using both traditional
and modern instrumental techniques for dairy analysis, and
provides samples to cover a wide spectrum of established
and emerging matrices – including yogurts, freeze-dried,
skimmed and powdered goods, plus hard and soft cheeses.
The range of analytes included is also extensive: from
aflatoxins to vitamins, energy content to natamycin, and
antibiotics to Staphylococcal enterotoxins. Successful
participation in QDCS is an essential part of developing a
quality system to ensure that your laboratory’s results are
both accurate and meaningful.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 33
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-CH-27 Skimmed milk 250ml Fat 0.10% to 0.50% 4

PT-CH-28 Milk 250ml Protein 3.0% to 4.0%; Calcium; Total Solids; 4
Lactose
PT-CH-29 HCl solution 125ml Titratable Acidity 4
PT-CH-31 Freeze dried milk 2 x 10ml Phosphatase 4
PT-CH-32A Milk 250ml pH 4
PT-CH-32B Buffer solution 250ml pH 4
PT-CH-35 Potassium hydrogen 100ml COD 4
phthalate
PT-CH-36 Butter 250g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Salt; Sodium; Moisture; 4
pH; Solids-non-fat (SNF)
PT-CH-37 Hard cheese 100g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Protein; Salt; Sodium; 4
Moisture; pH; Cholesterol; Calcium; Lactose; Ash
PT-CH-38A Skimmed milk powder 120g Moisture; Ash; Scorched Particles; pH 4
PT-CH-38B Whey powder 120g Moisture; Scorched particles; Fat; Protein; Ash; 4
Lactose; Galactose; pH
PT-CH-39 Whipping cream 240g Fat 30% to 40%; Titratable Acidity; Protein; 4
Dry Matter
PT-CH-40 Semi skimmed milk 250ml Fat 1.2% to 2.0% 4
PT-CH-42 Whole milk powder/ Infant 20g Elements: Minerals (Chloride; Fe; Mg; Mn; P; Zn) 2
milk powder Calcium (Ca); Potassium (K); Copper (Cu);
Sodium (Na)
PT-CH-43 Whey protein concentrate 120g Fat; Protein; Moisture; Ash; pH; Bulk Density; 2
Lactose; Insolubility Index
PT-CH-44 CH336: Whole milk powder 20g Vitamins A; B12; C; D; E 2
CH342: Infant milk powder
PT-CH-51 Skimmed milk powder 120g Fat; Protein; WPNI; Titratable Acidity 4
(rehydrated); Titratable acidity (milk powder);
Insolubility Index; pH
PT-CH-52 Whole milk powder 120g Fat; Protein; Moisture; WPNI; Titratable acidity 4
(rehydrated); Titratable acidity (milk powder);
Insolubility Index; pH
PT-CH-53 Single cream 240g Fat 12% to 25% 4
PT-CH-54 Double cream 240g Fat 40% to 50% 4
PT-CH-55 Whole milk 250ml Fat 2.8% to 5.0% 4

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-CH-56 - Whole Milk

This sample focuses on titratable acidity and freezing point depression. For fresh milk, the acidity
is mainly due to the presence of phosphates, casein and carbon dioxide. However, as the milk
sours, lactic acid is formed due principally to the action of organisms such as STREPTOCOCCUS on
the lactose. Therefore, as milk sours the acidity will gradually increase, and titratable acidity can be
used as a quick test to determine the freshness of milk. Freezing point depression is a test used to
determine if any added or extraneous water is present in milk as, once cattle have been milked, the
product should not be adulterated or diluted by watering down. In most laboratories a ‘Thermistor
cryoscope’ is used for this purpose.
50 participants on average 4 Rounds per Year

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
34 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-CH-56 Milk 250ml Titratable Acidity; FPD 4

PT-CH-58 Yogurt 100g Energy; Fat; Protein; Salt; Sodium; Total solids; 4
pH; Calcium
PT-CH-59 Soft cheese 100g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Protein; Salt; Sodium; 4
Moisture; pH; Cholesterol; Calcium; Lactose;
Ash; Total dietary fibre
PT-CH-60 Freeze dried milk 25ml Aflatoxin M1 1
PT-CH-62 Soft cheese 70g Aflatoxin M1 1
PT-CH-63 Cheese powder 100g Salt; Moisture; pH; Fat; Protein; Ash; Sodium; 2
Colour
PT-CH-65 Milk Powder 50g Nitrate; Nitrite 2
PT-CH-66 Condensed milk 100g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Carbohydrate; Total 1
sugars; Protein; Salt; Sodium; pH
PT-CH-67 Processed cheese 100g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Cholesterol; 2
Carbohydrate; Total sugars; Protein; Salt;
Sodium; Moisture; Sorbic acid; Lactose;
Calcium; Phosphorus, pH
PT-CH-68 Freeze-dried cheese 2 x 50g Staphylococcal enterotoxins 2
PT-CH-70 Freeze dried milk 2 x 5ml Antibiotics (beta lactams) 4
PT-CH-71 Freeze dried milk 2 x 5ml Antibiotics (sulphonamides) 4
PT-CH-72 Freeze dried milk 2 x 5ml Antibiotics (tetracyclines) 4
PT-CH-73 Grated cheese 25g Natamycin 1
PT-CH-74 Infant formula 10g Lead; Cadmium; Arsenic; Mercury; Nickel 1
PT-CH-75 Liquid infant formula 150-200ml Density 1
Fat; Saturates; Carbohydrate; Total sugars; Net
PT-CH-76 Infant formula 150g 1
carbohydrates; Protein; Salt; Fibre;

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

NEW
Skimmed/non-fat milk 250ml Protein; Calcium; Total solids; Lactose 1
PT-CH-77

NEW
Butter 50g 2,3 butanedione (diacetyl) 1
PT-CH-78

ENHANCED
Processed cheese 100g pH 2
PT-CH-67

ENHANCED
Infant Formula 10g Nickel 1
PT-CH-74

ENHANCED
Infant Formula 150g Galacto-Oligosaccharide (GOS) 1
PT-CH-76

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Chocolate & Cocoa

QCS

“Confidence with the challenge of

chocolate testing”

Ensuring the safety and quality of chocolate and cocoa

products is particularly challenging. In mature markets
like Europe, regulators set clear rules and definitions for
the composition, manufacture, packaging, and labelling
of chocolate and cocoa products. When producers fail
to meet those standards, mass recalls tend to make the
news and provoke an emotive response amongst devoted
consumers – leading to significant damage to both brand
reputation and to the bottom line.
Guaranteeing product safety is also becoming more
difficult for company laboratories – not just because of
innate compositional factors such as high sugar and fat
content, but also due to uncertain growing and cultivation
conditions that potentially increase the concentration of
certain analytical parameters, and the rise in popularity
of organic, raw and unprocessed ranges. Covering both
raw and finished products, and with more than half of
samples supplied as cocoa powder, the AXIO Chocolate
& Cocoa Scheme (QCS) is specifically designed to meet
the industry’s particular demands – and provide our
global network of laboratories with confidence in the
measurement and accuracy of their results.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
36 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-CT-710 Grated chocolate 2 x 25g Detection of Salmonella species 3

PT-CT-713 Cocoa powder 10g Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration 2
of Enterococci; Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms;
Yeast; Mould
PT-CT-714 Cocoa powder 2 x 25g Detection of Salmonella species 3
PT-CT-715 Chocolate 150g Water activity; Moisture; Energy; Fat; Saturates; 3
Total nitrogen; Carbohydrate; Total sugars;
Fructose; Glucose; Sucrose; Salt (from sodium);
Sodium; Butyric acid; Theobromine; Total
dietary fibre; Lactose
PT-CT-716 Cocoa powder 150g Energy; Fat; Saturates; Total nitrogen; 3
Carbohydrate; Total sugars; Fructose; Glucose;
Sucrose; Salt (from sodium); Sodium; Ash;
Moisture; Theobromine; Caffeine; pH
PT-CT-717 Chocolate 10g Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration 2
of Enterococci; Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms;
Yeast; Mould
PT-CT-718 Cocoa powder 10g Total Arsenic; Cadmium; Lead; Nickel 1
PT-CT-719 Dark chocolate 20g Cadmium; Lead; Iron; Calcium; Chromium; Nickel 1
PT-CT-720 Cocoa powder 375g Detection of Salmonella species 1

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

NEW
Cocoa liquor 25g Detection of Salmonella species 1
PT-CT-721

Total aerobic mesophilic count;

NEW
Cocoa liquor 10g Enumeration of Enterococci; 1
PT-CT-722
Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms; Yeast; Mould

ENHANCED
Cocoa powder 10g Nickel 2
PT-CT-718

ENHANCED
Dark chocolate 20g Nickel 1
PT-CT-719

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 37
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Animal Feed
AFPS

“Constantly evolving to meet new

industry challenges”

Animal feed is tightly regulated, not least because many

animals and their products are ultimately destined for
consumption by humans.
The AXIO Animal Feed Scheme (AFPS) offers a broad range of
samples and analytes to help testing laboratories establish
a comprehensive quality system, maintain high analytical
standards, and avoid costly product recalls (such as when
animal feed contamination reaches the human food chain).
Additional samples are frequently added to the range,
many of which link to those in our Food Chemistry scheme.
Our range of matrices is also extensive – from cattle – and
fish-feed to silage and pet food.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
38 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-AF-01 Animal feed 125g Moisture; Crude protein; Crude fat; Crude ash;
Ash insoluble in hydrochloric acid; Sugars;
4
Crude fibre; Starch; ADF; NDF; PPD; pH; Calorific
value
PT-AF-02 Animal feed 125g Arsenic; Cadmium; Calcium; Chloride; 4
Chromium; Cobalt; Copper; Iron; Lead;
Magnesium; Manganese; Mercury; Phosphorus;
Potassium; Selenium; Sodium; Zinc
PT-AF-05 Animal feed 125g Aflatoxins B1; B2; G1; G2; Total Aflatoxins; Ochratoxin A 2
PT-AF-06AF Simulated animal feed 2 x 10ml vial Detection of Salmonella species 2
+ min. 50g
matrix
PT-AF-06KB Petfood kibble 2 x 10ml vial Detection of Salmonella species 1
+ min. 50g
matrix
PT-AF-07AF Simulated animal feed 10g Total viable count Enumeration of 2
Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms; Escherichia coli;
Lactic acid bacteria
PT-AF-07KB Petfood kibble 10g + 10ml Total viable count; Enumeration of 1
vial Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms; Escherichia coli;
Lactic acid bacteria
PT-AF-08 Premix 125g Arsenic; Cadmium; Calcium; Chloride; 1
Chromium; Cobalt; Copper; Iron; Lead;
Magnesium; Manganese; Mercury; Phosphorus;
Potassium; Selenium; Sodium; Zinc
PT-AF-09 Wet Pet Food 125g Moisture; Crude protein; Crude fat; Crude ash; 1
Ash insoluble in hydrochloric acid; Sugars;
Crude fibre; Starch; pH
PT-AF-10 Simulated animal feed 10g Enumeration of Clostridium perfringens 2
Clostridium species; Sulphite-reducing
Clostridia; Total anaerobic count
PT-AF-11 Simulated animal feed 25g Detection of Listeria monocytogenes; Listeria species 2
PT-AF-13 Fish feed 125g Energy; Moisture; Crude protein; Crude fat; 1
Crude ash; Crude fibre; pH
PT-AF-15 Simulated animal feed 10g Enumeration of coagulase positive staphylococci; 2
Bacillus cereus; Yeast; Mould; Yeast and Mould
PT-AF-18 Copra oil 50g Peroxide value; Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA); 1
Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-AF-01 - Proximate Analysis

This proficiency test is for the nutritional analysis of commercial animal feed foodstuff, typically used in
the farming industry. Examples would include cattle, pig and poultry feed. The aim is to cover analytes
and tests required to ensure these products are fit for use and compliant with legislation.
13 analytes in one sample
4 Rounds per Year

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 39
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Shiga Toxin E.coli

STEC

“Helping your laboratory detect the

‘Big Six’ – and more”
Most E.coli strains are harmless and can live in the human
gut without any issues. However, Shiga toxin-producing
E.coli (STEC) strains can cause serious illness, and
therefore testing for them in foods that may be at risk of
contamination is a common requirement around the world.
Our Shiga Toxin E. Coli Scheme (STEC) includes all of the
most common internationally tested STEC serovars. Unlike
other proficiency testing providers, we provide real STEC
strains for O26, O45, O103, O111, O121 and O145 –
known as ‘the big six’ in the USA – as well as O157:H7.
Testing includes detection and identification of the STEC
present in the samples.
Participating in the STEC scheme also enables laboratories
performing microbiological analysis of meat, food, and
dairy products to monitor their performance and compare
it with that of their peers. Additionally, we aim to provide
information to participants on technical issues and
methodologies relating to these types of testing.

This product is shipped from the United States as UN2814 Category A

Infectious Substances, for which many countries have special import
requirements. You must ensure that you are able to receive UN2814 and have
any necessary permits prior to submitting an application.
An export licence is required to ship to your laboratory if you are situated in
a country that is not part of the Australia Group. For customers who are not
located in a country that is part of the Australia Group, please ensure your
order is placed at least 16 weeks prior to the despatch date to allow sufficient
time to apply for a licence. Please contact your LGC office to confirm shipping
ability to your facility and to receive additional documents to be completed to
apply for the export licence. Export licences are granted by the US government
and as such, LGC cannot guarantee the receipt of an export licence prior to a
specific round.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
40 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-SC-01D Milk Powder 2 x pellets + 2 Detection of E.coli O157; Detection of STEC 4

x 25g (O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, O145, O157);
Identification of STEC serovar (O26, O45, O103,
O111, O121, O145, O157)

PT-SC-01M Powdered beef 2 x pellets + 2 Detection of E.coli O157; Detection of STEC 4

x 25g (O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, O145, O157);
Identification of STEC serovar (O26, O45, O103,
O111, O121, O145, O157)

PT-SC-02M Powdered beef 2 x pellets + 2 Detection of E.coli O157; Detection of STEC 1

x 375g (O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, O145, O157);
Identification of STEC serovar (O26, O45, O103,
O111, O121, O145, O157)

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Gelatine
QGS

“Suitable for all industries testing

gelatine”

The extensive use of gelatine in industries such as food,

pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, photography and printing
presents analytical laboratories with chemical, physical,
and microbiological challenges.
Our Gelatine Scheme (QGS) was developed with the help
of the Gelatine Manufacturers of Europe (GME) trade body,
and is suitable for use by any laboratory involved in testing
gelatine. The scheme provides test materials in gelatine
and gelatine hydrolysate matrices that represent a realistic
challenge for laboratories, with relevant chemical, physical,
and microbial tests.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
42 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-GL-601 Gelatine 25g Detection of Salmonella species 2

PT-GL-602 Gelatine 10g Total aerobic mesophilic count; Detection of 2
Coliforms; Escherichia coli; Enterobacteriaceae

PT-GL-603 Gelatine 10g Detection of Clostridium perfringens; 2

Enumeration of Sulphite-reducing bacteria
PT-GL-604 Gelatine 10g Detection of Staphylococcus aureus 2
PT-GL-605 Gelatine 10g Enumeration of mesophilic anaerobic spores 2
PT-GL-606 Gelatine 100g Ash; Gel strength (Bloom); Isoelectric point; 2
Moisture; pH; Viscosity
PT-GL-607 Gelatine 10g Enumeration of Yeast; Mould; Yeast and Mould 1

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 43
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Beverage Schemes
AXIO Proficiency Testing has a comprehensive
range of schemes for the beverage industry
covering all aspects of production, from raw
materials to finished products. Our beverage
schemes cover routine and advanced analysis
performed by many laboratories in the alcoholic
and non-alcoholic sectors.
Ensuring the highest quality and consistency
for global brands ultimately depends upon the
quality of the laboratory results as the basis
for key decisions about product quality and
safety. By participating in our global proficiency
testing schemes, you are provided with a truly
independent assessment of measurement
quality, providing confidence in the accuracy
of your results and, ultimately, the quality of
your product.

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Schemes available
Brewing Analytes Soft Drinks & Fruit Juice
BAPS QBS

Alcoholic Drinks Sugars

DAPS SUPS

Malt Analytes
MAPS

NEW Beverage PT sample

for 2025

Sample
Sample Code Analytes
Name

PT-BA-10 Bisphenol A in Beer Bisphenol A

PT-BA-11 PFAS in Beer Perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA);
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA);
Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA);
Perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA);
Perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA);
Perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA);
Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS);
Perfluoroheptane sulfonic acid (PFHpS);
Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS); GenX
(HFPO-DA); NaDONA; 11Cl- PF3ONS; 9Cl-
PF3ONS
PT-BV-529 Quinine in Beverage Quinine
PT-BV-530 Analysis of Fruit concentrate Brix; Acidity (expressed as citric acid
monohydrate); pH
PT-BV-531 Colour of Beverages Colour L; Colour a; Colour b

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Brewing Analytes
BAPS

“Supporting micro-breweries and

global brands since 1989”

A long-standing partnership between LGC AXIO

Proficiency Testing and Campden BRI, our Brewing
Analytes Scheme (BAPS) aims to promote quality in the
measurement of chemical, microbiological and sensory
analytes in beer. Having begun in 1989, BAPS is our second-
longest-running proficiency testing programme, and
supports the testing and quality systems of many of the
world’s key breweries.
Wherever they are in the world, consumers of beers expect
their drinks to consistently look and taste the same.
Brewers continuously aim to meet those high expectations,
but maintaining and confirming the quality and reliability
of a given product is challenging for both the production
facilities and quality control laboratories.
Microbiological test materials supplied to laboratories
participating in BAPS contain organisms typically
encountered in the brewing industry – and help assess
factors such as the identity of organisms, lactic acid
bacteria count and wild yeast count. Meanwhile our
chemical samples support fundamental analyses including
alcohol content, colour, pH, bitterness and carbon dioxide,
as well as sugar and sulfur dioxide, and specialised alcohol-
free, low alcohol and gluten testing.
Participation in BAPS can provide laboratories with the
confidence that their results are meaningful and accurate –
which in turn helps to ensure consistency in beer quality, as
well as brand integrity.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

46 lgcstandards.com/AXIO
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-BA-01B Ale (Bitter) 4 x cans/ Chemical analysis of a range of key brewing 4

bottles 440ml analytes that are routinely analysed in the
or greater brewing industry
PT-BA-01L Lager 4 x cans/ Chemical analysis of a range of key brewing 12
bottles 440ml analytes that are routinely analysed in the
or greater brewing industry
PT-BA-02L Lager 4 x cans/ Chemical analysis of a range of additional 12
bottles 440ml analytes that complement those provided by
or greater sample 1L/B.
PT-BA-03 Ale 1 x can/bottle Chemical analysis (ABV; Bitterness; Colour; Tetra 12
330ml or iso-acids; Free Diacetyl; Total Diacetyl; Free
greater 2,3-Pentanedione; Total VDK)
PT-BA-04 Lyophilised test material 2 x 10ml Total aerobic microbial count; Total anaerobic 6
microbial count; Total aerobic bacterial count;
Identity of Organism; Enumeration of wild yeast;
lactic acid bacteria
PT-BA-05 Lager/ale (Bitter) 4 x cans/ Evaluation of aroma and taste characteristics 12
bottles 330ml by sensory panels
or greater
PT-BA-07A Alcohol free beer 2 x cans/ 2 x cans/bottles 2
bottles 330mL 330mL or greater
or greater
PT-BA-07B Low alcohol beer 2 x cans/ Chemical analysis (ABV; Apparent gravity; 2
bottles 330mL Bitterness; Colour; pH)
or greater
PT-BA-08 Beer 2 x cans/ Low level gluten beer for Chemical Analysis 2
bottles 330ml
or greater
PT-BA-09 Stout ale for Chemical 8 x cans/ Alcohol by Volume; Original Gravity; Original 6
Analysis bottles Extract; Apparent Gravity (Present Gravity);
440ml or Present Gravity; Attenuation Limit; Remainder (PG
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT greater – Attenuation Limit); Acidity; Bitterness (factor =
50); Colour @ 430 nm; pH; Carbon Dioxide; Total
Diacetyl; Total VDK; Turbidity; Foam stability (HRV)

