Analytical Investigation of Non-Conformities

An unexpected result cannot always be resolved by repeating the same analysis. BJL Laboratoires supports businesses with analytical investigations into non-conformities and contamination.

Examples of issues we investigate

• out-of-specification results;
• the emergence of contamination;
• the presence of unknown particles;
• differences between two batches;
• contamination of water or a product;
• an unexplained increase in the concentration of an element or pollutant;
• differences in results between laboratories;
• process drift.

Developing an investigation plan

An effective investigation starts with a review of the context: the sequence of events, affected batches, raw materials, maintenance, cleaning, the surrounding environment and recent process changes.

The analytical plan may then include:

• analysis of the non-conforming sample;
• analysis of a control sample;
• comparison of batches;
• analysis of raw materials;
• targeted testing for contaminants;
• particle analysis;
• testing of blanks and control samples.

From analysis to interpretation

The aim is to obtain data that can progressively rule out or support the different hypotheses.