Community Reference Laboratories at IRMM

The JRC operates six Community Reference Laboratories (CRLs). Four of them are placed at IRMM:


What are CRLs?

CRLs are analytical laboratories designated by Community directives and regulations. They are an integral part of European risk management system. Their duties contain e.g.:
  • setting up EU-wide standards for testing, routine procedures and reliable methods
  • organising comparative tests
  • training analysts from national laboratories
  • providing scientific and technical assistance to the European Commission, especially if a Member State contest results of analyses or trans-boundary disputes
  • coordinating a network of national reference laboratories
The CRLs are also required to have knowledge of international standards and practices and keep lists of reference substances and reagents and their suppliers.

More about CRLs can be found on the website of the Directorate-General for Health and Consumer Protection.


Other CRLs operated by JRC

Community Reference Laboratory for GM Food and Feed
Community Reference Laboratory for Food Contact Materials




Scientific Forum

On 9-10 February 2010, JRC-IRMM hosted a Scientific Forum for the Operating Managers of the Community Reference Laboratories. Read more here.





Last Update 04/03/2010