Annex - Draft Concept for the Development of the National Metrology System of the Czech Republic
Annex - Draft Concept for the Development of the National Metrology System of the Czech Republic
CONTENTS
1. Introduction
2. Assessment of the current situation
2.1 Stakeholders, scope of competence
2.2 Metrology legislation
2.3 Consumer protection
2.4 Business support
2.5 International cooperation
2.6 Research and development in metrology
2.7 Material and technical basis of the metrological system
3. Measures to achieve the target state
3.1 Structure and definition of the tasks of the entities in the system
3.2 Metrology legislation
3.2.1 Directive 2004/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on measuring instruments
3.2.2 Pre-packaged goods
3.2.3 The forthcoming Metrology Act
3.2.4 Medical devices with measuring function
3.2.5 Addressing the issue of gauges in transport
3.2.6 Implementation of measures in the non-harmonised sphere
3.2.7 Conformity assessment of the type of measuring instruments
3.3 Consumer protection
3.3.1 Verification and security of SW measurement systems
3.3.2 Protecting the correctness of measuring instruments from being influenced by SW tools
3.3.3 Remote readings and data transmission
3.3.4 Bulk transport of products
3.3.5 Fuel quality
3.4 Support for metrology entrepreneurship
3.4.1 Technical basis for mutual recognition of measurement and test results
3.4.2 CMI quality management system
3.4.3 Development of normative regulations
3.4.4 The role of metrology in the accreditation system
3.4.5 Transfer of technology to the user sphere
3.4.6 Metrology education system
3.4.7 Modern methods and approaches to calibration of measuring instruments
3.5 International cooperation
3.5.1 Metric convention
3.5.2 EUROMET
3.5.3 EC JRC IRMM..
3.5.4 OIML and WELMEC.
3.5.5 ISO/CASCO and ISO/REMCO.
3.5.6 Assistance to developing countries in the field of metrology
3.6 Research and development in metrology
3.6.1 Research and technological development policy
3.6.2 Virtual institutes and centres of excellence
3.6.3 Metrological continuity, national standards
3.6.4 Research plan of the Czech Metrology Institute
3.6.5 Metrology in chemistry
3.6.6 Software for measuring systems
3.7 Development of the technical base
3.7.1 Mass metrology
3.7.2 Force and material characteristic metrology
3.7.3 Pressure and vacuum metrology
3.7.4 Metrology of electrical quantities
3.7.5 Length metrology
3.7.6 Frequency and time metrology
3.7.7 Temperature metrology
3.7.8 Metrology of ionising radiation and radioactivity
3.7.9 Metrology in radiometry and photometry
3.7.10 Gas flow metrology
3.7.11 Metrology of acoustic quantities
3.7.12 Metrology in chemistry and biology
3.8 New fields of metrology
3.9 Necessary operating conditions, completion of the CMI OI Prague
3.10 Development of the information system
3.11 Brief summary, target state after implementation of the concept
4. Implementation process - summary of tasks and costs
4.1 Coordination and cross-cutting tasks
4.2 Legal metrology and legislation
4.3 International cooperation
4.4 Development of existing and introduction of new fields of metrology, technical development
4.5 Completion of the operational building of CMI OI Prague
5. Conclusions
List and explanation of abbreviations used
The aim of the presented concept is to create the prerequisites for the development of the National Metrology System (NMS) of the Czech Republic to meet the international obligations of the Czech Republic, the metrological requirements of all entities operating within the national economy and state administration in the conditions of the Czech Republic's membership in the EU and the requirements of citizens as consumers.
The presented concept is a continuation of Government Resolution 812/2000, which guided the development of the NMS in the sphere of responsibility of the Government of the Czech Republic in the period 2000-2005. Such a system generally requires:
- a satisfactory technical and skills base,
- Thoughtful and equal involvement in European metrology structures,
- a harmonised regulatory base in the European environment, responsive to developments with an optimal scope for bindingness,
- long-term stable institutional funding,
- Systematic needs survey,
- optimization of the ratio of inputs and outputs.
The present draft concept is based on an analysis of the status achieved in the implementation of the related Government Resolution 812/2000 and sets out the objectives and measures leading to their achievement in the period 2005-2010.
The fundamental socio-economic importance of metrology as the basis for all measurements is twofold:
- increasing the competitiveness of business by improving the technical level and quality of goods and services,
- removing technical barriers to trade (mutual recognition of different types of tests and findings)
There is little appreciation in society at large that the quantity of goods is determined by measurement in 54 % of all trade transactions within GDP (USA, Europe). Modern technology, which is highly dependent on accurate measurement, accounts for about 50 % of GDP growth in developed countries. The basic slogans organically linked to the work of metrology are therefore the promotion of business and the protection of the public interest in contractual relations (largely consumer protection), even in a global economy. After the accession of the Czech Republic to the EU/EEA, it is also necessary to look at a number of things through a new lens of involvement in European integration (single market, European Research and Development Area).
At present, according to the data of the Czech Institute for Accreditation o.p.s. (CIA), there are over 500 accredited calibration and testing laboratories in the Czech Republic (527 as of 1 May 2004), the total number of laboratories in the public and private sector is estimated at thousands. However, the main carrier of metrology activities are the producers of goods and service providers in private sector companies, where metrology is a major contributor to the integrity and proper functioning of production technologies. All these entities make extensive use of the services of the national metrology system, which is thus a significant element of business support.
For a decisive part of household consumption, the quantity of products is determined by metering (water, gas, electricity, heat, fuel, prepackaged goods in the commercial network) - here the principle of caveat emptor (the consumer must protect himself to the maximum extent possible) obviously cannot be applied, protection by public law means through the NMS is necessary. This protection, which is essentially the content of legal metrology, is one of the oldest types of consumer protection applied since the beginning of human civilisation. Society is therefore used to things being under control - but in recent times this protection has been permanently eroded and weakened as a result of liberalisation and the removal of technical barriers to trade, which has somewhat escaped attention. It is therefore necessary, particularly in the context of the drafting of new legislation, to look for effective elements and methods of protecting consumers from incorrect measurement in the new conditions.
The responsibility of the state (government) within the NMS is limited to the preservation and development of its basic elements, which are typically the role of government. This includes the system of measurement units and national standards (including their maintenance and development), authorisation, metrological supervision/supervision or conformity assessment, the creation of a regulatory base and cases of so-called market failure, where the rules of the market economy alone are not able to deal with the problem.
2. Assessment of the current situation
2.1 Stakeholders, scope of competence
On the basis of the Competence Act No. 2/1969 Coll, on the establishment of ministries and other central bodies of state administration of the Czech Republic, as amended (§ 13, paragraph 1, letter e), the issue of metrology falls within the sphere of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic. The competences entrusted to the MIT in the subject area are ensured by the Office for Technical Standardisation, Metrology and State Testing (ÚNMZ) and the Czech Metrology Institute (CMI). ÚNMZ is an organisational unit of the state under Act No. 219/2000 Coll, On the Property of the Czech Republic and its Representation in Legal Relations, as amended (hereinafter referred to as the "Act on the Property of the Czech Republic"), and in relation to the legislation in force it ensures the activities of the state administration in metrology and participates with the MIT in the preparation of concepts, legislation and financing of metrology. The CMI plays a key role in the field of state administration in the harmonisation of Czech technical regulations in order to remove technical barriers to trade (WTO TBT, EU). The CMI is a state-funded organisation under the Czech Property Act and, in accordance with the legislation in force, it mainly provides various executive activities of a technical nature in the field of metrology and is entrusted by Act No. 505/1990 Coll., on Metrology, as amended, with the implementation of certain state administration activities in metrology. Through its activities, the CMI influences a wide range of entities in the area of the quality of their production or services or their technical competence and thus contributes significantly to improving the competitiveness of the Czech business environment and to creating a favourable climate for foreign investors. In the international context, the CMI plays the role of the national metrology institute of the Czech Republic managing the system of state standards of the Czech Republic. Another interested entity is the State Office for Nuclear Safety (SÚJB), which has supervisory and sanctioning powers in the field of radiation protection and emergency preparedness in accordance with Act No 505/1990 Coll., as amended. Although other approaches are used in other countries, this organisational arrangement has proved its viability in the past, rather difficult period, and in principle does not need to be changed. The Law on the Property of the Czech Republic envisages the de-nationalisation of the PO in the longer term - this would probably imply a transition to the form of a state joint stock company with a state contract aimed at the management and development of state standards and other activities of public interest.
A positive feature of the Czech metrology legislation, which is often appreciated at the international level, is that it regulates the public interest related to the use of measuring instruments in a uniform manner, regardless of whether these measuring instruments are also of interest to other ministries. The desire of some ministries to regulate everything within their sphere of competence, including measurement, has led in the past to a number of isolated solutions (MoD, MoE, MoH, MoHe) that are contrary to the horizontal, cross-cutting nature of metrology. Unfortunately, the implementation of Government Resolution 812/2000 has not succeeded in overcoming this unsystematic approach, particularly in the area of the use of measuring instruments in the public interest.
The basic role of the State in ensuring the elements of the national metrology system is given by Act No. 505/1990 Coll., as amended, and this concept assumes that this state of affairs will be maintained.
Czech metrology is fully involved in international cooperation in metrology, especially through the Institute of Metrology and the Czech Metrology Institute, which has a number of positive benefits. Cooperation is ensured within the framework of the Metric Convention, the OIML, and the NCSL (USA). In the European context, this is the so-called 4E association, i.e. the cooperation of interest associations in the field of laboratories (measurement, calibration, testing, chemical and biological analyses, etc.), which are EUROMET, EUROLAB, EURACHEM and EA (European Cooperation in Accreditation). ÚNMZ and CMI are directly involved in the mirror cooperation of the entities concerned within the Czech Republic, which creates an effective feedback for the development of NMS. An agreement on mutual cooperation is concluded between CMI and CIA, addressing effective links between the metrology service and the accreditation system.
