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- Calibration from the cradle to the grave
We have zero tolerance for equipment operating outside of limits. Ensuring that the quality of products we use is correct starts almost from conception.
Condoms, home pregnancy tests and birth control pills—how accurate, safe and reliable are they? Will they consistently do the job they are designed to do? Has the quality of the product been tested to verify its reliability and safety?
Do we really want to use any of these example products if they fall outside their operating limits? We need to know that the 'product' does exactly what it says on the tin, consistently and safely.
We're all weighed and measured shortly after birth. How do we know the weight is accurate? Was the scale calibrated on a regular basis? Was a calibration procedure used? Was the standard weight used during calibration traceable to a national or international standard? Is there a paper trail on hand somewhere to prove this, or do we just take somebody's word for it?
And as we grow up – measurements still matter
Now I try to avoid the scales but when I visit the doctor and he takes my weight and blood pressure, I like to think it's accurate. If the scale is off by as little as a few pounds, it may not matter to a tall, dark and handsome stranger. But to me at only 4ft 10, it matters. It could mean the difference between being classified as obese or being considered healthy for my height and weight!
The same is true for my blood pressure. I could actually be in the safety zone but because of faulty calibration, wind up on medication or even worse, the measurement could determine I don't need the medication when I do!
Calibration has been around for at least 5,000 years—stretching back to the days of the Egyptian cubit—and will continue to be a critical part of every manufacturing, production and R&D function as well as all aspects of our everyday life. And thankfully, CompuCal's management software will be around to help manage our customers' calibration programs thus ensuring I keep fit and healthy. Arguing with the scales, well that's another days problem! Enjoy World Metrology Day!