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

NEW Beer 50ml Bisphenol A 1

PT-BA-10

NEW Beer 50ml Perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA); 1

PT-BA-11 Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA);
Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA);
Perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA);
Perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA);
Perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA);
Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS);
Perfluoroheptane sulfonic acid (PFHpS);
Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS); GenX
(HFPO-DA); NaDONA; 11Cl- PF3ONS; 9Cl-PF3ONS

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-BA-04 - Level 4 Microbiology

Enumeration and identification of beer-specific microorganisms.
150-250 participants per round.
6 Rounds per Year

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 47
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Alcoholic Drinks
DAPS

“From whisky to wine, DAPS

helps to ensure consistency,
safety and quality”

The AXIO Alcoholic Drinks Scheme (DAPS) covers a wide

range of alcohol-containing products – including whisky, dark
and light spirits, cream and non-cream liqueurs, wines, ciders,
fruit-based alcoholic beverages, and ready-to-drink cocktails.
Whilst alcohol content testing remains key for many
laboratories, DAPS features many other types of analysis that
affect the flavour and safety of alcoholic drinks – including
sugars, gravity, original gravity, colour, higher alcohols,
ethyl carbamate, NDMA, cask extractives and fatty acid
esters. The scheme encompasses heavily-regulated products
like whisky, and the specialised testing required for drinks
such as cider and wine.
Successful participation in DAPS can help safeguard your
laboratory’s analytical performance and deliver consistently
safe and high-quality drinks, as well as protecting brand value
and customer loyalty.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 48
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-DP-A1 Fermented wort 500ml Alcohol; Final Gravity; Original Gravity; pH; 4
Residual Fermentable Sugars; Residual Gravity
PT-DP-A2 Simulated wort 250ml Alcohol; Final Gravity; Original Gravity; Residual 4
Fermentable Sugars; Residual Gravity
PT-DP-B1 Scotch whisky 300ml 2 + 3 Methylbutanol; 2-Methylbutanol; 4
2-Phenethyl Acetate; 2-Phenethyl Ethanol;
3-Methylbutanol; 5-Hydroxymethyl-2-furfural;
Acetal; Acetaldehyde; Actual Alcoholic Strength;
Apparent Alcoholic Strength; Calcium; Chill
Difference; Colour; Coniferaldehyde; Copper;
Density (20°C); Ellagic Acid; Ethyl acetate; Ethyl
carbamate; Ethyl Decanoate; Ethyl Dodecanoate;
Ethyl Hexadecanoate; Ethyl hexanoate; Ethyl
Octanoate; Ethyl Tetradecanoate; Ethyl-9-
Hexadecenoate; Fixed Acidity; Fructose; Furfural;
Gallic Acid; Glucose; Iron; Iso-Amyl Acetate;
Isobutanol; Magnesium; Methanol; n-Butanol;
n-Propanol; Nitrosodimethylamine; pH;
Potassium; Refractive Index (20°C); Scopoletin;
Sinapaldehyde; Sodium; Specific gravity (20°C);
Sucrose; Syringaldehyde; Syringic Acid; Total
Acidity; Total Solids; Total sugars; Turbidity (Haze);
Vanillic Acid; Vanillin
PT-DP-B2-A Bourbon 300ml 2 + 3 Methylbutanol; 2-Methylbutanol; 1
3-Methylbutanol; Acetal; Acetaldehyde; Acetic
Acid; Actual Alcoholic Strength; Apparent
Alcoholic Strength; Calcium; Colour; Copper;
Ethyl acetate; Fixed Acidity; Fructose; Furfural;
Glucose; Iron; Iso-Amyl Acetate; Iso-Butanol;
Magnesium; Methanol; n-Butanol; n-Propanol;
NDMA; pH; Potassium; Sodium; Sucrose; Total
Acidity; Total sugars; Turbidity (Haze)
PT-DP-B2-B Dark Rum 300ml 2 + 3 Methylbutanol; 2-Methylbutanol; 1
3-Methylbutanol; Acetal; Acetaldehyde; Acetic
Acid; Actual Alcoholic Strength; Apparent
Alcoholic Strength; Calcium; Colour; Copper;
Ethyl acetate; Fixed Acidity; Fructose; Furfural;
Glucose; Iron; Iso-Amyl Acetate; Iso-Butanol;
Magnesium; Methanol; n-Butanol; n-Propanol;
NDMA; pH; Potassium; Sodium; Sucrose; Total
Acidity; Total sugars; Turbidity (Haze)
PT-DP-B2-C Brandy 300ml 2 + 3 Methylbutanol; 2-Methylbutanol; 1
3-Methylbutanol; Acetal; Acetaldehyde; Acetic
Acid; Actual Alcoholic Strength; Apparent
Alcoholic Strength; Calcium; Colour; Copper;
Ethyl acetate; Fixed Acidity; Fructose; Furfural;
Glucose; Iron; Iso-Amyl Acetate; Iso-Butanol;
Magnesium; Methanol; n-Butanol; n-Propanol;
NDMA; pH; Potassium; Sodium; Sucrose; Total
Acidity; Total sugars; Turbidity (Haze)
PT-DP-B2-D Irish Whisky 300ml 2 + 3 Methylbutanol; 2-Methylbutanol; 1
3-Methylbutanol; Acetal; Acetaldehyde; Acetic
Acid; Actual Alcoholic Strength; Apparent
Alcoholic Strength; Calcium; Colour; Copper;
Ethyl acetate; Fixed Acidity; Fructose; Furfural;
Glucose; Iron; Iso-Amyl Acetate; Iso-Butanol;
Magnesium; Methanol; n-Butanol; n-Propanol;
NDMA; pH; Potassium; Sodium; Sucrose; Total
Acidity; Total sugars; Turbidity (Haze)
PT-DP-B3-A Gin 300ml 2 + 3 Methylbutanol; 2-Methylbutanol; 1
3-Methylbutanol; Acetal; Acetaldehyde; Acetic
Acid; Actual Alcoholic Strength; Apparent
Alcoholic Strength; Calcium; Colour; Copper;
Ethyl acetate; Fixed Acidity; Fructose; Furfural;
Glucose; Iron; Iso-Amyl Acetate; Iso-Butanol;
Linalool; Magnesium; Methanol; n-Butanol;
n-Propanol; NDMA; pH; Potassium; Refractive
Index (20°C); Sodium; Specific gravity (20°C);
Sucrose; Terpinene-4-ol (gin only); Total Acidity;
Total sugars; Turbidity

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-DP-B3-B Vodka 300ml 2 + 3 Methylbutanol; 2-Methylbutanol; 2

3-Methylbutanol; Acetal; Acetaldehyde; Acetic
Acid; Actual Alcoholic Strength; Apparent
Alcoholic Strength; Calcium; Colour; Copper;
Ethyl acetate; Fixed Acidity; Fructose; Furfural;
Glucose; Iron; Iso-Amyl Acetate; Iso-Butanol;
Linalool; Magnesium; Methanol; n-Butanol;
n-Propanol; NDMA; pH; Potassium; Refractive
Index (20°C); Sodium; Specific gravity (20°C);
Sucrose; Terpinene-4-ol (gin only); Total Acidity;
Total sugars; Turbidity
PT-DP-B3-C White Rum 300ml 2 + 3 Methylbutanol; 2-Methylbutanol; 1
3-Methylbutanol; Acetal; Acetaldehyde; Acetic
Acid; Actual Alcoholic Strength; Apparent
Alcoholic Strength; Calcium; Colour; Copper;
Ethyl acetate; Fixed Acidity; Fructose; Furfural;
Glucose; Iron; Iso-Amyl Acetate; Iso-Butanol;
Linalool; Magnesium; Methanol; n-Butanol;
n-Propanol; NDMA; pH; Potassium; Refractive
Index (20°C); Sodium; Specific gravity (20°C);
Sucrose; Terpinene-4-ol (gin only); Total Acidity;
Total sugars; Turbidity
PT-DP-B4 Simulated spirit 250ml Actual Alcoholic Strength; Apparent Alcoholic 4
Strength; Citric Acid; Ethyl carbamate;
Fructose; Glucose; Glycerol; Maltose;
Nitrosodimethylamine; pH; Propylene glycol;
Sucrose; Total sugars
PT-DP-B5 Non chill filtered whisky 100ml 2-Phenethyl Acetate; 2-Phenethyl Ethanol; 2
Ethyl Decanoate; Ethyl Dodecanoate; Ethyl
Hexadecanoate; Ethyl hexanoate; Ethyl Linoleate;
Ethyl Linolenate; Ethyl Octadecanoate’ Ethyl
Octanoate; Ethyl Oleate; Ethyl Tetradecanoate;
Ethyl-9-Hexadecenoate
PT-DP-C1 Ciders 2 bottles Actual Alcoholic Strength; Carbon Dioxide; 4
or cans Colour; Haze; pH; Specific Gravity; Total Acidity;
Total Sulfur Dioxide; Volatile Acidity
PT-DP-D1 White or Rosé wine 500ml Actual Alcoholic Strength; Ascorbic acid (Vitamin 4
C); Citric Acid; Colour; Copper; Free Sulfur
dioxide; Fructose; Glucose; Iron; Lactic acid; Malic
Acid; pH; Reducing Sugars; Sorbic Acid (as free
acid); Specific Gravity; Total Acidity; Total Sulfur
dioxide; Volatile Acidity
PT-DP-D2 Red wine 500ml Actual Alcoholic Strength; Ascorbic acid (Vitamin 4
C); Citric Acid; Colour; Copper; Free Sulfur
dioxide; Fructose; Glucose; Iron; Lactic acid; Malic
Acid; pH; Reducing Sugars; Sorbic Acid (as free
acid); Specific Gravity; Total Acidity; Total Sulfur
dioxide; Volatile Acidity
PT-DP-E1 Ready to drink 2 bottles Actual Alcoholic Strength; Benzoic acid; Carbon 4
or cans Dioxide; Citric Acid; Colour absorbance: Density
(20°C); Dissolved Oxygen; pH; Sorbic Acid (as free
acid); Specific Gravity; Total Acidity; Total Brix;
Total sugars; Volatile Acidity
PT-DP-E2 Liqueur 300ml 2 + 3 Methylbutanol; Acetaldehyde; Actual 4
Alcoholic Strength; Ethyl acetate; Iso-Amyl
Acetate; Iso-butanol; Methanol; n-Butanol;
n-Propanol; pH; Residue; Specific Gravity; Total
Acidity; Total Brix
PT-DP-E3 Cream liqueur 300ml Actual alcoholic strength; pH; Specific gravity 2

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
50 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 51
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Malt Analytes
MAPS

“Enabling accurate analysis of a

complex product”

A complex ingredient, malt is at the heart of the distilling

and brewing processes: providing most of the sugars and
complex carbohydrates that produce alcohol and flavour
in the final product.
Meeting demanding specifications laid down by brewers
and distillers is critical to any maltster’s business, and
depends greatly on the quality of the malting barley.
Accurate laboratory analysis is therefore essential,
since it will ultimately decide if the malt is suitable for
use in production.
LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing has designed the Malt
Analytes Scheme (MAPS) to help your laboratory
meet the specific challenges associated with malts.
MAPS supports European Brewing Convention (EBC),
American Society of Brewing Chemists (ASBC), and
Institute of Brewing and Distilling (IBD) methods, and
also provides a wide spectrum of samples – including raw
and malted barleys, dark and crystal malts, plus malted
wheat and other cereals. Specialised samples and target
analytes include high diastatic power malt and potential
contaminants (mycotoxins, NDMA).

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
52 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-MP-01 Malt 2 x 1000ml Brewers and distiller malt for chemical analysis 12
PT-MP-02 Barley 1 x 1000ml Barley for chemical analysis 12
PT-MP-03 Malt flour 2 x 100g Malt flour for mycotoxin analysis 4
(Ochratoxin A; Deoxynivalenol)
PT-MP-04A Black Malt 1 x 300ml Black malt for chemical analysis 2
(Moisture; Colour)
PT-MP-04B Crystal malt 1 x 300ml Crystal malt for chemical analysis (Moisture; 2
Colour; Degrees of crystallisation)
PT-MP-05 Malt flour 1 x 200g Malt flour for NDMA analysis 2
PT-MP-06 Malt 1 x 1000ml High diastatic power malt for chemical analysis 2
PT-MP-07 Wheat 1 x 1000ml Malted wheat for chemical analysis 2

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

ENHANCED Crystal malt for chemical analysis

Crystal malt 1 x 300ml 2
PT-MP-04B (Dry matter extract)

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Soft Drinks & Fruit Juice

QBS

“Meeting the needs of

microbiologists and chemists in
the soft drinks sector”

The soft drinks and fruit juice industry faces considerable

challenges in meeting expectations that products comply
with exacting standards around the world. Contamination
from microorganisms, chemicals, and foreign matter can
all compromise product quality – and lead to ‘out-of-
specification’ products that result in product disposal,
lost production and considerable associated costs.
The LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing Beverages Scheme
(QBS) is tailored to support the needs of chemists and
microbiologists working on the compliance, safety, and
quality of soft drinks, fruit juices, and carbonated drinks.
Covering nutritional, elemental and vitamin analysis in
addition to quality and microbiology, the QBS scheme
features a wide range of samples designed to help your
laboratory ensure that products are manufactured to the
highest standards.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
54 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-BV-500 Fruit juice 1 x vial of Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration 4

lyophilised of Yeast; Mould; Lactic acid bacteria; Total
material; 1 x acidophilic flora; Detection of Escherichia coli
10ml primary
diluent;
1 x 90ml
secondary
diluent
PT-BV-501 Soft drink 1 x vial of Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration 4
lyophilised of Yeast; Mould; Lactic acid bacteria; Total
material; 1 x acidophilic flora; Detection of Escherichia coli
10ml primary
diluent;
1 x 90ml
secondary
diluent
PT-BV-505 Filtration 1 x vial of Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration 2
lyophilised of Yeast; Mould; Lactic acid bacteria; Total
material acidophilic flora; Detection of Escherichia coli
(diluent not
supplied)
PT-BV-506 Lyophilised test material 1 x vial of Enumeration of Thermophilic acidophilic 1
lyophilised bacteria (Alicyclobacillus spp); Detection
material of Guaiacol producing thermophilic
(diluent not acidophilic bacteria
supplied)
PT-BV-507 Fruit juice 1 x vial of Detection of Salmonella species; Listeria 1
lyophilised monocytogenes; Escherichia coli O157
material;
1 x 100ml
simulated
fruit juice
PT-BV-510 Fruit juice 125ml Brix; Acidity (as Citric Acid Monohydrate); 4
pH; Fructose; Glucose; Calcium; Phosphorus;
Potassium; Magnesium; Sodium
PT-BV-514 Liquid test material 100ml Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) 4
PT-BV-515 Carbonated drinks 2 x 330ml Brix; Acidity (as Citric Acid Monohydrate); pH; 4
Carbon Dioxide; Fructose; Glucose; Sucrose
PT-BV-516 Carbonated drinks 2 x 250ml Sample A: Benzoic Acid; Caffeine; Sulfur 4
Dioxide (Free and Total); Sorbic Acid (as free
acid); Phosphoric Acid Sample B: Acesulfame
K; Aspartame; Cyclamic acid (as free acid);
Saccharin (as free imide); Sucralose

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-BV-517 - Dilutable/Ready to Drink

A real-world PT sample that focuses on undiluted and diluted non-alcoholic soft drinks. These
samples aim to cover both sugar and non-sugar-based drinks and the analytes are again extensive.
All routine areas from acidity (related to both taste and shelf life) to preservatives, sugars,
sweeteners and other additives found in such products (e.g. caffeine) are included. Most of the
analytes are covered by legal limits – hence the importance of the testing.
4 Rounds per Year

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-BV-517 Dilutable and ready to drink 2 x 250ml Sample A: Acidity (as Citric Acid Monohydrate); 4
materials Benzoic Acid; Brix; Caffeine; Sulfur Dioxide (Free
and Total); pH; Sorbic Acid (as free acid) Sample
B: Acesulfame K; Aspartame; Cyclamic acid (as
free acid); Fructose; Glucose; Saccharin (as free
imide); Sucrose; Sucralose
PT-BV-518 Fruit juice 100ml Antimony; Arsenic; Cadmium; Iron; Lead; 1
Tin; Zinc
PT-BV-519 Soft drink 100ml Antimony; Arsenic; Cadmium; Iron; Lead; 1
Tin; Zinc; Calcium; Phosphorus; Potassium;
Magnesium; Sodium; Aluminium; Manganese;
Copper; Selenium
PT-BV-520 Apple juice 60ml Patulin (corrected for recovery) 1
PT-BV-521 Soft drink 250ml Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3); Pantothenic 1
acid (Vitamin B5); Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6);
Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12); Ascorbic acid
(Vitamin C); DL-α-Tocopherol (Vitamin E);
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
PT-BV-522 Soft drink 125ml Total steviol glycosides; Rebaudioside A 1
PT-BV-524 Carbonated water 2 x 500ml Carbon dioxide; Conductivity (20˚); pH; Dry 2
residue (180˚); Calcium; Magnesium; Potassium;
Sodium; Bicarbonate; Chloride; Sulfate; Total
Hardness; Total Dissolved solids
PT-BV-527 Ready to drink beverage 250ml Vitamin E; Vitamin A 1

PT-BV-528 Kombucha tea 100ml Total polyphenols 1

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

NEW
Beverage 50ml Quinine 2
PT-BV-529

NEW Brix; Acidity (expressed as citric acid

Fruit concentrate 100ml 2
PT-BV-530 monohydrate); pH

NEW
Beverage 50ml r L; Colour a; Colour b 1
PT-BV-531

EN HANCED
Kombucha tea 100ml pH; Electrical conductivity; Brix 1
PT-BV-528

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
56 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
57 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Sugars
SUPS

“Supporting international trade

in sugar”

Monitoring sugar quality is crucial to many industries,

since it is central to improving the texture, flavour,
longevity, consistency and other key characteristics
of countless products.
The AXIO Sugar Scheme (SUPS) incorporates a range of
samples that support both microbiological and chemical
testing. To support chemistry labs, we collaborate with the
International Commission for Uniform Methods of Sugar
Analysis (ICUMSA), which provides robust, internationally
validated methods of analysis to aid the trade in sugar and
sugar products. AXIO also developed a number of samples to
assist our microbiology network with their analysis of yeasts,
moulds, mesophilic aerobic microorganisms and other
bacteria that may affect sugar quality.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-PC-01 Cane or beet sugar 300ml Colour; Turbidity; Ash; Reflectance grade 12
PT-PC-02 Cane or beet sugar 200g Arsenic; Lead; Copper; Iron; Cadmium; Mercury 2
PT-PC-03 Cane or beet sugar 300ml Sulfur dioxide; Reducing sugars; Polarimetric 4
sucrose content
PT-PC-04 Cane or beet sugar 500ml Sediment (insoluble) 4
PT-PC-05 Molasses 200g of Sucrose; Reducing sugars; pH; Dry substance; 2
molasses Sulfated ash; Fermentable sugars; Colour;
Total sugar as invert sugar (TSAI);Total sugar as
reducing sugar (TSRS)
PT-SM-06 Lyophilised test material 10ml vial Total aerobic mesophilic count Enumeration 2
of Yeast; Mould; Osmophilic yeast; Osmophilic;
mould
PT-PC-07 Raw sugar 500g Ash; Colour; Dextran; Moisture; Polarisation; 2
Reducing sugars; Starch
PT-SM-08 Lyophilised test material 10ml vial Enumeration of Thermophilic acidophilic 2
bacteria (Alicyclobacillus spp); Detection of
Guaiacol producing thermophilic acidophilic
bacteria
PT-PC-10 Cane or beet sugar 75g Moisture 2

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Water & Environmental

Schemes
Access to clean, safe water is something that
many of us are able to take for granted. Ensuring
the quality of our water supplies relies upon the
analysis performed by laboratories worldwide
to prevent potentially harmful chemicals and
microorganisms from entering the distribution
networks. AXIO Proficiency Testing has a range of
water and environmental schemes that provide
the opportunity to monitor laboratory quality on
a global scale.
Our AQUACHECK scheme is one of the most
comprehensive water chemistry schemes available,
and our QWAS scheme is the world’s largest water
microbiology scheme.