In the area of metrology legislation, full compatibility with EU legislation was achieved by amending the Metrology Act and the Act on Technical Requirements for Products and by issuing and amending their implementing regulations.
Following EU legislation, 25 old approach directives setting out requirements for products (measuring instruments) and processes for the marketing of various types of specified measuring instruments and prepackaged goods marked with the "e" symbol (HBZ) have been implemented in the form of MIT decrees to the Metrology Act. The EU New Approach Directive for weighing instruments with non-automatic operation has been implemented as a Government Regulation to the Law on Technical Requirements for Products. CMI and the authorised metrology centres have made technical and organisational arrangements to be able to carry out conformity assessment activities for the marketing of measuring instruments and HBZ and have initiated these activities based on the requirements of manufacturers and imports. In the case of weighing instruments with non-automatic operation, one body has been authorised for conformity assessment in the full scope of the Government Regulation (CMI). Following the accession of the Czech Republic to the EU, this authorised body became a notified body for conformity assessment within the specified scope; its outputs are accepted in all EU and EEA Member States respectively. Necessary initial analyses related to Directive 2004/22/EC (MID) have been carried out, both with its transposition into the Czech legal system and with the establishment of authorised (notified) bodies for conformity assessment within its scope.
The EC has presented a proposal for a directive on services in the single market (COM (2004) 2 final/3), which aims to definitively overcome the obstacles in this area of activity, which is considered to be one of the most crucial for the competitiveness of the European economy and thus for the implementation of the Lisbon Strategy. In metrology, this may concern the subsequent validation of established measuring instruments. The directive will be of a framework nature and will be based on the application of a number of approaches, in the area of consumer protection, which is the case for post-verification. The Directive should be adopted in 2005 with implementation by 2007. At this stage, when the final wording and direction of the Directive is not entirely clear, it is necessary to analyse these proposals for a Directive in detail and to try to influence the legislative process with a view to taking action in stages.
In accordance with the Government Resolution 812/2000 and in view of the shortcomings of the current wording of the Metrology Act, which are negatively reflected in metrological practice, a substantive plan and a paragraphed wording of the draft new Metrology Act have been prepared. This draft reflects the changes in the economic system of society and addresses the shortcomings of the current law - its lack of transparency due to amendments, more clearly formulates the rights and obligations of entities in the field of authorisation for verification of measuring instruments, when placing measuring instruments on the market, formulates the principles of metrological supervision, introduces an alternative to the extension of the validity of verification on the basis of the results of statistical tests and, above all, no longer interferes in those areas of the metrological system where regulation by the state is not practical (calibration of measuring instruments, reference materials).
However, in some aspects, the legislation affecting legal metrology (and therefore practice) has not been satisfactory. This is the issue of unification of legal metrology requirements in legislation under the responsibility of different ministries. The target state, whereby legislation outside the Metrology Act should have referred to this Act and, in this way, metrological and technical requirements for measuring instruments and measuring equipment of the regulated area and methods of their verification should also have been established, has not been fully achieved.
All important European technical standards are harmonised and OIML and WELMEC documents are also applied to ensure a high level of compatibility of the Czech regulatory base with foreign countries.
The process of "transferring" technical regulations of the nature of enterprise standards and metrological regulations into a generally legally binding form - decrees of the MIT to the Metrology Act - has been initiated and is underway. In the period to date, about 30 draft decrees (out of an estimated total of about 80) have been drawn up and are at various stages of the legislative process.
The main unresolved contradiction in the area of legal metrology is the fact that while some measuring instruments, whose importance has historically been fading, are subject to regulation, many types of measuring instruments that have an impact on environmental protection, health and safety of persons, etc., are not subject to regulation and their metrological accuracy is ensured, for example, by service entities in the form of calibrations for which metrological characteristics, e.g. permissible errors, are not regularly determined.
The protection of consumers against incorrect measurements in commercial and administrative transactions is one of the basic tasks of legal metrology, dealing with measuring instruments subject to legal control. In the field of state metrological control of measuring instruments and other metrological performances in legal metrology, it can be noted that there is a particular emphasis on the accuracy of measuring instruments and measurements in connection with the increase in the prices of goods measured by them, which is reflected, among other things, in the number of complaints about the accuracy of measuring instruments and measurements. The emphasis on the accuracy of gauges and measurements has also been reflected in the environmental protection and nuclear energy sectors.
A very good level of metrological continuity of the established measuring instruments of the "classical" fields was achieved (e.g. in the field of leaked quantities of technical liquids, leaked quantities of gas, electrical quantities), but the metrological system also responded flexibly to new fields (equipment for measuring and registering the air temperature during the transport of frozen food, leaked quantities of CNG (compressed natural gas), breath alcohol content, etc.Each year, the CMI and AMS (Authorised Metrology Centres) in the Czech Republic verify around 22 million pieces of specified measuring instruments and measuring sets. The professional potential of the staff of the Czech Metrology Institute and the authorised metrology centres has reached the level necessary for the provision and further development of this area. The problems to be solved in the near future are related to the tasks of legal metrology in the area harmonised with the EU and, on the other hand, in the non-harmonised area, subject to national regulation, where the obvious objective is to achieve the highest possible level of system compatibility. It is also necessary to find an optimal solution for measuring instruments which are not subject to the metrology law and which, due to their importance, are subject to ministerial regulations (e.g. in the field of transport, food, health).
The metrology system in the field of legal metrology covers also the training of personnel of metrology subjects of all types, and the system of proving their competence by means of certification of competence in the ÚNMZ and CMI and by means of certification by accredited certification bodies.
State metrological supervision has become an important instrument of consumer protection, focusing on the correctness of measuring instruments in use, ready-packaged goods on the market, compliance with legal regulations for metrology by entities from manufacturers, sellers and repairers of measuring instruments to their users, with special attention in the field of measuring instruments for direct sale to the public.
In order to protect the interests of consumers and legal entities, a number of professional metrological expertise of measurement systems, including the analysis of measuring devices and measurement methodologies, has been introduced and implemented, which in some cases has revealed sources of accounting and bookkeeping discrepancies of considerable financial value.
In the Czech Republic, there is an essentially satisfactory structure of entities that provide calibration services for users of measuring instruments and thus ensure uniformity and accuracy of measurements. At the global level, a system of arrangements for mutual recognition of measurement and test results (CIPM MRA, ILAC MLA) has also been established as an essential element to support the activities of these bodies, the maintenance and deepening of which is one of the important permanent tasks of all the bodies involved, including the MIT, the ÚNMZ and the CMI. The CMI also plays an important role in ensuring certain technical activities within the accreditation system, in particular:
- ensuring metrological continuity at the level of national standards,
- CMI employees acting as independent technical assessors,
- providing interlaboratory comparison of tests in the field of physical metrology and other fields (CMI is accredited for this activity).
The largest volume of services is provided by accredited and non-accredited calibration laboratories, which are usually private entities. For them, the technical basis of the system is the Czech Metrology Institute (CMI), which maintains state standards of measuring units and ensures the so-called metrological continuity of measurements for the whole system, i.e. for the end users of measuring instruments and for calibration laboratories. At the level of the CMI, there are also associated laboratories that maintain standards for some specific fields.
According to available data, approximately 15 million calibration services are performed in the Czech Republic annually. This in itself shows the economic importance of metrology services, as their output is reflected in the quality of each product. Although the established system covers most of the current needs, there are also fields not covered at the necessary level and the pace of development of the system is not always sufficient for the development of new technologies, which trigger the need for completely new services and calibration procedures. These areas of measurement are regularly identified through user feedback events (foresight studies, conferences, seminars, oral and electronic communications, metrology training, etc.). Examples of such fields that require conceptually driven development are:
- nanotechnology,
- new materials and surface protection,
- telecommunications, digital video and audio distribution, broadband data communications,
- software-intensive measurement information systems,
- environmental monitoring,
- sanitary and health services - devices with measuring function,
- chemical analysis in all fields and measurements in biology.
In most of these fields, working elements can be found, but many of them are also metrologically unsecured. In industrial metrology, development is essentially limited only by the availability of financial resources and the possibility of recruiting new experts. In a number of cases (environment, chemistry, biology, health), the low level of cooperation between the ministries governing the field is also a limiting factor.
In order to address the new challenges, it is necessary to create conditions under which the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the CMI and other expert departments will devote sufficient capacity to assess needs, including economic analysis, and to implement appropriate technical development programmes. The current volume of funds for the so-called "Metrology Development Programme" is about 40 million CZK per year. However, from this amount the cost of maintaining national standards (see below) has to be deducted, leaving about 10 million CZK per year for actual development programmes. Negotiations will be initiated on the possibility of separating the two funds in a transparent way and obtaining new resources to finance the state standards.
Document D 1 of the OIML, "The Metrology Act", also recommends the establishment of an information focal point within the government to systematically provide up-to-date information on metrology to the user community. In the previous period, such contact points had already started to operate in the Office of the National Metrology Institute and the CMI, mainly through electronic forms of communication (websites, e-mail addresses). At present, for example, a number of enquiries are answered daily at various levels within the CMI, including by the general public. Other processes in this area that have been initiated are regular training of company metrologists and closer methodological cooperation with quality system certification bodies. In the subsequent period, it will be necessary to expand the offer and to look for more effective forms of communicating information to the wider user community, also in relation to the requirements of the ISO 9000:2000 series of standards for quality system management. The expert technical knowledge of CMI employees can also be used in cooperation with CzechInvest to negotiate to attract foreign investors in the field of metrology-intensive high-tech technologies.
