HISTORY OF THE BCR WORK ON DIOXINS

This paper gives an overview of the overall quality control scheme followed within the framework of the BCR programme for the preparation and certification of different types of matrices for polychlorinated dioxins and dibenzofurans. The merits of the system in the improvement of analytical quality for dioxin analysis, as well as the current status concerning ''best achievable quality'' are illustrated by results obtained for the analysis of fly ash and cow's milk. The experimental results obtained at each particular stage of the programme, the relevant technical findings and the resulting additional needs or corrective actions are discussed in detail.