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Schemes available
Water Chemistry Hygiene Surface Monitoring
AQUACHECK HYGIENE

Water Microbiology Contaminated Land

QWAS CONTEST

Air & Stacks Emissions Cryptosporidium

AIR CRYPTS

NEW Water & Environmental

PT sample for 2025
Sample
Sample Code Analytes
Name

PT-AQ-70 47 x PFAS in Potable water PFAS. For full analyte information, please refer to the
AQUACHECK Scheme Description
PT-AQ-71 6PPD quinone in Surface water 6PPD quinone
PT-AQ-72 Epichlorohydrin in Potable water Epichlorohydrin
PT-AQ-73 Fluorotelomer Alcohols (FTOHs) in Potable water 6:2 Fluorotelomer Alcohol; 8:2 Fluorotelomer Alcohol
PT-AQ-74 Vinyl chloride in Potable water Vinyl chloride
PT-AQ-75 Lanthanides in Surface water Lanthanum; Cerium; Praseodymium; Neodymium;
Gadolinium; Terbium
PT-CN-32 PFAS in Soil Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA); Perfluorooctanoic
acid (PFOA); Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS);
Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS); Sum of 4 PFAS
PT-HY-15 Cronobacter detection in Sponge Detection of Cronobacter species
PT-WT-432 Microorganisms in Effluent sludge Enumeration of Enterococci
PT-WT-433 Endoscope water Total viable count; Detection of environmental
Mycobacterium species; Pseudomonas aeruginosa
PT-WT-434 Detection of Salmonella in Water (all types) Detection of Salmonella species
PT-WT-435 Microorganisms in Surface/Waste/Recreational Enumeration of Escherichia coli; Enterococci;
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
PT-WT-436 Somatic Coliphages in Wastewater Detection of Somatic coliphages; Quantification of
Somatic coliphages

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Water and
Environmental Chemistry
AQUACHECK

“In continuous operation since

1985, and still industry-leading…”

Our Water Chemistry Scheme, also known as AQUACHECK,

is an industry-leading, global programme that has been in
continuous operation since 1985 – providing an extensive
range of test materials for the analysis of major inorganic
and organic analytes, metals, phenols, organochlorine
pesticides, and many other chemical compounds found
in water.
Each water source requires regular analysis to determine
its safety and suitability for use, and more than 8,000
laboratories around the world choose AQUACHECK
because of the extremely broad choice of water types,
samples and analytes it provides. Encompassing potable,
surface, ground, waste, effluent sludge, recreational,
and marine waters – as well as around 100 samples and
approximately 1,000 analytes – AQUACHECK can provide
any laboratory that analyses water with a sample to meet
its needs.
Participation in AQUACHECK not only enables laboratories
to identify problems before they affect water safety and
quality but it also gives independent confirmation that
they are producing accurate and meaningful results.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
62 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-AQ-01A Higher salinity water Sodium; Magnesium; Chloride; Sulfate; pH at 5

20- 25°C; Conductivity (20°C); Total Organic
Carbon (TOC); Total Dissolved Solids
PT-AQ-01H Hard water (surface/groundwater) Calcium; Magnesium; Total Hardness; 5
Alkalinity; Potassium; Sodium; Chloride;
Sulfate; Fluoride; Conductivity (20°C);
Kjeldahl Nitrogen; Total Phosphorus; Barium
PT-AQ-1HP Hard water (treated potable water) Calcium; Magnesium; Total Hardness; 2
Alkalinity; Potassium; Sodium; Chloride;
Sulfate; Fluoride; Conductivity (20°C);
Kjeldahl Nitrogen; Total Phosphorus; Barium
PT-AQ-01S Soft water (surface/groundwater) Calcium; Magnesium; Total Hardness; 5
Alkalinity; Potassium; Sodium; Chloride;
Sulfate; Fluoride; Conductivity (20°C);
Kjeldahl Nitrogen; Total Phosphorus; Barium
PT-AQ-1SP Soft water (treated potable water) Calcium; Magnesium; Total Hardness; 2
Alkalinity; Potassium; Sodium; Chloride;
Sulfate; Fluoride; Conductivity (20°C);
Kjeldahl Nitrogen; Total Phosphorus; Barium
PT-AQ-02A Poorly Buffered Waters pH at 20-25°C – Low; pH at 20-25°C – High 3
PT-AQ-02H Hard water (surface/groundwater) Total Oxidised Nitrogen (TON); Silicate; 5
Nitrite; Ammonia; Soluble Reactive
Phosphorus (PO4); pH at 20-25°C;
Conductivity (20°C); Colour; Permanganate
Index (PI); Total Cyanide; Free Cyanide;
Nitrate; Total Dissolved Solids
PT-AQ-2HP Hard water (treated potable water) Total Oxidised Nitrogen (TON); Silicate; 2
Nitrite; Ammonia; Soluble Reactive
Phosphorus (PO4); pH at 20-25°C;
Conductivity (20°C); Colour; Permanganate
Index (PI); Total Cyanide; Free Cyanide;
Nitrate; Total Dissolved Solids
PT-AQ-02S Soft water (surface/groundwater) Total Oxidised Nitrogen (TON); Silicate; Nitrite; 5
Ammonia; Soluble Reactive Phosphorus (PO4);
pH at 20-25°C; Conductivity (20°C); Colour;
Permanganate Index (PI); Total Cyanide; Free
Cyanide; Nitrate; Total Dissolved Solids
PT-AQ-2SP Soft water (treated potable water) Total Oxidised Nitrogen (TON); Silicate; Nitrite; 2
Ammonia; Soluble Reactive Phosphorus (PO4);
pH at 20-25°C; Conductivity (20°C); Colour;
Permanganate Index (PI); Total Cyanide; Free
Cyanide; Nitrate; Total Dissolved Solids
PT-AQ-03 Spiking solution BOD (5 day); COD; Suspended solids; 5
Methylene blue active substances (MBAS);
Non-ionic surfactants; Dissolved organic
carbon; Turbidity
PT-AQ-03A Spiking solution Bromide; Bromate; Chlorate (low level); 5
Chlorite (low level); Chlorate (high level);
Chlorite (high level)
PT-AQ-03B Clean water Free Chlorine (at typical potable levels - see 5
AQUACHECK scheme description for further
details)
PT-AQ-03C Clean water Total Chlorine (at typical potable levels - see 5
AQUACHECK scheme description for further
details)

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-AQ-04 Surface water Metals: Iron; Manganese; Copper; Aluminium; 5

Zinc; Silver; Barium; Boron; Strontium;
Lithium
PT-AQ-04A Surface water Dissolved metals: Iron; Manganese; Copper; 2
Aluminium; Zinc; Barium; Boron; Strontium;
Lithium
PT-AQ-04G Groundwater Metals: Iron; Manganese; Copper; Aluminium; 5
Zinc; Silver; Barium; Boron; Strontium; Lithium
PT-AQ-05 Surface water Cadmium; Lead; Nickel; Selenium; Arsenic; 5
Antimony; Mercury; Cobalt; Vanadium;
Chromium; Molybdenum; Tin; Beryllium;
Titanium
PT-AQ-05A Clean water Arsenic; Selenium; Antimony; Tin 3
PT-AQ-05B Clean water Cadmium; Copper; Total Chromium; Lead; 5
Nickel; Zinc; Vanadium; Mercury
PT-AQ-05C Clean water Chromium (VI) 3
PT-AQ-05G Groundwater Cadmium; Lead; Nickel; Selenium; Arsenic; 5
Antimony; Mercury; Cobalt; Vanadium;
Chromium; Molybdenum; Tin; Beryllium;
Titanium; Lanthanum
PT-AQ-06A Groundwater Chloroform; Bromodichloromethane; 5
Dibromochloromethane; Bromoform;
Trichloroethene; Tetrachloroethene; Carbon
Tetrachloride; 1,2 Dichloroethane
PT-AQ-06B Groundwater Phenol; 2-Chlorophenol; 4-Chlorophenol; 5
PT-AQ-06C Groundwater Benzene; Toluene; Ethylbenzene; Styrene; 5
o-Xylene; m-Xylene; p-Xylene; Total xylene;
m-+ p-Xylene; 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene; MTBE
(methyl tert-butyl ether)
PT-AQ-07A Groundwater Endrin; Dieldrin; Aldrin; p,p’-DDT; o,p-DDT; 5
p,p’-DDE; o,p’-DDE; p,p’-DDD; o,p’-DDD
(TDE); Alpha Hexachlorocyclohexane;
Beta Hexachlorocyclohexane; Delta
Hexachlorocyclohexane; Lindane (Gamma
HCH); Trifluralin; Alpha Endosulphan;
Beta Endosulphan; Hexachlorobenzene;
Heptachlor; Heptachlor Epoxide;
Pentachlorobenzene; Pendimethalin; Cis-
Chlordane; Trans-Chlordane; Methoxychlor;
Endosulfan Sulfate; Endrin Aldehyde
PT-AQ-07B Groundwater Hexachlorobutadiene; Carbon Tetrachloride; 5
Tetrachloroethene; 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene;
Trichloroethene; 1,1,1-Trichloroethane;
1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene; 1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene;
1,2-Dichloroethane; Chloroform
PT-AQ-07C Groundwater "Fluoranthene; Benzo(b)fluoranthene; 5
Benzo(k)fluoranthene; Benz(a)pyrene;
Benzo(ghi)perylene; Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene
Acenaphthene; Acenaphthylene; Anthracene;
Benz(a)anthracene; Chrysene; Dibenz(ah)
anthracene; Fluorene; Naphthalene; Perylene;
Phenanthrene; Pyrene"
PT-AQ-07D Groundwater PCB (28); PCB (52); PCB (101); PCB (118); PCB 5
(138); PCB (153); PCB (180); PCB (149); PCB
(170)

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
64 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-AQ-08 Groundwater 2,4,5-T; 2,4,5-TP (Fenoprop); 2,4-D; 2,4-DB; 5

Dicamba; 2,3,6-TBA; Picloram; Clopyralid;
Fluroxypyr; Benazolin; Mecoprop; Dichlorprop;
Quinmerac; MCPA; MCPB; Triclopyr;
Bentazone; Bromoxynil; Dichlobenil; Ioxynil;
Metaldehyde; Alachlor; Metazachlor;
Propachlor;;S-metolachlor; Flufenacet;
Propyzamide; Asulam; Chloridazon;
Napropamide; Glyphosate; AMPA
PT-AQ-08B Groundwater Isoproturon; Diuron; Linuron; Chlortoluron; 5
Monuron; Chloroxuron; Metoxuron;
Monolinuron; Methabenzthiazuron;
Iodosulfuron methyl; Mesosulfuron methyl;
Metsulfuron methyl; Thifensulfuron methyl;
Tribenuron methyl; Diflufenican; Bromacil;
Simazine; Atrazine; Propazine; Cyanazine;
Trietazine; Prometryn;Terbutryn; Ametryn;
Desethylatrazine; Desisopropylatrazine;
Terbuthylazine; Cyromazine; Carbetamide;
Pirimicarb; Carbofuran; Methiocarb;
Prosulfocarb; Metamitron; Metribuzin; Florasulam
PT-AQ-09 Groundwater Azinphos-methyl; Azinphos-ethyl; 5
Dichlorvos; Fenitrothion; Malathion;
Mevinphos; Chlorfenvinphos; Diazinon;
Fenthion; Parathion-ethyl; Parathion-methyl;
Chlorpyrifos; Cypermethrin; Propetamphos;
Dimethoate; Ethion; Carbophenothion;
Disulfoton; Ethoprophos; Fenchlorphos;
Fonofos; Phorate; Tetrachlorvinphos
PT-AQ-10 Spiking solution Total Oxidised Nitrogen (TON); Nitrate; 5
Nitrite; Ammonia; Total Silicate; Soluble
Reactive Phosphorus (PO4); Chloride; Total
Cyanide; Kjeldahl Nitrogen; Free Cyanide;
Total Nitrogen; Total Phosphorus
PT-AQ-11 Spiking solution BOD (5 day); COD; Suspended Solids; 5
Methylene Blue Active Substances (MBAS);
Dissolved/Total Organic Carbon; Turbidity;
Non-Ionic Surfactants
PT-AQ-12 Synthetic effluent Antimony; Arsenic; Aluminium; Chromium; 5
Beryllium; Iron; Manganese; Cadmium;
Copper; Lead; Nickel; Zinc; Mercury; Selenium;
Molybdenum; Tellurium; Uranium; Titanium
PT-AQ-12C Synthetic wastewater Chromium (VI) 5

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-AQ-02H - Nutrients and Others - Hard Water

PT-AQ-02H contains a suite of 7 spikes, a pH sample, and a hard surface water matrix: perfect for
the environmental industry. The testing analytes also characterise the water and are important for
assessing, amongst other things, the potential for eutrophication. Analytical problems can vary
with the hardness of the water sample which is why the AQUACHECK PT Scheme offers both hard
and soft water samples. Customers can select either water type (hard or soft) and matrices (raw or
treated waters).
There are approximately 150 participants per round. Due to the popularity of this sample, we have
introduced a new sample PT-AQ-02HP, specific to potable water.
5 Rounds per Year

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Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-AQ-13 Sewage sludge Arsenic; Cadmium; Chromium; Copper; Lead; 5

Mercury; Molybdenum; Nickel; Vanadium;
Zinc; Selenium; Total boron; Fluoride; Total
nitrogen; Total phosphorus; Total potassium;
Cobalt; Iron; Manganese; Total carbon; Total
Sulphur
PT-AQ-14 Agricultural soil Antimony; Arsenic; Cadmium; Chromium; 5
Copper; Lead; Mercury; Molybdenum; Nickel;
Vanadium; Zinc; Selenium; Total Boron; Water
Extractable Boron; Fluoride; Total Nitrogen;
Total Phosphorus; Total Potassium; Cobalt; Iron;
Manganese; Total Solids; Loss On Ignition; pH
at 20-25°C; Extractable Phosphorus; Extraction
of Potassium; Extraction of Magnesium;
Extraction of Sodium; Organic Carbon Content;
Conductivity; Carbonate Content
PT-AQ-15 Settleable solids Settleable solids 4
PT-AQ-16 Sewage sludge Total Solids (105±5°C); Loss on ignition 5
(500±5°C); pH at 20-25°C; Calcium;
Magnesium; Ammoniacal Nitrogen
PT-AQ-17A Industrial wastewater pH at 20-25°C; Settled Chemical Oxygen 5
Demand (COD); Total COD; Suspended
Solids; Conductivity (20°C); Total Dissolved
Solids; Non Filterable COD; Salinity
PT-AQ-17B Industrial wastewater Fluoride; Total Phenol; Total Cyanide; Sulfate 5
PT-AQ-17C Industrial wastewater Aluminium; Antimony; Arsenic; Barium; 5
Boron; Beryllium; Cadmium; Chromium;
Cobalt; Copper; Iron; Lead; Manganese;
Molybdenum; Mercury; Nickel; Selenium;
Silver; Tin; Vanadium; Zinc; Titanium
PT-AQ-17D Industrial wastewater Ammonia; Soluble Reactive Phosphorus 5
(PO4); Total Phosphorus; Total Nitrogen
PT-AQ-18A Synthetic effluent Chloroform; Bromodichloromethane; 5
Dibromochloromethane; Bromoform;
Trichloroethene; Tetrachloroethene; Carbon
Tetrachloride; 1,2 Dichloroethane
PT-AQ-18B Synthetic effluent Phenol; 2-Chlorophenol; 4-Chlorophenol; 3
3-Bromophenol; 2,4-Dichlorophenol;
2,4,6-Trichlorophenol; Pentachlorophenol;
2,5-Dimethylphenol; 3,5-Dimethylphenol;
2-Methylphenol (o-cresol); 3-Methylphenol
(m-cresol); 4-Methylphenol (p-cresol);
Total monosubstituted methylphenols;
4-Chloro-3- methylphenol;
2,6-Dichlorophenol; 2,4,5-Trichlorophenol;
2,4-Dimethylphenol; Nonylphenol
PT-AQ-18C Synthetic effluent Benzene; Toluene; Ethylbenzene; Styrene; 5
o-Xylene; m-Xylene; p-Xylene; Total Xylene;
m-+ p-Xylene
PT-AQ-19A Synthetic effluent Endrin; Dieldrin; Aldrin; p,p’-DDT; o,p-DDT; 5
p,p’-DDE; o,p’-DDE; p,p’-DDD; o,p’-DDD
(TDE); Alpha Hexachlorocyclohexane
(HCH); Beta Hexachlorocyclohexane
(HCH); Delta Hexachlorocyclohexane
(HCH); Lindane (Gamma HCH); Trifluralin;
Alpha endosulphan; Beta endosulphan;
Hexachlorobenzene; Heptachlor;
Heptachlor Epoxide; Pentachlorobenzene;
Pendimethalin; Cis-Chlordane; Trans-
Chlordane; Methoxychlor; Endosulfan
Sulfate; Endrin Aldehyde

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
66 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-AQ-19B Synthetic effluent Hexachlorobutadiene; Carbon Tetrachloride; 5

