BS EN ISO 3696:1995

Overview

BS EN ISO 3696:1995 specifies the requirements for water used in analytical laboratories. This standard outlines the quality of water necessary for chemical analysis, ensuring that laboratory results are reliable and reproducible. The standard is crucial for laboratories that require high-purity water for various analytical techniques, including spectroscopy, chromatography, and titration.

Key Requirements

The standard categorizes water into different grades based on its intended use. The primary grades are:

• Grade 1: Water of the highest purity, suitable for all analytical applications.
• Grade 2: Water of lower purity, acceptable for less sensitive applications.

Each grade has specific requirements regarding chemical and physical properties, including:

• Conductivity
• pH levels
• Presence of contaminants such as heavy metals and organic compounds

Additionally, the standard provides test methods for assessing water quality, ensuring compliance with the specified criteria.

Implementation Benefits

Adhering to BS EN ISO 3696:1995 offers several practical benefits for laboratories:

• Consistency: Using standardised water quality reduces variability in analytical results, leading to more consistent outcomes.
• Quality Assurance: Compliance with the standard enhances the credibility of laboratory results, which is essential for regulatory submissions and quality control.
• Operational Efficiency: Implementing the standard can streamline laboratory processes by establishing clear protocols for water usage and testing.

By following the guidelines set forth in this standard, laboratories can ensure that they are using water that meets the necessary quality specifications for their specific analytical methods.

Compliance Value

Compliance with BS EN ISO 3696:1995 is vital for laboratories aiming to meet regulatory requirements and maintain accreditation. The standard supports laboratories in:

• Demonstrating compliance with international quality standards.
• Providing evidence of quality control measures to clients and regulatory bodies.
• Reducing the risk of contamination and ensuring the integrity of analytical results.

Incorporating the requirements of this standard into laboratory practices not only enhances the reliability of analytical results but also fosters trust with stakeholders, including clients, regulatory agencies, and the scientific community.