Publications and Resources

This guide presents the main challenges to consider when planning and executing proficiency tests so that they can be developed as programs that effectively assess laboratory performance, develop participant competencies, and promote measures to minimize the likelihood of risks to the activities or delays that may compromise the schedule. The recommendations given in this guide are based on experience made during the organization and implementation of proficiency testing (PT) programs for refrigerators and room air conditioners within the framework of the MERCOSUR-PTB project Strengthening Quality Infrastructure for the promotion of energy efficiency in MERCOSUR countries.

This project supports the strengthening of Colombia’s National Quality Subsystem (SICAL) to advance circular economy and green hydrogen policies. Focusing on metrology, conformity assessment, and harmonized technical standards, the project enhances quality infrastructure services in priority sectors such as plastics, construction materials, and green hydrogen. It employs a systemic approach involving capacity building, pilot activities, and institutional coordination. By improving service coverage, regional outreach, and digital transformation, the project promotes sustainable industrial development, supports regulatory trust, and enables inclusive green growth aligned with Colombia’s environmental and energy transition goals.

This project aims to improve the quality and safety of medicines across Africa by strengthening the continent’s health and pharmaceutical infrastructure. Led by PTB, the initiative supports the development of an Africa-wide regulatory framework through training, laboratory testing, and the promotion of international quality standards. By working closely with national drug agencies in Senegal, Ghana, Rwanda, and South Africa, the project helps improve medicine testing and manufacturing practices. Ultimately, the goal is to support the establishment of the African Medicines Agency (AMA), ensuring that people across Africa have better access to safe, effective, and high-quality medical products, while boosting local production and reducing reliance on imports.

The project objective was: Private and state companies and institutions in selected regions in Kyrgyzstan utilise quality infrastructure (QI) services. To achieve this goal, the project focussed on three fields of action: (1) capacity building of QI institutions to provide services, (2) improving access to reliable QI services in selected regions and (3) sensitising relevant stakeholders to the importance of QI for economic development.