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Content archived on 2023-03-27

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Research programme (EEC) in the field of reference materials and methods (Community Bureau of Reference), 1976-1978

 
With reference to the Council Resolution of 14 January 1974 on an initial outline programme of the European Communities in the field of science and technology (Official Journal No C 7 of 29.1.1974) this first BCR programme was initiated for the purpose of encouraging and supporting technical collaboration between the laboratories of EC Member States in order to eliminate disputes arising from measurements. In this way, the Community helps laboratories in the Member States to provide accurate and reliable measurements in those sectors which are vital to the Community as a whole: trade, agriculture, food, industrial products, environment, health and consumer protection. The task consists essentially in bringing together for each project laboratories of possibly all the Member States for collaborative work to improve the measurement or analysis concerned.
To strengthen, coordinate, harmonize and supplement national efforts in the field of reference materials and methods of measurement.
- Characterization of materials;
- Inventory and definition of requirements for new certified reference materials (CRM);
- Technical specification of CRM;
- Perfecting and preparation of CRM;
- Organization of inter-laboratory comparisons;
- European certification of the technical characteristics of CRM;
- Approval of laboratories.
The Commission was responsible for the implementation of the programme, assisted by an Advisory Committee on Programme Management, and was required to submit an annual report to the Council. Surveys and laboratory projects were carried out by means of shared-cost contracts. The information resulting from the implementation of the programme was required to be disseminated in accordance with Council Regulation (EEC) No 2380/74 of 17 September 1974.