Test methods will be set up and applied to check (identification, performance) test, control and bioassay (TCB) strains (bacteria, fungi and yeasts) mentioned in international norms. Quality plans for BCCM as distributor of well controlled TCB strains and for handling these strains by the end user will be drawn up and tested. Finally recommendations will be formulated to international norms and the quality plans together with practical guidelines will be taken up in a handbook for distributors and end users of TCB strains.