The analysis of proficiency test results on the seed purity and the other seed determination for ten-year period

The aim of the present study was to analyse the ten-year results (2001-2010) on the seed purity analyses and the other seed determination by the ISTA proficiency tests in which the Seed Testing Laboratory of the Maize Research Institute, Zemun Polje (Serbia), participated. The results of the proficiency tests for all ISTA accredited laboratories were statistically evaluated and the A, B, C or BMP (below minimum performance) ratings were given on the basis of standard deviation and the Z scores. Results in proficiency test for the species the Laboratory had been accredited for (purity test and other seed determination) received the A rating. The exception was the species Portulaca grandiflora - the Laboratory had received the C rating for the seed purity analysis and corrective actions had to be implemented. According to the analysis of the ten-year results on the proficiency tests, it is observable that the trend of Laboratory staff proficiency and competence has been increasing, as well as, awareness of a need for a permanent learning and advanced training, supervision over the whole process of testing with the aim to achieve reliable results.