International Harmonization of Measurements

Abstract

The foundation of the metrology lies in the realization of SI units and a globally accepted uniform system of measurement. In this context, it is appropriate to review and describe the international and national measurement systems; various responsible international and Indian metrological organizations for scientific, legal and industrial metrology. In this Chapter, authors have attempted to describe the brief overview of international trade and related organizations, for example, WTO, ISO, etc.; national measurement system, its structure, responsible organizations like CSIR-NPL for scientific and industrial metrology, BARC for ionizing radiation, Legal Metrology Department, Govt. of India for legal metrology and BIS for documentary standards and product specifications. Once SI units are established, the next goal of the NMIs is to disseminate the SI units to users and client for barrierless international trade, scientific and engineering developments and academic activities. This is to supplement, strengthen and harmonize the national quality infrastructure as proposed in Chap. 1 in a new era of redefined SI units, described in Chap. 2. Accordingly this important aspect of dissemination of SI is also included highlighting National Policy on Metrological Traceability developed by CSIR-NPL; dissemination through calibration, testing and verification services; dissemination services by NMIs, NABL accredited laboratories, Legal Metrology Department, BIS and its authorized laboratories; BARC and its authorized laboratories; DRDO’s laboratories and other organization; dissemination through training and academic activities; proposed changes in metrology courses of engineering and NCERT books and finally conclusions and future perspectives. A new concept of ‘Metrology Cycle’ is introduced for the first time to accommodate and explain metrology in a cyclic single window.