Hoklas SC 02

HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Issue Date: 4 July 2016
Implementation Date: 4 October 2016
Page 1 of 60
HOKLAS Supplementary Criteria No. 2

All Test Categories – Equipment Calibration and Verification
1 Introduction
1.1 This document serves to clarify and interpret the requirements of HOKLAS 003
and HOKLAS 015 for calibration and verification of equipment related to the
accreditation of non-medical and medical laboratories. It should be read in
conjunction with the current issue of ILAC-P10, HOKLAS 003, HOKLAS 015
and other relevant criteria documents.
1.2 In accordance with HOKLAS criteria on measurement traceability for

non-medical laboratories (as stated in Section 5.6 of HOKLAS 003) and on
metrological traceability for medical laboratories (as stated in Section 5.3 of
HOKLAS 015), all equipment that directly or indirectly affects the result of a test,
a calibration or an examination shall be calibrated before being put into service.
“Evaluation of measurement data – Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in
Measurement” (JCGM 100:2008) should be referred when measurement
uncertainty is determined.
1.3 All HOKLAS accredited laboratories shall comply with the requirements of
ILAC-P10 “ILAC Policy on the Traceability of Measurement Results”.
1.4 This document also sets out the recommendations for calibration or verification
of equipment including the calibration intervals and the associated procedures in
the following appendices:-
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From Page
Appendix A Common equipment 9
Appendix B Equipment for testing of electrical 22
and electronic products
Appendix C Equipment related to dimensional 26
metrology
Appendix D Analytical instruments for chemical 28
testing
Appendix E Equipment for construction materials 39
testing
Appendix F Equipment for physical and 57
mechanical testing of toys and other
consumer products
Appendix G Equipment for medical and 59
biological testing
1.5 The recommended calibration intervals in the appendices should in general be the
maximum time interval between two successive calibrations provided that:
(a) the equipment is of good quality and of proven stability, and
(b) if any suspicion or indication of overloading or mishandling arises, the

equipment shall be checked immediately and thereafter at a fairly frequent
interval until there is evidence that the stability of the equipment has not
been impaired.
Where the above criteria cannot be met, a shorter calibration interval should be
adopted. The laboratory shall determine calibration interval according to the
principles as given in section 8 and the recommended intervals as listed in the
appendices of this document.
For equipment not included in the appendices, the laboratory shall demonstrate
how its calibration requirements conform with the requirements of the related
tests.
2 Policy for Traceability in Calibration
2.1 Equipment and reference standards that require calibration shall be calibrated by
one of the following options:
(1) A National Metrology Institute (NMI) whose service is suitable for the
intended need and is covered by the CIPM MRA. Services covered by the
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CIPM MRA can be viewed in Appendix C of the BIPM KCDB which

includes the range and uncertainty for each listed service. Some NMIs
may indicate that their service is covered by the CIPM MRA by including
the CIPM MRA logo on their calibration certificates, however the fixing of
the logo is not mandatory and the BIPM KCDB remains the authoritative
source of verification. [ILAC Policy 1]
(2) A calibration laboratory whose service is suitable for the intended need (i.e.
the scope of accreditation specifically covers the appropriate calibration)
and the Accreditation Body is covered by the ILAC Arrangement or by a
Regional Arrangement recognised by ILAC. Some calibration
laboratories may indicate that their service is covered by the ILAC
Arrangement by including the ILAC Laboratory Combined MRA mark on
the calibration certificate. Alternatively, the accreditation symbol of
HKAS or its MRA partners may be included on the calibration certificate.
Both of these options may be taken as evidence of metrological traceability.
[ILAC Policy 2]
(3a) An NMI whose service is suitable for the intended need but not covered by
the CIPM MRA. [ILAC Policy 3a]
(3b) A calibration laboratory whose service is suitable for the intended need but
not covered by the ILAC Arrangement or by a Regional Arrangement
recognised by ILAC. [ILAC Policy 3b]
2.2 Where option (3a) or (3b) is used, the laboratory shall ensure that appropriate
evidence for the claimed traceability and measurement uncertainty is available.
This evidence will be assessed by HKAS.
2.3 Clause 5.6.2.1.2 of HOKLAS 003 states that “There are certain calibrations that
currently cannot be strictly made in SI units. In these cases calibration shall
provide confidence in measurements by establishing traceability to appropriate
measurement standards such as:
- the use of certified reference materials provided by a competent supplier to
give a reliable physical or chemical characterization of a material;
- the use of specified methods and/or consensus standards that are clearly
described and agreed by all parties concerned.
Participation in a suitable programme of interlaboratory comparisons is
required where possible.”
The above requirements can only be applied in which the laboratory has
demonstrated that the option 1, 2, 3a and 3b cannot reasonably be met. It is the
responsibility of the laboratory to choose a way to satisfy this clause and to
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provide the appropriate evidence. This evidence shall be documented and the
documentation will be assessed by HKAS. [ILAC Policy 4]
3 Policy for Traceability in Testing
3.1 If the calibration of instruments used in testing contributes significantly to the

overall uncertainty, the same ILAC policy for traceability as detailed in Section 2
applies. [ILAC Policy 5]
3.2 If a calibration is not a dominant factor in the test result, the laboratory shall have
quantitative evidence to demonstrate that the associated contribution of a
calibration contributes little (insignificantly) to the measurement result and the
measurement uncertainty of the test and therefore traceability does not need to be
demonstrated. [ILAC Policy 6]
3.3 For non-medical laboratories, Clause 5.6.2.2.2 of HOKLAS 003 states that
“Where traceability of measurements to SI units is not possible and/or not
relevant, the same requirements for traceability to, for example, certified
reference materials, agreed methods and/or consensus standards, are required as
for calibration laboratories.”
3.4 For medical laboratories, Clause 5.3.1.4 of HOKLAS 015 states that
“Metrological traceability shall be to a reference material or reference
procedure of the higher metrological order available. Where this is not possible
or relevant, other means for providing confidence in the results shall be applied,
including but not limited to the following:
- use of certified reference materials;
- examination or calibration by another procedure;
- mutual consent standards or methods which are clearly established,
specified, characterized and mutually agreed upon by all parties
concerned.”
3.5 ILAC Policy 4 should be applied to both non-medical and medical laboratories.
4 Policy for Traceability provided through Reference Materials (RMs) and Certified
Reference Materials (CRMs)
4.1 The values assigned to CRMs produced by NMIs and included in the BIPM
KCDB or produced by an accredited RMP under its scope of accreditation to ISO
Guide 34, are considered to have established valid traceability. [ILAC Policy 7]
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4.2 The values assigned to CRMs covered by entries in the CIPM, IFCC and ILAC
Joint Committee for Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (JCTLM) database are
considered to have established valid traceability. [ILAC Policy 8]
4.3 The majority of RMs and CRMs are produced by other RMPs. These can be
considered as critical consumables and the laboratory shall demonstrate that each
RM or CRM is suitable for its intended use as required by Clause 4.6.2 of
HOKLAS 003 or Clause 4.6 of HOKLAS 015. [ILAC Policy 9]
5 Calibration Requirements
5.1 Parameters of equipment to be calibrated
Where the values of parameters are specified in the relevant standard

specifications, the corresponding instruments shall be calibrated. Where
tolerances are given, the measured values should be checked against them.
Where tolerances are not specified, the requirements given in section 6 of this
document should be followed.
5.2 Calibration procedures and intervals
Where the test standard or specification states the calibration procedure and the
calibration interval, these requirements shall be followed.
Otherwise, the laboratory should determine appropriate calibration procedure and

interval after considering all relevant factors. For dimensions and weights, a
calibration interval of six months is in general acceptable.
5.3 Unspecified parameters
For parameters which may affect equipment operation but are not specified in the
test standard or specification, the effect of change (for example, due to wear)
should be assessed during regular equipment inspection and functional check.
Where necessary, a specific procedure should be derived to assess the effect. It
is a good practice to record initial value as a reference for later comparison.
5.4 All equipment calibrations shall be recorded.
6 Verification of a Parameter without Specified Tolerance
6.1 Where the tolerance of a specified parameter is not given in the test standard or
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specification, the laboratory should determine whether the parameter is critical

and how critical it is.
6.2 For a critical parameter, justification for adopting a particular tolerance shall be
documented. The justification would be examined by HKAS during an
assessment.
For dimensional and angular measurements, the laboratory may select from
ISO 2768-1 a suitable tolerance class. As a rough guide, the medium tolerance
class in Table 1 and Table 3, for dimensional and angular measurements
respectively, is acceptable for most equipment.
6.3 In the case of a non-critical parameter, the implied tolerance may be determined
such that the next significant figure would not result in rounding to a value other
than the stated parameter. For example :-
stated parameter implied tolerance

6 mm 6 mm  0.5 mm
3.2 mm 3.2 mm  0.05 mm
1.0 kg 1.0 kg  0.05 kg
1.000 kg 1.000 kg  0.0005 kg
7 Source of Calibration
7.1 Equipment should be calibrated by:-

