What Does Maximum Detection Level Mean?

Detection limits are statistical values showing the presence of a compound. Using statistical analysis, the detection is 99 percent accurate. Laboratories use procedures to quantify the minimum and maximum limits to analyze for their data sets.

Detection Limits

• Detection limits are used to measure the performance of a laboratory procedure. Obtaining a minimum and maximum detection limit allows data reporting to be accurate to compare results and find what substances are occurring at maximum concentrations in test solutions.

Benefits of Maximum Detection Limits

• The ability to know which substances have a maximum detection can be extremely helpful when working with environmental contaminants for instance. Detecting maximum levels of a chemical is important as these may be potentially harmful to the environment. Having a statistical limit can help data analyzers report the limits to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Determining Maximum Detection Limit

• The maximum detection limit is determined usually after all samples have been measured and values compiled. The highest measurement for a given substance is then considered the maximum detection limit.