COURSE OVERVIEW:

The meaning of this course lies in the establishment of metrological confidence through the rigorous control of measurement equipment. In an accredited laboratory, a single uncalibrated instrument can invalidate thousands of results, leading to financial loss and regulatory failure. This course provides the technical foundations necessary to ensure that every measurement is traceable to international standards and that equipment remains in a state of control between formal calibration events.

The scope of the training addresses the life-cycle of laboratory hardware, focusing on the critical distinction between calibration, verification, and intermediate checks. It covers the statistical methods used to determine optimal calibration intervals and the design of "Check-Standards" that provide early warning of instrument drift. Participants will explore how to manage a diverse inventory of assets, from simple balances and pipettes to complex spectrometers, ensuring that the metrological chain remains unbroken.

The coverage includes detailed instruction on the calculation of drift rates, the interpretation of calibration certificates, and the management of non-conforming equipment. The course emphasizes the practical implementation of ISO 17025 requirements for metrological traceability and the documentation of "As-Found" and "As-Left" data. By mastering these metrological procedures, laboratory staff can ensure the highest level of data integrity while optimizing the costs associated with external calibration services.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Define the principles of metrological traceability and the SI system.
• Differentiate between calibration, verification, and intermediate checks.
• Interpret technical data and uncertainty on calibration certificates.
• Calculate optimal calibration intervals using the "Opperan" method.
• Design and execute intermediate check procedures for various instruments.
• Establish control charts to monitor the stability of measurement standards.
• Perform internal verification of balances, pipettes, and thermometers.
• Manage the "As-Found" and "As-Left" data for trend analysis.
• Evaluate the technical competence of external calibration laboratories.
• Implement a robust system for labeling and status identification of assets.
• Investigate the impact of "Out of Calibration" equipment on past results.
• Document metrological procedures to satisfy ISO 17025 audits.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is intended for Metrology Technicians, Quality Assurance Officers, Laboratory Supervisors, and Technical Managers responsible for equipment maintenance and calibration.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximize the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.