(a) internal calibration; or
(b) external calibration.
7.2 Laboratories are encouraged to develop their internal calibration capability and to
calibrate their own equipment. A calibration can be performed internally if the
laboratory has the necessary reference standard or reference material, and where
applicable, suitably controlled environment and competent staff to perform the
calibration. The internal calibration procedure shall be documented and
available to HKAS assessors.
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7.3 The quality of an in-house calibration shall be equivalent to that provided by a

competent calibration laboratory. HKAS may invite an assessor in the
calibration field to participate in an assessment to confirm the competence of the
in-house calibration staff. There shall be evidence of competence confirmation
such as organisation of inter-operator comparison, participation in interlaboratory
comparison of calibration activities, or other activities that serve the purpose. In
addition, appropriate documented evidence for claimed traceability (e.g. through
the use of certified reference materials) and measurement uncertainty shall be
available for assessment.
7.4 Calibrations which require equipment not available to the laboratory or demand
specialist techniques outside the capabilities and experience of the laboratory staff
should be performed externally.
7.5 External calibration shall be performed by a competent calibration body as

defined in Clause 2.1 of this document.
8 Calibration Programme and Operation of the Calibration System
8.1 Determination of the calibration programme
The calibration programme applicable to an individual laboratory should be

determined by the laboratory management with due regard to the following
factors:
(a) Which items of equipment can be calibrated internally and the

corresponding calibration interval.
(b) Which items of equipment need to be calibrated by a competent calibration

body and the corresponding calibration interval.
(c) For each item of equipment, what ranges and cardinal points should be
calibrated, the calibration uncertainty requirements and the conditions
under which calibrations should be performed. These should be
determined based on the requirements of the tests or measurements for
which that item of equipment is being used. Laboratories should
document such requirements and provide them to external calibration
laboratories when soliciting calibration services.
(d) When determining the calibration intervals, the following should be taken
into consideration:
- HOKLAS recommendations;
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- manufacturer recommendations;
- frequency of use;
- equipment condition;
- equipment stability and previous calibration and maintenance history;
- the accuracy and precision requirements of the tests for which that
item of equipment is being used (e.g. where the test standard or
specification states the calibration intervals, they should be
followed);
- the likely influence of the working environment, e.g. corrosion, dust,
vibration, frequent transportation and rough handling;
- the availability and reliability of the laboratory internal equipment
checking system (e.g. where in-service checks are not carried out
between calibrations, the calibration interval must be shortened).
For new test equipment, it is advisable to specify a shorter calibration interval.

When successive calibration results demonstrate that the characteristic of a piece
of equipment is stable, its calibration interval may be extended. Supporting data
shall be retained to justify the extension of calibration interval and available to
HKAS for assessment. To facilitate the determination of calibration intervals,
laboratories are recommended to plot curves of equipment drifts against time.
For more information for determination of equipment recalibration intervals,

please refer to ILAC-G24 / OIML D 10.
The calibration programme should be documented and reviewed regularly.
8.2 Designated officers of the laboratory shall be assigned the responsibility for the
calibration of equipment and the management of reference materials.
8.3 After an instrument is calibrated, the laboratory shall assign a staff member to
check whether the characteristics of the instrument as shown in the calibration
results are within the acceptable tolerance. Out of tolerance instruments shall be
repaired and recalibrated before use. Alternatively, such instruments may be
downgraded for less demanding purposes provided that they are appropriately
labelled.
8.4 The suitability of the calibration programme and the adequacy of the calibration
system will be examined and discussed during assessments.
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APPENDIX A
COMMON EQUIPMENT
This Appendix lists the recommended calibration requirements for common equipment.
These are general recommendations applicable to all Test Categories for which a laboratory
is accredited.
Where specific requirements are given in other Appendices, those requirements should take
precedence.
Recommended calibration
Type of equipment Recommended calibration interval
method
ACCELEROMETER
(i) Reference Five years (check annually)
(ii) Working Two years

ACOUSTIC CALIBRATOR One year
Inter-instrument comparison every six
months
ANEMOMETER Two years
AUTOCLAVE Initial verification Temperature measurement at

(on-commissioning) and after strategic sites
significant repair (including after Verifying the pressure attained and
annual overhaul)* heating profiles of ‘typical loads’
to ensure effectiveness of
sterilisation
Monthly check* Effectiveness of sterilisation

(with biological indicators)
Each use* Effectiveness of sterilisation either

by chemical indicator or by print
out from the autoclave with
temperature and time record
BALANCE and SCALE a. Calibration every three years* ‘The Calibration of Weights and
(See Note 1 at end of this appendix) Balances’ published by NMIA”
b. Verification:
Each weighing* zero check
Each day of use* One-point check using a known

mass.
Items marked * in the table are those which can be carried out by the staff of a laboratory if it is suitably
equipped with calibrated reference equipment, and where applicable, a suitably controlled environment, and the
staff is confirmed competent to perform such calibrations.
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method
Every six months* Repeatability check using a known
mass.
BAND PASS FILTER SET Two years
BAROMETER (Fortin) Five years (i) Cleanness of mercury

(ii) Vacuum space
(iii) one-point check
BATH FOR CALIBRATION a. Initial complete temperature

survey
b. Check temperature distribution at

one temperature every five years.
BEAT FREQUENCY One year
OSCILLATOR
CALIBRATION UNIT FOR a. Check annually.

AUDIO-FREQUENCY b. Determine the AC/DC transfer
VOLTMETER error of thermal element and
multiplier every five years.
CENTRIFUGE One year* Speed checking by calibrated

tachometer (mechanical
stroboscope or light cell type)
(where operating speed specified)
Temperature calibration (where

applicable)
DENSITY BOTTLE One year* AS 2378

(PYKNOMETER) BS 733-2 App A; IP 190
DENSITY METER a. Initial calibration. ASTM D4052

b. Calibration after a change in test
temperature.
c. Weekly check with air and double
distilled water*
DIAL GAUGE Two years* AS 2103

BS 907
ISO 463
DIE AND CUTTER a. Frequent examination for damage.

For preparation of test specimen b. Full dimensional check whenever
such as dumb-bell rubber specimen resharpened
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EXTENSOMETER
(a) Level and mirror types Five years AS 1545 Grade D (for proof stress
tests load-extension curves for
(b) Micrometer screw type Five years pre-stressing wires)
(c) Dial indicator type Two years AS 1545 Grade B (for modulus of
elasticity determinations)
(d) Recording type with electrical Two years (BS EN 10002-4)
output
FLOWMETER
(a) Rotameter (Reference)

High flow (≥ 1 l/min) Two years* ASTM D3195
Low flow (< 1 l/min) Two years* Soap bubble flowmeter
(b) Rotameter (Working) Check before use in each time* Soap bubble flowmeter
(c) Orifice plates, Venturi nozzles Initial ISO TR 15377

ISO 5167-1
ISO 9300
Six months* Visual inspect tip and other parts

for damage, wear or contamination
(d) Wet test meter One year* ASTM D1071
(e) Anemometer Two years Check dimensional compliance in

accordance with ISO 3966 Annex
A
(f) Pitot tube Initial*
On use* Inspect tip for damage, blockage,
etc., in accordance with ISO 3966
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FORCE TESTING MACHINE
(tension, compression, universal)
TYPE 1 - Mechanical Force

Measuring System AS 2193
(a) Dead weight BS 1610-1
(b) Knife edge, lever and Five years BS 1610-3
steelyard Five years ISO 5893 (rubbers and plastics
(c) Pendulum dynamometer only)
(d) Elastic dynamometer Two years ISO 7500-1
(e.g. spring, ring with dial Two years ISO 7500-2
gauge) EN 10002-2
Note: Chain testing and similar
machines in frequent use One year
TYPE 2 - Hydraulic or Pneumatic

Force Measuring
System
(a) Mechanical system
incorporating a pneumatic or a Two years
hydraulic link, e.g.,
proportional cylinder
(b) Bourdon tube or diaphragm
pressure gauge as force Six months
indicator
(c) Type (b) fitted also with a One year (plus frequent check by user
master gauge which can be of working gauge against master
disconnected during normal gauge)
testing
(d) Bourdon tube or diaphragm Two years
gauge used only as a null
detector for a mechanical
system
(e) Bourdon tube with electrical Two years
transducer
TYPE 3 - Electrical Force Two years

Measuring System
FREQUENCY ANALYSER
(Acoustic Measurement) Five years
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
TRACER
(Acoustic Measurement) One year
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FREQUENCY STANDARD
(a) For acoustic measurement Two years
(b) For time and frequency One year

measurements
FURNACE
For use at specified temperature One Year* BS 4309
AS 2853
FURNACE FOR Initial complete temperature survey

CALIBRATION
Check temperature distribution at one
temperature every five years.
GAS STERILISER Regular check with biological Effectiveness of sterilisation*
indicators at representative locations
in typical loads
GAUGE BLOCK
(a) Used as reference standard Four years BS 4311-1

(b) Used as working equipment Two years* ISO 3650
HARDNESS TESTER FOR (See Note 2 at end of this Appendix)

METAL
Brinell, Vickers and Rockwell Refer to the requirements of ISO 6506-2 (Brinell)
machine including portable tester respective standards ISO 6507-2 (Vickers)
ISO 6508-2 (Rockwell)
HARDNESS TESTER FOR

PLASTICS AND EBONITE
(a) Dead weight tester for plastics Three years ISO 48 Method N, H, L & M
ISO 7619-1
(b) Meter (durometer) for
rubber Frequent check using reference
hardness block*
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method
HYDROMETER
(a) Reference Initial AS 2026; IP 160; ASTM E126
(b) Working - glass One year against reference or with ISO 649-2
freshly prepared solutions of known
density*
- metal Six months*
HYGROMETER
(a) with electric impedance sensor Two years

(b) with chilled mirror sensor
Six years
IMPACT TESTING MACHINE

(Pendulum type)
(a) Charpy, Izod and Universal Refer to requirements of respective AS 1544.4; BS 131-7;
testers for metals standards BS EN 10045-2; BS EN ISO 148-2
(b) Charpy and Izod testers for Refer to requirements of respective AS 1146.3; BS EN ISO 13802
plastics standards
IMPEDANCE MATCHING Five years.

