Posted December 9, 2015

 

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C – The new year brings some exciting changes to the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists’ (AATCC’s) Proficiency Testing Programs.

 

AATCC Proficiency Testing Programs offer labs the opportunity to anonymously gauge their performance against that of hundreds of others around the globe. AATCC asked current program participants what could be improved. The association is implementing some of those suggestions immediately.

 

Visual Color Evaluation

 

For the first time, labs will receive specimens for evaluation using AATCC Evaluation Procedure (EP) 2, Gray Scale for Staining. The program will continue to include specimens for evaluation using EP1, Gray Scale for Color Change. Each round will now include three color change specimens with corresponding controls, plus three staining specimens and a control.

 

Fiber Identification and Analysis

 

There are also big changes planned for the fiber program. This program has historically included two blended fiber samples to be tested according to AATCC Test Method (TM) 20A, Fiber Analysis: Quantitative. Based on participant feedback, future samples will include some common blends as well as more exotic combinations. Beginning in February 2016, an additional sample will be included for testing by TM20, Fiber Analysis: Qualitative.

 

Other Updates

 

All AATCC Proficiency Testing Programs will feature some enhancements for 2016:

 

Samples will represent a broader range of results and/or more relevant results.

The face side of sample fabrics will be labeled for easier identification and consistent testing;

Updated data sheets will better reflect proper reporting requirements and allow more detailed analysis of results;

Statistical explanations will be more detailed; and

Futures programs may include online registration, additional test methods, and more in-depth analysis.

 

Benefits

 

AATCC Proficiency Testing Programs offer labs the opportunity to anonymously gauge their performance against that of hundreds of others around the globe. Participation also helps labs meet certification requirements for proficiency and continuous improvement.

 

The association compiles the submitted data into a report and distributes it to participating labs with a code to identify their data. All participating labs receive Certificates of Participation.

 

For more information or to register for AATCC Proficiency Testing Programs, visit www.aatcc.org/test/verify/proficiency.