For entities whose production technology is based to a greater extent on media transport, complex metrology audits were carried out in the previous period (Transgas, Čepro), which led to the elimination of various inconsistencies in the balances. It is expected that the positive experiences from these audits will be systematically initiated by the relevant ministries for other entities with state participation.
Worldwide, the transfer of modern technologies to the user sphere, especially in the field of small and medium-sized enterprises, is considered one of the most important elements of the activities of national metrology institutes. This may involve solving operational problems, introducing new fields of production or measurement, or even joint research and development of new products. There are various forms of cooperation for this purpose, but in the Czech conditions, companies with foreign participation are somewhat hampered by their lack of interest in local research and development. However, this has been changing recently as the Czech Republic is gradually moving from a low-cost producer to a knowledge-based producer (increasing number of research centres established by foreign investors). Therefore, it will be necessary to expand the existing and seek new forms of cooperation with the user sphere in this area (joint participation in industrial R&D tasks within the MIT programme, from structural funds, R&D on contract, intensive consultations, etc.).
The strategic objectives pursued by Czech metrology in general in international cooperation are as follows:
- involvement in the international division of labour in metrology, especially in Europe,
- Recognition of the system of continuity of measurement results in the Czech Republic at the global level (participation in the CIPM MRA arrangement),
- active participation in the development and implementation of harmonised metrological regulations in the EU and thus gaining knowledge for the implementation of this legislation in the Czech Republic,
- promoting its own concepts for the development of metrology on a regional and global scale,
- systematic acquisition of new information for technical development in the individual fields of measurement and improvement of the professional qualification of the staff,
- increasing the level of metrological continuity in the Czech Republic through participation in various types of international comparisons,
- opening up space for penetration of foreign markets for top-level metrology services (a form of marketing), especially after accession to the EU/EEA.
The following types of international cooperation are used extensively to achieve these goals:
- Participation in OECD assistance projects to Central and Eastern European countries in earlier years (EU-PHARE, PRAQ, G24 Switzerland, WHO Netherlands),
- direct participation in the activities of international intergovernmental and regional metrology organizations (Metric Convention, International Organization for Legal Metrology, EUROMET, WELMEC, NCSLI USA),
- bilateral cooperation with top national metrology institutes,
- active and passive participation in conferences, seminars, workshops, etc,
- publications in foreign journals,
- foreign internships of CMI specialists in renowned metrology institutes (NIST USA, NPL UK, PTB Germany, EU JRC IRMM),
- Participation in joint scientific research tasks (e.g. within EUROMET) or in projects under the EU's 5th and 6th Framework Programmes for Science and Research,
- participation in all types of international test comparisons (EUROMET, EA, Metric Convention).
In general, it can be stated that the involvement of Czech metrology in international cooperation has currently reached the necessary quantitative extent and has significantly contributed to achieving the level of Czech metrology required for the Czech Republic to operate as an EU member state. In the next phase, it will be necessary to strive to increase the qualitative aspect of this activity by greater and deeper involvement in the tasks of research and development in the European area within the European Research Area concept, both in the technical and management areas. In the sphere of Metric Convention activities, more use should be made of the new opportunities opened up by BIPM, particularly in the field of metrology in chemistry and biology. It is also necessary to strengthen contacts and develop cooperation with the EU research institute in the field of measurement, the EU JRC IRMM (IMEP programmes, training of MiC laboratories, etc.).
In relation to metrological performance, it is necessary to take advantage of the accession to the EU/EEA on 1 May 2004 to establish CMI as a regional centre of comprehensive metrological services at the highest levels of metrological continuity, which in its consequences will also improve the level of service for domestic customers and will thus represent an element of business support. The Czech Metrology Institute will therefore offer and provide its services (commercially) also outside the Czech Republic. This corresponds to the possibilities of the EU market and also to the concept developed by EUROMET. In this context, it is particularly necessary to develop cooperation with PTB (Germany), which has signalled its interest in transferring some services for its German customers to the CMI.
Following its membership in the OECD, the Czech Republic has undertaken to provide aid to developing countries in the amount of 0.7 % of GDP per year, which is provided by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Czech Centre for Foreign Aid (CTARC) on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The government also sets priority areas and countries for targeting this aid. Metrology, as an essential infrastructural element of a developed economy, plays a rather important role. Experience has shown that in a situation where developing countries are usually unable to clearly articulate their requirements, direct bilateral negotiations are more operational. The Czech state metrology has already created the necessary preconditions for a stronger engagement in this area.
2.6 Research and development in metrology
Metrology as a discipline is close to fundamental research in many fields, especially physics, and must keep abreast of scientific and technical progress as new technologies are developed. Metrology services in practice have to cope with the rapidly increasing technical level of measuring instruments and measuring systems, and this means high demands on the development of standardisation equipment and methods.
Government Resolution 812/2000 established a research programme in the field of metrology. It was ordered to develop and submit a research plan to the CMI in accordance with Government Resolution No. 281/1998 with implementation from 2002. The CMI research plan was drawn up and subsequently discussed and recommended by the Government Council for Research and Development. The research plan set out priorities for development and focus in the fields of length, pressure, radiometry, ionising radiation and electrical quantities.
Unfortunately, it has not been possible to ensure systematic financing of the research project according to the assumptions given by the aforementioned government resolution, and therefore this project is still being implemented only to a limited extent. The uncertainty of funding does not currently allow for the establishment of meaningful long-term programmes, despite the fact that the choice of priorities has been confirmed by the evolution of needs and corresponds to the findings of the EUROMET MERA joint project.
The current international developments are characterised by the intense efforts of supranational organisations such as EUROMET to coordinate research in the field, share capacities, ensure mobility of experts and exchange information. EUROMET is preparing to submit a project proposal to the ERA-NET 6 grant in October 2004. Cooperation with universities, research institutes and large industrial enterprises, which is not yet sufficiently developed in the Czech Republic, plays a major role. In the next period it will be necessary to find ways to improve here, because efforts to ensure mutual recognition of test results and measurements on the free market will be significantly degraded if Czech entities are not able to participate in selected projects as equal partners on a European scale (application of the ERA-European Research Area principle), and this requires continuous development and support for this development. Positive examples of CMI participation in joint projects (length metrology, analysis of research priorities, metrology in the regulated sphere) show that this path leads to the creation of mutual trust and respect.
2.7 Material and technical basis of the metrological system
The so-called metrological continuity of the measurement results is essential for the uniformity and correctness of the measurement and for the recognition of its results. This continuity must also be demonstrable and demonstrated in order for the results of measurements and tests carried out in the Czech Republic to be recognised by foreign entities and thus eliminate possible technical barriers to trade. The continuity of measurement results is related to the chain of calibrations and comparisons, which ends at the definition of the unit or at the international standard. In view of this, continuity is ensured at international (practically global) level and the national metrology system must be adequately represented at this level. Currently, this is ensured by the Czech Republic's membership of the Metric Convention and the CMI's membership of EUROMET, the association of national metrology institutes. An important step was the signing of the Arrangement on Mutual Recognition of National Standards and Certificates issued by National Metrology Institutes (CIPM MRA).
The technical basis for ensuring metrological continuity is the system of national standards that has been built up in recent years and which covers all basic fields of measurement. The national standards are generally state-of-the-art and very sophisticated measuring devices at a technical level corresponding to the current state of the art. The operation of these standards requires special laboratory facilities with guaranteed climatic conditions, highly qualified staff and continuous experimental work. The problem can be illustrated by several examples of the necessary precision of measurements:
| field of measurement | benchmark | relative measurement uncertainty in % |
| Length | frequency stabilized laser | 0,000 000 005 |
| mass | reference weight and comparator | 0,000 001 |
| Frequency | atomic clock file | 0,000 000 000 006 |
| electrical voltage | electronic resources group | 0,000 1 |
Currently, the problem of the state benchmark system is mainly the unresolved method of financing. Benchmarks cannot (with exceptions) serve for performances provided for payment to other entities, their acquisition values are very high (in the order of 10 million CZK) and this results in high depreciation costs and finally the operating costs themselves are considerable (air conditioning, clean environment, special distribution systems). The financing of the set of Czech state standards is provided by the state budget through the Metrology Development Programme (ÚNMZ) and by the CMI from resources obtained from other activities. In some cases (metrology of force, electrical quantities, chemistry) there are no suitable facilities available.
3. Measures to achieve the target state
3.1 Structure and definition of the tasks of the entities in the system
A consistent definition of the competence of state organisations in metrology is one of the objectives of the new Metrology Act, which is already in the stage of drafting a paragraph text. In addition to the basic definition of the competences of the state bodies in relation to metrology, the MIT should be more intensively involved in resolving some inter-ministerial disputes related to the horizontal function of metrology in the Czech Republic. At the same time, the MIT should help to strengthen the scope of research and development in the CMI, e.g. through institutional funding, in line with the overall strengthening of research and development in the Czech Republic and Europe (Lisbon Strategy). The MIT and the CMI will continuously proceed in this sense in the framework of the implementation of the concept. The CNMI is expected to become more involved in international cooperation in metrology and, as part of its legislative tasks, to strive to create a more favourable climate for ensuring effective consumer protection in measurement-related transactions. The preparation of the new Metrology Act should also be used to define more clearly the interaction between the CNMZ and the CMI. An indispensable role needs to be played by the CNMZ together with the CMI in coordinating the bodies responsible for the maintenance and development of national standards and primary methods of chemical analysis in the country. On the basis of the analysis and in due course, decide on further action on the economic and legal status of CMI, which will probably also be determined by the audit of the state administration and its subsequent reform. In the framework of the forthcoming directive on the strengthening of the new approach, the CMI will focus more on the issue of conformity assessment, where its competences will be rather strengthened. This development will also affect metrology in that the way in which the various activities are carried out will increasingly move along an axis from public administration (public law management) to conformity assessment (private law management). In this context, greater involvement of CMI and other eligible entities in conformity assessment in metrology is foreseen in the framework of business support, especially in the context of the entry into force of Directive 2004/22/EC on measuring instruments (MID), based on the principles of efficient use of professional capacities and cost-effectiveness.