NETWORK Check annually
(Acoustic measurement)
LENGTH MEASURING
DEVICE
(a) Reference steel rules Initial For making measurements which

will not affect test results, rules and
(b) Working rules and vernier Monthly or less depending on use* vernier callipers from reputable
callipers (zero and general condition) manufacturers may be used without
calibration
LINEAR VARIABLE Daily or whenever used* Check against length standard such
DIFFERENTIAL Two years* (complete calibration) as a micrometer
TRANSDUCER (LVDTS)
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method
MANOMETER
(a) Reference Ten years Check against reference
Check fluid every three years
(b) Working Three years*
MICROMETER One month (zero, one point and Against gauge blocks. See also
condition of anvils)* BS 870; BS 959; ISO 3611
MICROPHONE Check every three months. Calibrate

(LS1P or LS2P) annually or when 1 dB change is
detected, whichever is the sooner.
MICROPHONE AMPLIFIER Check response annually
NEUTRAL DENSITY FILTER Ten years
OVEN (Temperature of load space

should be monitored by appropriate
temperature sensor throughout use)
(a) Ageing Five years (temperature variation,

recovery time, rate of ventilation)
(b) Drying Three years (temperature variation and BS 2648, AS 2853, AS 1289.0
evaporation rate in working space)*
(c) Vacuum Five years (temperature variation, AS 2853 and AS 1289.0

evaporation rate, pressure in working
space)*
PENETRATION CONE AND Five years ASTM D217; IP 50; ASTM D5;
NEEDLE ASTM D1321. Visually inspect
needle tips prior to use.
PHOTOCELL Check linearity of response every six

months. Check spectral response
annually with colour filters; calibrate
every five years or when apparent
filter transmittances change
significantly.
PHOTOMETRIC TEST PLATE Five years

For luminance measurement
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PRESSURE AND VACUUM
GAUGE
(a) Test gauges for calibration of One year AS 1349; BS EN 837-1

working gauges
(b) Working gauges subject to Six months or less depending on use*

shock loading
(c) Working gauges not subject One year*

to shock loading
PRESSURE GAUGE TESTER
(a) Dead weight Ten years
(b) Manometer Ten years
PROVING DEVICE FOR

CALIBRATION OF FORCE
TESTING MACHINE
TYPE 1 - Elastic devices

(a) Dial gauge for deflection Two years
(b) Micrometer screw for Five years
deflection measurement
(mechanical or optical
indication)
(c) Electrical deflection Two years
measurement
TYPE 2 - Proving lever Five years
TYPE 3 - Weight Ten years
PSYCHROMETER, ASSMANN Ten years (complete) AS 2001.1 Appendix C

HYGROMETER and SLING Six months (compare thermometers at
TYPE PSYCHROMETER room temperature with wick dry)*
PYRHELIOMETERS Five years
PYROMETER
(a) Reference Three years BS 1041-5

(b) Working Six months*
QUARTZ CONTROL PLATE Ten years
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method
RADIOMETER Calibrate after one hundred tests
REFERENCE BALLAST Five years
REFERENCE GLASS FILTER
(a) Spectrophotometry Five years

(b) Colorimetry Five years
(d) Luminous transmittance Five years
REFRACTIVE INDEX
STANDARD
(a) Liquid Five years

(b) Solid 10 measurements or 10 years,
whichever is the sooner.
SIEVE Six months Sieves should comply with the

Grade B requirements of AS 1152
unless the test method specifies
otherwise.
Sieves supplied with a record card
as prescribed in ISO 3310-1, 2 or 3
are accepted as complying with
AS 1152 requirements. (See
Appendix B, AS 1152).
Laboratories requiring more than
one set of sieves should have a
reference set meeting the above
requirements and one or more
working sets.
Working sieves should be given a
performance check against the
reference set using material typical
of the samples normally subjected
to sieve analysis in the laboratory.
SOUND LEVEL METER One year

Check every three months*
SOUND POWER SOURCE Five years
STANDARD LAMP
Luminous flux, luminous intensity, Five years or after each 20-hour
illuminance, spectral radiance, period of burning
spectral irradiance
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STOPWATCH / TIMER Three months* Comparisons against time and
(For verifying test duration) frequency broadcasts from
short-wave stations such as JJY
(Japan) at 2.5, 5, 8, 10, and 15
MHz for at least ten minutes;
or
Comparisons against timing signals
broadcasted by Radio Television
Hong Kong or announced by Hong
Kong Observatory.
TACHOMETER
(a) Reference Five years BS 3403

(b) Working One year*
TAPE RECORDER Five years

(for Acoustic Measurement) Check annually*
THERMOHYGROGRAPH One week against calibrated hygrometer AS 2001.1 Appendices C & D

or psychrometer when used to
determine actual RH and temperature*
One month against calibrated
hygrometer or psychrometer when used
only as indicator of RH and temperature
variations*
THERMOCOUPLES
(a) Reference Three years (complete) BS 1041-4; BS EN 60584-1;

(Preferably noble metal type) Six months (one-point)* ASTM E220; ASTM E230
(b) Working In general, same as for reference Thermocouples used in high

thermocouples. Working temperatures have definite life
thermocouples subject to frequent spans that must be taken into
stress and strain should be checked consideration.
more frequently depending on their
physical condition and the
inhomogeneity effect.
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method
THERMOMETER
(a) Liquid-in-glass
(1) Reference Ten years (complete) ASTM E77;
Six months (zero-point)*
(2) Working Initial check at sufficient points to Check against a calibrated

cover the expected working range reference thermometer;
followed by single-point checks at IANZ Technical Guide No. 3
six-monthly intervals*
(b) Electronic Three years (complete)

Six months (one-point)*
(c) Platinum resistance Ten years (complete)

Check ice-point before use or at least
every 6 months
(d) A.C. resistance bridge Five years (resistance ratios)
THICKNESS GAUGE
(for compressible materials) Two years Dial gauge, dimensions and
pressure of plunger base
VELOCITY TRANSDUCER Calibrate sensitivity and frequency

response every two years.
Check every six months*
VISCOMETER
(a) U-tube
(1) Reference Ten years (against standard oils) * ASTM D2162
(2) Working Two years (using quality oil against ASTM D2162/D445; IP 71
reference tubes or standard oils)*
(b) Others
(1) Brookfield Two years (using standard oils) plus ASTM D2556
one-months checks using manufacturers’
oils, covering the normal range of
operation of the instrument*
(2) Ferranti Three months (using standard oils)*
(3) Zahn One year (using standard oils)*
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VOLUMETRIC APPARATUS
(a) Volumetric glassware Initial (on commissioning)* AS 2162.1; BS 1797; ISO 4787
(pipettes, burettes, volumetric
flasks, distillation receivers)
when used for tests where the
error contribution from
glassware to the overall
accuracy required is significant
or where methods specify
glassware meeting nominated
standards.
(b) Specialised glassware (water Initial* AS 2162.1; BS 1797

traps, sulphonation flasks,
centrifuge tubes, etc.)
(c) Piston operated volumetric Initial* Check volume delivered. For

apparatus (micropipettes) 6 months* adjustable devices check volume
delivered at several settings (refer
to AS 2162.2 or ISO 8655-1, 2, 3,
4, 5 and 6)
WEIGHTS
(a) Reference weights of integral Five years initial; ASTM E617, OIML R111
construction (i.e. consist of a Ten years subsequent
single piece of material),
stainless steel or nickel
chromium alloy
(b) Working weights, , stainless Three years* ASTM E617, OIML R111
steel or nickel chromium alloy
(c) Working weights, not stainless One year* ASTM E617, OIML R111
steel or nickel chromium alloy
Weights used for routine calibration of balance are considered working weights.
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NOTE 1 - ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR CALIBRATION OF BALANCES
(1) In performing balances calibration, laboratory personnel may select on-site calibration or
off-site calibration. On-site calibrations mean the calibration staff members conduct the
calibration at the location where the balance is in use. Off-site calibrations mean the
calibration is performed away from the location where the balance is in use (e.g. in another
section of the same laboratory or in an external calibration laboratory).
(2) The selection of on-site calibration or off-site calibration depends on many factors such as the
desired accuracy of the balance which is indicated by the ratio between balance capacity and
balance resolution. For any balance with capacity/resolution ratio exceeding 30000, the
balance shall be calibrated on-site and off-site calibration is not allowed. For any balance
with capacity/resolution ratio at or below 30000, the balance can be calibrated off-site.
Nevertheless, the calibration service provider is required to ensure that the difference in
calibration results at different locations will not be larger than the associated calibration
uncertainties. For a balance with capacity 5kg and resolution 1g, the capacity/resolution
ratio is 5000 (5000/1=5000<30000), i.e. the calibration can be carried out either on-site or
off-site. For a 5-kg capacity balance with 1mg resolution, the capacity/resolution ratio is
50000 (5000/0.1=50000>30000), i.e. the calibration shall be carried out on-site.
(3) When a balance has to be used away from the laboratory e.g. when performing site test. The
operator shall determine the acceptability of such arrangement based on the above principle,
i.e. whether the balance capacity/resolution ratio is greater than 30000 and also on the
assessment of the performance of the balance at different locations.
NOTE 2 - ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR HARDNESS TESTING ON METALS
(1) Laboratories shall carry out a performance check test at the start of each day on which
hardness tests are to be performed.
(2) Hardness blocks with assigned values from established block manufacturers (such as Vickers,
Avery, Wilson and Yamamoto) may be used.
(3) The check should be carried out using forces close to those involved in the tests to be
conducted on that day. So far as is practicable, the hardness values should also match those
involved on that day. Laboratories shall have an adequate range of blocks to cover the range
of hardness and the forces normally encountered.
(4) Laboratories are encouraged to have an accredited metrology laboratory to carry out a limited
calibration on their blocks at the forces applied in the laboratory but which are not included in
their original calibration, but it is recognised that in practice there will be occasions when a
laboratory has to use a force for which the block has not been calibrated.
(5) For Vickers and Rockwell hardness tests, laboratories may use uncalibrated indenters,
provided those indenters have been checked by performance tests on hardness blocks with
assigned values and by inspection at a magnification of at least 50 times.
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APPENDIX B
EQUIPMENT FOR TESING OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
The following table sets out recommended maximum periods between successive calibrations
for a number of reference standards and measuring instruments used in electrical and
electronic testing.
Table 1 Reference Standards and Measuring Instruments
Recommended maximum period

Type of equipment
between successive calibrations
ATTENUATOR Three years (frequency response)
BRIDGE Five years (full calibration)

Check against laboratory standard annually
CAPACITOR Five years

Inter-instrument comparison annually
DIGITAL METER One year
INDUCTOR Five years

INSTRUMENTS, INDICATING Five years

AND RECORDING Inter-instrument comparison every six months, or more
frequently as required
INSTRUMENT and RATIO Ten years

TRANSFORMER
INSTRUMENT TRANSFORMER TEST Five years (full calibration)

SET
POTENTIOMETER Five years
RESISTOR Five years

RF POWER MEASURING EQUIPMENT Three years
staff is competent to perform such calibrations.
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Type of equipment
SIGNAL GENERATOR One year (frequency accuracy, output level and attenuator
ratio)
STANDARD CELL Two years

Inter-cell comparison at least six-monthly
TIME, TIME INTERVAL and Calibration intervals dependent on equipment frequency, type
FREQUENCY STANDARD and accuracy required. This may be as frequently as daily if
the highest possible performance is required.
TRANSFER STANDARD, AC-DC Eight years

Inter-instrument comparison immediately after calibration and
then every four years
VOLTAGE CALIBRATING Ten years

TRANSFORMER
VOLT RATIO BOXE Five years

WATTHOUR METER Two years

(ELECTRO-MECHANICAL) Inter-instrument comparison every three months
WATTMETERS AND WATTHOUR One year with regular inter-instrument comparisons - interval
METER (ELECTRONIC) is to be based on history of performance
Table 2 Equipment Used in Electrical Safety Tests
Type of equipment Recommended maximum period between successive calibrations

BALL PRESSURE TEST Initial verification of dimensions and weight *
APPARATUS Yearly inspection for damage and wear *
More frequent inspection is required if the test apparatus is frequently
used
ENVIRONMENTAL Five years, including temperature variations, recovery rate and rate of
CHAMBER ventilation*
FIXTURES AND DIMENSION Initial verification of compliance with specifications*

GAUGE Yearly inspection for damage and wear*
Fixtures and gauges having moving parts should be inspected more
frequently
Precision gauges subject to wear should be calibrated three-yearly
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FORCE AND TORQUE Yearly complete calibration*

GAUGE Six-monthly repeatability check*
GLOW-WIRE TEST Initial check and periodic verification for dimensional compliance for the
APPARATUS glow-wire*
Three-monthly verification of the force applied to test samples*
Calibration of the temperature measurement thermocouples should be
carried out in accordance with Appendix A
LEAKAGE CURRENT One year*

MEASURING NETWORK The input impedance and the frequency response accuracy should be
checked
SPRING OPERATED Initial verification of compliance with specification, including impact

IMPACT HAMMER energy and hardness of the impact head
Yearly calibration of impact energy
Six-monthly inspection for wearing of impact head*
SURGE GENERATOR One year*
TEMPERATURE RECORDER Five-yearly complete calibration

Inter-instrument comparison every six months*
Recorders having a higher resolution have to be calibrated more
frequently.
(This is applicable only when the temperature measurement sensors and
the recorder are calibrated separately. Temperature sensors, including
thermocouples, should be calibrated in accordance with Appendix A.
When the sensors and recorders are calibrated together as an integral
instrument, the calibration requirements for electronic thermometer in
Appendix A should be followed.)
TEST FINGER Three-yearly complete calibration for dimensional compliance

Six-monthly inspection for damage and wear*
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Table 3 Equipment Used in EMC Tests

ANECHOIC CHAMBER One year*
ANTENNA Two years

More frequent calibration may be required for antennae used outdoors or
subject to rough handling
ABSORBING CLAMP One year
ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD One year

PROBE
ELECTROMAGNETIC One year

INTERFERENCE (EMI)
RECEIVER
ELECTROSTATIC Yearly calibration for electrical characteristics
DISCHARGE (ESD) GUN For the discharge electrodes, initial verification for dimensional
compliance and six-monthly inspection for damage and wear*
FAST TRANSIENT BURST One year *

GENERATOR
LINE IMPEDANCE One year*

STABILIZATION NETWORK
(LISN)
OPEN AREA TEST SITE Six months*
SPECTRUM ANALYSER One year
VOLTAGE DIP GENERATOR One year*
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APPENDIX C
EQUIPMENT RELATED TO DIMENSIONAL METROLOGY
The following table sets out the maximum recommended period between initial calibration
and the first recalibration, and the maximum period between subsequent recalibrations
provided that the first two calibrations indicate that the item is stable. The calibration
interval for each specific item will be examined during the assessments of the laboratory.
Factors such as general condition and frequency of use shall be taken into account.
Maximum period between Maximum period between

Item initial calibration and the subsequent calibrations
first recalibration (years) (years)
ANGLE GAUGES
(a) reference 4 8
(b) working 2 4
DIVIDING HEADS 5 8
GAUGE BLOCKS
(a) reference 4 8
(b) working 2 4
HEIGHT SETTING MICROMETERS AND 3 3

RISER BLOCKS
LENGTH BARS
(a) reference 4 8
(b) working 2 4
LEVELS (precision) 4 4
LINEAR (precision) 5 10
OPTICAL FLATS 3 6
OPTICAL PARALLELS 3 6
PRECISION POLYGONS 5 10
ROLLERS AND BALLS 4 8
ROUNDNESS STANDARDS 5 10
ROUGHNESS STANDARDS 4 4
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Maximum period between Maximum period between

