Before validation starts the method should be documented with an instruction in Your laboratory. Write down a detailed procedure how to operate the method in your lab. In appendix A of the Eurachem Guide you find the following most important headings:

Method instruction

Determination of x in matrices z,y, in the concentration range from ...

1 Scope

(Scope, application, measuring interval, limitations etc)

2 References

(ISO standards, manuals, other SP methods)

3 Principle

(Sample preparation, measuring principle, reactions – short text)

4 HSE – health, safety and environment

5 Limitations

(Conditions, interferences, important info)

6 Equipment

(Premises, instrument, balances, ovens, glass)

7 Chemicals and reagents

(Ref material, chemicals, solutions with expiry date, QC samples)

8 Sample

(Sample description, subsampling, sample treatment)

9 Procedure

(Analysis, calibration, parameter settings in programs, quality control)

10 Calculation and reporting

(calculation of result, computer programs, reporting, significant digits)

11 Version control

Version No

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