3.2.1 Directive 2004/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on measuring instruments
One of the basic tasks of the development of metrological legislation in the coming period will be the transposition and implementation of the (new approach) EC Directive 2004/22/EC (MID, Measuring Instruments Directive), which sets out binding requirements for products (10 types of measuring instruments with a high frequency of occurrence in the economic system) and procedures for their marketing. For the issued Directive, the period for incorporation into the legal system is set at 2 years with an effective date of 30 months from the date of issue. In this matter, it is necessary not only to treat the process of creation, notification and approval of the relevant legislation of the Czech Republic, but also to prepare the harmonization of the relevant implementing technical documents (European standards, OIML and WELMEC documents, or other implementing documents) and to prepare a strategy in the field of authorization of persons in the Czech Republic for conformity assessment in this area. The following tasks are aimed at these objectives:
i. To develop and issue a Government Regulation to the Act on Technical Requirements for Products, implementing Directive 2004/22/EC into the Czech legal system.
ii. Harmonize the relevant European technical standards and implement the OIML and WELMEC documents and other documents implementing Directive 2004/22/EC.
iii. On the basis of the analysis of the needs of manufacturers of measuring equipment in the Czech Republic, to develop a strategy of the Czech Metrology Institute regarding its application as an authorized (notified) person for conformity assessment of measuring instruments covered by Directive 2004/22/EC. These tasks will have to be solved by 12/2005.
Note on the task:
The existence and function of the Notified Person in this area has and will have two dimensions, namely:
- economic - financial efficiency of conformity assessment performance,
- political - the absence of a notified person will make it significantly more difficult for domestic manufacturers to place measuring instruments on the single European market (see the experience of non-automatic weighing instruments).
A New Approach Directive setting out metrological requirements for pre-packaged goods and procedures for their placing on the market is very likely to emerge in the period for which the concept is proposed, while the Old Approach Directives in this area will be repealed. In view of this fact, it is necessary to ensure the implementation of the directive in question into the legal order of the Czech Republic and the organisational and technical conditions for the establishment and activity of an authorised (notified) person for conformity assessment in this area, probably focused mainly on the assessment of quality systems of the producer of prepackaged goods. The following tasks are aimed at these objectives:
i. To develop and bring into force, through a standard legislative process, a Czech Government Regulation to the Act on Technical Requirements for Products implementing the EU New Approach Directive covering the field of pre-packaged goods. At the same time, reflect the changes in the Metrology Act.
ii. Harmonize relevant technical standards, OIML and WELMEC recommendations and other documents implementing this Directive.
iii. Ensure the establishment of an authorised (notified) body for conformity assessment within the scope of this Directive and participate in the development of European-wide uniform procedures for conformity assessment with this Directive.
3.2.3 The forthcoming Metrology Act
During 2005/2006, a new Metrology Act can be expected. Its wording in the forthcoming version contains numerous authorisations for setting details by implementing regulations - decrees of the MIT; these are mainly decrees of the following orientations:
- A basic cross-cutting decree setting out the details of the general activities provided for by law,
- Decree determining the types of measuring instruments subject to regulation - this decree is also related to the process of practically permanent review of the objectivity of the chosen deadlines for subsequent verification of measuring instruments on the basis of the results of metrological tests of individual types of measuring instruments withdrawn from the network after the expiry of the verification period,
- generic decrees setting out specific metrological and technical requirements for specified measuring instruments, including requirements and instructions for their installation and use, methods for testing their metrological properties, procedures for testing instruments whose accuracy is questioned, etc.
The following tasks are aimed at implementing these legislative documents:
i. Develop and issue a cross-cutting MIT implementing decree to the Metrology Act and an MIT decree specifying the types of measuring instruments subject to type approval and mandatory verification and setting the validity periods for verification.
ii. Introduce a system of metrological testing of individual types of meters withdrawn from the network after the expiry of the validity period of verification, with the aim of objectifying the validity periods of verification set by the legislation.
iii. Complete the process of drafting the MIT Decrees to the Metrology Act setting out the metrological and technical requirements for specified measuring instruments and other requirements.
One of the important ongoing tasks is to ensure that metrology legislation is consistent with other areas of regulation and to apply good practice in the preparation of legislation where a numerical measurable criterion is specified by regulation.
3.2.4 Medical devices with measuring function
As outputs of work in the previous period, analyses and proposals for solutions for metrological provision of medical devices with a measuring function (which are devices and equipment providing quantitative data on measured physical or technical quantities or generating some quantitatively determined quantity) are available. However, these outputs, which have shown in particular the problem of ensuring the metrological continuity of medical devices with a measuring function in use, are only a basis for building a concept for the metrological assurance of measuring instruments of this key measurement sector, both in the marketing of measuring instruments of this sector and, in particular, in ensuring the metrological continuity of measuring instruments in use. The following tasks are aimed at this objective and will be carried out by the CMI and associated laboratories in accordance with the needs of the Ministry of Health:
i. Establish a system of registration and metrological categorization of types of medical devices with a measuring function and establish rules for ensuring their metrological characteristics. In cooperation with the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Health, the State Institute for Drug Control, to reflect the requirements for ensuring and controlling the metrological continuity of these measuring devices in the relevant legislation in accordance with the regulation of this harmonised area in the EU.
3.2.5 Addressing the issue of gauges in transport
The steadily and rapidly increasing volume of passenger and freight transport, especially road transport, generates negative effects burdening the national economy with costs, especially in the field of liquidation of the consequences and prevention of traffic accidents, maintenance of the road network and reduction of the burden on the environment. This is a complex set of issues:
In general, this area covers, in particular, the determination of weight in road and rail transport, the determination of vehicle speed in road transport, the determination of the presence of alcohol in the organism of transport users in general, the measurement of vehicle combustion engine emissions, the determination of technical specifications for the interoperability of rail transport, selected kinematic and dynamic parameters of vehicles, etc. The following tasks are aimed at this objective:
i. In cooperation with the MIT, CMI, ÚNMZ, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Interior, Police of the Czech Republic and selected carriers to create a unified concept of measurement in the transport sector, which will include requirements for the modification of legislation, basic principles of the choice of measuring instruments and measurement methodologies, basic data on the system of metrological continuity of the measuring instruments in question.
ii. Submit this concept to the Minister of Transport for approval.
3.2.6 Implementation of measures in the non-harmonised sphere
After the accession of the Czech Republic to the EU, principles came into force, on the basis of which the results of metrological tests are valid even in the so-called non-harmonised regulated sphere, if they are performed in such a way that they guarantee the metrological level required by legislation in the Czech Republic and if their results are available to the CMI - the so-called recognition clause. However, this general EU principle is applied quite differently by individual EU Member States and therefore a unifying interpretative document in this area is to be expected. This document will have to be implemented in the metrological and economic practice of the Czech Republic. The following tasks are aimed at this goal:
i. Within the framework of international cooperation, promote the principles of practical application of the "recognition clause" for the area of metrological testing in the so-called non-harmonised sphere according to the principles acceptable in the Czech Republic.
ii. Implement the EC document on the practical application of the "recognition clause" and ensure the registration of approved types of measuring instruments regularly used in the Czech Republic as specified and the registration of verification marks having the validity of official marks in the Czech Republic according to the Metrology Act. Implement the implementation documents and recommendations of OIML and WELMEC.
3.2.7 Conformity assessment of the type of measuring instruments
The International Organization for Legal Metrology OIML is working on a project for a system of conformity assessment of measuring instruments (in the OIML certification system) with a certain degree of binding for those countries that become members of this system. This system is referred to as MAA and involves arrangements at two levels:
- general arrangement,
- documents for individual types of meters - the so-called DoMC (Declaration of Mutual Confidence).
In particular, the principle of the system is that it is about recognition of test results, not recognition of certificates of conformity, which has been a problem for some national legislation. The process of national accession to the MAA can be expected to begin. A related issue is that of proving the competence of laboratories (by accreditation or assessment by peers) whose test results are to be recognised. In the Czech Republic, an analysis will be needed to decide whether the Czech Republic will accede to the IAEA Arrangement. This task is aimed at realising this objective:
i. Analyse the requirements of the IAEA system and the assumptions of the CMI as a body authorised by the Metrology Act to perform tests for the approval of types of measuring instruments to meet these requirements and subsequently develop recommendations for possible accession of the Czech Republic to the IAEA arrangements.
The instruments of legal metrology will be maintained and developed according to current needs, in particular in connection with the implementation of the EC Measuring Instruments Directive (MID). The entities that will operate here have been listed above and there is no need to change their composition. Only the definition of the individual functions of the system and the division of activities will be clarified on an ongoing basis. Thus, all the tasks of metrology in consumer protection remain as they were at the time of the conception. The new tasks are set out in the following paragraphs.