Item initial calibration and the subsequent calibrations
first recalibration (years) (years)
SCREW CHECK PLUGS FOR RING 3 6
GAUGES
SCREW PITCH REFERENCE STANDARDS 3 6
SETTING CYLINDERS 3 6
SETTING RINGS 3 6
SQUARES
— try squares 2 5
— block squares 4 8
SURFACE PLATES
— cast iron 3 5
— granite 4 8
THREAD MEASUREMENT CYLINDERS 4 6
THREAD MEASUREMENT VEE PIECES 2 5
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APPENDIX D
ANALYTICAL INSTRUMENTS FOR CHEMICAL TESTING
1. Introduction
1.1 Analytical instruments used in chemical testing are frequently calibrated by comparative
techniques, that is, the response signals of the instrument are related to the
concentrations or amounts of the analyte through the use of reference materials. Many
types of analytical instruments require calibration before use and calibration thus forms
an integral part of the analytical procedures.
1.2 Correct use combined with proper calibration may not necessarily ensure an instrument
is performing adequately. Where appropriate, periodic checks on the performance
characteristics should be carried out. These instrument performance characteristics
include, for example, response, stability and linearity of sources, sensors and detectors,
the separation efficiency of chromatographic systems, the alignment and wavelength
accuracy of spectrometers, etc. The purpose of these checks is to verify the performance
of the instruments against the specified requirements of the tests for which the
instruments are being used.
1.3 This Appendix sets out specific calibration and performance checks requirements for
analytical instruments used for chemical testing. Laboratories should refer to Sections
5.5 and 5.6 of HOKLAS 003 and other sections of this supplementary criteria for
general requirements on calibration of equipment. Equipment in common with other
testing fields are listed in Appendix A.
1.4 The laboratory should document and implement a calibration and/or performance checks
programme appropriate to the circumstances involved. The performance characteristics
to be checked as well as the acceptance criteria for and frequency of checks should be
based on the requirements of the tests concerned taking into consideration the
recommendations given in Table 1 and factors given in clause 3.1 of this appendix. It is
the responsibility of the laboratory to demonstrate that the programme is suitable for the
circumstances involved.
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1.5 Since standard practice for operation of analytical instruments are generally unavailable
or highly specific to a particular application, the laboratory shall document its practice
for use of analytical instruments. This should include, as appropriate, a description of the
operation of the instrument, procedures and acceptance criteria for calibration and
performance checks, frequency of use and nature of quality control samples, and
maintenance procedures.
1.6 Calibration and performance checks can normally be conducted by the staff of a
laboratory. The laboratory should, however, ensure that sufficient reference materials
and required equipment are available, and the persons involved should possess the
required skills, experience and training.
1.7 The laboratory shall ensure that all calibration and/or verification of analytical
instruments are traceable to national or international standards of measurement or to
reference materials produced by competent producers (see HOKLAS Supplementary
Criteria No. 1).
2. Calibration
2.1 Normally, either the manufacturers of the instruments and/or the test standards
themselves specify the calibration procedures and requirements. These instructions
should be followed, if available. In some cases, check samples are used during analyses
to confirm the validity of the calibration. Re-calibration of instruments should be carried
out when such checking procedure indicates that previous calibrations are no longer
valid. Further requirements on calibration for chemical testing are given in respective
HOKLAS supplementary criteria.
2.2 Acceptance criteria for calibration and criteria for re-calibration should be based on the
test standards, if available, or determined by the requirements of the tests concerned.
These criteria shall be documented and strictly adhered to.
2.3 Acceptance criteria for calibration should include a criterion for the acceptability of the
calibration function and, when applicable, a criterion for the performance of instruments.
An example of the former criterion is correlation coefficient of a linear calibration graph
whilst the latter may include, for example, the slope of the calibration graph or the
magnitude of the detector response at a specific level of analyte. The latter instrument
performance check (IPC) during calibration should not be confused with that described
in Clause 3 below. This IPC should be regarded as a routine start-up check on the
usability of instruments as distinguished from the verification of equipment against
requirements of tests.
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3. Performance check
3.1 It is inappropriate to specify a rigid frequency for performance checks since the
frequency depends on a number of factors including :-
- type of equipment;
- manufacturer’s recommendation;
- trend data obtained from previous performance checks records;
- recorded history of maintenance and servicing;
- extent and severity of use;
- tendency to wear and drift;
- frequency of cross-checking against other reference standards;
- environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, vibration, etc.);
- accuracy and permissible limits of errors.
3.2 Acceptance criteria for performance checks should be based on the requirements of test
standards, if available, taking into consideration recommendations given by the
manufacturers of the instruments. Test standards may sometimes explicitly state the
acceptance criteria for various performance characteristics but, frequently, such
acceptance criteria have to be derived from the requirements of test standards. For
instance, the detection limits of an instrument may have to be derived from the
specification limits of the standards.
3.3 Instruments shall be taken out of service when results of performance checks fall outside
the acceptance criteria. Suitable corrective measures and servicing should be taken when
results of performance checks indicate that there is a system degeneration. An
instrument should not be put back into service unless subsequent checks indicate that its
performance fulfils the acceptance criteria.
3.4 The performance characteristics to be checked depends on the type of the instrument.
Table 1 lists those performance characteristics of common analytical instruments that
require to be checked.
4. Calibration and Performance Check Frequency
4.1 Table 1 sets out the normal frequencies for calibrations and performance checks of
common analytical instruments. The frequencies, when given, are recommended
maximum periods. They serve as a starting point for initial selection of
re-calibration/performance checks intervals.
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4.2 Intervals of calibration/performance checks should be reviewed regularly and

adjustments of these intervals may be made based on experience. However, any revision
of frequency shall be justified (e.g. changes of usage, environment, required accuracy,
etc.). The guidelines given in ILAC-G24 / OIML D 10 for the determination of
recalibration period should be followed.
4.3 Test standards may sometimes specify a shorter calibration/performance check intervals
than that listed in Table 1, in such cases, the frequency recommended by the test
standards shall be followed. In addition, if major mechanical or electronic maintenance
is carried out, appropriate checks should be conducted when the instrument is
re-commissioned.
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Table 1 Calibration and Performance Checks Requirements

for Analytical Instruments
Calibration procedure or guidance

Recommended period between
Type of equipment documents and equipment
successive calibrations
requirements
BOMB CALORIMETERS 6 months or after any significant Determine the effective heat capacity
part of the system has been changed using certified benzoic acid. Refer
to ISO 1928.
CONDUCTIVITY METERS 6 months Determine cell constant using

potassium chloride standard
solutions appropriate to each desired
measuring range. Refer to
ISO 7888, OIML R 56 &
OIML R 68.
DISSOLVED OXYGEN Calibrate at saturation on each day Calibrate the zero and at saturation.
METERS of use and after relevant change of
ambient conditions.
Calibrate the zero if necessary.
Check linearity if there is a problem Check linearity. Refer to ISO 5814

with the instrument. and manufacturer’s instructions.
pH METERS Calibrate on use Calibrate the instrument with two

standard buffers on use, appropriate
to the anticipated pH of the sample
being measured. Refer to ISO
10523 and manufacturer’s
instructions.
TURBIDIMETERS Calibrate on use Calibrate the apparatus using

formazine standard solutions. At
least five points with each measuring
range should be used for plotting the
calibration graph. Refer to ISO 7027
or APHA 2130 B and manufacturer’s
instructions
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requirements
CHROMATOGRAPHS Calibrate on use.
Check performance yearly (a) Gas chromatographs – check the

following, as appropriate:
i. Overall system checks,
precision of repeat sample
injections, carry-over;
ii. Column performance
(capacity, resolution,
retention);
iii. Detector performance
(detection limit and
linearity);
iv. System heating/
thermostatting (accuracy,
precision, stability, ramping
characteristics);
v. Autosampler (accuracy and
precision of time routines).
Refer to OIML R 82,
OIML R 83 & OIML R 113
(b) Liquid chromatographs – check

the following, as appropriate :
i. Overall system performance;
ii. Detector sensitivity;
iii Mobile phase delivery system
(precision, accuracy,
pulse-free)
Refer to OIML R 112.
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requirements
SPECTROMETERS AND Calibrate on use.
SPECTROPHOTOMETER
Check performance yearly (a) UV/Visible - Check wavelength
accuracy, stray radiation,
absorbance accuracy and zero
absorbance line flatness. Refer
to AS 3753.
(b) Infra-red - Check wavenumber

accuracy, wavenumber
reproducibility and beam
balance. Refer to ASTM E932.
(c) Atomic Absorption - Check

precision, sensitivity and
detection limit of metals of
interest. Refer to OIML R 100.
(d) Atomic Emission using

arc/spark discharge - Check
precision and background
equivalent concentration. Refer
to AS 2883.
(e) Inductively Coupled Plasma

Atomic Emission - Check
repeatability, background
equivalent concentration and
detection limit. Refer to
AS 3641.2 or OIML R 116.
(f) X- Ray Fluorescence - Check

precision, counter resolution,
dead time. Refer to
AS 2563 or OIML R 123
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Annex I
(Informative)
Bibliography
Part 1 General Principles of Equipment Calibration
Laboratory staff responsible for equipment calibration and verification are strongly advised to
consult the following references.
1. CITAC/EURACHEM Guide [Edition 2002] - Guide to Quality in Analytical Chemistry.

An Aid to Accreditation
2. ISO10012 Measurement management systems - requirements for measurement process

and measuring equipment
3. ISOGuide 33 Reference materials – Good practice in using reference materials
5. ISO/TR 13530 Water quality - Guide on analytical quality control for chemical and
physicochemical water analysis
6. Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (JCGM 100:2008)

(http://www.bipm.org/utils/common/documents/jcgm/JCGM_100_2008_E.pdf)
Part 2 Recommended Practices for Specific Equipment
The following references contain description of the operation, calibration and/or performance
check procedures. Operation staff of laboratories are strongly advised to familiarize
themselves with these references.
A. UV/Visible Spectrophotometers
1. AS3753 Recommended practice for chemical analysis by ultraviolet/visible

spectrophotometry
2. ASTME131 Standard terminology relating to molecular spectroscopy
3. ASTME169 Standard practices for general techniques of ultraviolet visible quantitative

analysis
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4. ASTME275 Standard practice for describing and measuring performance of ultraviolet,

visible and near-infrared spectrophotometers
5. ASTME925 Standard practice for monitoring the calibration of ultraviolet-visible

spectrophotometer whose spectral bandwidth does not exceed 2 nm
6. ASTME958 Standard practice for estimation of the spectral bandwidth of

ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometers
B. Infra-red Spectrometers
1. ASTME932 Standard practice for describing and measuring performance of dispersive

infrared spectrometers
C. Atomic Absorption Spectrometers
1. AS2134 Recommended practice for chemical analysis by atomic absorption

spectrometry: AS2134.1 Flame atomic absorption spectrometry, AS2134.2 Graphite
furnace spectrometry and AS2134.3 Vapour generation AAS
2. AS3550.6 Determination of filtrable calcium - Flame atomic absorption spectrometric

method
3. ASTME1184 Standard practice for determination of elements by graphite furnace

atomic absorption analysis
4. APHA3111 Metals by flame atomic absorption spectrometry
5. APHA3112 Metals by cold-vapour atomic absorption spectrometry
6. APHA3113 Metals by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry
7. APHA3114 Arsenic and selenium by hydride generation/atomic absorption

spectrometry
D. Atomic Emission and X-Ray Fluorescence
1. AS1502 Glossary of terms used in X-ray spectroscopy
2. AS2563 Wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometers - determination of

precision
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3. AS2883 Analysis of metals - Procedures for the setting up, calibration and
standardization of atomic emission spectrometers using arc/spark discharge
4. AS3641.1 Recommended practice for atomic emission spectrometric analysis Part 1

