UNDERSTAND THE CONCEPT
Metrological traceability is a property of a measurement result: it relates that result to a reference through a documented unbroken chain of calibrations, each contributing to uncertainty. A label saying calibrated does not explain that chain or the suitability of the measurement.
Retain the relevant certificate, method, reference information and uncertainty. Evaluate whether the measurement capability is appropriate for the intended tolerance and conditions. Traceability alone does not guarantee that a result is fit for a particular decision.
Questions to take back to your team
- Does the certificate identify the result and reference chain?
- Is measurement uncertainty available?
- Is the capability suitable for the intended decision?
Further reading
Explore the primary references below. Requirements and applicability depend on your organization and jurisdiction.
