Laboratory Excellence and AccreditationSampling Theory and Practice for Laboratories
The largest error in most analytical results is introduced before the sample reaches the laboratory, and no amount of instrument accuracy recovers a sample that did not represent what it came from. This course addresses that. Delegates work through the theory of sampling and the error components it identifies, including the fundamental error set by particle size and sample mass. Sampling plans for lots, consignments and continuous streams are covered, along with increment number and mass. Sample reduction, splitting and the errors introduced by each are addressed practically. Handling, preservation and chain of custody follow. Bias detection and comparison against a reference are covered. The course closes on writing a sampling procedure and on defending a sample in a dispute.
Course objectives
- Apply the theory of sampling and identify its error components
- Calculate fundamental error from particle size and sample mass
- Design sampling plans for lots, consignments and streams
- Determine increment number and mass
- Reduce and split samples without introducing bias
- Detect bias by comparison against a reference
- Write a sampling procedure and defend a sample in a dispute
Who should attend
- Laboratory analysts and sampling officers
- Mineral, food and commodity inspection staff
- Quality control personnel
- Environmental and water samplers
- Laboratory managers and quality officers
Course outline
- 01Error introduced before the laboratory
- 02Theory of sampling and error components
- 03Fundamental error, particle size and mass
- 04Sampling plans for lots and consignments
- 05Continuous stream sampling
- 06Increment number and mass
- 07Sample reduction and splitting
- 08Handling, bias detection and defending a sample
Scheduled sessions
| Dates | Venue | Format | Price | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 September to 2 October 2026 | Maseru, Lesotho | Classroom | R14,950 per delegate | Register Now |
| 9 to 11 November 2026 | Online | Online | R6,500 per delegate | Register Now |
| 2 to 4 December 2026 | Nairobi, Kenya | Classroom | USD 995 per delegate | Register Now |