Safe Environments is accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) to ISO/IEC 17043:2023 – Conformity Assessment: General Requirements for Proficiency Testing, ensuring our programs uphold internationally recognised standards for integrity, transparency, and scientific rigour.

Since 2013, we have delivered slip resistance proficiency testing schemes to laboratories across Australia and internationally. Our programs provide objective benchmarking, robust statistical evaluation, and actionable feedback aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO/IEC 17020 frameworks.

Proficiency testing is not just a compliance exercise, it is a foundation for continuous improvement. We welcome feedback, complaints, and appeals as mechanisms to refine each round and ensure the program remains technically credible, responsive, and fit for purpose.

These contributions have broader significance. PT outcomes inform

• The development of reference materials,

• Pathways to metrological traceability, and

• The technical credibility of laboratories whose outcomes influence real-world decisions daily across Australia and internationally safety management, regulatory reporting, and scientific consensus.

At Safe Environments, we take this responsibility seriously and remain committed to strengthening the quality infrastructure for sound decision-making, both locally and globally.

Feedback and Continuous Improvement

We view feedback as a critical part of continuous improvement. Participants are encouraged to share their observations, suggestions, and reflections on the proficiency testing scheme at any time.

Safe Environments considers all feedback, whether formal or informal, as an opportunity for improvement to enhance the design, execution, and value of each round to add value to the scheme. Insights gathered from participant input have directly informed changes in sample preparation methods, reporting formats, and uncertainty evaluations over the years.

By promoting open communication, we aim to maintain the relevance, technical accuracy, and credibility of our programs for all laboratories and stakeholders.

Complaints and Appeals 

Safe Environments is committed to impartiality, transparency, and compliance with ISO/IEC 17043:2023. We have established procedures for the fair and timely handling of both complaints and appeals relating to our proficiency testing programs.

How to Submit a Complaint

If you have a concern regarding any aspect of our proficiency testing program — including communication, logistics, fairness, or data handling — you may submit a complaint by contacting:

📧 PT@SafeEnvironments.com.au
📞 +61 2 9621 3706

Complaints are reviewed objectively and without bias. You will receive acknowledgment of your complaint and where appropriate, we will implement corrective action and communicate the outcome.

We welcome constructive feedback at any time,  we view it as an opportunity for improvement. Over the years, you’ll see that the quality of our program design, data analysis and reporting continues to evolve based on participant input and systematic review.

How to Appeal a Performance Evaluation

If you wish to appeal your laboratory’s performance score or evaluation (e.g. z-score or En value), please contact us using the details above. Appeals are assessed via our internal non-conformance and dispute resolution procedure. Where required, an independent reviewer may be appointed to assess the basis of your appeal.

You will be notified of the outcome of your appeal, and results will be amended where appropriate.

Confidentiality

All complaints and appeals are treated confidentially. Your identity will only be disclosed to those directly involved in resolving the matter.