Tetrachloroethene; 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene;
Trichloroethene; 1,1,1-Trichloroethane;
1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene; 1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene;
1,2-Dichloroethane; Chloroform
PT-AQ-19C Synthetic effluent Fluoranthene; Benzo(b)fluoranthene; 5
Benzo(k)fluoranthene; Benz(a)pyrene;
Benzo(ghi)perylene; Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene;
Acenaphthene; Acenaphthylene; Anthracene;
Benz(a)anthracene; Chrysene; Dibenz(ah)
anthracene; Fluorene; Naphthalene; Perylene;
Phenanthrene; Pyrene
PT-AQ-19D Synthetic effluent PCB (28); PCB (52); PCB (101); PCB (118); PCB 5
(138); PCB (153); PCB (180); PCB (149); PCB (170)
PT-AQ-20 Synthetic effluent 2,4,5-T; 2,4,5-TP (Fenoprop); 2,4-D; 2,4-DB; 5
Dicamba; 2,3,6-TBA; Clopyralid; Fluroxypyr;
Benazolin; Mecoprop; Dichlorprop; MCPA;
MCPB; Triclopyr; Bentazone; Bromoxynil;
Dichlobenil; Ioxynil; Metaldehyde;
Metazachlor; Propachlor; Propyzamide;
Glyphosate; AMPA
PT-AQ-20B Synthetic effluent Isoproturon; Diuron; Linuron; Chlortoluron; 5
Monuron; Methabenzthiazuron; Diflufenican;
Bromacil; Simazine; Atrazine; Propazine;
Cyanazine; Trietazine; Prometryn; Terbutryn;
Ametryn; Carbetamide; Pirimicarb;
Metamitron
PT-AQ-21 Synthetic effluent Azinphos-methyl; Azinphos-ethyl; 5
Dichlorvos; Fenitrothion; Malathion;
Mevinphos; Chlorfenvinphos; Diazinon;
Fenthion; Parathion-ethyl; Parathion-methyl;
Chlorpyrifos; Cypermethrin; Propetamphos;
Ethion; Dimethoate
PT-AQ-22 Clean water Ten organic analytes are provided for 5
qualitative identification. This sample is
designed to test the ability of laboratories
to identify organic compounds via GCMS
analysis.
PT-AQ-22A Clean water Six organic analytes are provided for 4
qualitative identification. This sample is
designed to test the ability of laboratories to
identify organic compounds via purge and
trap GCMS analysis.
PT-AQ-23 Mineral oil in wastewater "Volume of sample provided; Total 5
Hydrocarbons C10-C40 by GC Analysis; Total
Hydrocarbons C10; C40 by IR Analysis; Total
Hydrocarbons C10; C40 by Gravimetric
Analysis"
PT-AQ-24 Oil and Grease in water Volume of sample provided; Total Oil and 5
Grease
PT-AQ-25 Clean water Qualitative Determination in Clean Water, at 5
typical surface/potable levels. The intent of this
sample is to test the ability of laboratories to
detect and identify an unknown contaminant
in surface/potable waters.
PT-AQ-26 Spiking solution PFOS; PFOA 2
PT-AQ-27 Waste water AOX 3
PT-AQ-28 Spiking solution Formaldehyde 3
PT-AQ-29 Spiking solution COD – high; COD – low 3

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-AQ-30 Clean water Gross Alpha as 239Plutonium; Gross Alpha as 5

241Americium; Gross Alpha as 230Thorium;
Gross Beta as 40Potassium; Gross Beta as
137Caesium; Gross Beta as 90Strontium
PT-AQ-31 Clean water Aqueous Tritium 5
PT-AQ-32 Wastewater Total Sulfide 5
PT-AQ-33 Clean water Chlorophyll a 3
PT-AQ-34A Water Framework Directive Cadmium; Lead; Mercury; Nickel 1
PT-AQ-34B Water Framework Directive Atrazine; Diuron; Isoproturon; Simazine 1
PT-AQ-34C Water Framework Directive Alachlor; Chlorfenvinphos; Chlorpyrifos 1
PT-AQ-34D Water Framework Directive 4-n Pentylphenol; 4-n Hexylphenol; 3
4-n Heptylphenol; 4 tert-Octylphenol;
4-n-Nonylphenol; Pentachlorophenol;
Bisphenol A
PT-AQ-34E Water Framework Directive Endosulphan; Hexachlorobenzene; 1
Hexachlorocyclohexane;
Pentachlorobenzene; Trifluralin;
Hexachlorobutadiene
PT-AQ-34F Water Framework Directive Benz(a)pyrene; Benzo(b)fluoranthene; 1
Benzo(ghi)perylene; Benzo(k)fluoranthene;
Indeno(123-cd)pyrene; Anthracene;
Fluoranthene
PT-AQ-34G Water Framework Directive Tributyltin compounds 1
PT-AQ-34H Water Framework Directive 1,2-Dichloroethane; Dichloromethane; 1
Trichlorobenzenes; Trichloromethane
PT-AQ-34I Water Framework Directive 2,4,4-Tribromodiphenylether (BDE 28); 1
2,2,4,4,5-Pentabromodiphenylether (BDE
99); 2,2,4,4,5,6-Hexabromodiphenylether
(BDE 154)
PT-AQ-34J Water Framework Directive DEHP; Benzene; Naphthalene 1
PT-AQ-35 Spiking solution COD; BOD 2
PT-AQ-36 Taste and odour sample TFN; TON 3
PT-AQ-37 Spiking solution Acrylamide 3
PT-AQ-38 Spiking solution UV absorption 2
PT-AQ-39 Surface/groundwater Geosmin; Methyl Isoborneol; Anisole; 2
TCA (2,4,6- Trichloroanisole); TBA
(2,4,6-Tribromoanisole)
PT-AQ-40 Groundwater Carbendazim; Chlorothalonil; 2
Fenpropimorph; Flutriafol; Epoxyconazole;
Flusilazole; Cyproconazole; Tebuconazole;
Azoxystrobin; Boscalid; Kresoxym-methyl;
Cyprodinil; Propiconazole; Prothioconazole
PT-AQ-41 Spiking solution Microcystin-LR; Microcystin-YR; Microcystin- 3
RR; Total Microcystin
PT-AQ-42 Clean water 239Plutonium; 234Uranium; 235Uranium; 2
238Uranium; Total Uranium
PT-AQ-43 Groundwater Triclosan 2
PT-AQ-44 Spiking solution Monochloroacetic acid; Dichloroacetic acid; 4
Trichloroacetic acid; Monobromoacetic acid;
Dibromoacetic acid; Tribromoacetic acid;
Bromochloroacetic acid; Bromodichloroacetic
acid; Dibromochloroacetic acid;
2,2-Dichloropropionic acid

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
68 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-AQ-50 Ecotoxicology sample Daphnia Magna 48hr EC50; Daphnia Magna 5

24hr EC50; Vibrio Fischeri 30 minute IC50
(ISO 11348-3); Other 30 minute luminescent
bacteria IC50 tests; 15 minute luminescent
bacteria IC50 tests; Freshwater algae
growth inhibition test (Pseudokirschneriella
subcapitata)
PT-AQ-51 Groundwater Bifenthrin; Cyfluthrin; Cypermethrin; 2
Flumethrin; cis-Permethrin; trans-Permethrin
PT-AQ-52 Spiking solution Benzo(a)pyrene; Fluoranthene; Cypermethrin; 2
PFOS; PFOA
PT-AQ-53 Spiking solution Simazine; Atrazine; Terbutryn; Alachlor; 1
Diclofol; Bifenox; Quinoxyfen
PT-AQ-56 Spiking solution Dichlorvos; Fenitrothion; Malathion; 1
Chlorfenvinphos; Diazinon; Chlorpyrifos;
Hexachlorobutadiene; 1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene;
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene; 1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene
PT-AQ-57 Spiking solution Ibuprofen; Propranolol; Ofloxacin; 1
Oxytetracycline; Salicylic acid; Fluoxetine;
Diclofenac; Naproxen
PT-AQ-58 Spiking solution Endrin; Dieldrin; Aldrin; p,p’-DDT; o,p-DDT; p,p’- 1
DDE; p,p’-DDD; Alpha Hexachlorocyclohexane;
Beta Hexachlorocyclohexane; Delta
Hexachlorocyclohexane; Lindane (Gamma
HCH); Trifluralin; Alpha Endosulphan; Beta
Endosulphan; Hexachlorobenzene; Heptachlor;
Heptachlor epoxide; Pentachlorobenzene;
Pendimethalin
PT-AQ-59 Bottled mineral water Calcium; Magnesium; Potassium; Sodium; 2
Bicarbonate; Chloride; Sulfate; Nitrate; pH;
TDS/Dry Residue
PT-AQ-60 Waste water Ammonia; COD; Conductivity (20°C); Nitrate; 2
Nitrite; Orthophosphate; pH at 20-25°C; Total
Arsenic; Total Copper; Total Mercury; Total
Cadmium; Total Lead; Total Nickel; Turbidity
PT-AQ-61 Marine water Total Oxidised Nitrogen (TON); Nitrate; Total 2
Phosphorus; Potassium; Sulfate; Magnesium;
Calcium; Alkalinity; Ammonia; Total
Nitrogen; Orthophosphate; pH at 20-25°C;
Conductivity (20°C); Silicate; Total Dissolved
Solids

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-AQ-03 - Non-Specific Determinands

This sample is suitable for water companies, bottled water producers and water for food users
as it covers tests used to regulate water quality within the water industry. The testing covered is
associated with general quality characteristics important for water supply and production.
150-200 participants per round
5 Rounds per Year

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-AQ-62 Marine water Arsenic; Boron; Cadmium; Copper; Iron; 1

Manganese; Molybdenum; Strontium; Zinc;
Barium; Lithium; Sodium; Sulfur; Nickel;
Cobalt; Lead; Selenium
PT-AQ-63 Waste water Acetate; Iodide 1
PT-AQ-64 Waste water Trichloromethane; Bromodichloromethane; 1
Dibromodichloromethane;
Tribromomethane; Total Trihalomethanes
(TTHM); pH at 20-25°C; Total Organic Carbon
(TOC); Total Alkalinity; Total Hardness; Total
Dissolved Solids
PT-AQ-65 Groundwater 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene; 1,3-Dinitrobenzene; 1
2,4-Dinitrotoluene; 2,6-Dinitrotoluene;
2-Amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene; 2-Nitrotoluene;
3-Nitrotoluene; 4-Amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene;
4-Nitrotoluene; Diphenylamine;
Nitrobenzene
PT-AQ-66 Groundwater Clothianidin; Imidacloprid; Thiamethoxam; 1
Acetamiprid; Thiacloprid
PT-AQ-67 Potable (treated) water Participants are provided with a solution 2
containing a minimum of 20 Perfluoroalkyl
and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) for
quantitative determination.
PT-AQ-68 Potable (treated) water 17-β Estradiol; Estrone 1
PT-AQ-69 Waste water Free Chlorine 2

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

NEW 47 x PFAS – please refer to AQUACHECK

Potable (treated) water 2
PT-AQ-70 scheme description for further details
NEW
Surface water 6PPD quinone 1
PT-AQ-71
NEW
Potable (treated) water Epichlorohydrin 1
PT-AQ-72
NEW 6:2 Fluorotelomer Alcohol; 8:2 Fluorotelomer
Potable (treated) water 1
PT-AQ-73 Alcohol
NEW
Potable (treated) water Vinyl chloride 1
PT-AQ-74
NEW Lanthanum; Cerium; Praseodymium;
Surface water 1
PT-AQ-75 Neodymium; Gadolinium; Terbium
ENHANCED
Agricultural soil Antimony 5
PT-AQ-14
ENHANCED
Wastewater Fluoride 5
PT-AQ-17B

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
70 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 71
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Water Microbiology
QWAS

“Samples targeting many

different water types”

Our Water Microbiology Scheme (QWAS) is the world’s

largest water microbiology programme, trusted by more
than 1,000 participating laboratories globally. Established
in 2002, it offers a comprehensive choice of samples
– aimed at potable, process, mineral, effluent sludge,
industrial, surface/waste/bathing, recreational, sea,
dialysis and waste waters. In addition, QWAS features our
best-selling PT-WT-412 sample for the enumeration of
E.coli, coliforms, and Enterococci (faecal streptococci).
As well as helping laboratories ensure water safety,
and comply with testing regulations in a wide range of
countries and regions, successful participation in QWAS
can provide laboratories with confidence in their results
and the equipment they use.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
72 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-WT-412 Potable water Total aerobic count at 22 & 37 Degrees 10

Celsius; Enumeration of Escherichia coli;
Coliforms; Enterococci (faecal; streptococci)
PT-WT-413 Potable water Enumeration of Clostridium perfringens; 10
sulphite-reducing; Clostridia; sulphite-reducing
Clostridia spores ONLY; Pseudomonas
aeruginosa; Yeast; Mould (total); Yeast; Mould;
Detection of sulphite-reducing Clostridia
PT-WT-414 Process water Total aerobic count; Enumeration of 4
Pseudomonas species; Pseudomonas
aeruginosa; Yeast; Mould (total); Yeast; Mould
PT-WT-416 Effluent sludge Detection of Salmonella species; Enumeration 4
of Escherichia coli; Enterobacteriacae
PT-WT-417 Industrial water Enumeration of Legionella pneumophila by 4
PCR or culture; (membrane filtration or direct
count); Detection of Legionella pneumophila;
Identification of Legionella pneumophila
PT-WT-418 Environmental water Enumeration of Legionella species by PCR or 4
culture (membrane filtration or direct count);
Detection of Legionella species; Identification
of Legionella species
PT-WT-419 Bathing, recreational and surface water Enumeration of total coliforms; faecal 4
coliforms; Escherichia coli; Enterococci (faecal
streptococci); Detection of Salmonella species
PT-WT-420 Mineral water Total aerobic count at 22°C; Total aerobic 2
count at 37°C; Enumeration of Escherichia
coli; Enterococci (faecal streptococci);
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
PT-WT-421 Bathing, recreational and surface water Enumeration of coagulase positive 4
staphylococci; Staphylococcus species;
sulphite-reducing Clostridia; Clostridium
perfringens; Total aerobic count
PT-WT-422 Sea water Enumeration of total coliforms; faecal coliforms; 2
Escherichia coli; Enterococci (faecal
streptococci); Detection of Salmonella species
PT-WT-423 Potable water Detection of Legionella species (low level); 3
Enumeration of Legionella species by culture;
Identification of Legionella pneumophila
PT-WT-424 Mineral water Detection of coagulase positive 2
staphylococci; sulphite-reducing; Clostridia;
sulphite-reducing Clostridia spores ONLY
PT-WT-425 Potable water Detection of Escherichia coli; Coliforms; 2
Enterococci (faecal; streptococci)
PT-WT-426 Water Identification of unknown organism 1
PT-WT-427 Paper exercise Colony count and calculation of number 2
of microorganisms
PT-WT-429 Dialysis water Total aerobic count @ 17-23˚C 1
PT-WT-431 Drinking water Detection of Somatic coliphages; Optional 1
quantification of Somatic coliphages

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

NEW
PT-WT-432
Effluent sludge Enterococci 1

NEW
PT-WT-433
Endoscope water Total viable count; Mycobacterium; Pseudomonas aeruginosa 1

NEW
PT-WT-434
Water Salmonella 2

NEW Surface/Waste/Recreational
PT-WT-435
Escherichia coli; Enterococci; Pseudomonas 1
water
NEW
PT-WT-436
Wastewater Coliphages 1

ENHANCED
PT-WT-416
Effluent sludge Enterobacteriaceae 4

ENHANCED
PT-WT-423
Potable Water Legionella ID 3

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Air & Stacks Emissions

AIR

“Supporting a wide range of

air quality testing”

Many modern activities create air pollutants with

known, or suspected, harmful effects on human health
and the environment.
Our Air and Stacks Emissions Scheme (AIR) was developed
10 years ago in partnership with the UK Health and Safety
Executive (HSE) – and is operated by LGC AXIO Proficiency
Testing with support from HSE technical testing and
monitoring experts. AIR combines the two organisations’
scientific and production prowess in multiple areas of air
monitoring,
providing an integrated solution for all laboratories
undertaking sample analysis. Participating in AIR also
supports a laboratory’s quality system by providing external
and independent assessment of its performance
in conducting specific tests or measurements.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

lgcstandards.com/AXIO 74
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-AR-01 25mm cellulose ester filters (Workplace air) Cadmium; Chromium; Cobalt; Copper; Iron; 4
Manganese; Nickel; Lead; Zinc
PT-AR-01-A 37 mm Cellulose acetate (Workplace air) Cadmium; Chromium; Cobalt; Copper; Iron; 2
Manganese; Nickel; Lead; Zinc
PT-AR-01-B 37mm cellulose ester filters (Workplace air) Cadmium; Chromium; Cobalt; Copper; Iron; 4
Manganese; Nickel; Lead; Zinc
PT-AR-01-C 25mm cellulose ‘Zefon Disposable Inhalable Cadmium; Chromium; Cobalt; Copper; Iron; 2
Sampler’ filters (Workplace air) Manganese; Nickel; Lead; Zinc
PT-AR-02 Quartz PVC filter 25mm diameter (Workplace air) Respirable grade quartz by XRD (by direct 2
analysis of filters supplied)
PT-AR-02-FTIR Quartz PVC filter 25mm diameter (Workplace air) Respirable grade quartz by FTIR (by direct 2
analysis of filters supplied)
PT-AR-02I Quartz PVC filter 25mm diameter (Workplace air) Respirable grade quartz by either XRD 2
or FTIR (by indirect analysis, i.e. by ashing
and redeposition onto analytical filter or
by KBr disc)
PT-AR-03 Dust on glass fibre filter 25mm diameter Dust by gravimetry (mass of solids) 2
(Workplace air)
PT-AR-04 Dust on glass fibre filter 37mm diameter Dust by gravimetry (mass of solids) 2
(Workplace air)
PT-AR-05 Charcoal filled glass sorbent tubes Benzene; Toluene; Xylene; Ethyl benzene 4
(Workplace air)
PT-AR-06 Charcoal filled glass sorbent tubes 1,1-Trichloroethane; n-Hexane; 4
(Workplace air) n-Butyl acetate; Tetrachloroethene;
Trichloroethylene
PT-AR-07 Tenax TA filled sorbent tubes (Ambient air) Benzene; Toluene; Xylene; Ethyl benzene 4
PT-AR-08 Glass fibre filter 25mm diameter (Workplace air) Formaldehyde; Acetaldehyde 4
PT-AR-09 Spiked NaOH treated Millipore PVDF filters 25 Chromium (VI) 2
mm Ø (Workplace air)
PT-AR-10A Powder (Workplace air) Chromium; Cobalt; Copper; Iron; Manganese; 1
Nickel; Zinc. One or more of the listed
elements will be included in each round.
PT-AR-10B Dust (Workplace air) Lead 1
PT-AR-11 Palmes-type diffusion tubes (Ambient air) Nitrogen dioxide (as nitrite) 4
PT-AR-12 Tenax TA filled sorbent tubes (Ambient air) Benzene; Toluene; Xylene; Ethyl benzene 4
PT-AR-12A Carbopack X filled sorbent tubes (Ambient air) Benzene; Toluene; Xylene; Ethyl benzene 2
PT-AR-13 Quartz fibre filter 47mm diameter (Ambient air) Antimony; Arsenic, Cadmium; Nickel; Lead 2
PT-AR-14 Quartz fibre filter 47mm diameter (Ambient air) Chloride; Nitrate, Sulfate 2
PT-AR-16 25 mm diameter quartz fibre filters (Workplace air) Elemental carbon 1
PT-AR-17 Quartz fibre filter 47mm diameter (Ambient air) Dust by gravimetry (mass of solids) 2
PT-AR-18 Cellulose ester filters 37mm diameter Beryllium 2
(Workplace air)
PT-AR-21 Tenax TA filled sorbent tubes (Indoor/Chamber Benzene; n-Hexane; Toluene; Butyl acetate; 2
air) MIBK; p-Xylene; Diacetyl#; Phenol; 124-TMB;
Limonene; 4-PCH; Dodecane; Styrene
PT-AR-22 Tenax TA filled sorbent tubes (Indoor/Chamber Qualitative determination of VOCs 2
air) including alcohol, aliphatic, aromatic, ester,
halocarbon and terpene compounds.
See Appendix B in the AIR PT Scheme
Description for compound listing for
sample 22.

