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Jayrah Solamillo posted an update 3 years ago
Standards and controls are both important components in laboratory testing, but they serve different purposes.
Standards are substances or materials with known properties that are used to establish a reference or comparison for measurements. Standards are used to ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory measurements, as they provide a basis for comparison with the results obtained from the test samples. For example, a laboratory might use a standard solution of a particular concentration to calibrate a piece of equipment, such as a spectrophotometer, before using it to measure the concentration of a sample.
Controls, on the other hand, are samples that are used to verify the accuracy and precision of the laboratory test method. Controls are usually prepared to mimic the properties of the test samples, and are run alongside the test samples to ensure that the laboratory is producing accurate and consistent results. For example, a laboratory might use a control sample with a known concentration of a substance to verify the accuracy of a test for that substance.
In summary, standards are used to establish a reference or comparison for measurements, while controls are used to verify the accuracy and precision of laboratory test methods. Both standards and controls are essential for ensuring the quality and reliability of laboratory testing results.
Control, on the other hand, refers to the process of monitoring and regulating activities to ensure that they are in compliance with established standards or other requirements. Control measures may include monitoring and testing procedures, documentation and reporting requirements, and corrective actions to address deviations from established standards. Controls are often implemented as part of a quality management system or regulatory compliance program.
In summary, standards define the level of quality or performance required, while control measures are used to ensure that those standards are met.