3.3.1 Verification and security of SW measurement systems
Technical solutions for measuring instruments and measuring systems are increasingly replacing some hardware functions with software functions. Methodologies for the calibration and testing of measuring instruments must include, to a sufficient extent and with sufficient reliability, the examination of the metrological parameters of the complete measuring system, including the verification of the software, and must ensure that they are not deliberately or unintentionally altered. The solution of this issue is at the very beginning in the Czech Republic and will be the subject of the following tasks, using international cooperation to develop principles and procedures for SW testing:
i. Ensure the technical (location, environment, equipment, methodologies and technical documentation) and personnel of the specialized workplace(s) that will perform software expertise in metrological applications.
ii. Implement the outputs of these activities into the regulatory base of metrology in the Czech Republic for the area of legal metrology and into the methodologies of calibration of measuring instruments.
3.3.2 Protecting the correctness of measuring instruments from being influenced by SW tools
Evidence from some European and non-European (US) countries indicates cases of electronic and software tools, and in the future telecommunications-based tools, influencing the accuracy of measurements to the detriment of consumers. This development requires continuous monitoring of technical developments in this matter, the introduction of preventive and protective measures in the context of the requirements for measuring instruments and their testing, and the development of methodologies for the testing of such influential measuring instruments in the course of in-service supervision. This issue is related to 3.3.1 and will be addressed in the next task:
i. In the framework of international cooperation in metrology, to collect knowledge on methods of influencing the accuracy of measuring instruments, to cooperate in the development of methodologies for testing measuring instruments in order to prevent or detect the mechanism of influencing measuring instruments through electronic elements and software functions. To apply the acquired information in the legal and technical regulations of the Czech Republic, in their application and in the process of metrological supervision.
3.3.3 Remote readings and data transmission
Modern trends in the technical design of meters and the implementation of the so-called readings of water, gas, electricity and heat consumption are directed towards the remote transmission of measurement data from the point of consumption to the point of centralisation and data processing. The solution must allow the customer to be informed of the consumption status at any time.
In view of this development, it is necessary to address the requirements for such arranged gauges and measurements, the methodologies for state metrological control of such arranged gauges and the approach to securing them against unwanted manipulation. The following tasks are aimed at this objective:
i. In cooperation with manufacturers of meters and metering systems and with distribution entities of water, gas, electricity, heat, or other media, monitor trends in the practical implementation of systems for remote reading of the quantity of media consumed. Within the framework of international cooperation in metrological organisations, participate in the development of requirements for remote reading of measurement data systems, methods of their testing and ensure the implementation of the outputs of these activities in the regulatory base for metrology in the Czech Republic.
ii. To ensure the practical implementation of the state metrological control of measuring instruments and measuring sets with remote reading and data processing.
3.3.4 Bulk transport of products
Experience has shown that in the bulk transport and storage of energy and petroleum products there are significant differences in the measurement results of the quantities delivered/removed. Metrological audits have identified inaccuracies in the choice of measurement techniques, measurement methodologies and their evaluation, in some cases with a very significant impact on the accuracy of the measurements. In the light of these findings and in order to remedy the shortcomings, a philosophy of metrological audits of energy distributors should be developed and, at least on a voluntary basis, metrological audits should be offered to them. This is the purpose of this task:
i. To develop a philosophy and subsequently the structure and content of metrological audits of entities transporting and storing energy and petroleum products and to create a personnel and technical base for their practical implementation in the CMI.
The distribution of fuel (hereinafter referred to as PH), as a strategic raw material, is subject to regulation in terms of the correctness of gauges and measurements, the level of which is constantly increasing in terms of organisation and correctness. After the entry into force of Act No 56/2001 Coll. and MIT Decree No 227/2001 Coll., the quality of fuel began to be systematically monitored by the Czech Trade Inspectorate (CTI). In view of the importance of testing and measuring the quality of PH for the needs of the state supervisory authorities and the industrial sector, it is necessary to evaluate the provision of the requirements of the metrological system in this field and to propose possible measures to complete it. The Czech Republic does not yet have a specialist laboratory capable of carrying out tests of PH quality in its entirety (especially engine tests for octane or cetane number) and at the same time providing research in this field of testing, independently of PH producers and distributors. At the same time, the negative consequences of dependence on imports of raw materials for the production of PH can be expected in the future and efforts can be made to replace them at least partially with domestic raw materials, e.g. rapeseed oil ('green' diesel). Even for the purposes of the relevant research and development, the existence of a laboratory fully equipped to carry out all the necessary tests at the highest level is necessary in the public sector. In order to address the above problems, the following task is aimed at strengthening consumer protection, the objectivity of commercial relations and the possibilities for research and development:
i. To prepare an analysis of the provision of needs in the field of NMS for quality control of PH and on the basis of its results to propose the possible completion of the necessary capacities, including technical and personnel provision, the system of sampling and transport of samples and to determine the directions of scientific research activities in the field of testing of quality parameters of PH.
3.4 Support for metrology entrepreneurship
3.4.1 Technical basis for mutual recognition of measurement and test results
The preservation and development of national standards forms the backbone of the national metrology system. It has a direct influence on the hierarchical transfer of quantities from the international level to the level of industrial metrology. It has an indispensable influence on the uniformity and accuracy of measurements. These priority tasks are also fulfilled by the elements of the state metrology thanks to the participation in the Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA). In the future period it will be necessary to continue and deepen the participation of the Czech Republic in the Arrangement due to the improvement of the quality of measurements and the tendency to remove technical barriers to trade.
3.4.2 CMI quality management system
The quality of services provided by CMI is influenced by an effective and progressive quality management system (QMS) following international trends in this area. In order to improve its quality, calibration software will be implemented, and CMI staff will be more involved in the activities of certification bodies for QMS in companies and their training/information on metrology issues. In addition, customer satisfaction analyses of the services provided and the range of services offered will be used.
In 2006, CMI will strive for certification to the Environmental Management and Audit System for Small and Medium Enterprises (EMAS), in 2008 for certification of CMI's quality system to ISO 9001:2000 (2008) and in 2010 for certification of the Occupational Health and Safety System - completion of the integration of management systems.
3.4.3 Development of normative regulations
An important element of the quality of the NMS is the creation and respect of international standards important to the metrology community. By actively participating in international committees, it is possible to influence the development of standards such as ISO/IEC 17025 and other standards such as ISO/CASCO, ISO 9000, the EU Services Directive, the New Approach Directive for HBZ
3.4.4 The role of metrology in the accreditation system
Elements of the NMS play an important role in the national accreditation system. Its cultivation and strengthening of its technical character can be realized through close cooperation with the CIA.
In the next period, CMI will strive for maximum involvement in technical accreditation activities (follow-up by way of national benchmarks, external assessors, proficiency testing provider - at national level and use of supranational programmes, e.g. IMEP). CMI will consistently propose the application of a punitive policy towards accredited bodies that do not comply with the rules.
3.4.5 Transfer of technology to the user sphere
The position of the CMI as a national metrology institute logically implies that it must become a source of information and stimulus for qualification development for the entire metrology system. The prerequisites for this are provided by the work of CMI employees in the technical committees of a number of supranational organisations, their participation in joint research and development, as well as in the preparation of recommendations and regulations. This provides up-to-date and invaluable information that must be applied among users of the metrology service.
One of the forms of application of the benchmarking technology, especially in newly established companies, will be cooperation with the CzechInvest organisation, which is expected to provide feedback on the needs of industry and to initiate applied research and development projects.
Another appropriate form is consulting, auditing and providing metrological expertise. The development of methods and assistance to SMEs in the introduction of new technology can be carried out, for example, in programmes announced under the Structural Funds. Such cooperation can be beneficial in many ways, from the MIT to the users of measuring instruments.
3.4.6 Metrology education system
It turns out that metrology practice has high demands on the training of professional staff at all levels. In addition, there is also a need to support metrology training programmes in the education system and in particular postgraduate studies.
As part of this concept, a project for a training centre for metrology at CMI will be developed and evaluated. The possibility of direct practical training plays a key role here. In addition to the training of secondary school staff, the Centre should become an accredited training site for postgraduate training of university students at a higher level. The following task is aimed at these objectives:
i. Submit a project for a training centre for metrology at the CMI, including technical and personnel equipment. The Centre should be designed as an accredited training centre for postgraduate education. Establish cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Science and the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic.
3.4.7 Modern methods and approaches to calibration of measuring instruments
In modern metrology, all kinds of approaches are applied to shorten the path between the metrology laboratory and the user of the measuring instruments - the customer. In addition to the metrological aspects, the aim is always to achieve technical and economic benefits for the customer. This is why marketing and the information base are being developed (see also Chapter 3.10), outsourcing methods are being applied and new calibration techniques are being introduced, oriented towards on-site performance at the user's site, internet-based calibration, etc.
The latter principle brings significant technical, organisational and consequently economic advantages and is beginning to be applied in several fields of measurement. The advantages are the direct use of qualified laboratory personnel (usually from the national metrology institute), the use of its technical resources, the methods of processing the results, all at a considerable saving in logistical costs. However, this service has specific requirements for data transmission, protection and processing.
All of these approaches will be progressively applied within the framework of the concept and the corresponding technical development tasks will need to be initiated.
The importance and scope of international cooperation in metrology have been described in detail in Chapter 2.5. A necessary condition for the development of the national metrology system is to maintain and further develop proven forms of cooperation and to continuously pursue opportunities for involvement in the international division of labour in the field, especially in research and development.
In addition to the general activities arising from the Metric Convention, such as participation in the General Conference on Weights and Measures, in the preparation of resolutions, in the meetings of the Directors of the National Metrology Institutes and in the development of new concepts initiated by CIPM, the following tasks in particular need to be carried out:
- to develop opportunities in new fields of metrology (chemistry, biology, laboratory techniques in healthcare) in the Czech Republic,
- to strive for the membership of the Czech metrology representative in CIPM,
- promote the participation of Czech experts in CIPM Advisory Committees,
- Popularise the use of the Key Comparison and Calibration and Measurement Capability Database (KCDB BIPM),
- to cooperate in the field of quality systems (application of CIPM MRA as a method of demonstrating technical competence in ISO standards, etc.) and in particular to participate in the work of technical committees and in the fulfilment of all requirements arising from the CIPM MRA Arrangement.
