Abstract
A new automated data entry system (ADES) has been developed and is now available for use with the Environmental Lead Proficiency Analytical Testing (ELPAT) Program. The ELPAT Program is a proficiency testing program that requires quarterly reporting of data from a series of paint chip, soil, and dust wipe analyses from participating laboratories throughout the United States and Canada. This system was developed to provide a faster, more accurate method to receive ELPAT data from several hundred participating laboratories. The ADES has advantages over faxing and mailing, including multiple phone lines for easier access and elimination of illegible ELPAT report forms. All that is required is a computer, modem, communications software, and a phone line. Laboratories receive a copy of the data entry program, detailed instructions on how to operate the program and upload the data, and a security password. Future enhancements to this system include the ability of laboratories to download their own proficiency ratings. That would enable the laboratory to receive their ratings faster than by regular mail. A similar system will soon be installed for the Proficiency Analytical Testing Program.