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-AR-31 Potassium permanganate & sulfuric acid impinger Volume; Mercury 2

solution (Stack emissions)
PT-AR-32 Potassium dichromate & nitric acid impinger Volume; Mercury 2
solution (Stack emissions)
PT-AR-33 Metals impinger solution (Stack emissions) Volume, Sb, Cd, Co, Mn; Volume, As, Cr, 4
Cu, Pb, Ni, Tl; Volume, Sb, Cd, Co, Mn, Ni,
Volume, As, Cr, Cu, Pb, Se
PT-AR-34 Impinger solution (Stack emissions) Volume; Sulfur dioxide 2
PT-AR-35 Impinger solution (Stack emissions) Volume; Hydrogen fluoride 2
PT-AR-36 Impinger solution (Stack emissions) Volume; Hydrogen chloride 3
PT-AR-37 Impinger solution (Stack emissions) Volume; Ammonia 3
PT-AR-38 Metals and fly ash on quartz filter 47mm diameter AR062 – As, Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni, V; 4
(Stack emissions) AR063 – Sb, Cd, Co, Mn, Se, Tl;
AR065 – As, Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni, Tl;
AR066 – Sb, Cd, Co, Mn, Se, V
PT-AR-39 Dust rinsing solution (Stack emissions) Total solids 2
PT-AR-40 Dust on glass fibre filter 47mm diameter Dust analysis (mass of solids) 2
(Stack emissions)

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

ENHANCED Quartz fibre filter 47mm

Phosphate 2
PT-AR-14 (Ambient air)

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-AR-08 - Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde can be found in the atmosphere from several sources, both natural (e.g. forest fires)
and from manufacturing. The levels in the air are required to be monitored as high or long-term
exposure can cause health issues. The current UK workplace exposure limit (WEL) for formaldehyde
is two parts per million (2ppm), time weighted average over eight hours. The short-term limit
(averaged over ten minutes) is 2ppm.
50-70 participants per round
4 Rounds per Year

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
76 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
77 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Hygiene Surface
Monitoring
HYGIENE

“A comprehensive range of
microbial test materials and
analytes”

The AXIO HYGIENE Scheme has been developed

for laboratories that perform microbial testing of
environmental monitoring samples.
Environmental monitoring of workplaces such as
laboratories, clean rooms, factory production lines and
offices helps ensure that these environments are free from
harmful microorganisms, and that cleaning practices are
effective. Samples may take the form of swabs, sponges or
contact plates that test the presence of microorganisms
on surfaces, whilst filters or settle plates are used to test
for microorganisms in air.
The HYGIENE scheme offers a comprehensive range of test
materials and analytes, including total microbial counts and
pathogens, as well as yeast and mould.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-HY-01 Plastic surface with a lyophilised tablet Direct count and/or swab count of the 3
following analytes:
Total aerobic mesophilic count; Enumeration
of Yeast; Mould; Yeast and Mould;
Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms; Escherichia
coli
PT-HY-02 Plastic surface with a lyophilised tablet Direct detection and/or swab detection 3
of the following analytes:Detection of
Listeria species; Listeria monocytogenes;
Salmonella species
PT-HY-03 Plastic surface with a lyophilised tablet Total aerobic mesophilic count; 3
Identification of organism
PT-HY-05 Lyophilised tablet ATP 2
PT-HY-06 Plastic surface with a lyophilised tablet Enumeration of Yeast; Mould; Yeast and 1
Mould
PT-HY-07 Plastic surface with a lyophilised tablet Enumeration of Staphylococcus aureus 1
PT-HY-09 Air filter testing Total viable count; Enumeration of Yeast; 2
Mould; Yeast and Mould
PT-HY-10 Lyophilised tablet and 10ml diluent Enumeration of Yeast; Mould; Yeast and 2
Mould; Enterobacteriaceae; Coliforms;
Escherichia coli; Total aerobic mesophilic
count
PT-HY-11 Lyophilised tablet and 10ml diluent Detection of Listeria species; Listeria 2
monocytogenes; Salmonella species;
E.coli O157
PT-HY-12 Plastic surface with a lyophilised tablet Enumeration of Enterobacteriaceae 1
PT-HY-13 Sponge Detection of Salmonella species 1
PT-HY-14 Sponge Detection of Listeria species; 2
Listeria monocytogenes

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

NEW
Sponge Detection of Cronobacter species 1
PT-HY-15

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-HY-01 - Surface Swabbing (Indicators)

Environmental monitoring is a preventive approach that aims to monitor the hygiene of processing
areas. Enumeration of specific germs gives an indication of the sanitary conditions of the
environment. PT-HY-01 is designed for the enumeration of the most commonly used indicators
(TVC, Enterobacteriaceae, coliforms, E.coli and yeast and mould) .
200+ participants on average
3 Rounds per Year

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Contaminated Land
CONTEST

“Real-world soil and leachate

samples for a variety of analytes”

Land contamination – from sources including industrial

waste, oil and fuel dumping, domestic pollution, pesticides,
landfills, and leaking storage tanks – poses serious
environmental and human health risks.
To assist organisations working to combat this threat, the
LGC AXIO CONTEST Proficiency Testing Scheme offers
participating laboratories a wide range of real-world soil
and leachate samples, covering a variety of metal and
organometallic, organic and inorganic analytes.
Participating in CONTEST also ensures that laboratories
meet the requirements of the UK Environment Agency’s
MCERTS performance standard for chemical testing of soil.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
80 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix per Year

PT-CN-1a Standard solution 8ml Barium; Beryllium; Cadmium; Chromium; Cobalt; 5

Copper; Iron; Lead; Manganese; Molybdenum; Nickel;
Thallium; Tin; Vanadium; Zinc
PT-CN-1b Standard solution 8ml Antimony; Arsenic; Selenium 5
PT-CN-1c Standard solution 8ml Mercury 5
PT-CN-2 Solution of soil extract 60ml Antimony; Arsenic; Barium; Beryllium; Cadmium; 5
Chromium; Cobalt; Copper; Iron; Lead; Manganese;
Mercury; Molybdenum; Nickel; Selenium; Thallium;
Tin; Vanadium; Zinc
PT-CN-3a Soil (prepared) 30g Antimony; Arsenic; Barium; Beryllium; Cadmium; 5
Chromium; Cobalt; Copper; Iron; Lead; Manganese;
Mercury; Molybdenum; Nickel; Selenium; Thallium;
Tin; Vanadium; Zinc; Chromium (VI)
PT-CN-3b Soil (prepared) 150g Ammonia; Complex Cyanide; Free Cyanide; 5
Total Cyanide; Dry Matter; Loss on Ignition; pH;
Thiocyanate; Total sulfate; Easily liberated sulfide;
Water soluble boron; Water soluble chloride; Water
soluble fluoride; Water soluble sulfate; Total Sulfur
PT-CN-3c Soil (prepared) 70g 1ml Acenaphthene; Acenaphthylene; Anthracene; 5
Spiking solution Benz(a)anthracene; Benzo(b)fluoranthene; Benzo(k)
fluoranthene; Benzo(b/k)fluoranthene (sum);
Benzo(ghi)perylene; Benz(a)pyrene; Chrysene;
Dibenz(ah)anthracene; Fluoranthene; Fluorene;
Indeno(123-cd)pyrene; Naphthalene; Phenanthrene,
Pyrene; Total PAH; Phenols; Cresols; Xylenols;
Distillable phenolic substances; PCB (28); PCB (52);
PCB (101); PCB (118); PCB (138); PCB (153), PCB (180);
Elemental sulfur; Total organic carbon; TPH (C10-C40
inclusive); TPH Aliphatic >C10-C12; TPH Aliphatic
>C12-C16; TPH Aliphatic >C16-C21; TPH Aliphatic
>C21- C35; TPH Aliphatic >C35-C40; TPH Aromatic
>EC10-EC12; TPH Aromatic >EC12-EC16; TPH
Aromatic >EC16-EC21; TPH Aromatic >EC21-EC35;
TPH Aromatic >EC35-EC40; PCB (77)
PT-CN-5 Standard solution 2ml Acenaphthene; Acenaphthylene; Anthracene; 5
Benz(a)anthracene; Benzo(b)fluoranthene; Benzo(k)
fluoranthene; Benzo(b/k)fluoranthene (sum);
Benzo(ghi)perylene; Benz(a)pyrene; Chrysene;
Dibenz(ah)anthracene; Fluoranthene; Fluorene;
Indeno(123-cd)pyrene; Naphthalene; Phenanthrene,
Pyrene
PT-CN-6 Standard solution 60ml Total cyanide 5
PT-CN-7a Standard solution 60ml Monohydric phenols 5
PT-CN-7b Standard solution 2 x 2ml Total phenols (sum of phenol, cresols and xylenols); 5
Total Cresols; Total Xylenols; Phenol
PT-CN-8 Standard solution 60ml Total sulfate 5
PT-CN-10 Standard solution 60ml Water soluble boron 5
PT-CN-11 Standard solution 2ml PCB (28); PCB (52); PCB (101); PCB (118); PCB (138); 5
PCB (153); PCB (180)
PT-CN-12 Standard solution 60ml Easily liberated sulfide 5
PT-CN-13 Standard solution 60ml Chromium (VI) 5
PT-CN-14a Standard solution 2ml TPH, Range C10 – C40 (inclusive) 5
PT-CN-14b Standard solution 2ml TPH, Aliphatic ≤C6; TPH, Aliphatic >C6-C8; TPH, 5
Aliphatic >C8-C10; TPH, Aromatic C6; TPH, Aromatic
>C6-C8; TPH, Aromatic >C8-C10

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix per Year

PT-CN-15 Standard solution 2ml Benzene; Toluene; Ethylbenzene; o-xylene; m + 5

p-Xylenes
PT-CN-16 Standard solution 60ml Thiocyanate 5
PT-CN-17 Standard solution 60ml Total fluoride 5
PT-CN-18 Soil (prepared) 200g Antimony; Arsenic; Barium; Cadmium; Calcium; 3
Chromium; Copper; Iron; Lead; Magnesium; Mercury;
Molybdenum; Nickel; Potassium; Selenium; Sodium;
Tin; Zinc; Sulfate; Chloride; Fluoride; Nitrate; Boron;
Chromium (VI); Phosphate; Ammonia; Free Cyanide;
Total Cyanide; Thiocyanate; pH; Conductivity (20°C);
COD; TOC/DOC; Phenol Index
PT-CN-19 Standard solution 2ml 1,2,3-trichlorobenzene; 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene; 5
2-Chlorotoluene; 1,2-Dichloroethane;
1,2-Dichloroethene; Dichloromethane; Hexachloro-
1,3-butadiene; 1,1,1,2-Tetrachloroethane;
1,1,1-Trichloroethane; Tetrachloromethane;
Trichloroethene; Trichloromethane
PT-CN-20 Standard solution & 2 x 10ml Six semi volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) - 5
blank Qualitative
PT-CN-21 WAC material 200g Dry Matter Content Ratio; Antimony; Arsenic; Barium; 5
Cadmium; Chromium; Copper; Lead; Mercury;
Molybdenum; Nickel; Selenium; Zinc; Sulfate; Chloride;
Fluoride; Phenol Index; DOC; Total Dissolved Solids.
PT-CN-23 Standard solution & soil 1 x 1mL Aliphatic EC5-EC6; Aliphatic >EC6-EC8; Aliphatic 3
standard >EC8-EC10; Aromatic >EC6-EC9; Aromatic >EC9-
solution 1 EC10
x 30g soil
sample
PT-CN-24 Leachate (prepared) 1L Antimony; Arsenic; Barium; Cadmium; Chromium; 5
Copper; Lead; Mercury; Molybdenum; Nickel;
Selenium; Zinc; Sulfate; Chloride; Fluoride; Phenol
Index; DOC; Total Dissolved Solids
PT-CN-25 VOCs in Soil 1 x 1mL Acetonitrile; Benzene; Bromobenzene; 3
standard Bromochloromethane; Bromodichloromethane;
solution 1 Bromoform; Bromomethane; n-Butylbenzene;
x 30g soil secButylbenzene; tert-Butylbenzene; Carbon
sample disulfide; Carbon tetrachloride; Chlorobenzene;
Chloroethane; Chloroform; Chloromethane;
2-Chlorotoluene; 4-Chlorotoluene; cis-1,2-
Dichloroethylene;Dibromochloromethane;
1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane;1,2- Dibromoethane;
Dibromomethane; 1,2-Dichlorobenzene;
1,3-Dichlorobenzene; 1,4-Dichlorobenzene;
Dichlorodifluoromethane; 1,1-Dichloroethane;1,2-
Dichloroethane; 1,1-Dichloroethylene; trans-
1,2-Dichloroethylene; 1,2- Dichloropropane;
1,3-Dichloropropane; 2,2-Dichloropropane;
1,1-Dichloropropylene; cis-1,3-Dichloropropylene;
trans-1,3-Dichloropropylene; Ethylbenzene;
Hexachlorobutadiene; Hexachloroethane;
Isopropylbenzene; 4- Isopropyltoluene; Methylene
chloride; Methyl t-butyl ether; m-Xylene; m&p-Xylene;
Naphthalene; Nitrobenzene; n-Propylbenzene;
o-Xylene; p-Xylene; Styrene; 1,1,1,2-Tetrachloroethane;
1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane; Tetrachloroethylene;
Toluene; Total Xylenes; 1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene;
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene; 1,1,1-Trichloroethane;
1,1,2-Trichloroethane; Trichloroethylene;
Trichlorofluoromethane; 1,2,3-Trichloropropane

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
82 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix per Year

PT-CN-26 Standard solution & soil 1 x 1mL Endrin; Dieldrin; Aldrin; p,p’-DDT; o,p-DDT; p,p’- 2
standard DDE; p,p’-DDD; Alpha Hexachlorocyclohexane;
solution 1 Beta Hexachlorocyclohexane; Delta
x 30g soil Hexachlorocyclohexane; Lindane (Gamma HCH);
sample Trifluralin; Alpha Endosulphan; Beta Endosulphan;
Hexachlorobenzene; Heptachlor; Heptachlor
epoxide; Pentachlorobenzene
PT-CN-27 LOI FINES 1kg LOI Loss On Ignition at 440°C 2
material
PT-CN-28 Soil 1 x 500g soil Soil texture 2
PT-CN-29 Incinerator Bottom Ash 1x Arsenic; Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Iron; Lead; 1
approxinately Magnesium; Manganese; Nickel; Potassium; Sodium;
200g IBA Total Chromium; Zinc; pH; Alkali reserve
material
PT-CN-30 Standard solution & soil 1 x 1mL Azinphos-methyl; Azinphos-ethyl; Dichlorvos; 2
standard Fenitrothion; Malathion; Mevinphos;
solution 1 Chlorfenvinphos; Diazinon; Fenthion;
x 30g soil Parathion-ethyl; Parathion-methyl; Chlorpyrifos;
sample Cypermethrin

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

NEW Soil Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA); Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA); 1

PT-CN-32 Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS); Perfluorooctane sulfonic
acid (PFOS); Sum of 4 PFAS

ENHANCED Moist soil samples Volatile aliphatic hydrocarbons 3

PT-CN-23

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Cryptosporidium
CRYPTS

“Featuring Cryptosporidium slides,

suspensions and filters – plus
Giardia samples”

Cryptosporidium is a parasite found in water that can

cause illness in humans, as demonstrated in many recent
Cryptosporidium outbreaks that have threatened public
health. Potable or recreational waters should be treated
to remove Cryptosporidium; samples are therefore
regularly tested through the water industry to ensure
that treatment has worked and water supplies are free
from Cryptosporidium.
Guidelines exist, such as those from the WHO and the EPA,
to ensure Cryptosporidium doesn’t contaminate human
water supplies. The AXIO Proficiency Testing CRYPTS
Scheme enables participants to show the validity of
their methods and results, with samples including slides,
suspensions, and filters with Cryptosporidium oocysts.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
84 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Sample Rounds
Sample Code Analytes
Name per Year

PT-CY-01 Dynal Slide Enumeration of Cryptosporidium oocysts; 12

Enumeration of other Cryptosporidium;
Enumeration of Crypto-like bodies;
Enumeration of Giardia
PT-CY-02 Genera Slide Enumeration of Cryptosporidium oocysts 12
Enumeration of other Cryptosporidium
Enumeration of Crypto-like bodies
Enumeration of Giardia
PT-CY-03 Suspension Enumeration of Cryptosporidium oocysts 12
PT-CY-04 Filta Max Filters Enumeration of Cryptosporidium oocysts 12
PT-CY-05 Xpress Filter Enumeration of Cryptosporidium oocysts 12

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Consumer Safety
Schemes
Ensuring products do not harm the consumers
who purchase them is a fundamental requirement
for business survival and protecting brand
value. We rely on manufacturers, suppliers and
legislation to keep us safe, and a key part of this is
the laboratory analysis performed on products to
ensure no harmful chemicals, physical properties
or microorganisms are present. Proficiency
testing provides independent validation
of laboratory quality.

86 lgcstandards.com/AXIO
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Schemes available
Pharmaceutical and Toys and Consumer
Dietary Supplements Product Testing
PHARMASSURE TOYTEST

Cannabis and Related Products Nickel Migration

CANNABIS NiMS

Cosmetics, Toiletries & Detergents

COSMETICS

NEW Consumer Safety

PT sample for 2025
Sample
Sample Code Analytes
Name

PT-CS-36 Benzene in Sunscreen cream Benzene

PT-CS-37 Identification test in Cosmetic products Identification of unknown organism
PT-PH-22 Nitrosamines (NDMA) in Pharmaceuticals N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA);
N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA)
PT-PH-23 Additives in E-liquid D-Glucose; D-Fructose; Caffeine; Taurine;
Vitamin E acetate
PT-PH-24 Total aerobic count, S.aureus and indicators in Total aerobic microbial count; Detection
Medicinal herbs and/or Enumeration of Staphylococcus
aureus; Bile tolerant gram negative
organisms; Escherichia coli
PT-PH-25 Yeast, Mould and Pseudomonas in Medicinal Detection and/or Enumeration of
herbs Pseudomonas aeruginosa; Candida albicans;
yeast; mould; yeast and mould
PT-PH-26 Salmonella in Medicinal herbs Detection of Salmonella species
PT-TY-25 Soothers for babies and young children Shield ventilation; Ring; Puncture resistance
of teat (EN 1400:2013+A1:2014)

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Pharmaceutical and
Dietary Supplements
PHARMASSURE

“An expansive scheme

covering much more than
just pharmaceuticals”

The AXIO PHARMASSURE Scheme is designed to ensure

that pharmaceutical testing laboratories are producing
analytical data which is fully compliant with wide-ranging
global requirements for pharmaceutical preparations,
dietary supplements, multivitamins, e-liquids and
medicinal herbs.
Samples provided cover a wide range of analytical
techniques – from density and acid/base titration to
NMR spectroscopy – and also provide a comprehensive
selection of chemical and microbiological analytes,
from arsenic to residual solvents to S.aureus, and
endotoxins to E.coli.
Successful participation in PHARMASSURE is recognised
as a demonstration of laboratory quality and competency
by a range of third parties, customers, regulators and
accreditation bodies.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
88 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix per Year