The existing good cooperation in EUROMET will be developed through participation in joint projects and will be further developed:
- to seek representation on the Executive Committee (2008-2010),
- to seek a chairmanship on one of the technical committees,
- Increase the number of joint projects where the CMI representative is the principal investigator.
The concept of metrology development in the field of chemistry and biology corresponds to the intensive cooperation with the International Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements IRMM. Within the framework of the concept, the following tasks will be addressed:
- CMI will act as the coordinator of the IMEP proficiency testing program in the Czech Republic,
- CMI will be the designated site for training in the field (MiC, Metrology in Chemistry),
- internships of Czech experts at the EU JRC IRMM will be organised.
The sub-objectives of deepening cooperation in legal metrology are:
- Increase the number of chairs of technical committees,
- monitor the implementation of the IAEA arrangements and draw conclusions for the Czech Republic,
- apply OIML documents to the maximum extent in the regulatory base of the Czech Republic,
- in technical matters, to engage in particular on the issue of uncertainty determination in legal metrology,
- to ensure the participation of the Czech Republic representative in the WELMEC Chairman's Advisory Committee,
- ensure maximum participation of the Czech Republic in the implementation of the EU MID Directive,
- Participate to the maximum extent possible in the agreement on the recognition of TAA type approvals in the non-harmonised sphere within the EU,
- in technical matters addressed by WELMEC, to be particularly involved in HBZ issues and the use of software in legal metrology.
In the area of standardisation documents and recommendations, we need to:
- to ensure the participation of a representative of Czech metrology in WG 25, focused on the standard containing general requirements for ISO/IEC 17025 laboratories,
- participate in the work of ISO/REMCO committees and participate in the development and implementation of documents applied in the field of metrology in chemistry.
3.5.6 Assistance to developing countries in the field of metrology
On the basis of information on potential suppliers of measuring equipment in the Czech Republic and on the appropriate direction of assistance to developing countries according to the priorities approved by the Government of the Czech Republic, it is advisable to enter into negotiations with selected developing countries and to prepare appropriate projects for the construction, reconstruction or supplementation of instrumentation of national metrology laboratories of these countries. In addition to the assistance provided to developing countries, the fulfilment of these objectives is also an important support for the business of domestic manufacturers of measuring equipment, calibration laboratories and service providers.
3.6 Research and development in metrology
3.6.1 Research and technological development policy
Research in metrology is essential to keep up the pace of technical development and to meet the needs of the economy, linked to the increasing demands for quality of production and services and the requirements of newly introduced technologies. The position of the Czech metrology system in the EU allows taking advantage of all the benefits of coordination and cooperation aimed at optimising the cost-benefit ratio. This means that it will be possible, based on technical and economic analysis, to use foreign capacities where it would be impossible or uneconomical to build similar capacities in the Czech Republic (e.g. large test lines for liquid flow standardisation). On the other hand, the possibility of providing services abroad and thus a higher and more efficient use of Czech capacities is assumed.
For this reason, the CMI and associated laboratories in particular will participate in the European Research Area (ERA) and will be intensively involved in coordinated research. The first measure is to participate more strongly in the iMERA coordination programme and to continuously optimise cooperation on a multilateral and bilateral basis. The use of this route promises, according to the analyses carried out so far, to double the efficiency of national research funding (on the basis of Article 169 of the EC Treaty). For the iMERA project itself, CMI will strive to obtain the status of principal investigator for 2 working sub-projects - apart from the clear positives of intensive involvement in this European cooperation, there is also a non-negligible direct financial effect (sub-project funding will be at the level of at least EUR 100 to 200 000).
However, in order to fulfil this concept, it is necessary to maintain and expand the research component and to have dedicated experts in this field. To limit oneself only to the acceptance of new knowledge without the possibility of formulating and applying one's own opinion and position would be a significant mistake and a degradation of the position of Czech metrology, but especially of industry and state administration.
Incentives based on the important CIPM MRA agreement (see also Chapter 2) will be used to guide research and development in metrology. Real business support requires that the Czech metrology system responds in a timely manner to the needs of demonstrating measurement and testing equivalence and to the needs of regulatory measures in the regulated sector. Indeed, the CIPM MRA arrangement is the basis for wider trade or intergovernmental agreements and treaties.
3.6.2 Virtual institutes and centres of excellence
In the European area, the establishment of so-called virtual institutes is also being tried as one method of solution. Such institutions have a small coordinating core and the laboratories within them operate in a coordinated but economically independent manner. CMI is already involved in two such institutions, EVIGEM (for length metrology in industrial applications) and EVITHERM (thermal engineering). Implicitly, this is also the position of the Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements (IRMM, under the JRC of the European Commission). The latter institute will be one of the pillars of metrology in chemistry and the concept envisages cooperation with it as one of the foundations for the development of this subfield in the Czech Republic.
Topics that are likely to be addressed jointly, or at least substantially influenced by international cooperation, and where measurement plays a significant role, include:
- the health of the population,
- a safe company,
- nanotechnology,
- new materials and surface protection,
- computer science - especially computer science in metrology,
- broadband communications security,
- environment - chemistry, biology,
- new energy sources - photovoltaic phenomena, fuel cells,
- fuel - quality, substitutes.
The concept envisages the involvement of Czech laboratories in a network of so-called centres of excellence, which concentrate technical resources and qualifications to provide services on an international scale. The Czech Republic will use this opportunity both passively, by purchasing services, and actively. The creation of regional centres of excellence in the Czech Republic for radiometry, length metrology in industry (coordinate measuring machines, interferometers), vacuum metrology and metrology of electrical quantities for very high frequencies appears to be promising.
Intensive efforts will be made to participate in projects under the 6th Framework Programme and in particular the 7th EC Framework Programme. As FP6 does not explicitly foresee metrology, more involvement is unlikely, but for FP7 the situation is not yet clear. The following tasks are aimed at these objectives:
i. Check the possibilities of obtaining support from EU structural funds and the possibility of joining the National Development Programme.
ii. Involve qualified institutions of the Czech Republic in the so-called virtual institutes and in other common topics and try to involve Czech laboratories in the network of so-called centres of excellence.
3.6.3 Metrological continuity, national standards
As already mentioned, the metrological continuity of measurement results is necessary to ensure that the results of measurements and tests carried out in the Czech Republic are recognised abroad and to eliminate possible technical barriers to trade. Metrological continuity is ensured by means of national standards, which are at the highest level in the hierarchy of measuring instruments in the country.
The system of national standards and reference standards must respond in a timely manner to scientific and technical progress in the field. Although the system of State standards of the Czech Republic is essentially complete and covers all basic fields of measurement, continuous renewal and improvement, including the development of measurement and calibration methods, must be ensured. An important part of research is also experimental work, which serves to verify the parameters of standards and the consistency of measurement results. This is the basis for declaring the calibration and measurement capabilities of the CMI laboratories and associated laboratories, which is a decisive technical criterion for the recognition of measurement and test results throughout the national metrology system (data are assessed according to the prescribed procedure under the CIPM MRA Arrangement on Mutual Recognition of National Standards and Certificates issued by National Metrology Institutes). These objectives are the focus of this task:
i. In the following period, ensure the financing of the operation of the existing set of standards, which is assessed as necessary and adequate to the needs of the Czech Republic.
The following overview lists the groups of benchmarks with examples of the sectors for which they are most relevant.
field of measurement fields of application, examples
weight and density commercial relations, freight transport, prepackaged goods, parcel transport; weight measurement (weighing) is the basis for many indirect measurement methods, e.g. chemical analysis, scientific research, biology, health care
strength engineering, construction, transport
pressure and vacuum pressure equipment in engineering, aerospace and operation, chemical industry, power industry, food industry, liquid and gaseous products transportation, health care
gas flow natural gas transportation and distribution
flow of liquids transport and distribution of technical liquids, water, heat
acoustics and vibration engineering (vibration and shock testing, compliance with EC directives), health and hygiene, transport, construction
length engineering, construction, geodesy and cartography, woodworking
production, trade
electrical quantities energy transfer, instrumentation, most modern measurement methods in other fields, sensors
electrical quantities vf telecommunications, radar
time and frequency uniform time, the basis of various methods of measurement (speed, position in space, aviation)
radiometry and photometry of optical communication, instrumentation, imaging elements and equipment, colorimetry, hygienic service
Process temperature, heat distribution, environment, food industry, basis for other measurement methods
ionizing radiation nuclear facilities, environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics and therapy
chemical measurement chemical industry, environment, health, science and research, new materials
3.6.4 Research plan of the Czech Metrology Institute
The need for research and development in metrology is growing as innovation cycles shorten and new production and service technologies are introduced. Moreover, partnership with EU institutions requires the Czech Republic to make an active contribution in at least some selected areas of R&D. In the field of metrology, areas have been identified where such a contribution is possible on the basis of the level of qualification and equipment of the Institute and is in line with the needs of the Czech Republic. These areas (metrology of length, electrical quantities, frequency and time, radiometry) are also the subject of active international cooperation of the CMI.
As discussed in more detail in Section 2.6, the CMI's research agenda, focusing on priority projects, is being progressively implemented. A critical problem lies in the lack of institutional funding for the project and the combination of its tasks with the tasks of maintaining and operating the national standards. This is combined with the available resources of the Metrology Development Programme at the disposal of the CMI. The concept of further development of the national metrology system requires a reanalysis of this situation and finding a suitable solution which, among other things, will contribute to transparency of funding.
