The analyst should review the results as soon as possible after all the tests have been completed to determine whether they are mutually consistent and whether they meet the specification. All conclusions should be entered on the worksheet by the analyst and initialled by the supervisor.

The certificate of analysis issued by the laboratory should be based on the analytical worksheet. It should specify the sample and the registration number, state the specification to which the sample was tested, list and provide the results of all the tests that were performed and state whether or not the sample was found to comply with the requirements. Certificates stating that a sample is not in compliance with the required specification must always be signed by the head of the laboratory.

A sample may be recorded on the worksheet as conforming to specification only if it meets all the relevant requirements. Any discrepancy confirmed by replicate testing should be evaluated in relation to the results of the other tests and the conclusions reached should be discussed with the head of the laboratory before they are entered on the worksheet. This record should then be signed by each of the analysts involved.

In large laboratories responsibility for certifying samples that conform to specification usually lies with the lead unit. However, in the event of non-compliance, the head of the laboratory is ultimately responsible for recommending any regulatory action that is required.