PulseNet Canada Proficiency Program

2-6 isolates which may belong to any of the following Genera: Escherichia coli, Shigella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp.

The WGS FASTQ proficiency consists of the generation of WGS data from the proficiency isolates. The WGS analysis proficiency consists of the quality assessment and analysis of the data generated from the proficiency strains.

Determination of assigned value: Assigned values are determined based on the results obtained from the same set of isolates at the PulseNet Canada National Laboratory.

Evaluation of performance: FASTQ proficiency submissions are evaluated based on whether the submitted isolates meet the minimum required quality criteria specified in the proficiency instructions package.

Analysis proficiency submissions are evaluated based on whether participants have correctly identified the related isolates and correctly assessed that the data quality meets the minimum required quality criteria specified in the proficiency instruction package.

Report distribution: Reports are distributed 6 weeks after the submission deadline.

The WGS FASTQ proficiency covers the generation of WGS data for downstream analysis.  The WGS analysis proficiency covers the quality assessment and analysis of WGS data. Laboratories must demonstrate proficiency on an annual basis to maintain access to the national databases and to continue submitting data to PulseNet Canada.

There is no participation fee.

All laboratories (regional or national) who have been certified by PulseNet Canada will receive the appropriate proficiency panel on an annual basis.

Participant contact information and results are confidential, certification results are only shared back to the submitting participant.

Participants do not need to apply.  The proficiency panel is distributed on an annual basis to all laboratories certified by PulseNet Canada.