Measuring high standards
The LVD project aimed to prepare newly associated states for meeting European metrology standards. In order to push newly associated states forward, so they are better prepared to accommodate European standards, it is important that metrology requirements are met. EU directives exist which establish measurement standards that need to be implemented on a national level. According to the ISO/IEC 17025 standard, availability of traceable measurement and reference standards are essential. Testing removes the risk of uncertainty and is essential to assuring the quality of a product. A strategy has been designed to achieve this, put together by scientists based at the University of Ljubiana in Slovenia. The strategy has two main strands. Firstly to increase the visibility and efficiency of measuring and testing labs, and support their creation in countries which have not relied upon them up until now. Secondly, to improve industry relations with regulatory bodies in order to create an environment that is more responsive to the need for national regulatory standards. The strategy accounts for the implementation and design of physical and chemical measurements that cover the most important sectors in a national economy, industry services and defence. It was envisioned in the plan that accreditation bodies and inspection services would be put in place which can uphold national safety standards and legal requirements.
