All participating laboratories considered the round-robin test very useful. The samples were planned in such a way that the capability and skill of the laboratories would be demonstrated. The test showed the importance of proper handling of the samples during transport and in the laboratory before the samples are prepared for analysis. Sample-preparation is the most important step in the whole analytical procedure. Mistakes during sample-preparation cannot be corrected later on and thus they could jeopardize the final results. The exercise also clearly demonstrated the potential of the present analytical methods. It showed the value of chromatographic methods for screening purposes and the feasibility of obtaining unambiguous identification of chemical warfare agents in environmental samples by two independent spectrometric methods. In the present report the term "Standard Operating Procedure" has been revised to "Recommended Operating Procedure" in order not to discourage laboratories from developing new and better methods. Chapters 2 to 5 of the report comprise descriptions of the procedures used by the laboratories and relevant conclusions from the test are drawn in chapter 6. Chapter 7 presents the Recommended Operating Procedures as discussed by the analysts. However, as the time was too short to allow agreement of details of the procedures, some of them may reflect the views of the Finnish laboratory only and we acknowledge full responsibility for that. These procedures should be regarded as a basis for further discussions following the second round-robin test and not as the ultimate recommended procedures. CD/PV.562 5 (Mrs. Rautio, Finland) The Finnish CW-Proiect has drawn from this experiment the conclusion that continuous method development for sampling, sample-preparation, and analysis during the forthcoming years of the chemical weapons convention will be important to the success of the implementation of the convention. This analytical field cannot afford to stand aside from the research and 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be related to scientific research and testing, specifically in the field of chemical warfare agents and their detection. It discusses the importance of proper sample preparation, analytical methods, and standard operating procedures. The text also mentions the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention, which suggests a connection to international relations and policy.

**Category**
Science and technology, International trade