What steps should you take if a measurement yields results outside the expected tolerance?

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When a measurement falls outside the expected tolerance, treat it as a potential QC issue and run through a full verification routine. Re-run the analysis to see if the result is reproducible. Check the standards or reference materials used to confirm the instrument’s response aligns with known values. Verify the instrument calibration to ensure there hasn’t been drift or an incorrect calibration factor. Inspect the sample for issues such as improper preparation, inhomogeneity, moisture, or matrix effects that could skew the reading. Finally, document the deviation and any corrective actions taken, including the results of the re-test, calibration checks, and any adjustments made. This sequence helps pinpoint whether the problem is due to the instrument, the standards, the sample, or the procedure, and ensures traceability and reliability of future measurements.