Calibration of Measuring Instruments

We speak of international traceability when: 

• a 5mm nut manufactured in one plant will fit on a 5mm screw manufactured elsewhere, perhaps in another part of the world;
• a national telecommunication network can be connected to an international network as the reference clock frequency differs from the known value by less than internationally agreed upon;
• a wrist watch can be synchronised either to the time shown on the TV clock or communicated by phone by a telecommunications operator;
• a medical doctor, based on the same type of measurements, would have the same data for a correct diagnosis on which a life depends, regardless of in which hospital the measurements were taken; 
• etc.

• the measurement procedures of the laboratory carrying out measurements have been checked to ensure correct measurements;
• laboratory personnel have adequate knowledge and skills;
• the reference measurement standards of the laboratory carrying out measurements have been traceably calibrated, and;
• the organisation and the established quality management system enable consistent implementation of verified procedures.