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The Arizona
Department of Health Services – OLLCT Instrument Calibration Policy
If an ADHS approved analytical method specifies a specific model for
instrument calibration, then that specified calibration model is the only
calibration model that can be utilized (A.A.C. R9-14-610.A). If an ADHS
approved analytical method gives specific options for instrument calibration,
then any of the specified calibration models can be utilized. In both of the
above cases, a different model of instrument calibration, not specified in the
method, can only be used if authorized in statute or regulation by the USEPA
or ADEQ and approved as a method alteration by the director of ADHS (A.A.C.
R9-14-610.B). If an ADHS approved analytical method does not specify any
calibration model, then the laboratory must calibrate the instrument according
to the manufacturer’s specifications (A.A.C. R9-14-615.C4). In all of the
above cases, the laboratory must provide in the Quality Assurance Plan all
general procedures for analytical instrument calibrations (A.A.C.
R9-14-615.B7), have records available that demonstrate the calculations
performed by the calibration model (A.A.C. R9-14-615.C5 and 617.E7) and have
the calibration model being used specified in a current standard operating
procedure for all licensed methods (A.A.C. R9-14-615.C3).
The laboratory must train all lab personnel about the specific calibration
models that each individual is utilizing or reviewing data for (A.A.C.
R9-14-617.C4b and c). This training must also document what specific aspects
of each calibration model being used might compromise the data quality,
rendering the data to be not scientifically valid and defensible (A.A.C.
R9-14-615.A). Some of these specific aspects could include detector
saturation, detector sensitivity, the calibration model not accurately
reflecting the calibration points, inappropriate extension of the calibration
range, weighting factors and the inappropriate dropping of mid-level
calibration points without justification. In all of the above cases, the
calibration model utilized cannot be used simply to avoid needed instrument
maintenance (A.A.C. R9-14-615.C7).
Revision 1 – July 15, 2003 |
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