PT-PH-01 Sample format will depend Varying Acid/Base titration; Density; pH; Melting 4
upon test type volumes point; Refractive index; Other titrations, for
the determination of: Dipotassium hydrogen
phosphate; Sodium bicarbonate; Magnesium;
Sodium chloride
PT-PH-02A Sample format will depend Varying HPLC Analysis 2
upon test type volumes
PT-PH-02B Powder material 5g sample; 1g Trace elements 2
matrix
PT-PH-02E Residual Solvents 2g sample; 1ml Residual solvents 2
spike
PT-PH-03 Lyophilised test material 10ml (final Low-level enumeration; Identification of 2
test quantity microorganism; (Intended for membrane
100ml) filtration)
PT-PH-04A Lyophilised test material 10ml (final Total aerobic microbial count; Total bacterial 2
test quantity count; Detection and/or Enumeration of
100ml) Staphylococcus aureus; Escherichia coli;
Biletolerant gram-negative bacteria
PT-PH-04B Lyophilised test material 10ml (final Detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa; 2
test quantity Burkholderia cepacia Enumeration of Yeast;
100ml) Mould; Total yeast and mould, Enumeration;
and/or detection of Candida albicans
PT-PH-05 Lyophilised test material 5 x 5ml (final Sterility; Identification of microorganism 4
test quantity 5
x 100ml)
PT-PH-06A Sample format will depend Varying Gas Chromatography (GC) 1
upon test type volumes
PT-PH-06B Sample format will depend Varying UV 1
upon test type volumes
PT-PH-06C Sample format will depend 250ml Viscosity 1
upon test type
PT-PH-06D Sample format will depend Varying Loss on Drying (LOD) 1
upon test type volumes
PT-PH-06E Sample format will depend Varying FTIR 1
upon test type volumes
PT-PH-06F Sample format will depend Varying Karl Fischer 2
upon test type volumes
PT-PH-06G Sample format will depend Varying TLC 1
upon test type volumes
PT-PH-06H Sample format will depend 60ml FLAA 1
upon test type
PT-PH-06I Sample format will depend Varying Polarimetry 1
upon test type volumes
PT-PH-06J Sample format will depend Varying Advanced Titration 1
upon test type volumes
PT-PH-06K Sample format will depend 1g Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR); 1
upon test type Spectrometry
PT-PH-06M Pharmaceutical product Up to 10g Residue on Ignition 1
PT-PH-07A Sample for dissolution 1 sample + Dissolution testing 2
testing and reference reference
standard standard
PT-PH-07B Sample for tablet testing 1 sample Tablet testing 1
PT-PH-07C Tablets, capsules, powders 10 dosage Uniformity of dosage units 1
or suspensions units +
reference
standard

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix per Year

PT-PH-08A Sample format will depend 125ml Low level conductivity 1

upon test type
PT-PH-08B Sample format will depend 1 x sample for Particulate determination 1
upon test type particulate
determination
in solutions
PT-PH-09 Lyophilised test material 10ml (final Detection of Salmonella species 1
test quantity
100ml)
PT-PH-11 Solution 4ml Endotoxins in solutions 2
PT-PH-12 Solution 100ml Nicotine; Propylene glycol; Glycerol; Density; 1
Refractive index; pH
PT-PH-14 Supplement 10g Arsenic; Cadmium; Lead; Mercury 1
PT-PH-15 Supplement 2 x 5g sample Adulterants (including Sildenafil) 1
PT-PH-16 Oil or Powder 10ml of oil Cannabidiol 1
or 5g of
powdered
material
PT-PH-20 Multivitamin supplement 30g Vitamin B1; Vitamin B2; Vitamin B3; Vitamin 1
B5; Vitamin B6; Folic acid; Biotin; Vitamin B12;
Vitamin C
PT-PH-21 Multielement supplement 15g Calcium; Zinc; Magnesium; Copper; Manganese; 1
Potassium; Iron; Total Chromium; Selenium;
Compliance with labelling
PT-TM-PS39 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Bupropion; Hydroxybupropion 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS40 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Flupentixol 4
serum or human serum

Quantity of Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix per Year

NEW N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA);

Powdered drug substances 2g 1
PT-PH-22 N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA)

NEW D-Glucose; D-Fructose; Caffeine; Taurine;

E-liquid 100ml 1
PT-PH-23 Vitamin E acetate

Total aerobic microbial count; Detection and

NEW Vial + 10g
Medicinal herb or Enumeration of Staphylococcus aureus; Bile 1
PT-PH-24 sample
tolerant gram negative organisms; Escherichia coli

Detection and/or Enumeration of Pseudomonas

NEW Vial + 10g
Medicinal herb aeruginosa; Candida albicans; yeast; mould; 1
PT-PH-25 sample
yeast and mould

NEW Vial + 10g

Medicinal herb Detection of Salmonella species 1
PT-PH-26 sample

ENHANCED Sexual enhancement

2 x 5g sample Adulterants 1
PT-PH-15 supplements

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
90 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
91 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Cannabis and
Related Products
CANNABIS

“Unique products for a

fast-developing testing industry”

With the legalisation of medicinal and recreational cannabis

increasing rapidly across the globe, cannabis and hemp are
featuring in an ever-wider range of products. Laboratory
analysis of these products aims to ensure, amongst other
objectives, that the products comply with psychoactive
substances regulations, and that contaminants are absent.
The LGC AXIO CANNABIS Scheme offers chemistry samples
for testing cannabinoids, terpenes, mycotoxins and elements
(including heavy metals) in hemp and cannabis matrices.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix per Year

PT-CA-01-A Hemp oil 10g + Blank Delta 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); 2

Cannabidiol (CBD); Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA);
Cannabinol (CBN); Cannabichromene (CBC);
Cannabigerol (CBG); Cannabicyclol (CBL);
Cannabidivarin (CBDV); Cannabidivarinic acid
(CBDVA)
PT-CA-04 Simulated dried 10g Arsenic; Cadmium; Mercury; Lead; Copper; Iron; 1
cannabis plant Manganese; Nickel & Zinc; Calcium; Magnesium;
Potassium; Sulphur; Phosphorus
PT-CA-10 Cannabis flower 2g Total Delta 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); Total 1
Cannabidiol (CBD); Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA);
Cannabinol (CBN); Cannabichromene (CBC);
Cannabigerol (CBG); Cannabicyclol (CBL); Total
Cannabidivarin (CBDV); Cannabidivarinic acid
(CBDVA); Terpenes
PT-CA-11 Cannabis oil 5g Total Delta 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; Total 1
Cannabidiol (CBD); Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA);
Cannabinol (CBN); Cannabichromene (CBC);
Cannabigerol (CBG); Cannabicyclol (CBL);
Total Cannabidivarin (CBDV); Cannabidivarinic
acid (CBDVA)

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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Cosmetics, Toiletries
& Detergents
COSMETICS

“Helping laboratories keep pace

with rapid regulatory change”

Going back thousands of years – at least since the ancient

Egyptians used toxic lead sulphide in eye make-up –
cosmetics have had the potential to contain ingredients
which could harm their users. Today, key legislation –
such as the US Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation
Act (MoCRA) and China’s Cosmetics Supervision and
Administration Regulation (CSAR) – has introduced a host
of additional safety requirements, as well as a demand for
more evidence that products comply.
The LGC AXIO Cosmetics, Toiletries & Detergents
Proficiency Testing Scheme is designed to ensure that
analytical laboratories’ chemical, microbiological, and
physical analysis keep pace with these global changes – and
also provides them with the confidence that their results are
meaningful and accurate.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

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Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Quantity of Matrix Analytes
per Year

PT-CS-10A Powder Vial + 10g matrix Detection and/or enumeration of aerobic 2

mesophilicbacteria; Staphylococcus aureus; Enumeration
of Enterobacteriaceae; Detection of Escherichia coli
PT-CS-10B Powder Vial + 10g matrix Enumeration of yeast and mould (total count); Detection 2
of Candida albicans; Burkholderia cepacia; Detection
and/or enumeration of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
PT-CS-13A Cream Vial + 10g matrix Detection and/or enumeration of aerobic 2
mesophilicbacteria; Staphylococcus aureus; Enumeration
of Enterobacteriaceae; Detection of Escherichia coli
PT-CS-13B Cream Vial + 10g matrix Enumeration of yeast and mould (total count); Detection 2
of Candida albicans; Burkholderia cepacia; Detection
and/or enumeration of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
PT-CS-16A Liquid Vial + 10ml matrix Detection and/or enumeration of aerobic 2
mesophilicbacteria; Staphylococcus aureus; Enumeration
of Enterobacteriaceae; Detection of Escherichia coli
PT-CS-16B Liquid Vial + 10ml matrix Enumeration of yeast and mould (total count); Detection 2
of Candida albicans; Burkholderia cepacia; Detection
and/or enumeration of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
PT-CS-19 Lipstick 5g Cadmium; Chromium; Lead; Nickel; Arsenic; Mercury 2
PT-CS-20 Lip gloss 5g Cadmium; Chromium; Lead; Nickel; Arsenic; Mercury 1
PT-CS-21 Powder 5g Cadmium; Chromium; Lead; Nickel; Arsenic; Mercury 1
PT-CS-22 Cream 5ml Hydroquinone 2
PT-CS-23 Liquid cosmetics 500ml pH; Viscosity; Density 2
PT-CS-24 Mouthwash sample 125ml Antimony; Arsenic; Barium; Copper; Fluoride; Mercury; 1
Selenium; Zinc
PT-CS-25 Toothpaste sample 25g Antimony; Arsenic; Barium; Copper; Fluoride; Mercury; 1
Selenium; Zinc
PT-CS-27 Cream sample 25ml Methylparaben; Propylparaben; Butylparaben; 1
Benzoic acid; Sorbic acid
PT-CS-28 Liquid or solid soap 100g Chlorides (as Cl )̄ ; Free caustic alkali (as NaOH); Free fatty 1
acids (as oleic acid); Matter insoluble in ethanol; Moisture
and volatile matter; Total fatty matter content
PT-CS-29 Powder detergent 100g Water insoluble matter; pH (1% aqueous solution at 25˚C); 1
Moisture and volatile matter; Anionic-active matter;
Chlorides (as Cl )̄
PT-CS-30 Cream Vial + 10ml matrix Microbial challenge test (Preservative efficacy testing); 2
Microbial enumeration; Log10 reduction in microbial load
PT-CS-31 Mascara 5g Methylparaben; Propylparaben; Butylparaben; 1
Benzoic acid; Sorbic acid
PT-CS-32 Liquid detergent 100ml Water insoluble matter; pH (1% aqueous solution at 25˚C); 1
Moisture and volatile matter; Anionic-active matter;
Chlorides (as Cl )̄ ; Phosphates
PT-CS-33 Liquid hand sanitizer 3 x 20mL Alcohol content 1
PT-CS-34 Face masks 50 x Face masks Bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE); Differential pressure 1
(Breathability); Microbial cleanliness (Bioburden); Fluid
resistance to synthetic blood
PT-CS-35 Fragrances 30ml Allergenic compounds 1

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Quantity of Matrix Analytes
per Year

NEW
Sunscreen cream 10g Benzene 1
PT-CS-36

NEW
Vial 10ml Identification Test in cosmetic products 1
PT-CS-37

ENHANCED Ethanol; Methanol; 1-Propanol; 2-Propanol; Total

Hand sanitiser 50ml 1
PT-CS-33 Alcohol

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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Toys and Consumer

Product Testing
TOYTEST

“Supporting safety testing for toys

– and similar consumer goods”

The LGC AXIO TOYTEST Scheme is designed to support

laboratories working to ensure that toys – and a wide range
of other consumer products – are safe to use.
The scheme is based on European EN71 and US ASTM F963
standards, since most toys made and sold around the
world are designed to comply with one or other of those
standards. TOYTEST, however, also reaches beyond the toy
industry by offering testing in areas that are appropriate to
a broad range of other sectors – such as physical, chemical,
acoustic, electric, and flammability tests, as well as paper
exercises. The broad range of analytes provided include
phthalates, bisphenols, tin, and mercury, meaning that
TOYTEST is suitable for many different types of laboratories –
from manufacturers’ in-house units to compliance bodies
such as trading standards departments.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per year

PT-TY-01 Toy product EN71 Part 1 2

PT-TY-02 Toy product EN71 Part 2 3
PT-TY-03 EN71 - 3 Standard solution and real material EN71 Part 3 6
PT-TY-05 Paper exercise EN71 Part 8 1
PT-TY-07 ASTM F963 Toy product for paper exercise ASTM F963 2
PT-TY-09 Paint flakes Total Lead, Total Cadmium, Total Chromium; 3
Total Nickel; Total Tin, Total Mercury
PT-TY-10 Section of plastic material plus two test solutions Phthalates 4
PT-TY-11 Various Measurement testing (EN71-1; ASTM F963) 2
PT-TY-12 Toy product Kinetic energy testing (EN71-1; ASTM F963) 2
PT-TY-13 Toy product Acoustic testing (EN71-1) 2
PT-TY-14 Magnets Flux testing (EN71-1; ASTM F963) 2
PT-TY-15 Electrical Electrical testing (EN62115) 1
PT-TY-16 Plastic bead or pellet Total Bisphenol A 1
PT-TY-17 Slime Toy Safety Directive / EN 71-3 - Boron 2
PT-TY-18 Jewellery Total lead; total cadmium in jewellery 2
(REACH regulation)
PT-TY-19 Toy product Flammability assessment of moulded plastic 1
to US ASTM F963-17, 16 CFR; 1500.44;
SRS-013
PT-TY-24 Faux leather SCCPs; MCCPs 1

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

NEW Shield ventilation; Ring; Puncture resistance

Soothers for babies and young children 1
PT-TY-25 of teat (EN 1400:2013+A1:2014)

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-TY-03 - EN71-3
PT-TY-03 focuses specifically on the third part of the European toy safety regulations, which are encompassed in
EN71. Part 3 addresses the analysis and legal limits set for migratable elements. There are 19 analytes covered in this
regulation, organotin compounds and 18 elemental parameters, including Chromium VI. The tests in the regulation
are designed to mimic the extraction of these analytes during play, and product types are split into three categories
(I, II & III) with different permitted limits for each category. We offer a range of different PT sample types for EN71-3
to cover all the product types routinely tested by consumer safety labs and, in each round, we provide 2 additional
‘standard solutions’ which are designed to look at the instrumentation side of the analysis. In combination with the
‘real’ samples, labs can easily determine where improvements may need to be made.
6 Rounds per Year

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Nickel Migration
NiMS

“Specific support for your

nickel testing performance”

The release of nickel from jewellery is the most widespread

cause of allergic contact dermatitis, which affects up to
20% of the general population. As many ordinary items
may contain nickel – including buttons, coins, spectacle
frames, watch straps and zips – it can be difficult for
sufferers to avoid.
The LGC AXIO Nickel Migration Scheme (NiMS) is designed
to assess the performance of laboratories undertaking the
determination of nickel release from articles intended to
come into direct and prolonged contact with the skin.
The method for this determination is defined in European
standard EN 1811, with the tested article suspended in
an artificial sweat solution for a period of one week. The
concentration of dissolved nickel in the solution is then
determined by ICP-MS or a similarly accurate and precise
technique. Successful participation in NiMS supports
a laboratory’s quality system by providing external and
independent assessment of its performance in conducting
the measurement of nickel migration.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-NK-01 Alloy disks, jewellery or other 3 x test Surface area, Nickel release 2
appropriate articles articles

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Clinical Schemes
Within clinical laboratories, testing requirements
can often be within a narrow range, and the outcome
of the tests, and clinical response, is often critical
for patient care. Likewise, within Toxicological
and Forensic Drug Testing laboratories, matrices
and drug metabolites can be challenging, with
the outcome of the testing having potential legal
repercussions. Our AXIO schemes, supported
by Advisory Groups consisting of members of
professional bodies and others experienced in
the field, provide laboratories with the confidence
in the quality of their tests.

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Schemes available
Immunosuppressants Drugs of Abuse in Urine
IPT DAU

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring Drugs of Abuse in Fluid

TDM DOF

Toxicology Drug of Abuse in Hair

TOX DAH

NEW Clinical PT sample

for 2025
Sample Sample
Analytes
Code Name

PT-TM-AE6 Stiripentol in Serum Stiripentol

PT-TM-AE7 Sulthiame in Serum Sulthiame

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Immunosuppressants
IPT

“For laboratories that quantify

immunosuppressant drugs in
blood and plasma”

Immunosuppressant drugs are a class of drugs that

suppress, or reduce, the response of the body’s immune
system. In addition to being used to prevent organ
rejection, they are often used to treat autoimmune
disorders such as lupus, psoriasis and rheumatoid
arthritis. Regular blood tests are essential for monitoring
therapeutic levels and whether dosage changes are
needed. To successfully make these informed decisions,
laboratories need to demonstrate that drug measurements
are reliable, reproducible and accurate.
The AXIO Proficiency Testing Immunosuppressant Scheme
(IPT) provides independent performance assessment for
laboratories quantifying immunosuppressant drugs in
blood and plasma.
The operation of our AXIO IPT scheme is supported
by an Advisory Group consisting of members of
professional bodies, scheme participants, and others
experienced in the field. The scheme reports on the
performance of UK participants (who have clinical
responsibilities) to the National Quality Assurance
Advisory Panels for Chemical Pathology.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
102 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-IP-CIC Human blood 3 x 1ml Ciclosporin 12

PT-IP-EVE Human blood 3 x 1ml Everolimus 6
PT-IP-MPA Human plasma 2 x 1ml Mycophenolic acid 6
PT-IP-SIR Human blood 3 x 1ml Sirolimus 12
PT-IP-TAC Human blood 3 x 1ml Tacrolimus 12

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-IP-CIC/TAC - Ciclosporin and Tacrolimus

Ciclosporin and Tacrolimus are immunosuppressant drugs that are routinely monitored for
therapeutic drug monitoring purposes during patient care. It is vital for patient safety that the
concentrations of these substances are within the therapeutic range.
200-250 participants per round
12 Rounds per Year

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Therapeutic Drug
Monitoring
TDM

“Supporting laboratories’
accuracy and performance,
within challenging limits”

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring is a measurement of specific

drug concentration levels at timed intervals in patients,
usually through blood/serum samples. Such monitoring is
necessary where control of drug concentrations is required
to achieve optimum treatment for the patient, or where
there is a narrow range between the therapeutic and
toxic levels.
The AXIO Proficiency Testing Therapeutic Drugs
Monitoring Scheme (TDM) provides independent
performance assessment for the routine quantification of a
wide range of anti-epileptic and other therapeutic drugs.
The operation of this scheme is supported by an Advisory
Group consisting of members of professional bodies,
scheme participants, and others experienced in the field.
The scheme reports on the performance of UK participants
(who have clinical responsibilities) to the National Quality
Assurance Advisory Panels for Chemical Pathology.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
104 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-TM-TD1 Lyophilised human serum 3 x 5ml Carbamazepine; CBZ-epoxide; Carbamazepine 12

+ CBZ-epoxide; Clonazepam; Lamotrigine;
Phenytoin; Ethosuximide; Phenobarbitone;
Primidone; Valproate; Caffeine; Digoxin; Lithium;
Theophylline; Methotrexate; Paracetamol
(Acetaminophen); Salicylic Acid; Amikacin;
Gentamicin; Tobramycin; Vancomycin
PT-TM-CN1 Lyophilised human serum 2 x 2ml Clobazam; Norclobazam 12
PT-TM-AE1 Lyophilised human serum 1 x 4ml OH-oxcarbazepine; Gabapentin; Tiagabine; 12
Levetiracetam; Pregabalin
PT-TM-AE2 Lyophilised human serum 1 x 4ml Topiramate; Vigabatrin; Felbamate; Zonisamide; 12
Rufinamide; Lacosamide
PT-TM-AE4 Lyophilised human serum 1 x 2ml Perampanel 12
PT-TM-AE5 Lyophilised human serum 1 x 2ml Brivaracetam 12
PT-TM-CRD Lyophilised human serum 1 x 2ml Amiodarone; Desethylamiodarone; Flecainide 12
PT-TM-AM1 Lyophilised human serum 2 x 5ml Ibuprofen; Diclofenac; Tramadol; 4
O-Desmethyltramadol
PT-TM-SA01 Lyophilised human serum 2 x 2ml Buprenorphine; Norbuprenorphine 12
PT-TM-SA02 Lyophilised human serum 2 x 2ml Methadone; EDDP 12
PT-TM-AH01 Lyophilised human urine 2 x 5ml Anti-Hypertensive Drug Screen: Drug 4
identification. Up to four drugs may be present
in the sample, please see the TDM scheme
description for further details
PT-TM-PS01 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Amitriptyline; Nortriptyline 12
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS02 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Imipramine; Desipramine 12
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS03 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Clomipramine; Norclomipramine 12
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS04 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Clozapine; Norclozapine 12
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS05 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Doxepin; Nordoxepin 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS06 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Fluoxetine; Norfluoxetine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS07 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Fluphenazine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS08 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Sertraline; Norsertraline 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS09 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Trimipramine; Nortrimipramine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS10 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Risperidone; HO-risperidone 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS11 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Mirtazapine; Normirtazapine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS12 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Maprotiline 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS13 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Thioridazine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS14 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Haloperidol 4
serum or human serum

