4. When should equipment be calibrated?
4. When should equipment be calibrated?
In line with good metrology practices and the principles of ISO/IEC 17025, measuring instruments should be calibrated in the following situations:
- Before first use (new equipment) to establish traceability and verify performance.
- At scheduled intervals determined by the organization based on the instrument's stability, usage, and previous calibration history.
- After maintenance, repair, or adjustment that may affect the instrument's measurement performance.
- After relocation or transportation, particularly if the equipment has been subjected to shock, vibration, or environmental changes.
- Following accidental damage, overload, or misuse that could affect measurement accuracy.
- When measurement results are found to be inconsistent or questionable, or when there is reason to suspect the instrument is not performing correctly.
- After prolonged periods of storage or inactivity, before returning the instrument to service.
- Following exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as extreme temperature, humidity, dust, or corrosive environments that may affect performance.
- When required by applicable regulations, customer specifications, or quality management systems.
- After a failed verification or intermediate check, where there is evidence that the instrument may no longer meet specified requirements.Before undertaking critical measurements where a high level of confidence in the measurement result is required