Six guiding principles for good measurement practice
There are six guiding principles, developed by NPL, that should be followed to achieve a good measurement result.
- Make the right measurement
Define and understand the measurement to be made. Routinely repeated measurements should follow a pilot study.
- Choose the right instruments
Appropriate instrument should be in good state of repair and calibrated. Use according to instructions of owner or manufacturer.
- The right people
Human error is a major source of poor measurement quality. An operator needs to receive instructions and training. Where a group of operators is involved, their individual roles and responsibilities need to be understood.
- Regular review
Follow a written schedule to check performance of instruments at regular intervals.
- Demonstrable consistency
A measurement result is only valid if it can be reproduced consistently. Local factors need to be taken into account. Important or difficult measurements should be compared with the same measurements by other laboratories, operators and results compared.
- The right measurement procedures
Follow appropriate written measurement procedures. This will include health and safety. Procedures need to be reviewed regularly.
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