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-TM-PS15 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Olanzapine; Norolanzapine 4

serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS16 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Perphenazine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS17 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Quetiapine; Norquetiapine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS18 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Citalopram; Norcitalopram 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS19 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Dothiepin; Northiaden 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS20 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Venlafaxine; Norvenlafaxine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS21 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Paroxetine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS22 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Fluvoxamine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS23 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Zuclopenthixol 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS24 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Amisulpride 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS25 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Aripiprazole; Dehydroaripiprazole 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS26 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Ziprasidone 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS27 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Duloxetine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS28 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Escitalopram 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS29 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Trazodone 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS30 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Sulpiride 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS31 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Chlorpromazine; Norchlorpromazine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS32 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Mianserin 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS33 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Brexpiprazole 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS34 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Lurasidone 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS35 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Sertindole 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS37 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Vortioxetine 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PS38 Lyophilised newborn calf 1 x 5ml Meclobemide 4
serum or human serum
PT-TM-PST1 Lyophilised human serum 2 x 5ml Atomoxetine; Methylphenidate; Ritalinic acid 4
PT-TM-NC01 Lyophilised human urine 2 x 5ml Nicotine; Cotinine 4

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
106 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix per Year

PT-TM-TC01 Lyophilised human serum 2 x 5ml Drug identification. Up to three drugs may
be present in the sample, please see the TDM
scheme description for further details
PT-AT-01 Human serum 1 x 1ml Gentamicin; Vancomycin 12
PT-AT-02 Human serum 1 x 1ml Tobramycin 12
PT-AT-03 Human serum 1 x 1ml Amikacin 12
PT-AT-07 Human serum 1 x 1ml Teicoplanin 12
PT-AT-AF01 Human serum 1 x 1.7ml Antifungals 12
PT-TM-PS39 Bupropion and 1 x 5ml Bupropion; Hydroxybupropion 4
Hydroxybupropion in serum
PT-TM-PS40 Flupentixol in serum 1 x 5ml Flupentixol 4

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per Year

NEW
Serum Stiripentol 12
PT-TM-AE6

NEW
Serum Sulthiame 12
PT-TM-AE7

ENHANCED
Serum O-desmethyltramadol 4
PT-TM-AM01

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT

PT-TM-TD01 - Therapeutic Drug Mixture

This sample is suitable for laboratories who undertake a large range of Therapeutic Drug
Monitoring analysis. It contains 20 analytes including anti-epileptics and antibiotics.
These analytes are routinely monitored for patient care.
Approximately 500 participants per round
12 Rounds per Year

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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Toxicology
TOX

“Confidence in the measurement of

a range of biological materials”

Toxicological analyses may be undertaken on biological

specimens, predominantly blood, serum, and urine.
Analyses can be undertaken for a range of substances
including prescription and non-prescription drugs, illicit
drugs, and alcohol. It is essential for laboratories, clinicians
and toxicologists using the data that results are meaningful
and accurate.
At AXIO Proficiency Testing, we recognise the importance
of ensuring quality in toxicology analyses. This is why we
designed the AXIO Toxicology Scheme (TOX) to provide
an independent performance assessment of laboratories
undertaking clinical and/or forensic toxicological
analytical services.
The operation of our TOX scheme is supported by an Advisory
Group consisting of members of professional bodies, scheme
participants, and others experienced in the field. The scheme
reports on the performance of UK participants (who have
clinical responsibilities) to the National Quality Assurance
Advisory Panels for Chemical Pathology.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
108 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix per Year

PT-TX-BLD Human blood 1 x 1.7ml Ethanol; Paracetamol (Acetaminophen); 12

Salicylic acid; Carboxyhaemoglobin
PT-TX-BNZ Human serum 2 x 4ml Diazepam; Nordazepam; Temazepam; 4
Oxazepam; Nitrazepam
PT-TX-BNZB Serum 2 x 4ml Alprazolam; Bromazepam; Clonazepam; 4
Lorazepam; Midazolam; Etizolam
PT-TX-CAS Serum 7ml Serum + Participants should report results, toxicological 4
20ml Urine involvement and treatment options
PT-TX-GHB Urine 3 x 2ml Gammahydroxybutyrate 2
PT-TX-QT Human blood 2 x 10ml Participants should report quantitative data 4
on specified analytes
PT-TX-SM Serum 3 x 1.7ml Ethanol; Paracetamol (Acetaminophen); 12
Salicylic acid
PT-TX-TAK Blood 1 x 1.7ml Ethanol; Methanol; Isopropylalcohol (IPA); 2
Acetone; Ethylene Glycol
PT-TX-TAS Serum 1 x 1.7ml Ethanol; Methanol; Isopropylalcohol (IPA); 2
Acetone; Ethylene Glycol
PT-TX-URN Urine 1 x 1.7ml Ethanol 12
PT-TX-ZMIX Human serum 2 x 4ml Zopiclone; Zaleplon; Zolpidem 4

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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Drugs of Abuse in Urine

DAU

“When confidence is key…”

Human urine has been used for many years to detect the
presence of illicit drugs. Urine testing may be requested
for a variety of reasons, including health care, occupational
monitoring, insurance screening, legal and forensic
purposes. Errors in tests could have severe consequences,
such as dismissal from work or miscarriage of justice.
The AXIO Proficiency Testing Drugs of Abuse in Urine
Scheme (DAU) is designed to provide an independent
performance assessment of laboratories and clinics that
provide routine services for the detection of drugs of
abuse in urine. Laboratories and clinics are encouraged
to participate in suitable PT/EQA schemes to ensure the
highest standard of drug testing is achieved through
independent assessment of measurement quality.
The operation of the AXIO DAU scheme is supported by
an Advisory Group consisting of members of professional
bodies, scheme participants, and others experienced in
the field. The scheme reports on the performance of UK
participants (who have clinical responsibilities) to the National
Quality Assurance Advisory Panels for Chemical Pathology.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
110 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per year

PT-DU-FULL-W Urine Full participants will be able to report for the 4

screening only analytes using immunoassay
type techniques and individual analytes
by chromatography type techniques.
Approximately 210 individual analytes are
available and are managed by your PORTAL
online screening profile. Participants will
receive 3 freeze-dried urine samples, each
with a volume of 15ml.
PT-DU- Urine This is designed for participants who report 4
SCREEN-W using immunoassay type techniques,
including POCT (point of care testing).
Participants will receive 3 freeze-dried
urine samples, each with a volume of 15ml.
For details of the screening groups, please
see the current application form/scheme
description.
Please note that it is not possible to report
on individual analytes if participating on
Screening-only basis.

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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Drugs of Abuse in
Oral Fluid
DOF

“Our samples are provided as real

human oral fluid…”

The AXIO Proficiency Testing Drugs in Oral Fluid Scheme

(DOF) provides performance assessment for laboratories
and clinics that provide analytical services for drugs in oral
fluid. The samples are provided as real human oral fluid.
Advances in technology have enabled oral fluid testing for
the presence of many drugs; the oral fluid collection is often
less invasive, relatively easy to perform and, in forensic
situations, can be achieved under close supervision to
prevent adulteration or substitution of the samples.
The operation of our AXIO DOF scheme is supported
by an Advisory Group consisting of members of the
professional bodies, scheme participants, and others
experienced in the field. The scheme reports on the
performance of UK participants (who have clinical
responsibilities) to the National Quality Assurance
Advisory Panels for Chemical Pathology.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
112 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per year

PT-DO-OF Oral fluid Participants will receive three samples 4

at quarterly intervals with 4 weeks being
allowed for drug analysis. The samples
consist of 1.7ml volume of oral fluid obtained
from volunteers and known drug users.
Participants report on the major misused
drug groups, reporting to scheme
thresholds.

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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Drugs of Abuse in Hair

DAH

“Our samples consist of real,

cut human hair”

Drugs and their metabolites, once ingested, become

incorporated in hair. Analysis for these drug residues can
provide a useful assessment of an individual’s intake of
drugs over a prolonged period of time, as the window of
detection for drugs in hair is significantly longer than other
samples commonly tested, such as blood, urine, and saliva.
The AXIO Proficiency Testing Drugs of Abuse in Hair
Scheme (DAH) is suitable for laboratories performing
forensic analysis of hair for drugs of abuse and provides
an independent assessment of measurement quality.
The test materials that we provide consist of real cut
(2–3mm pieces) human hair that has been declared free
from common drugs of abuse. The analytes are then
incorporated by a method that includes soaking. Drugs
(and/or metabolites) from six major classes are included
during the scheme year.
The operation of the AXIO DAH scheme is supported by an
Advisory Group consisting of members of professional bodies,
scheme participants, and others experienced in the field.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added or
removed. For accredited and non-accredited status, plus the most up to date sample data, please see the current
114 lgcstandards.com/AXIO application form/scheme description for this scheme.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per year

PT-DH-01+2 Hair For the identification and quantification of 4

up to 4 analytes
PT-DH-03+4 Alcohol markers (Ethyl glucuronide) in Hair Ethyl glucuronide (qualitative and 4
quantitative)

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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Forensic Schemes
AXIO Proficiency Testing provides a growing range
of schemes for forensic science, presently dealing
mainly with the analysis of explosives residues
and Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS), a
specialised technique used to precisely measure
small differences in the abundances of isotopes such
as 2H/1H, 13C/12C, 15N/14N and 18O/16O.
Customers may also be interested in our clinical
schemes dealing with drugs of abuse, such as our
hair scheme (DAH), oral fluid scheme (DOF) and
urine scheme (DAU).

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Schemes available
Forensic Analysis for Explosives Forensic Isotope Ratio
FAE Mass Spectrometry
FIRMS
Forensic Blood Toxicology
QUARTZ

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Forensic Analysis for

Explosives
FAE

“Meet international standards

with FAE”

To gain ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO/IEC 17020 accreditation

for the analysis of trace explosives and associated
chemicals, laboratories need to demonstrate their
competent analysis, which is supported by participation
in proficiency testing schemes.
LGC AXIO Proficiency Testing works in collaboration with the
European Network of Forensic Science Institutes’ (ENFSI)
Working Group on Explosives to provide our Forensic
Analysis for Explosives Scheme (FAE). Participation in FAE
allows laboratories to monitor performance and compare
it with that of peers, as required by international standards
ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO/IEC 17020.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added
118 lgcstandards.com/AXIO or removed. For accredited and non-accredited status please see current application form/scheme description.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per year

PT-FA-ID Sample and case scenario Participants are provided with a case 2
scenario and samples relating to this
scenario. Details of the sample/samples will
be supplied when they are distributed.
Participants will receive: Samples for
analysis and a corresponding Case Scenario.
The case scenarios and samples differ
between rounds and have included a range
of scenarios including: a bomb factory, car
bomb with debris, solutions from swabs
taken after a letter bomb. Samples have
included: analysis of raw materials, solutions
obtained from post explosion swabbings
and solutions for anion and cation analysis.

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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Forensic Blood
Toxicology
QUARTZ

“Choose from test materials

to suit you”

The AXIO Proficiency Testing Forensic Blood Toxicology

Scheme (QUARTZ) is aimed at laboratories undertaking
forensic toxicology and coroners’ work. Test analytes
and case scenarios included in the scheme are discussed
regularly with the Advisory Group.
The scheme offers the choice of several test materials
comprising blood and urine spiked with drugs and
metabolites. Case scenarios provided for interpretation
include sudden and suspicious deaths, drug-facilitated
sexual assaults (DFSA), impaired driving, and other
relevant cases.
Participation in QUARTZ will provide independent
performance assessment and confidence that results
are meaningful and accurate. Consistent satisfactory
performance will allow laboratories to demonstrate to
third parties, customers, regulators and accreditation
bodies the quality of their results.
The operation of our QUARTZ scheme is supported
by an Advisory Group consisting of members of the
professional bodies, scheme participants, and others
experienced in the field.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added
120 lgcstandards.com/AXIO or removed. For accredited and non-accredited status please see current application form/scheme description.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Quantity of Rounds per

Sample Code Matrix Analytes
Matrix Year

PT-QZ-01+02 Blood 2 x 10ml Sample 1: Participants will be asked to identify 4

up to 4 drugs relevant to forensic toxicology;
Sample 2: Quantification of a known drug
(full identity or generic classification)
PT-QZ-03 Blood 2 x 10ml "Sample 3A: Morphine, Methadone, 2
Amphetamine Diazepam.
Sample 3B: Citalopram, Codeine, Amitriptyline,
Tramadol"
PT-QZ-04 Blood 10ml Quantification of alcohol and fluoride in a blood 2
sample
PT-QZ-05 Paper exercise - Interpretation of a case study (with analytical 2
data, and a scenario or witness statement) to
determine the potential blood alcohol level at a
given time
PT-QZ-06 Blood 10ml Participants are asked to quantify/identify 2
a range of new psychoactive substances;
(NPS). Two substances are named and are for
quantification and a further two substances are
not named and are to be identified by screening
(quantification results may also be included)
PT-QZ-07 Blood 10ml Participants are asked to screen for synthetic 2
cannabinoids and identify one of the most
common synthetic cannabinoids
PT-QZ-08 Urine 10ml Participants are asked to identify up to 4 drugs 2
or metabolites relevant to forensic toxicology
PT-QZ-09 Urine 10ml A urine sample specifically for New Psychoactive 2
Substance screening and may include synthetic
cannabinoids. Up to two substances may be
present. No interpretation is required
PT-QZ-10 Blood 2 x 10ml "Sample 10A: Oxycodone, Pregabalin, MDMA 2
and Mirtazapine
Sample 10B: Loratidine, Gabapentin, Quetiapine
and Valproate"

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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Forensic Isotope Ratio

Mass Spectrometry
FIRMS

“Supported by the FIRMS Network”

Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (FIRMS) is a specialised

technique that precisely measures small differences in the
abundances of isotopes such as 2H/1H, 13C/12C, 15N/14N
and 18O/16O. Subtle variations to the ‘natural’ abundance
of these isotopes may be introduced during biological,
chemical, and physical processes.
These changes enable the identification of materials that
otherwise may not be differentiated, such that IRMS is used
in many fields, including archaeology, medicine, geology,
food authenticity, and forensics.
At AXIO Proficiency Testing, we recognise the importance
of getting it right. Participation in our AXIO FIRMS
scheme helps laboratories demonstrate competence
in this analytical technique. The scheme is operated by
AXIO Proficiency Testing and is supported by the FIRMS
Network, which provides input on the choice of test
materials and scheme performance.

Download Download Scheme

Application Form Description

The full range and availability of test materials and analytes is determined on an annual basis and may be added
122 lgcstandards.com/AXIO or removed. For accredited and non-accredited status please see current application form/scheme description.
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

Rounds
Sample Code Matrix Analytes
per year

PT-FM-01+2 Various products (waxes, oils, 01 - δ2H; δ13C; δ18O; δ15N; 02 - δ2H; δ13C; 1
plant material, chitin) δ18O

Download Application Form Download Scheme Description

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FAQs

About Proficiency Testing

About AXIO Proficiency Testing
About the AXIO Proficiency
Testing Process
About AXIO Proficiency Testing
Schemes
About Reporting & Evaluating
Results
About Privacy & Confidentiality
About Driving Quality Together

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About Proficiency Testing

What is proficiency testing? Why enrol in a proficiency testing scheme?

Proficiency Testing (PT) provides a regular • Compare your laboratory’s results to those of
independent assessment of the technical others performing the same test or measurement.
performance of a laboratory to assure the validity
• Demonstrate and identify performance trends.
of measurements and tests, which should form
part of an overall quality strategy. PT is often • Monitor test performance across all of your
referred to as external quality assessment (EQA), organisation’s laboratories.
especially in the medical/clinical arena.
• Complement internal check sample programs.
The practice of testing unknown test materials
• Demonstrate competency to customers,
from an outside source provides an additional,
accreditation bodies and other regulatory bodies.
independent, means to assure the quality of
laboratory test results. • Fulfil accreditation requirements.
One of the most common designs for a PT scheme • Verify methods and instrumentation.
is for the provider to designate specific dates
• Manage risk through early warning of
throughout the year when it will send test materials
potential problems.
to all participants at the same time.
• Educate and train staff.
The test materials, whose expected values are
unknown to the subscribers, are analysed by the • Check the reasonableness of the laboratory’s
laboratory staff who return their results to the estimated measurement uncertainty.
proficiency testing provider.
The results are reviewed (using statistical
techniques described in ISO 13528) to determine
acceptable performance levels, and an evaluation
is issued to each participant.
The evaluation and accompanying statistical
data not only capture the laboratory’s current
performance, but over time allow the quality team
to analyse trends and improve the laboratory’s long
term performance.
Proficiency testing is a key element in the laboratory
accreditation process, alongside reference materials,
enabling laboratories to monitor the quality of their
analytical results as stipulated in ISO/IEC 17025 and
ISO 15189.

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About AXIO Proficiency

Testing
Which international standards are relevant What are the fees for participation?
to AXIO Proficiency Testing schemes? Fees for participation are reviewed annually and
In terms of stipulating the use of proficiency the current fees for each PT scheme are available
testing, the main standards are ISO/IEC 17025 on application. Payment terms are detailed on
- General requirements for the competence of the application form and invoice. Participants are
testing and calibration laboratories; and the advised that delays with payments may result in
clinical standard ISO 15189 - Medical laboratories test materials and/or reports being withheld until
– requirements for quality and competence. All payments are made.
our PT schemes are operated in accordance with
Where do you source your PT test materials?
the international standard ISO/ IEC 17043. The
statistical analysis undertaken is in accordance The vast majority of test materials are
with the international standard ISO 13528. LGC is manufactured by LGC. Where this is not possible,
accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation test materials are carefully sourced to meet
Service (UKAS) for the provision of proficiency the needs of participants. Wherever practical,
testing schemes against ISO/IEC 17043 (No. 0001); test materials will be as similar as possible to
a copy of our current scope of accreditation which those samples routinely tested by participating
lists the accredited schemes is available on our laboratories. However, in some cases,
website: lgcstandards.com in order to achieve the required degree of
homogeneity and stability, test materials may be
How are your PT schemes organised? in the form of simulated matrices or concentrated
The day-to-day operation of each PT scheme is spiking solutions. The analyte concentration range
the responsibility of LGC. Individual schemes are of test materials will usually be varied from round
managed by a team of Scheme Coordinators, to to round in order to be realistic and challenging.
cover reporting, customer service and technical Details of individual test material types are
functions. For some schemes, external advisors may available in the relevant scheme description.
also be used to provide the full range of relevant
How is PT test material stability affected
knowledge and expertise needed to operate the
by time, distance and temperature?
scheme effectively. A small number of schemes are
run in collaboration with other organisations. The test materials are all stable at the stated
storage temperatures for at least the period of
Do you use Advisors and Advisory Groups? the PT scheme round. Studies have shown there
Yes, depending upon the PT scheme in question. is no significant difference between results of
Advisors are selected on the basis of their technical test materials tested the day after despatch and
knowledge and experience of the industry to which those tested on the deadline date. There is also no
the scheme is related. Advisors may be used on an evidence that results are influenced by different
ad-hoc basis and contacted when specific issues climatic conditions of participating countries.
need to be addressed.
Distance travelled does not affect test material
Alternatively, formal Advisory Groups may be used. results. We have undertaken studies on a
Advisory Groups consist of members who may or number of our PT test materials comparing the
may not be participants on the scheme but who average result according to distance travelled,
are experienced in the field of testing covered by and no correlations have been found. Stability
the PT scheme. consideration is an important part of the design
and feasibility process for a PT scheme, where
The composition and terms of reference of each
transport conditions such as temperature,
Advisory Group will be agreed on a scheme-by
humidity, pressure, exposure to x-rays etc are
scheme basis.
taken into account.
Do you run PT schemes that are
jointly managed?
Yes, some PT schemes are operated jointly with a
partner organisation. Where schemes are operated
jointly, a Management Committee may be set up to
address operational issues for the scheme.

