Our specialist geotechnical laboratory has once again excelled in the 2025 GeoLabs Proficiency and Interlaboratory Comparison Testing Scheme (PICTS), this time with an expanded testing scope and new team members proving their capabilities.
This year Lucion Ground Engineering’s geotechnical lab increased their participation in the proficiency testing programme, undertaking additional tests to support their expanding UKAS accreditation scope. We are pleased to report that approximately 90% of the tests achieved z-scores practically on the mean line, with all results well within the acceptable threshold of less than 2.0.
Commenting on this latest success our Geotechnical Lab Manager, Matt Hartnup, commented:
“The 2025 proficiency testing results are particularly pleasing because they validate not just our technical capabilities, but the quality of our training programme.
We deliberately used different, less experienced laboratory technicians for these tests, and their performance has been outstanding. It demonstrates that our structured training approach is producing consistently reliable results across our entire team.”
What are the GeoLabs PICTS?
The GeoLabs PICTS programme is the only scheme of its kind in the country. All 91 participating laboratories receive identical samples, prepare them to standardised protocols, and submit results for comprehensive evaluation. Our geotechnical lab team’s results consistently aligned with group median values, demonstrating the precision and reproducibility that defines quality geotechnical testing.
Robin Slade, Business Unit Director, explains the significance:
“These proficiency test results give our clients absolute confidence in the data we’re providing. When you’re making critical decisions about foundations, slopes, or site development, you need to know the testing behind those decisions is demonstrably accurate.
Our performance against 91 other laboratories, combined with our UKAS accreditation No. 8180, provides that independent verification.”
Since 1936, our geotechnical laboratory has delivered specialist testing services for ground investigations and development projects. While UKAS accreditation requires proficiency testing participation every four years, we choose to participate annually to ensure continuous quality improvement.
UKAS Accredited Geotechnical Testing
Our UKAS-accredited testing capabilities include:
- Classification tests (particle size distribution, Atterberg limits)
- Strength testing (triaxial, direct shear, unconfined compression)
- Specialised analysis (permeability, compaction, chemical analysis)
- Advanced testing (consolidation, dispersion, empirical index testing)
When you work with Lucion’s geotechnical laboratory, you benefit from independently verified accuracy, UKAS accreditation, experienced teams with robust training, and expert interpretation from our geotechnical engineers and geologists.
Ready to discuss your geotechnical testing requirements? Contact our team to discover how our certified laboratory services can support your next project.