Principles and techniques
5. ASTME135 Standard terminology relating to analytical chemistry for metals, ores and
related materials
6. ASTMD305 Standard practice for establishing and controlling atomic emission

spectrochemical analytical curves
8. ASTME826 Standard practice for testing homogeneity of a metal lot or batch in solid
form by spark atomic emission spectrometry
E Inductively Coupled Plasma
1. AS3641.2 Recommended practice for atomic emission spectrometric analysis Part 2

Inductively coupled plasma excitation
2. APHA3120 Metals by plasma emission spectroscopy using inductively coupled plasma

source
F. Gas and liquid chromatographs
1. AS3741 Recommended practice for chemical analysis by ion-chromatography
2. ASTMD1945 Standard test method for analysis of natural gas by gas chromatography
3. ASTMD4626 Standard practice for calculation of GC response factors
4. ASTME260 Standard practice for packed column chromatography
5. ASTME355 Standard practice for gas chromatography terms and relationships
6. ASTME516 Standard practice for testing thermal conductivity detectors used in gas
chromatography
7. ASTME594 Standard practice for testing flame ionization detectors used in gas or super
critical fluid chromatography
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8. ASTME682 Standard practice for liquid chromatography terms and relationships
9. ASTME685 Standard practice for testing fixed wavelength photometric detectors used
in liquid chromatography
10. ASTME697 Standard practice for use of electron capture detectors in gas
chromatography
11. ASTME840 Standard practice for using flame photometric detectors in gas
chromatography
12. ASTME958 Standard practice for estimation of the spectral bandwidth of

ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometers
13. ASTME1151 Standard practice for ion chromatography terms and relationships
G. Temperature Chambers
1. HKAS IN003 Guidance on calibration and performance verification of temperature

chambers
2. IEC 60068-3-5 Environmental testing: Supporting documentation and - confirmation of

the performance of temperature chambers
3. Guideline DKD-R 5-7 “Calibration of Climatic Chambers”
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APPENDIX E
EQUIPMENT FOR CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS TESTING
This appendix lists the items of equipment and their calibration requirements within the
Construction Materials Test Category in the test areas covering aggregates, bituminous
materials, concrete and steel. Specific calibration requirements for other test areas are
included in respective Supplementary Criteria listed as follows:
Supplementary Criteria No. 15 Non-destructive tests for welding of steel and metal
Supplementary Criteria No. 16 Foundation tests
Supplementary Criteria No. 17 Building components and related tests
Supplementary Criteria No. 18 Soil and rock testing
Supplementary Criteria No. 19 Diagnostic tests on concrete
For construction materials testing equipment, the criteria in this appendix should be read first
over any other appendices in this supplementary criteria. Where conflicting criteria exist,
the requirements of this appendix shall take precedence. The calibration periods listed here
are the maximum acceptable, and shorter time periods may be required due to frequency of
use and storage conditions.
Environment
General policy on environment is covered under section 5.3 of HOKLAS 003.
In addition to the comments therein it is possible for an accreditation to be granted for tests
conducted under more than one set of environmental conditions provided that these are :
 In accordance with the standard concerned and
 The test report indicates clearly which criteria have been adopted.
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Equipment
Criteria are contained elsewhere in this Supplementary Criteria in respect of other items
under different Test Categories. Several of the construction materials standards do however
contain details of items of equipment peculiar to the test method concerned. Calibration and
maintenance of these items should generally satisfy one of the following:-
 Where the standard concerned gives a calibration procedure, this procedure shall be
followed and the maximum period between successive calibrations shall be that
specified in the standard.
 Where no calibration procedure is given in the standard but tolerances on

dimensions or mass are provided, a check against the specified values shall be
made and recorded at least once every 12 months unless a calibration interval is
given in the standard.
 Equipment for which no detailed criteria or tolerances are given should be regularly
inspected.
Solutions
There are many instances where solutions are required in connection with both the physical
and chemical testing of materials.
It is not practical to give detailed guidance on the storage and shelf life of these but
laboratories involved should either;
 Make up fresh solutions as and when required, where the standard concerned gives
a calibration procedure but without a calibration interval, the calibration interval
shall be 6 months, or
 Initiate a programme for ascertaining the shelf life of the solutions concerned.
In the case of distillation and/or de-ionizing of water, the equipment concerned should be
checked for satisfactory performance at least once every 6 months.
Reference Materials
Reference materials called up in standards shall be obtained from the sources stated in the
standard and stored in the prescribed manner. Specific HOKLAS policy on reference
materials is covered under clause 5.6.H of HOKLAS 003.
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Specific HOKLAS Calibration Criteria
The following table sets out the maximum periods between successive calibrations for
equipment to be used in connection with testing of aggregates, bituminous materials, concrete,
steel, and soils within the Construction Materials Test Category. Specific HOKLAS policy
for calibration is covered under section 5.6 and 5.6.H of HOKLAS 003.
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Calibration procedure or
Type of equipment guidance documents and equipment
requirements
BALANCE
(Reference) 2 years By a ‘competent calibration body’ as
defined in clause 2.1 of this document
6 months* Repeatability check using reference
masses of higher grades.
1 month* One-point check using reference masses

to balance capacity
BALANCE (a) 3 years or immediately Calibrate using reference masses in

(Working) following servicing accordance with the national standard
method or other equivalent standards.
(b) 6 months* Repeatability check using reference

masses in accordance with a standard
method. Adjust the balance and carry
out a full calibration if the required
testing accuracy is exceeded.
(c) Each day of use* One-point check using a known mass at

or close to a frequently encountered
value or the balance capacity for a
specified range.
(d) Each weighing* Zero check after tare.
CALLIPERS
(Vernier or digital readout)
(Accuracy equal to and better 2 years By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

than 0.01mm) defined in clause 2.1 of this document
(Accuracy between 1 mm and 1 year* Calibrate using reference gauge blocks

0.01mm) or callipers checker. A sufficient
number of readings shall be taken
covering the expected working range.
(Accuracy not better than 1mm) Initial only Callipers from reputable manufacturers
may be used.
Callipers of any accuracies Before each use* Zero check.
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requirements
DIAL GAUGE
(Accuracy equal to and better 1 year By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

(Accuracy not better than 1 year Calibrate using reference gauge blocks
0.01mm) or a micrometer type calibrator for
compliance with BS 907 or AS 2103.
LINEAR DISPLACEMENT
MEASURING DEVICE
(LVDT, digimatic gauge, Demec
gauge or any other transducer
types)
(Accuracy equal to and better 1 year By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

Before each use* One-point check using gauge block.
(Accuracy not better than 1 year Calibrate the measuring device together
0.01mm) with the same readout unit as is used for
test using reference gauge blocks or a
micrometer type calibrator. The
readout unit can be an electrical display
unit, digital display unit or data logging
system.
Before each use* One-point check using gauge block.
MASS 1 year* Calibrate using a calibrated reference

(Working-hanger weights) balance
MICROMETER

(Accuracy not better than 1 year* Calibrate using reference gauge blocks.
0.01mm) A sufficient number of readings shall be
taken covering the expected working
range.
Micrometer of any accuracies Before each use* Zero Check.
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requirements
OVEN (a) 3 years or immediately Check temperature variation in working
following servicing or each space using different calibrated
change in temperature setting* thermocouples at the same time [refer to
HKAS IN003] and also check
evaporation rate for compliance with the
requirements of AS 2853 and AS 1289.0
or other relevant standard methods.
(b) 6 months* Check temperature at centre of usable

oven space inside an empty oven using a
calibrated thermocouple. Ten readings
shall be taken at 3-minute intervals with
the oven set at the working temperature
range.
PRESSURE GAUGE
CALIBRATOR
(Reference standard)
Dead weight tester 5 years By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

Manometer 5 years By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

PRESSURE GAUGE 2 years By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

(Reference) defined in clause 2.1 of this document
(Electrical transducer type)
PRESSURE GAUGE
(Working gauge)
Bourdon tube or hydraulic 1 year By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

type defined in clause 2.1 of this document
Transducers types 1 year By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

RULE 2 years* Check against reference length standard

with a higher accuracy. Check at a
minimum of 5 points over the entire
length.
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 45 of 60
requirements
SIEVE
(Reference woven wire cloth Initial only Sieves with recognized manufacturer’s
sieves, for performance checking certificates which certify conformance
of test sieves) with ISO 3310-1 shall be used.
Reference sieves shall be downgraded to
test sieves after 30 passes.
(Perforated plate test sieves – 300 passes but not exceeding 6 Check aperture and bridge width using
apertures larger than or equal to months* calibrated callipers, optical projection, or
4mm) other appropriate devices in accordance
with ISO 3310-2.
(Woven wire cloth test sieves – 300 passes but not exceeding 6 Check aperture using optical projection
apertures less than 4mm) months* or other appropriate equipment in
accordance with ISO 3310-1.
Alternatively, check performance of
apertures using certified reference
samples or performance check samples
with reference sieves in accordance with
BS 812-100 or BS 1377-1. Sieves with
manufacturer’s certificates which certify
conformance with ISO 3310-1 may be
used directly without initial checking.
THERMOCOUPLE 3 years By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

(for checking ovens) defined in clause 2.1 of this document
6 months* One-point check, at ice point or some

other appropriate temperature.
THERMOMETER -
(Mercury-in-glass)

than 0.5°C) defined in clause 2.1 of this document

(Accuracy not better than 0.5°C) 5 years* Calibrate over the expected working
range using a calibrated thermometer
and suitable calibration bath.
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 46 of 60
requirements
THERMOMETER –
(Electronic, digital and platinum 3 years By a ‘competent calibration body’ as
resistance) defined in clause 2.1 of this document

