Protocols for Verifying the Performance of Algal Toxin Detection Field Sensors and Kits.

Abstract

The following protocols describe how ACT will verify the environmental performance characteristics of commercial-ready, or prototype, algal toxin detection field kits through the evaluation of objective and quality assured data. Specifically, the evaluation will demonstrate capacity (performance, ease of use, reliability) of new field portable technologies for measuring harmful algal bloom (HAB) toxins and HAB toxin-producing species. ACT will verify range of detection, accuracy, and precision against accepted reference methods, and will help quantify matrix effects or challenges that may affect sensor performance. The goal of this evaluation program is to provide technology users with an independent and credible assessment of instrument performance in a variety of environments. Therefore, the data and information on performance characteristics will cover pertinent information that users need. ACT will not simply verify vendor claims, but instead looks to the broader community to define the data and operational parameters that are valuable in guiding instrument purchase and user decisions. It is important to note that ACT does not certify technologies or guarantee that a technology will always, or under circumstances other than those used in testing, operate at the levels verified. ACT does not seek to determine regulatory compliance; does not rank technologies or compare their performance; does not label or list technologies as acceptable or unacceptable; and does not seek to determine “best available technology” in any form. ACT will avoid all potential pathways to picking “winners and losers”. Therefore, although the following protocols will apply to all instruments evaluated, no direct comparisons will be made between instruments from different manufacturers. Also, instrument-specific Verification Statements will be released to the public for each instrument type as a final report.