IUPAC

In a great many fields (environment, food, trade, etc.) analytical results play a crucial role. On the basis of such data the quality is assessed. Problems arise when very low results are encountered with regard to decisions on measures to be taken. This applies specifically when data are obtained which are smaller than the detection limit. It is of paramount importance to develop some recommendations in this respect which are accepted by the chemical community at large to avoid that decision makers without a thorough (analytical) chemical background will draw unjustified conclusions. ISO might be another body for starting this discussion but this will certainly take too long a time. It is recommended to develop the recommendations within IUPAC based on a sound theoretical basis. In a later stage ISO may well adopt the results.

It has been decided by the Commission at the meeting in Geneva in August 1997 that Dr Horwitz will prepare a final document taking the corrections into consideration. This document had been accepted by the Commission and will be sent to the Division in October 1997. Project is in stage 13.
project abandoned