The aim of the research plan is to provide medium-term projects with clear specifications and deliverables. The research project is carried out by the CMI, which is well prepared in terms of qualification and space and can advantageously build on the international cooperation in EUROMET.
CMI is a unique organization in the field of metrology in the Czech Republic, as it is in all developed countries with existing national metrology institutions. They are engaged not only in research on methods of measurement, standardization and corresponding equipment, but also in research on new applications of physical phenomena. Typical examples are quantum phenomena used for frequency and time standardisation and electrical quantities. The subject of the research project does not cross with research programmes of other organisations in the Czech Republic.
The subject of the project is differentiated by disciplines research of measurement methods, design of optimal infrastructure for the Czech Republic, establishment or addition of laboratories, development of measurement technology and technological equipment, operational testing and commissioning of methods and equipment.
This is mostly research applied to the provision of metrological services compatible with the systems of EU countries, with priority in the following fields:
- New applications of quantum phenomena for the standardization of electrical quantities, frequency and time and length,
- introduction of standardization in radiometry and photometry, non-contact methods of temperature measurement,
- development of length metrology, metrology of intelligent, adaptive measuring and machining devices, implementation of methods of positioning in space, nanotechnology,
- metrology in chemistry and biology,
- measurement technology for measuring the physical properties of materials,
- extreme pressure and vacuum metrology,
- vibration and shock metrology,
- measurements in communication technology,
- development of ionizing radiation standardization.
The implementation of the project will benefit key sectors of the economy and government. The infrastructure necessary for the assimilation of new technologies will be strengthened, which is also an incentive for foreign investors. The sub-tasks focused on metrology in chemistry and ionising radiation will be reflected in the quality of the results of the huge volume of analyses in the chemical, environmental, health and defence industries. Adapting to the EU situation will generally improve the Czech Republic's position in meeting EU criteria. Promoting exports and facilitating the movement of goods will be achieved by removing technical barriers to trade and mutual recognition of test results and measurements, with a satisfactory level and recognition of metrological infrastructure.
A significant benefit of the project will also be its application in international cooperation, where the presentation of results will contribute to the implementation of agreements on mutual recognition of standards and certificates as one of the prerequisites for the competitiveness of the Czech economy.
The key points of the research concept are:
- securing institutional funding,
- optimisation of the scope of work in relation to the involvement in European programmes (ERA).
Currently, the role of metrology in chemistry and especially in laboratory medicine is growing dramatically. The breakthrough developments in this field in the last few years, the extension of metrological tools to this area, are reflected in the activities of the advisory committees of the International Committee on Weights and Measures (CIPM) and in the directive and normative activities oriented towards manufacturers and suppliers of instrumentation for clinical laboratories. In all contexts, the participation of existing qualified institutes in the Czech Republic and the coordinating role of the national metrology institute are expected.
Special problems are posed by the provision of metrological continuity in the field of metrology in chemistry (and possibly biology), where it is not always possible to establish continuity with SI units and corresponding standards, and on the other hand in the application areas of health, agriculture (and food) and transport. In the first case, in the field of metrology for chemical measurements, it is a technical and organisational problem, the solution of which involves a concept based on the following principles:
1) The management system for this area will be decentralised and the instruments already in place for its coordination are:
- Technical Commission for Chemical and Biological Measurements of the Metrology Council of the Institute of Metrology,
- CMI - information action in the system,
- Metrology Act in matters relating to legal metrology - as the only regulated part of the subsystem,
- cooperation within the 4E-CR,
- a system of analytical (clinical, etc.) laboratories of the supporting disciplines, coordinated by CMI - the aim is to achieve mutual international recognition of CIPM-MRA,
- Certification body for reference materials at CMI - supervision of manufacturers, importers and distributors of CRM.
2) The CMI operates in this subsystem by providing the services mentioned in point 4, as well as by offering information, joint projects, etc.
3) The system is externally represented:
- ÚNMZ towards the ministries and towards ISO/REMCO,
- CMI towards the CIPM MRA Arrangement, towards EUROMET, IRMM and BIPM,
- CIA to EA, based on the CMI-CIA agreement.
4) CMI, as a national metrology institute, provides selected services:
- All about IMEP, quality systems, information, training, IRMM relations, proficiency testing organization,
- everything about RM, certification campaigns, databases, sales,
- electrochemistry services, gases, nitrogen oxide content, humidity and classical physical quantities.
In the second case, especially for the above-mentioned ministries, it is a problem of coordination of work between ministries and promotion of the offer of metrological services provided in a single national metrological system. In many cases, this may involve the development of new measurement methods according to the specific needs of the sector, and it will be necessary to find adequate resources for this development through co-financing.
3.6.6 Software for measuring systems
The share of electronics and software in modern measuring instruments is increasing. Software is taking over more and more functions and measurement methods are changing, as it is becoming easier to use mathematical data processing methods, up to and including data mining.
Methodologies for calibration and testing of measuring instruments shall include, to a sufficient extent and with sufficient reliability, the examination of the metrological parameters of the complete measuring system, including verification of the software. The solution will be the subject of the following task:
i. Create a working group in the CMI to ensure continuous research, study and application of results in the methodology of calibration and verification of measuring instruments.
3.7 Development of the technical base
In this field, only monitoring research and development is assumed at the level of the CMI in order to ensure calibration and verification of measuring instruments for Czech entities at the contemporary world level in terms of the range of measured quantities and uncertainties. The solution will be the subject of the following task:
i. At CMI, complete the development of equipment for weighing under conditions of constant pressure and humidity and the development of density standards for solids and liquids.
3.7.2 Force and material characteristic metrology
Also in this field, only monitoring research (CMI) is expected in the Czech Republic in terms of metrology, but the development of the material and technical base must correspond to the needs of the economy. First of all, the system of standardisation equipment for force and moment of force measurements will be completed and the laboratory will be completed when the building of the CMI Regional Inspectorate in Prague is completed (see also below).
Modern engineering and construction industry place high demands on dynamic measurements and these are not covered by calibration possibilities in the Czech Republic. Therefore, it is necessary to solve a medium-term task, the subject of which will be:
i. Conduct a needs analysis and research on measurement methods. To develop a partial concept of a standardisation device for dynamic force and moment measurements in CMI.
3.7.3 Pressure and vacuum metrology
Since the lower limit of the range of the high vacuum benchmark already under construction is assumed to be 10-5 Pa, the need to provide primary vacuum standardization in its entirety requires the construction of a primary standard for the UHV field. Since devices of the required parameters are not commercially available, it is necessary to ensure its development and construction in cooperation with scientific research institutes, it is assumed to continue the existing successful cooperation with MFF UK. The following tasks are aimed at solving this problem:
i. To ensure the development and construction of a primary XUHV vacuum standard with a range of 10-5 up to 10-9 Pa, resp. 10-10 Pa. This part of the vacuum measurement range is economically important in many fields.
ii. At the other end of the pressure scale, provide significant refinement of the standardization of extremely high pressures up to 1 GPa in liquid media. The solution requires the acquisition of a replacement for the existing inadequate working standard. The device is not commercially available and will be developed and manufactured as part of a technical development task with the purchase of available parts.
3.7.4 Metrology of electrical quantities
In order to achieve the necessary technical level, the state standards of electrical quantities must undergo a generational change in the sense that the existing standards will be replaced in their function by quantum standards already acquired and operated. This will require a considerable amount of experimental work (comparison, data evaluation) and the preparation of the prescribed technical documentation.
The capabilities of primary metrology in the area of large currents and voltages, up to 10 kA and 100 kV, will be extended. Attention will also be paid to providing primary metrology for partial discharge systems and impulse current and voltage meters. These areas are not yet adequately covered in the Czech Republic and need to be upgraded in connection with the development of energy distribution networks and the liberalisation of the energy market.
One of the key fields is the metrology of electrical quantities for very high frequencies. This is related to the expansion of telecommunication services and instrumentation. New generations of communication and measurement systems, which are emerging very rapidly, must be considered, working with new modulation methods, using spread spectrum and extending the frequency range. The results achieved so far make it possible to develop this field in such a way as to make the services attractive to the whole Central European region. In the area of the material and technical base, the focus should be on completing the measurement equipment for spectrum analysis and for measurements in the data domain. For this purpose, appropriate measurement methods must be mastered.
Czech industry is a major supplier of components for electronics. Therefore, one of the priority directions of development is also the metrology of electrical imitation. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the renewal of the standardisation equipment and the adoption of new measurement methods that will allow to ensure metrological continuity with primary standards with sufficiently small uncertainties.
In the field of electrical quantities, the following key tasks will be addressed by CMI:
i. Implementation of quantum standards into the system of national standards, completion of relevant laboratories, development of measurement methods and enforcement of declared metrological parameters within the CIPM MRA arrangements.
ii. In the area of electrical quantities for very high frequencies, add measurement equipment for spectrum analysis and for measurements in the data domain.
iii. Expanding the capabilities of primary metrology in the area of large currents and voltages and providing systems for measuring partial discharges and impulse current and voltage meters.
iv. Renovation and completion of the laboratory for electrical imitation standardization and for calibration of RLC bridges.
The tasks of the next period will be focused on the solution of national standards based on the principle of the so-called optical frequency comb and its relation to the time standard. This solution will ensure the refinement of the calibration of lower order standards and, in particular, ensure a direct link to the national standard over a wide range of wavelengths.
