The planning of proficiency testing programs is a key element for laboratories to demonstrate technical competence, ensure the validity of their results, and comply with applicable accreditation and regulatory requirements. In this context, the 2026 Agenda defines in advance the interlaboratory comparison programs that will be carried out throughout the year, allowing laboratories to organise resources, methods, and participation with sufficient anticipation.
During 2026, the proficiency testing programs offered by SHAPYPRO focus on a specific set of European EN standards, selected for their regulatory relevance and their direct application in the evaluation of the efficacy of disinfectants and antiseptics in accordance with Regulation (EU) 528/2012 on biocidal products.
This article provides an overview of the intercomparative programs planned for 2026, briefly explaining the scope of each standard included in the agenda.a
Proficiency Testing And Interlaboratory Comparisons: 2026 Focus
Proficiency testing programs allow the performance of a laboratory to be assessed by comparing its results with those of other participants applying the same test method. This approach is essential to:
- Verify the correct application of standardised methods
- Detect technical or systematic deviations
- Provide objective evidence during audits
- Strengthen quality management systems
The 2026 Agenda offers a clear overview of which interlaboratory comparisons will be available and when, supporting structured planning throughout the year.
Standards Included In The 2026 Proficiency Testing Programs
EN 1656 – Bactericidal Activity In The Veterinary Area
EN 1656 is included in the 2026 interlaboratory comparison programs and is designed to evaluate the bactericidal activity of disinfectants and antiseptics used in the veterinary field.
Testing under this standard allows laboratories to verify the correct application of the method and the reproducibility of their results against reference microorganisms, under controlled conditions of organic load and contact time.
EN 1657 – Fungicidal And Yeasticidal Activity In Veterinary Use
EN 1657 complements EN 1656 and is included in the 2026 proficiency testing agenda to evaluate the fungicidal and yeasticidal activity of products intended for veterinary use.
This interlaboratory comparison is particularly relevant for laboratories working with biocidal products aimed at controlling fungi and yeasts in livestock facilities and veterinary environments.
EN 1276 – Bactericidal Activity In Hygienic, Food, And Industrial Areas
EN 1276 is one of the most widely requested standards in interlaboratory comparison programs due to its broad application in hygienic and food-related environments.
Its inclusion in the 2026 Agenda allows laboratories to assess their performance in evaluating the bactericidal activity of disinfectants used on surfaces, equipment, and food-handling areas.
EN 1650 – Fungicidal Activity In Hygienic And Industrial Areas
EN 1650 is included in the 2026 proficiency testing programs to assess the fungicidal activity of disinfectants used in hygienic and industrial contexts.
This interlaboratory comparison enables laboratories to confirm their technical competence in tests targeting the control of fungi and yeasts, which are particularly relevant in environments at risk of fungal contamination.
EN 13704 – Sporicidal Activity Of Disinfectants
EN 13704 represents one of the most demanding levels of microbiological efficacy evaluation. Its inclusion in the 2026 Agenda reflects the need for specific interlaboratory comparisons focused on sporicidal activity, where method robustness and correct execution are critical.
This program is intended for laboratories working with products designed to eliminate spore-forming microorganisms and for applications with high microbiological safety requirements.
2026 Agenda: Planning And Global Overview
The 2026 Agenda brings together all planned proficiency testing programs, including:
- Standards covered by the interlaboratory comparisons
- Opening and closing dates
- Technical scope of each program
- Reference microorganisms
This forward-looking planning allows laboratories to integrate proficiency testing into their annual quality and accreditation strategies, avoiding last-minute arrangements and ensuring continuity of analytical activities.
Strategic Participation In Proficiency Testing 2026
Participation in proficiency testing programs should not be viewed as an isolated requirement, but as part of a medium- and long-term technical and quality strategy. Selecting interlaboratory comparisons by standard, aligned with the actual scope of the laboratory, maximises the technical value of the results obtained.
At SHAPYPRO, the 2026 Agenda is designed as a practical tool to support this strategic planning, offering programs aligned with European standards and current regulatory expectations.
Conclusion: Value Of Proficiency Testing 2026
The proficiency testing programs planned for 2026 focus on a specific set of EN standards that reflect the real needs of laboratories evaluating the efficacy of disinfectants and antiseptics. The 2026 Agenda provides a clear and structured overview of these interlaboratory comparisons, supporting effective planning and compliance with quality and accreditation requirements.
Understanding which standards are included in the proficiency testing programs and how they fit into annual planning is essential to ensure technically valid and sustainable results over time.