TIME MEASURING DEVICE
(a) Accuracy equal to or better 1 year* Calibrate against reference time standard
than 0.5 second in accordance with relevant calibration
standard.
(b) Accuracy not better than 0.5 3 months* Check against time given by radio time
second (RTHK) signal for at least half an hour.
VACUUM GAUGE
(a) Mechanical or hydraulic 2 years By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

(b) Transducer 1 year defined in clause 2.1 of this document
VOLUMETRIC Initial only* Check by weighing the amount of

GLASSWARE distilled water that the vessel contains or
(burettes, pipettes, volumetric delivers at a measured temperature,
flasks including measuring applying any temperature corrections
cylinders) necessary using the Tables in BS1797.
The mass of water shall be determined to
within 0.01%. The checking shall be
repeated a sufficient number of times to
obtain the average volume. Where a
vessel is to be used at a particular
graduation mark only, checking may be
limited to that mark but the vessel must
be labelled to indicate clearly the limited
checking.
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 47 of 60
AGGREGATES
ABRASION MACHINE 1 year* Check dimensions of moulds, trays and

plates; speed of rotation of machine and
mass of weights in accordance with
BS 812-113 or other relevant standard
methods.
ACCELERATED 1 year* Check rate of flow of flowmeter,

POLISHING MACHINE rotational speed of rad wheel, planes of
rotation of tyred and road wheels, free
force of rubber wheels, and rubber tyred
and road wheel dimensions in
accordance with BS 812-114 or other
relevant standard methods.
ELONGATION GAUGE 1 year* Check with a calibrated calliper or

micrometer
FRICTION TESTER 1 year* Check dimensions and mass of rubber

slider in accordance with requirements
in BS 812-114 or other relevant standard
methods.
Before each use* Check specimen contact angle of rubber

slider and verticality of column in
accordance with requirements in BS
812-114 or other relevant standard
methods.
OPEN-ENDED STEEL Initial* Check surface hardness values of

CYLINDER cylinder, plunger and base plate in
(for determination ten per cent compliance with requirements in BS
fines value) 812-111, CS3 or other relevant standard
methods.
1 year* Check dimensions of cylinder, plunger

and base plate in compliance with
requirements in BS 812-111, CS3 or
other relevant standard methods.
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 48 of 60
IMPACT TESTING DEVICE 1 year* Check dimensions of cylindrical steel

cup and metal hammer, mass of circular
metal base and metal hammer, and fall
of hammer in compliance with
requirements in BS 812-112, CS3 or
other relevant standard methods.
STEEL SPHERES 1 year* Check dimension and weights in

(FOR DETERMINATION OF compliance with requirements in BS
LOA ANGELES VALUE) 812-105.1, CS3 or other relevant
standard methods.
THICKNESS GAUGE 1 year* Check with a calibrated calliper or

(for determination of flakiness micrometer.
index)
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 49 of 60
BITUMINOUS MATERIALS
CENTRIFUGE
(for extraction of binder) 1 year* Check the operating speeds using a
calibrated tachometer
TACHOMETER 5 years By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

MARSHALL TESTING
MACHINE
(a) Stability – load 6 months By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

measurement defined in clause 2.1 of this document
and in accordance with requirements in
BS 1610 or BS EN 10002 or other
equivalent standards
(b) Flow – displacement 1 year* Refer to previous section on dial gauge

measurement or linear displacement measuring device
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 50 of 60
CONCRETE AND ITS CONSTITUENT MATERIALS
CEMENT FINENESS
TESTING APARATUS
(a) Lea & Nurse 1 year* By use of ‘certified reference material’

as defined in clause 5.6.H of HOKLAS
003
(b) Rigden or Blaine 3 months* By use of ‘certified reference material’

as defined in clause 5.6.H of HOKLAS
003
CHLORIDE ION
PENETRATION TESTER
(a) Voltage measuring device 1 year By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

relevant standards
(b) Current measuring device 1 year By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

relevant standards
(c) Reagent NaCl and NaOH Freshly made* Reagents to be at least of analytical
grade
COMPACTING FACTOR 1 year* Check compliance with requirements in

APPARATUS accordance with CS1or other equivalent
standards
COMPRESSION TESTING
MACHINE
(a) Load rate 1 month* By use of a calibrated timing device

against criteria for tests in accordance
with CS1 or other equivalent standards
(b) Load verification 6 months or after relocation of the By a ‘competent calibration body’ as
machine (Note: An additional check defined in clause 2.1 of this document
at 3 months shall be performed if and in accordance with requirements in
the two previous checks have BS 1610, BS EN 10002, BS EN 12390-4
indicated a change of machine or other equivalent standards
grading)
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 51 of 60
COMPRESSION TESTING
MACHINE
(Cont’d)
(c) Machine plattens auxiliary

plattens and spacer blocks
(i) Surface condition 1 month* Visual inspection check for signs of

wear and damage.
(ii) Flatness, parallelism 1 year* Check compliance with requirements in

accordance with CS1or other equivalent
standards.
(d) Performance 6 months or after relocation of the By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

machine defined in clause 2.1 of this document
BS 1881, CS1 or other equivalent
standards
(e) Strain cylinders 2 years By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

(for checking the defined in clause 2.1 of this document
performance of the machine) and in accordance with requirements in
NIS 0409, BC415 or other equivalent
standards
(f) Proving devices 2 years By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

(for calibration of force defined in clause 2.1 of this document
testing machines) and in accordance with requirements in
BS 1610, BS EN 10002-3, BS EN ISO
7500 or other equivalent standards.
CREEP TESTING
APPARATUS
(Load verification with a Before each test if last calibration By a ‘competent calibration body’ as
servo-controlled system) exceeds one year defined in clause 2.1 of this document
CURING TANK
(CUBE OR OTHER SAMPLE) 6 months* Check the efficiency of circulation and
temperature distribution at 60%
capacity, with different reference
thermometers at minimum 9 points at the
same time.
Each day of use * Check the max/min temperature.
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 52 of 60
CUBE MOULD
Dimensions, flatness, squareness 6 months* Check compliance with requirements in

and parallelism accordance with CS1 or other equivalent
standards
CYLINDER (Reference-check 5 years By a ‘competent calibration body’ as
the cylindricity of concrete defined in clause 2.1 of this document or
core) by means of appropriate calibrated
reference devices
FLOW CONE 1 year* Check apparatus in accordance with

ASTM C939 Clause 8 using a calibrated
time measuring device
FLOW TABLE 1 year* Check apparatus in accordance with

requirements in BS1881-105 clause 3.1
MIST CURING ROOM 6 months* Check temperature using different

calibrated reference thermometers at a
minimum of 9 points at the same time or
check maximum temperature fluctuation
using a calibrated reference thermometer
at minimum of 9 points, and check
humidity distribution to ensure no dry
surfaces. Compare the effectiveness
with equivalent tank cured specimens.
Each day of use* Check the max/min temperature

Check wetness of surfaces
PFA FINENESS TESTING 6 months* By use of ‘certified reference materials’

APARATUS as defined in clause 5.6.H of HOKLAS
(check aperture size of standard 003
sieve)
SLUMP
(a) Cone 1 year* Check compliance with requirements in

accordance with CS1 or other equivalent
standards
1 week* Check ovality of base and top in

accordance with requirements in
CS1 or other equivalent standards
(b) Rod 1 year* Check compliance with requirements in

accordance with CS1 or other equivalent
standards
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 53 of 60
STEEL
ANCHOR BOLT PULL OUT

AND PROOF LOAD TESTER
Load verification or force 1 year By a ‘competent calibration body’ as
transducer defined in clause 2.1 of this document
and in accordance with requirements in a
relevant standard
BENDING TESTING
MACHINE

with CS1 or other equivalent standards
(b) Formers 1 month* Visual inspection for wear
EPOXY COATED BAR
(a) Coating thickness gauge 1 year* By use of a reference device with known
thickness in accordance with relevant
standards
(b) Holiday detector 1 year* By use of a reference device with some

known properties in accordance with
relevant standards
EXTENSOMETER
(for rebars and structural steel) 1 year By a ‘competent calibration body’ as
BS 3846:1970, BS EN ISO 9513 or
other equivalent standards
EXTENSOMETER
(for coupler and strand)
(a) Mechanical type 1 year By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

relevant standards
(b) Optical and transducer types 1 year By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

relevant standards
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 54 of 60
HARDNESS TESTER Refer to Appendix A
IMPACT TESTER
Charpy V or U notch 1 year By a ‘competent calibration body’ as

machine defined in clause 2.1 of this document
relevant standards.
TENSILE TESTING
MACHINE

with BS 18 or other equivalent
standards.
(b) Load verification 6 months or after relocation of the By a ‘competent calibration body’ as
machine (Note: An additional check defined in clause 2.1 of this document
at 3 months shall be performed if and in accordance with requirements in
two previous checks have indicated relevant standards
a change of machine grading.) .
(c) Specimen gauging Spot check* Spot check on prepared samples.

equipment
TORQUE WRENCH
(For checking of power-operated 1 year By a ‘competent calibration body’ as
and hand-operated friction bolts) defined in clause 2.1 of this document
relevant standards
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 55 of 60
APPENDIX F
EQUIPMENT FOR PHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL TESTING OF TOYS AND

