Simply Forensic Reference Library
Blind Proficiency Test
Quality, Validation & Reliability
Definition. A proficiency exercise processed through ordinary operations without the examiner knowing at that time that the material is a test.
How the term is used
It can help assess real-world performance but needs careful design, permissions and operational controls.
Forensic example
A laboratory receives a specially prepared specimen that follows its normal casework route.
Interpretation limitation
Blind testing does not remove the need for conventional training, competency and quality assurance.
References and further reading
NIST OSAC forensic terminology. The explanation and example are original educational summaries; consult the cited material and current laboratory guidance for authoritative application.