What do lot ID, task key and ISO 17025 scope mean?
These are the terms you need to read a lab report and trace a research material lot, defined in plain language for any supplier.
For the full method, see how to verify a COA and the Named Lot Standard.
What is a lot ID?
The identifier for one production lot, printed on the vial label. It is what you match against a lab report. A well-run lot ID is issued before testing and never renamed.
Is a batch the same as a lot?
Often the terms are used the same way. What matters is that the lot or batch ID on the vial is the same one on the lab's record.
What is a sample ID?
The ID the lab gives the specific sample it received from a lot. One lot can have one or more samples, often numbered with a suffix such as -01.
What is a COA?
A lab's report of the results for a sample it tested. It proves something about your vial only when its lot ID matches your vial.
What is a task key?
Some labs issue a task or report number plus a key or code that lets anyone open the report on the lab's own website. It lets you check the report without trusting a copy.
What is a lab-side record?
The copy of a result hosted on the testing lab's own website, rather than a PDF hosted by the seller.
What is lot binding?
The lab record shows the same lot or batch ID printed on the vial, which ties the result to that lot.
What is chain of custody?
A dated record of who sealed, shipped and received a sample, with its sample ID, so you can follow it from the lot to the lab.
What is ISO/IEC 17025?
The international standard for the competence of testing and calibration labs. Labs are accredited to it by accreditation bodies such as A2LA or ANAB.
What is an ISO 17025 scope?
The list of specific tests and methods a lab is accredited for. Accreditation only counts for a test that is inside the lab's scope, so check the scope, not just the logo.
What is a dry lab or dry-labbed result?
A report produced without the testing actually being done, or with results made up. Checking the record on the lab's own site and the lab's accreditation helps guard against it.
What does non-conforming mean?
A lot whose results did not meet its specification. Under the Named Lot Standard it stays visible in the public record.
What is a retain sample?
A sealed sample kept from a lot so it can be retested later.
What is a tamper-evident seal?
A seal that shows visible damage if it has been opened.
What is GS1 AI(10)?
The GS1 barcode standard's field for a batch or lot number. A barcode or QR code is a pointer to a record, not proof by itself.
What does RUO mean?
Research use only. The material is not for human or veterinary use.