Introduction to Metrology
The International Bureau of Weight and Measures defines Metrology as: The science of measurement, embracing both experimental and theoretical determinations at any level of uncertainty in any field of science and technology. Consumers, traders, government regulators and industries are benefited by Metrology and its implications.
Subfields of Metrology
There are three subfields of Metrology: Scientific, Legal and Industrial Metrology. Metrology is equally useful in the fields of practical science, technology, engineering and medicine.
Scientific metrology deals with the establishment of internationally accepted units of measurement (International System of Units or SI units), development of new measurement methods, realization of measurement standards, and transfer of these standards to users in a society. Its is also known as ‘fundamental metrology’.
Legal metrology deals with the assurance of correctness of measurements influencing the transparency of trade, law enforcement, and health & environment safety. Legal metrology ensures that measurements and measuring instruments comply with laws and regulations, and protects traders, consumers, public safety and the environment.
Industrial metrology deals with the application of measurement to manufacturing and other industrial and research processes and their use in society, ensuring the suitability of measurement instruments, their calibration and quality control and check.
Uses of Metrology
- Accelerates innovation, taking products to market faster, and allowing innovators to fail fast and learn fast
- Improves effectiveness of research and development and the trust in its outcomes
- Improves efficiency by reducing waste and increasing productivity
- Enables changes in fast mode, adding value to society
- Is crucial for the development and assessment of evidence-based policy.