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About the AXIO Proficiency

Testing Process
How do I join a PT scheme?
Participants are advised to take part in the PT Once packages have been delivered, AXIO
scheme(s) that are most fitting to their own area of Proficiency Testing cannot be held responsible
testing. Where necessary, appropriate staff at AXIO if they subsequently fail to reach the correct
Proficiency Testing can advise on which scheme is personnel or are not stored under the
most suitable for participants. recommended conditions.

For each scheme, a scheme description and Participants are asked to check the contents
application form will be available, containing of packages immediately on receipt and to
information about the test materials included in contact AXIO Proficiency Testing if there are any
the scheme, and the intended distribution dates. problems with the condition of the test materials
This information is available on our website: or accompanying documentation.
lgcstandards.com/AXIO How do I treat my PT test material?
Participants are invited to complete an application It is important for laboratories to understand how
form or to place their orders via our webshop to get the optimum benefit from PT participation.
at lgcstandards.com/pt by selecting which test To do this, a laboratory must participate in an
materials they wish to receive in the PT scheme year. open and honest fashion, being prepared to, on
occasion, be evaluated as unsatisfactory. If PT is
Renewing customers are welcome to choose to
to achieve its aims, laboratories need to treat the
‘renew as last year’ on the application form, webshop
test materials the same as routine test materials,
or on our reporting platform, PORTAL, to receive a
and staff must be encouraged to treat them
quotation based on their previous year’s order.
appropriately and learn from their results in a
Once a completed webshop order, application form constructive manner.
or quotation confirmation is received, an order
Do I have to use specific methods to
confirmation will be sent to the participant, confirming
analyse the PT test materials?
the test materials selected and distribution dates.
Unless otherwise instructed, participants should
How often do I need to participate? analyse the test materials using any method that
The frequency that a laboratory needs to they feel is appropriate.
participate in proficiency testing depends on
Participants are asked to treat the test material
a wide range of factors specific to each individual
in the same way as a routine sample. Participants
laboratory, such as other quality tools used, the
may be asked to state their method when
volume of work undertaken and the risk associated
reporting results. It is important that this
to the measurements. Therefore every individual
information is accurate as results may be
laboratory may have a different need, which is why
analysed and reported according to the
PT schemes provided by AXIO Proficiency Testing
method stated.
offer flexible participation, although some do
have a minimum participation level. Third parties, Do I have to report my results within a
such as regulatory bodies, may recommend specific timescale?
minimum levels of participation. To gain the Deadlines are specified for the return of results,
benefit from trend analysis, participation in a to ensure the timely issue of assigned values
minimum of four rounds over a scheme year is and reports to participants. For each PT scheme
normally recommended. a closure date will therefore be specified. For
How are PT test materials packaged certain tests there may also be a date specified
and transported? by which examination of the test material is
recommended to have been commenced. This
Test materials are packaged appropriately to
is to ensure that sufficient time is available to
protect the contents during transit. The majority
complete the test and report results in time for
of test materials are sent using priority courier.
the deadline date.
Overseas customers must provide relevant
documents to prevent delay in customs such as
import permits and may be required to pay import
duties locally.

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About AXIO Proficiency

Testing Schemes
How should I report my results corrected using PORTAL until the round closes.
using PORTAL? How many results may I submit?
For the majority of PT schemes, results are
Although it is desirable for participants to
returned through our bespoke electronic
submit multiple results in order to compare
reporting software, PORTAL. Once you are ready
results between different analysts, methods
to report your results, please go to:
or instruments, a single laboratory reporting a
portal.lgcstandards.com You will need to log in
large number of results could potentially bias
using your lab ID, username and password. We
the dataset. In order to minimise the effects of
advise that prior to using PORTAL you read the
bias, AXIO Proficiency Testing therefore limits
user guide which is available at:
the number of results participants are able to
portal.lgcstandards.com select ‘help’
report. Each participant is able to enter up to 13
from the menu.
different results. Of these results a maximum of 3
If you require further assistance please contact results can be ‘nominated’. Nominated results are
our support team: included in the statistical analysis of the dataset
Tel: +44 (0)161 762 2500 whilst non-nominated results are not, however
Email: [email protected] all results will receive z performance scores and
or your local LGC office. assessments as appropriate.

For some schemes (or parts of a scheme) Nominated results must be obtained using
alternative reporting mechanisms are provided, different methods, again to minimise the
details of which will be emailed to participants effects of bias.
prior to test materials receipt.
Further information is available in the PORTAL
It is recommended that results and calculations are User Guide and the PORTAL Nominated Results
checked thoroughly before reporting. Results should FAQ, both of these documents are available
be reported clearly, in the format and units detailed for download from the PORTAL website and
in the scheme description. If calculations are used, further information is available from
unless instructed otherwise, the laboratory is to [email protected]
report only the final calculated result.
Can my results be included in the report if
In general, results of zero should not be reported; I’ve missed the deadline for reporting?
results should be reported depending upon Participants are asked to return results by the given
the detection limit of the method used, for deadline in order to ensure that their results are
example, <10. The exception is a small number of included in the statistical analysis and the scheme
parameters, where it may be appropriate to report report. Results received after the closure date will
a result of zero, depending on the measurement not be included in the report.
scale being used. Results of zero and truncated
results, such as < or > cannot often be included For PT schemes where a generic report is issued,
in the data analysis and therefore allocated a this is available to all participants subscribing to
performance score. the round regardless of whether their results were
submitted or not.
Results will be rounded up or down to the number
of reporting decimal places stipulated in the Are microbiology results obtained from
scheme description and may not therefore MPN methods comparable to those
be identical to your original reported result. obtained using plate count methods?
The effects of rounding may also mean that MPN and plate counts are both estimates of the
occasionally percentage totals do not add up number of microbial cells in the original test
exactly to 100%. material and therefore provided all dilutions and
Part of the challenge of proficiency testing calculations have been performed correctly,
is the ability to perform calculations and results should be comparable.
transcribe results correctly. The proficiency For data from the QWAS and QMS schemes,
testing team cannot interpret or calculate results comparing MPN results against results
on participants’ behalf. Once submitted and obtained from all other methods show no
received, results cannot be amended and no significant differences.
changes can be made after the report has been
issued. However, if you notice an error in your
result before the reporting deadline, this can be

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About Reporting &

Evaluating Results
How is the assigned value established? • ISO (BIPM, IEC, IFCC, IUPAC, IUPAP and OIMl)
ISO 13528: ‘Statistical methods for use ‘Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty
in proficiency testing by interlaboratory in Measurement’
comparison’ sets out how the assigned value • EURACHEM/CITAC Guide ‘Quantifying
and performance assessment criteria can be Uncertainty in Analytical Measurement’
established and describes the options for the (available at: www.eurachem.org).
various performance scoring systems.
Further information on approaches to evaluating
The assigned value is the value selected as measurement uncertainty may also be available
being the best estimate of the ‘true value’ for from your national accreditation body.
the parameter under test. The method used to
determine the assigned value may vary depending Can I use PT data to estimate my
upon the particular PT scheme and test material measurement uncertainty?
and is detailed in the relevant scheme description. It is possible, but must be regarded as a
very rough estimate, and is not an approach
For quantitative tests, where it is appropriate,
addressed in many guides to evaluating
practicable and technically feasible, the assigned
measurement uncertainty. However documents
value will be derived through formulation (or
that do address the use of PT data are:
occasionally through the use of a certified
reference material) to provide metrological • EURACHEM/CITAC Guide ‘Quantifying
traceability; the associated uncertainty of the Uncertainty in Analytical Measurement’
value can therefore be estimated. However, (available at www.eurachem.org)
in many cases the use of a consensus value is
• NORDTEST Report TR 537 ‘Handbook for
the only practicable and technically feasible
Calculation of Measurement Uncertainty in
approach to use. When the assigned value
Environmental Laboratories’
is determined from the consensus value of
participant results, or from expert laboratories, • ISO 19036 ‘Microbiology of Food and Animal
robust statistical methods are used for Feeding Stuffs - Guidelines for the Estimation
calculation of the consensus value, the of Measurement Uncertainty for Quantitative
estimated standard uncertainty and the Determinations’.
robust standard deviation.
What is the Standard Deviation for
For qualitative tests, participant results Proficiency Assessment (SDPA)?
are compared against the intended result The SDPA expresses the acceptable
(assigned value) based on formulation or difference between the laboratory result
expert assessment. and the assigned value.
For interpretive schemes where the result is A satisfactory z performance score represents
subjective rather than quantifiable, a model a result that does not deviate from the assigned
answer produced by appropriate experts will value by more than twice the SDPA. The method
be published in the report. used to determine the SDPA may vary depending
For microbiology test materials, all upon the particular PT scheme and test material
participant results are transformed by and is detailed in the relevant scheme description.
converting them to log10 before the A fit for purpose value for SDPA, rather
statistical analysis is undertaken. than being derived from participant results, is
How do I evaluate measurement preferable as this enables performance scores to
uncertainty? be compared from round to round to
demonstrate general trends.
The aim when evaluating measurement
uncertainty is to combine the effects of all the For each scheme, the value of SDPA and the
errors that will influence the measurement result, method used to derive it is reported in the
into a single value. There are many different scheme description and/or report.
guides available which provide advice on
evaluating measurement uncertainty.
There are two specific guides that are
internationally recognised:

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About Reporting &

Evaluating Results

What standard deviation for proficiency How do I interpret my results?

assessment (SDPA) is used in microbiology For quantitative examinations, participant
PT schemes? performance is assessed using the z score,
There are many sources of variation in and the following interpretation is given to results:
microbiological testing and the SDPA used to
|z| ≤ 2.00 Satisfactory result
assess performance therefore needs to be
fit-for-purpose and take all possible sources 2.00 < |z| < 3.00 Questionable result
of variation into account. Fromexperience and
|z| ≥ 3.00 Unsatisfactory result
historical data, AXIO Proficiency Testing uses a
fixed SDPA value of 0.35 log10 for the majority For qualitative examinations or semi-qualitative
of microbiological tests. results, laboratories reporting the assigned result
or range of results will be considered correct, and
How do I report a ‘presumptive’ result therefore have satisfactory performance.
in microbiology?
Report your result as usual but record in the
What are the advantages of using a z score
comments section that the result is ‘Presumptive’. to assess performance?
• Results can be expressed in a form that is easy to
What is the purpose of scoring my result? interpret and understand.
Once the assigned value for the parameters under
• Results can be summarised in graphical or tabular
test has been established, participant laboratories
form to depict overall performance.
are assessed on the difference between their
result and the assigned value, with this difference • A z score allows participants to directly compare
being represented by a performance score called their own result with others.
a z score. This provides a simple and consistent
• If consistent statistical values are applied, a z
measure of performance which is the key to
score enables participants to monitor and trend
monitoring competence and implementing an
their own performance over time.
improvement programme as required.
It is important to interpret any performance
How is a z score calculated?
score in the full context of the overall results
The participant’s result, x, is converted into and in the context of a laboratory’s own quality
a performance score (z score) using the control measures.
following formula:
(x - X)
z=
SDPA
Where: X = the assigned value
SDPA = Standard Deviation for
Proficiency Assessment
For small data sets, there will be increased
uncertainty around the assigned value if derived
from a consensus value from participants’ results.
In such cases, performance scores may not be
provided, or may be given for information only.
The z score expresses performance in relation to
the assigned value and the standard deviation
for proficiency assessment (SDPA). A z score of 2
represents a result that is a distance of 2 x SDPA
from the assigned value.

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About Reporting &

Evaluating Results
What is the estimated uncertainty of the Do you include outlying results
assigned value? due to ‘errors and blunders’ in the
The assigned value has a standard uncertainty (ux) statistical analysis of the data?
that depends upon the method used to derive Although robust estimators are used in order to
the assigned value. When the assigned value is minimise the influence of outlying results, extreme
determined by the consensus of participants’ results or results that are identifiably invalid should
results, the estimated standard uncertainty of the not be included in the statistical analysis of the
assigned value can be calculated by: data. For example, these may be results caused
by calculation errors or the use of incorrect units.
ux = 1.25 x Robust standard deviation/√n
However, such results can be difficult to identify
Where n = number of results by the PT provider. For this reason, the robust
mean and standard deviation will be calculated
When the assigned value is determined by
in the usual way, but those results that are out of
formulation, the standard uncertainty is
the range of the assigned value ± 5 x SDPA will
estimated by the combination of uncertainties
be excluded and the robust mean and standard
of all sources of error, such as gravimetric and
deviation will then be recalculated. These
volumetric measurements.
recalculated values will be used for the statistical
If ux ≤ 0.3 x SDPA, then the uncertainty of analysis. By removing these ‘blunders’ from the
the assigned value can be considered negligible dataset any influence on the summary statistics is
and need not be considered in the interpretation minimised. All results, including excluded results,
of results. will be given performance scores.
If ux is > 0.3 x SDPA, then the uncertainty of the How can I graphically plot and analyse
assigned value is not negligible in relation to the trends for qualitative results?
SDPA and so z’ (z-prime) performance scores,
Qualitative results are difficult to depict graphically
which take into account the standard uncertainty
as they are not normally allocated a performance
of the assigned value in their calculation, will be
score. However for qualitative results, a correct
reported in place of z scores.
result could be allocated a performance score of
How is a z’ (z-prime) score calculated? 0 to represent a satisfactory result. A false positive
A z’ score incorporates the standard uncertainty of result can be represented by a performance
the assigned value and is calculated as follows: score of + 3, whilst a false negative result can
be represented by a performance score of - 3.
(x - X) If plotted graphically over time, this should
z’ =
√ SDPA2 + ux2 give a clear visual indicator of performance in
Where x = participant result qualitative tests.

X = the assigned value How will I receive my report?

Following statistical evaluation of the results, the
SDPA = Standard Deviation for
reports will generally be available on the website
Proficiency Assessment
within 4 to 10 working days of round closure
ux = standard uncertainty of the assigned value X (see specific scheme description). We aim to
provide 95% of our reports to participants within
A z’ score is interpreted in exactly the same
5 working days. Participants will be emailed when
way as a z score, ≤2 is satisfactory, >2 but <3 is
the report is available. The content of reports vary
questionable and ≥3 is unsatisfactory.
from scheme to scheme but include details of the
composition of test materials, the assigned values,
and tabular and / or graphical representations of
participants’ results.

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AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

About Reporting &

Evaluating Results
How do I assess the reproducibility standard My results have not been included
deviation from the PT report? in the report. Can I calculate my
The robust standard deviation provided in the performance score (z or z’ score)?
PT report for a specific method can be taken as an To calculate your performance score please visit:
estimate of the reproducibility standard deviation portal.lgcstandards.com Select ‘submit results
for the PT round for that specific method. from the menu.
Can I have a report that only includes my
group laboratories?
Yes, we can produce reports tailored to a
customer’s specific requirement. There may be an
additional charge for administration and computer
programming costs.

About Privacy & Confidentiality

Can you guarantee my laboratory’s How do you prevent collusion and
confidentiality? falsification of results?
In order to ensure confidentiality, participants in It defeats the objective of taking part in
all PT schemes are allocated a unique laboratory proficiency testing if participants are not
reference number. This number enables results returning genuine results. Certain measures
to be reported without divulging the identities are built into the PT schemes to try and prevent
of participant laboratories. Only staff within the collusion but, ultimately the responsibility rests
proficiency testing team and the laboratory itself with each participating laboratory to behave in a
will know this number. professional manner.

132 lgcstandards.com/AXIO
 AXIO | Proficiency Testing schemes 2025

About Driving Quality

Together
What could be the cause of my How can I measure my laboratory’s
poor performance? performance over time?
A single poor result is not indicative of overall You can do this by trend analysis. A single result
laboratory performance but neither is a single simply reflects the performance of the laboratory
good result. Ideally, PT results should be monitored on the particular day that the test was carried out
over time to detect potential bias or repeated and therefore gives limited information. Frequent
unsatisfactory results. There are many possible participation in PT schemes over time can give
reasons for a single poor result. It is therefore greater insight into long-term performance and
important to interpret the results from PT schemes can help identify where internal bias may
within the context of an all round quality assurance be occurring.
programme, including internal quality control,
One of the best methods of summarising
use of validated methods and reference materials.
performance scores over time is graphically
There are numerous potential causes of poor
as this gives a clear overview and is less prone
performance in a PT scheme which may include
to misinterpretation than numerical methods.
analytical and non-analytical errors.
Participants are therefore advised to monitor their
Analytical errors PT results over time.
• Calibration / instrument problems An online trend analysis tool is included in the
• Extraction / clean-up cost of your PT participation with AXIO Proficiency
• Interferences / matrix effects Testing. The online tool is built into the PORTAL
reporting system and allows you to quickly plot
• Diagnostic kits / reagents
your results over a range of rounds and easily
• Analyst / method performance download the charts for further circulation.
Non-analytical errors More information regarding interpretation and
• Calculation / transcription trend analysis of proficiency testing results is
given in the Eurachem guide on ‘Selection, Use and
• Reporting format / units
Interpretation of Proficiency Testing (PT) Schemes’
• Poor / incorrect storage (available at www. eurachem.org) and ISO 13528.
• Test material defects
How can I receive advice and feedback?
Test materials are subjected to rigorous quality Communication with participants will be carried out
control testing before being distributed to through PT scheme-related documentation, emails,
participants, and are unlikely to be the cause of a letters, or through local LGC offices. Open meetings
poor performance score. All possible reasons for may also be organised and all interested parties
a poor performance should be investigated fully invited to attend.
in order to identify the most likely cause and to
enable action to be taken to prevent recurrence. How can I send feedback?
Repeat test materials are available after every Comments on any aspect of our products and
distribution, but it is most important to investigate services are welcome either by phone, letter, email
and understand the reason(s) for the failure, or by contacting your local LGC office.
document this fully, and carry out corrective
Can I suggest a PT scheme or test material?
actions before repeating a test.
We welcome suggestions any time. Please
complete the ‘Wish list’ form on our website:
lgcstandards.com/AXIO

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Use our fast renewals Allows you to filter You can find our latest
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Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this catalogue, customers are directed to their
local sales office or the LGC Standards website for further details and to verify product information. Specifications, terms and
pricing are subject to change. LGC does not guarantee availability and reserves the right to discontinue any product. LGC does
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