Laboratory reports are short documents, but every line has consequences. A method number, an uncertainty value or a statement of scope determines the validity of the report. In translation none of these fields is simplified.
Scope of accreditation
The laboratory's authority is limited to specific tests and methods, and the scope is listed in a separate document. Tests outside the scope do not count as accredited. This distinction is visible in the report.
Out of scope tests
A report may contain both accredited and out of scope results, and these are marked. The mark cannot be skipped. The distinction is preserved.
Test methods
Every test rests on a method, and the method is indicated by its standard number. A different method may change the result. The number is carried over with its year.
Method verification records
The laboratory demonstrates and documents that the method it uses works under its own conditions. The verification parameters are given in a table. The structure is preserved.
Measurement uncertainty
The range within which the result lies is shown by the uncertainty value and written in the report. When the uncertainty is left out, the result is read as if it were a definite value. The value is carried over with its unit.
Confidence level
The uncertainty has meaning together with a specific confidence level, which is stated in the report. The two pieces of information are not separated. The notation is preserved.
Sample information
What the sample is and when and how it was taken are written in the report. These details define what the result represents. They are carried over in full.
Responsibility for sampling
Whether the sample was taken by the laboratory or by the customer is stated in the report, and it changes the responsibility. The wording is carried over exactly. It is not skipped.
Validity of results
The results are valid only for the sample tested, and this limit is written in the report. The sentence is a set phrase. It is preserved.
Comparison with limit values
Some reports compare the result with the limit in legislation and make a statement of conformity. The statement depends on conditions. The conditions are carried over.
The rule for statements of conformity
How measurement uncertainty is reflected in the conformity decision is explained in the report. This explanation is the decision rule. It is not shortened.
Instrument and calibration details
The calibration status of the instrument used ensures the traceability of the result. Calibration certificate numbers are carried over. Dates are preserved.
Reference materials
Measurements are traced to certified reference materials, and this information appears in the report. Material codes are not translated. The name of the source is carried over.
Report number and revision
Every report is numbered and, if revised, receives a new number or a revision record. Which version was translated is stated. The record is mandatory.
Signature and authorised person
The name and title of the person approving the report are part of the validity of the report. The block is carried over as a whole. Anything missing is indicated.
Confidentiality and customer information
Reports are specific to the customer and may contain trade secrets. Sharing is restricted. Confidentiality rules are applied.
Additional sensitivity for health samples
Reports on samples of human origin may fall within special category data. These files are handled with narrowed access. The process is run separately.
The costliest mistake in this sector
Leaving out the measurement uncertainty makes a result look like a definite value and, in cases close to the limit value, gives rise to a wrong conformity decision. Even if the number has been carried over correctly, the decision comes out wrong. Uncertainty fields are checked separately.