Understanding Calibration and Traceability of Calibration Standards

Updated Jul 30, 2026

Issue Details

I have questions about the calibration process:

  • What is calibration?
  • Are the standards used during calibration traceable?

Solution

Calibration helps ensure that a device continues to perform within its published specifications and provides documented evidence of its measurement performance.

 

What Is Calibration?

 

Calibration is the process of comparing a device's measurements against known reference standards and, when applicable, making adjustments so that the device continues to meet its published specifications.

During calibration, the device's performance is evaluated across specified measurement points and the results are documented. The calibration certificate provides a record of the calibration results and confirms whether the device met the applicable specifications at the time of calibration. 

 

Are the Standards You Use Traceable?

 

Yes. The standards used during calibration are traceable.

The calibration certificate identifies the standards used to perform the calibration, including the associated serial numbers and tracking numbers. The certificate also documents the calibration date and calibration due date for each standard used during the calibration process.

This information provides traceability of the measurement standards used to calibrate your device and allows the calibration chain to be documented and audited as needed.

The image below shows where to find the standards used for calibration, including their serial numbers, tracking numbers, calibration dates, and due dates, on a calibration certificate.
 

Additional Information

Traceability is the ability to relate measurement results to recognized reference standards through a documented and unbroken chain of calibrations. Maintaining traceability helps ensure confidence in measurement results and supports quality and compliance requirements.