RIQAS Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
- How do I register for RIQAS?
Complete the RIQAS method questionnaire and enrolment document for the programmes you wish to participate in. RIQAS will then issue you with a unique laboratory reference number. The enrolment document should be returned to RIQAS before the start of the cycle. These documents can be easily downloaded from the RIQAS website. Simply click on the programme of interest and download the relevant documentation.
- What if my current method is not listed in the method questionnaire or enrolment document?
Use the method questionnaire to help you complete the registration of methods section on the enrolment document. If a code is not available for your method/assay please state the details of your method clearly in the appropriate section at the end of the enrolment document.
- How do I enter my EQA results?
Participants may conveniently enter their results online via RIQAS.Net. Alternatively results can be entered via the manual return sheet and submitted by fax or post before the final submission deadline.
- How do I know when to submit my EQA results?
Each RIQAS pack will contain a multi-lingual product insert containing instructions for use. The product insert also highlights the recommended date of analysis and more importantly the final date by which the results must reach Randox. The final date for submission of results can also be found on the RIQAS calendar. All results should reach RIQAS before 5pm GMT on the final submission date.
- How and when are RIQAS reports issued?
For most programmes reports are available within 72 hours of the final submission date (for RIQAS Serology Programmes, reports are sent via email within 7-10 days of the final submission date). The reports may be accessed online via RIQAS.Net or alternatively may be sent by email or post. Individual reports may be emailed to up to three addresses.
- Can I register multiple instruments for a single EQA programme?
Yes, laboratories can register up to five instruments per programme at no extra cost. Individual reports for each instrument plus a unique multi-instrument report are provided. The multi-instrument report allows for comparative performance assessment of each instrument. Additional sample packs may be ordered as required.
- What is the summary CSV file?
Laboratories can register to receive a CSV file containing a summary of their report statistics, acceptable limits and performance indicators for every sample. The file mirrors the information found on the quantitative report summary page but will also include the calculated SD and SDPA. If you wish to receive a summary CSV file, please indicate this by ticking the box on the enrolment document and include the email addresses to which the reports should be sent.
- Is RIQAS accredited to ISO/IEC 17043:2010?
Yes, in 2012 RIQAS celebrated gaining accreditation to ISO/IEC 17043:2010. This standard outlines general requirements for proficiency testing and demonstrates our commitment to quality whilst providing both participants and accrediting bodies with confidence in the schemes operation. Our accreditation to ISO/IEC 17043:2010 highlights the superior quality and excellence of RIQAS. **Please be aware that not all RIQAS programmes are accredited. Programmes marked with a “+” highlight the programmes not accredited.**
9. What if I don’t need all the parameters in a particular EQA programme?
Reduced parameter options are available for selected EQA programmes offering greater flexibility, whilst ensuring suitability for laboratories of all sizes and budgets.
10. How does the group reporting facility work?
The Group Reporting facility enables group co-ordinators to monitor the performance of satellite sites. Each individual laboratory in the group will receive an individual report, the group supervisor will receive a unique instrument group report comparing each laboratory’s performance within the group.
11. Will I receive a certification of participation?
Yes, RIQAS provides certificates as proof of EQA participation and performance for laboratory accreditation purposes. A complimentary certificate of participation for each RIQAS programme is available to participants at the end of each cycle, provided at least 50% of results have been returned. A certificate of performance is also supplied with the end-of-cycle report. Certificates will specify the cycle number, programme name and the LABORATORY / HOSPITAL NAME specified in the enrolment document.
12. Can you offer technical support and advice?
Unrivalled technical support is available through our team of RIQAS scientists and experts who are on hand to offer advice and to help you troubleshoot technical issues relating to our RIQAS programmes.
13. I have found a transcription error on my report. Can I submit the revised result?
Participants are permitted to submit corrected results up to 4 weeks after the final date of the sample. Although a new report will not be issued, results can be viewed on the charts of subsequent reports, showing “C” in place of the sample number. If a result is corrected and resubmitted to RIQAS before the final date for the current sample, it will be entered as a current result.
14. How do I notify a change of method if the cycle is already underway?
It is possible to change your units, method, instrument or reagent classification during a cycle. For participants using RIQAS.Net changes can be made in the method changes section of the data entry menu. Each RIQAS return sheet also has a section for method changes.
15. How do I add extra parameters to my registration?
Extra parameters can be added to a registration via RIQAS.Net using the method changes section on the data entry menu. A list of your registered laboratory reference numbers will appear on screen. Select the laboratory reference number for which you would like to add the assay details and select ‘Add Parameter’. A list of parameters you are not registered for will appear. Select the parameters you wish to add and complete the assay details. Parameters cannot be deleted on RIQAS.Net. If you wish to delete a parameter please contact RIQAS directly on mail@riqas.com.