OTHER CONSUMER PRODUCTS
The recommended calibration requirements for equipment used in toy testing are detailed
below.
Recommended period between Calibration procedure

Type of equipment
successive calibrations and requirements
FORCE AND TORQUE

MEASURING EQUIPMENT
USED FOR TOY TESTING
SUCH AS PUSH PULL GAUGE,
TORQUE GAUGE AND
TENSION GAUGE
(a) Portable spring type with dial One year (complete)* Check the dial gauge mechanism for
gauge Six months* repeatability of zero with fast and
(repeatability of zero) slow movement in tension and
compression, or clockwise and
(b) Non-portable spring type with Two years* (complete) anticlockwise directions where
dial gauge Six months* appropriate
(repeatability of zero)
FIXTURES
including accessibility probes, Initial calibration for dimensional
small parts cylinder, bite test compliance *
clamp, rattle test fixture, flexure
tester, compression test disc, tyre Yearly inspection for damage and
removal metal hooks, metal wear *
cylinders, straight rods, pins, steps
construction for tumble tests, etc.
IMPACT MEDIUM FOR DROP Initial calibration for hardness of

TEST medium *
Yearly inspection for damage and

wear *
PROJECTILE VELOCITY Two years * Calibrate the distance between the

TESTER starting and stopping sensor and the
accuracy of the timer. Verify the
software for calculating the velocity
from the distance and time readings.
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 56 of 60
Recommended period between Calibration procedure

Type of equipment
successive calibrations and requirements
SHARP EDGE TESTER Initial calibration* Calibrate in accordance with the

(complete) requirements of relevant toy testing
standards, such as those for mandrel
One month* diameter, rotation speed, surface
(force calibration) hardness, surface roughness and
Six months * force. Mandrel force calibration
(inspection of mandrel condition) may be performed using a calibrated
dead weight.
SHARP POINT TESTER Initial calibration * Calibrate in accordance with the

Six months * requirements of relevant toy testing
(inspect the end cap for wear) standards, such as those for
dimensions of gauging slot, thickness
of end cap, micrometer graduation
and force of spring.
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 57 of 60
APPENDIX G
EQUIPMENT FOR MEDICAL AND BIOLOGICAL TESTING
Laboratory shall have a documented and recorded programme of preventive maintenance and
calibration, which, at a minimum, follows the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Laboratory equipment calibration and check programs should cover:

 commissioning of new equipment (including initial calibration and checks after
installation);
 operational checking (checking during use with reference standards or reference
materials);
 periodic checking (interim but more extensive checking, possibly including partial
calibration);
 scheduled maintenance by in-house or specialist contractors;
 complete recalibration
The table in this Appendix sets out recommended maximum periods between successive
calibrations/performance checks for medical and biological testing equipment that are not
covered in Appendix A where general recommendations for equipment common to all Test
Categories such as temperature measuring devices, balances, weights, timers, autoclaves, gas
sterilizers, ovens, centrifuges, piston operated volumetric apparatus (micropipettes), etc, are
given.
It must be stressed that these periods are generally considered to be the maximum appropriate
in each case providing that the other criteria as specified below are met:
 that the equipment is of good quality and of proven adequate stability, and
 that the laboratory has both the equipment capability and staff expertise to
perform adequate internal checks, and
 that if any suspicion or indication of overloading or mishandling arises, the

equipment will be checked immediately and thereafter at fairly frequent intervals
until it can be shown that stability has not been impaired.
Where the above criteria cannot be met, appropriately shorter intervals may be specified.
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 58 of 60

requirements
AUTOMATED SYSTEM One year or as recommended by Follow manufacturer’s
(analyzer, flow cytometer, manufacturer, whichever is recommendation
automated system for blood culture, earlier.
tissue processor, blood gas analyzer,
etc.)
BIOLOGICAL SAFETY One year  Filter efficiency and integrity

CABINET / LAMINAR FLOW  air velocities, airflow rate
CABINET / FUME HOOD measurement
(include exhaust vented dissection  air velocity indicator and alarm
table) indicator check and recalibration,
if necessary
 airflow patterns
 UV efficiency (where applicable)
FRIDGE / FREEZER FOR Daily*  Alarm function test

BLOOD AND BLOOD  Continuous monitoring of
PRODUCTS# temperature variation during use;
maximum/minimum
thermometers should also be used
to ensure temperature stays
within range during use if
temperature recorder to allow
continuous monitoring is not
used.
Each month*  Alarm back-up battery check

(where applicable)
Every six months*  Alarm activation temperature

check (high and low)
 Power failure alarm testing
 One point temperature check
against a calibrated thermometer
One year*  2 point check of temperature

probe
 Temperature gradient within
loading space (refer to HKAS
IN003)
 Temperature recorder calibration
 Temperature alarm re-activation
check
MICROSCOPE One year or as recommended by Follow manufacturer’s

(light, fluorescent, electron) manufacturer recommendation
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 59 of 60

requirements
pH METER Calibrate on each use * Calibrate against two buffer solutions
at pH range of use
SPECTROPHOTOMETER One year or as recommended by Check wavelength accuracy,

(UV/visible) manufacturer, whichever is bandpass, absorbance, stray light
earlier. error, linearity of response,
repeatability and matching of cells
TEMPERATURE and/or Daily*  Continuous monitoring of

ATMOSPHERE CONTROLLED temperature variation during use;
EQUIPMENT maximum/minimum
(incubator, CO2 incubator, anaerobic thermometers should also be used
cabinet, fridge, freezer, temperature to ensure temperature stays within
controlled chamber for Biochemical range during use if temperature
Oxygen Chamber, etc. excluding recorder to allow continuous
equipment for blood and blood monitoring is not used.
products)  Atmospheric check for CO2, and
anaerobic cabinet
Every 6 months* One point temperature check against

calibrated reference thermometer
One year* Temperature gradient within loading

space [excluding furnace and
water/oil bath] (refer to HKAS
IN003) , calibration of atmospheric
meter (where appropriate)
THERMAL CYCLER One year or as recommended by  Temperature verification and

(PCR machine, Real time PCR manufacturer. optical signal (where applicable)
machine, etc) at all reaction wells
 Temperature and time calibration
UV-TRANSILLUMINATOR One year or as recommended by  UV-light source and filter

(gel documentation post PCR) manufacturer. verification
 UV-calibration by digital
radiometer
or
 Follow Manufacturer’s
recommendation (where
applicable)
WATER/OIL BATH During use* Continuous monitoring of

temperature variation during use
HOKLAS SC-02
Issue No. 8
Page 60 of 60

requirements
Every 6 months* One point temperature check against
calibrated reference thermometer at
point of use
One year* Temperature gradient within loading

space when the incubation
temperature is specified in the test
standard
#
Reference:
AS 3864.2 - 2012 Medical refrigeration equipment - For the storage of blood and blood
products Part 2: User-related requirements for care, maintenance, performance verification
and calibration.

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HOKLAS SC-02

Issue Date: 4 July 2016

Implementation Date: 4 October 2016

HOKLAS Supplementary Criteria No. 2

1.2 In accordance with HOKLAS criteria on measurement traceability for

Issue Date: 4 July 2016

Implementation Date: 4 October 2016

(a) the equipment is of good quality and of proven stability, and

(b) if any suspicion or indication of overloading or mishandling arises, the

2 Policy for Traceability in Calibration

Issue Date: 4 July 2016

Implementation Date: 4 October 2016

CIPM MRA can be viewed in Appendix C of the BIPM KCDB which

Issue Date: 4 July 2016

Implementation Date: 4 October 2016

3 Policy for Traceability in Testing

3.1 If the calibration of instruments used in testing contributes significantly to the

Issue Date: 4 July 2016

Implementation Date: 4 October 2016

5.1 Parameters of equipment to be calibrated

Where the values of parameters are specified in the relevant standard

5.2 Calibration procedures and intervals

Otherwise, the laboratory should determine appropriate calibration procedure and

5.3 Unspecified parameters

5.4 All equipment calibrations shall be recorded.

6 Verification of a Parameter without Specified Tolerance

Issue Date: 4 July 2016

Implementation Date: 4 October 2016

specification, the laboratory should determine whether the parameter is critical

stated parameter implied tolerance

7.1 Equipment should be calibrated by:-

Issue Date: 4 July 2016

Implementation Date: 4 October 2016

7.3 The quality of an in-house calibration shall be equivalent to that provided by a

7.5 External calibration shall be performed by a competent calibration body as

8 Calibration Programme and Operation of the Calibration System

8.1 Determination of the calibration programme

The calibration programme applicable to an individual laboratory should be

(a) Which items of equipment can be calibrated internally and the

(b) Which items of equipment need to be calibrated by a competent calibration

Issue Date: 4 July 2016

Implementation Date: 4 October 2016

For new test equipment, it is advisable to specify a shorter calibration interval.

For more information for determination of equipment recalibration intervals,

The calibration programme should be documented and reviewed regularly.

Issue Date: 4 July 2016

Implementation Date: 4 October 2016

(i) Reference Five years (check annually)

(ii) Working Two years

AUTOCLAVE Initial verification Temperature measurement at

Monthly check* Effectiveness of sterilisation

Each use* Effectiveness of sterilisation either

Each day of use* One-point check using a known

Issue Date: 4 July 2016

Implementation Date: 4 October 2016

BAROMETER (Fortin) Five years (i) Cleanness of mercury

BATH FOR CALIBRATION a. Initial complete temperature

b. Check temperature distribution at