Laboratory Discovery
Finding, reading and comparing accredited laboratory scopes.
How to choose a calibration laboratory
Check the accreditation scope for the quantity, range and uncertainty you need, then weigh turnaround, certificate quality and out-of-tolerance handling.
How to read a scope of accreditation
A scope lists, per quantity, the range, the calibration and measurement capability and the method — so it says what a laboratory can certify, and how well.
Accreditation bodies and the ILAC MRA
National accreditation bodies assess laboratories to ISO/IEC 17025; the ILAC Mutual Recognition Arrangement makes those certificates equivalent worldwide.
On-site vs laboratory calibration: choosing the right one
On-site calibration captures the installed system without removing it; the laboratory offers better sources, lower uncertainty and controlled conditions.
Questions to ask before sending equipment for calibration
Points, tolerance, decision rule, as-found reporting, adjustment policy, turnaround, packaging. Settle them up front and the certificate will be usable.
Certified reference materials and ISO 17034
A certified reference material carries a certified value with uncertainty and traceability. ISO 17034 accreditation is the mark of a competent producer.
Proficiency testing and interlaboratory comparisons
Laboratories measure the same artefact to show their results agree with others. The En number says whether a result agrees within its stated uncertainty.
Outsourcing a temperature mapping study: what to specify
A mapping contractor needs your acceptance criteria, layout, operating conditions and reporting expectations. Without them you get a generic study.
Calibration certificate red flags
No uncertainty, no k, no traceability statement, a 'pass' with no decision rule, or a missing accreditation symbol — each is a reason to query it.
Building a calibration management system for measuring equipment
An inventory, a status per item, intervals with a rationale, certificates linked to items, out-of-tolerance handling. Software helps; discipline decides.