Proficiency testing comparisons ensure confidence that measurement results are consistent and internationally comparable.
Proficiency testing is necessary to demonstrate the competence of a measuring laboratory in a specific field of measurement. Laboratories receive confirmation of their calibration and measurement capability (CMC), i.e. whether they are able to perform measurements at their declared level. High-quality measurement results do not depend solely on accurate measuring instruments and trained personnel. It is equally important how instruments are used, whether the method applied is appropriate, and whether all factors influencing the result have been taken into account. Comparisons with other laboratories provide essential feedback in this regard.
An accredited laboratory is required to participate in proficiency testing at defined intervals. According to accreditation criteria, a calibration laboratory must participate in an interlaboratory comparison at least once before accreditation and, after accreditation, at least once every five years for each quantity within the scope of accreditation (EAK J5). The same requirement applies to testing and verification laboratories.
The following national proficiency testing comparisons have been announced by Metrosert’s National Mass Standard Laboratory:
Calibration of non-automatic weighing instruments
The comparison is open to all interested parties, but is primarily intended for laboratories performing calibration of weighing instruments. It provides an opportunity for accredited laboratories to confirm their calibration capability in the calibration of non-automatic weighing instruments (NAWI).
Calibration of a non-automatic weighing instrument at the following measurement points:
0 g; 1 mg; 5 mg; 20 mg; 100 mg; 500 mg; 1 g
Measuring the mass of objects
The comparison is open to all interested parties, but is primarily intended for accredited and professionally competent laboratories or institutions performing mass measurements.
- Determination of conventional mass for the following objects:
- M1 – wire, approximately 250 mg
- M2 – cylinder, approximately 25 g
- M3 – cylinder, approximately 800 g
- VM-26-1 – liquid in a container, approximately 1 kg
- VM-26-5 – liquid in a container, approximately 5 kg
If you are an accredited calibration laboratory for non-automatic weighing instruments, a testing laboratory, or an accredited and professionally competent laboratory performing determination of conventional mass, please contact the keeper of the national mass standard for further information:
