Scheme Selection & Registration
Choosing the right schemes, and getting registered before the deadline
What is EQA and what services does EMQN provide?
An External Quality Assessment (EQA) scheme enables laboratories to evaluate and monitor the quality of their testing procedures, analytical methods, reporting strategies, and result interpretations by assessing their performance against established standards and peer laboratories.
As part of participation, laboratories analyse the EQA samples and submit their results to EMQN for assessment. EMQN then evaluates the submitted results and provides detailed performance feedback.
Upon completion of the scheme, participants receive a certificate of participation and performance issued by EMQN, an organisation accredited to ISO/IEC 17043:2023. This certificate can be used as evidence of EQA participation and quality assurance activities when demonstrating compliance to your own accreditation body or regulatory authority.
Participation in EQA schemes helps laboratories monitor performance, identify areas for improvement, and support ongoing accreditation and quality management requirements.
How do I purchase/enrol in an EQA?
Registration for EMQN EQA schemes opens annually following the launch of the EQA Catalogue. Registration periods vary by scheme, and some schemes may close early if capacity is reached.
Participants will be notified by email when registration opens. Registration should be completed by the designated laboratory contact via the EMQN registration system.
For further information on how to register, contact us
Do I need an EMQN account to register?
Yes. Your laboratory must have an EMQN account before you can register for EQA schemes. New users can create an account through the EMQN website. Membership is free. You can register here.
How do I choose the right EQA scheme?
Each scheme page includes information on the testing methodology, intended participant group, sample types, and assessment objectives. If you are unsure which scheme best matches your laboratory’s scope of practice, please contact the EMQN team for advice.
Can I amend my registration after placing an order?
You may cancel within 14 days of completing your registration. After that period, registrations are considered final and changes, substitutions, or cancellations may not be possible
What happens if I register but do not submit results?
Registration fees remain payable. Once registered, EQA materials are prepared and allocated for your laboratory, regardless of whether results are ultimately submitted.
Can I register after the stated deadline?
We try our best to ensure every lab that wants to participate can do. However, we cannot guarantee that late registrations can be accommodated. Availability depends on the scheme and whether EQA materials are still available. Please contact EMQN as soon as possible if you miss a deadline.
Where can I find scheme timelines and sample dispatch dates?
Expected dispatch dates, reporting deadlines, and scheme schedules can be found on the individual scheme pages and within the EQA Catalogue.
Can I propose a new EQA?
Yes. If you would like to propose a new EQA scheme or would like to discuss this with a member of the EMQN Team please contact us. We may send you a copy of our proposal form to complete.
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