The technology of coordinate measuring machines is important for industrial applications. As the CMI reference equipment will be at the end of its moral and physical lifetime in the period covered by this concept, an analysis of possible solutions will be made taking into account the situation in European metrology institutes and the corresponding task of technical and investment development will be initiated. The aim is to increase accuracy in the submicron region and to introduce non-contact measurement methods. CMI is planning to address these tasks:
i. Develop equipment for measuring flatness of precise optical surfaces (diameter over 200 mm, uncertainty 5 nm) and methodology for optical measurements of shape complex parts. One of the objectives is the application in the European Virtual Institute EVIGEM.
ii. To prepare a study of the optimal solution at the level of national standards in the field of metrology of planar angle for engineering and geodetic applications and to implement the selected concept by 2007.
In cooperation with the CMI and the associated laboratory of the Research Institute of Geodesy, Topography and Cartography, ensure metrological continuity and calibration of positioning equipment in the international WGS coordinate system.
3.7.6 Frequency and time metrology
This field is carried out by the laboratory of the Institute of Radio Engineering and Electronics (IRE) of the CAS, an affiliated laboratory of the CMI. The laboratory is one of the European leaders, especially in terms of staff qualifications and long-term systematic work in the field. The technical equipment is also of a good standard. It is expected to focus on the following tasks:
i. Ultrasensitive measurement of short-term frequency stability in the time and frequency (spectral) domain.
ii. Measurement of small delays by the time-difference method with double mixing
iii. Precision Time Transfer - A next generation nanosecond time transfer system will be developed and implemented to compare time scales using the common-view GPS method.
iv. Implementation of the European Galileo system, probably by 2008.
Approximation of the SI second and UTC time scale - continues to assume a group standard based on commercial cession clocks. A gradual renewal and replenishment of the equipment is necessary.
The implementation of the EC Directives requires the provision of capacity for the health and food sectors, the introduction of calibration of non-contact thermometers and thermometers for food storage and transport. This will be addressed in the period under review:
i. To complete the standard for the implementation of the temperature scale and for the development of non-contact temperature measurement methods. The solution will be entrusted to CMI.
3.7.8 Metrology of ionising radiation and radioactivity
The development of activities in the field of primary ionizing radiation metrology will be focused on research and development of methodologies and instrumentation in the field:
- activity metrology,
- metrology of dosimetric quantities,
- neutron dosimetry metrology.
For the field of activity metrology, a national benchmark has been announced, which should be maintained at the current high level. Modern standardisation methodologies for the determination of the activity of radionuclide solutions are being developed, based on the possibilities offered by the growth of computer technology. A liquid scintillator measurement technique will be introduced to refine methodologies for measuring the activity of pure beta radionuclides. The introduction of methodologies for the determination of noble gas activity in volume will continue.
In dosimetry, the introduction of low-energy X-ray beam metrology will continue. The existing system for photon beam standardisation, involving costly maintenance and refurbishment of X-ray equipment, needs to be maintained and developed.
A study of the possibility of introducing a primary methodology for dosimetric variables, focusing on the use of new computational algorithms, will be carried out. The methodology will include the high energy field (10-22 MeV), which is not yet covered by the CMI. The issue of standardisation of beta radiation from radionuclide sources is also not covered. An extrapolation chamber with specified metrological parameters is prepared for this area.
In the field of neutron dosimetry, two national benchmarks (neutron emission and spatial dose equivalent) have been announced. The benchmarks need to be continuously maintained and developed.
The concept does not foresee the abolition of the existing fields of standardisation, because the current state of provision of metrological needs for the Czech Republic corresponds to the demand. The CMI's foreign cooperation in the field of ionising radiation will be oriented in this direction.
All of the above-mentioned fields of standardization are followed by metrology service, consisting of calibration, verification, type tests of measuring instruments, preparation of reference materials, expert and consulting activities.
3.7.9 Metrology in radiometry and photometry
The CMI laboratories are equipped in such a way that with a small addition they can represent a top metrology centre for Central Europe. On the basis of the results achieved in the previous period, a set of calibration workstations and methodologies will be completed for users involved in the measurement of light sources, lighting parameters, measurement of display components and devices, colours, gloss, appearance properties of products. The laboratory will provide optical power measurements for fibre optics.
The basic task in radiometry and photometry is:
i. To complete the specialised workplace, to announce a national standard of optical performance on the basis of the conducted experiments and to ensure the calibration of standards for the visible part of the spectrum by 2007. This will replace the very expensive and infrequent calibration abroad.
The development of the test station to a range of 10000 m is being conceptually addressed3/h, located in premises leased by CMI from Gason in Chrudim. Then all the requirements of the gas distribution companies and Transgas a.s. for the verification of gas meters in the country will be covered, thus eliminating losses resulting from calibration abroad. Equally important in this economically important field is the independence of test and measurement results.
3.7.11 Metrology of acoustic quantities
The subject of the technical development and investment tasks will be the extension of services for ultrasound measurements by CMI. These include mainly the measurement of the performance of diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasound equipment and the measurement of certain metrological characteristics of ultrasonic measuring instruments for industry. The activity will also be extended to include some electroacoustic measurements, general acoustic measurements and measurements of the characteristics of digital transmission and recording of sound. To address current needs, the frequency range of measurements in the laboratory will need to be extended below and above the audible band. An increase in the requirements for the verification of personal computer-based instruments (new types of sound meters and analysers consisting only of input units, analogue-to-digital converters and communication interfaces for local area networks) must be anticipated.
3.7.12 Metrology in chemistry and biology
Paragraph 3.6.5 describes the concept of addressing the needs of this field, the importance of which has been repeatedly stressed by the Metric Convention bodies and EUROMET. All countries are paying particular attention to the development of the field because the measurements of this type are numerous in volume and in the variety of techniques used.
The concept envisages the completion of a system of laboratories that will create the necessary infrastructure. Among the critical tasks in the field of technical base are:
i. Development of a study of the needs of the NMS in terms of PH testing and fuel-usable biotechnology products (see section 3.3.5).
ii. Based on the results of the study, decide on the possible establishment of a fuel quality control laboratory.
iii. Detailed analysis of the needs and possibilities of creating joint laboratories, especially with university departments. Based on the results of the analysis, the development of key facilities, especially for primary measurement methods, will need to be ensured.
In order to ensure the technical development of the material and technical base in direct relation to its own research as well as to the technologies adopted, it is necessary to ensure the conditions for the fulfilment of the tasks briefly summarised in this paragraph in order to meet the needs of the Czech economy and state administration.
A new field is the verification and security of SW in measuring instruments and systems, including remote data transmission. For this purpose, a specialised unit must be set up, the crucial costs of which in the first phase will be non-investment, devoted to research, study and development of methods. In the second phase, the facility will be self-funding and self-financing.
In the field of length metrology, the introduction of non-contact measurement methods, the calibration of positioning devices in space and nanometrology will be the main direction of development.
Compared to the current situation, the situation in metrology for chemistry and biology will change fundamentally, as described above.
For the telecommunications sector, measurement technology and metrology procedures for broadband data transmission equipment and for optoelectronic systems will be developed in the next decade. Here, the calibration service has to cope with the increase in operating frequencies, with the optical transmission of microwave signals, with the requirements for calibration of microwave power, noise, frequency stability, spectrum analysers, function synthesizers, modular measurement systems. The measurement technology in use will undergo a generational change during the period covered by the concept and this will result in requirements for the equipment and qualifications of metrology departments.
In healthcare, instrumentation is being deployed on a massive scale and requires systematic care. This is a state of affairs that is new in contrast to the present, precisely because of the proliferation of the spectrum of types of instrumentation and its quantity. Therefore, an appropriate subsystem must be built up in the entire national metrology system to ensure that the metrological continuity requirements for medical devices with a measuring function (MFD) are met in accordance with the relevant harmonised EU regulations. A significant part of the activities will be covered by private entities, service and calibration companies, but the basis for ensuring metrological continuity and the methodological centre will have to be a CMI site.
The task of the first period will be to develop and discuss the classification of medical devices with a measuring function from a metrological point of view and to analyse the needs for retrofitting of CMI laboratories in this area. The analysis will include a survey of the needs of manufacturers of medical devices with a measuring function in the Czech Republic and an assessment of the needs of authorised (notified) persons in the field of assessment of metrological requirements for PMFs and consideration of the role of the CMI as a notified person for the relevant EC Directives. Cooperation with the Ministry of Health (SZÚ and SÚKL) is foreseen.
The proposed concept also envisages a first stage of preparation for metrological assurance of meters and methods in connection with the introduction of new energy and fuel sources, in particular biodiesel. The implementation output here will be an assessment of existing capacities and a proposal for their upgrading in line with the needs of the state market surveillance, consumers and the research and production sector.
3.9 Necessary operating conditions, completion of the CMI OI Prague
The operating conditions in the laboratories of the Regional Inspectorate Prague (CMI) have been inadequate for many decades and are totally inadequate for the role of the Inspectorate, which provides services to a region that accounts for about one quarter of GDP. Based on repeated analysis of the future needs of the economy, requirements for specialised laboratory space were identified before 1999.
The completion is also intended to solve the problems resulting from the fact that some of the CMI laboratories are located in leased buildings of various entities and some laboratory facilities no longer meet the needs of modern metrology. Outside the premises of the CMI there are laboratories of force and mass in the Tonava Úpice building, a length standard in the building of the Police of the Czech Republic in Prague, a gas flow standard in the premises of the Gason Chrudim company. For some measurements, e.g. EMC, CMI subleases the laboratories of the Czech Technical University, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, etc. In view of the inadequate operating conditions and costs, since 1995 CMI has been trying to gradually concentrate its laboratories in its own premises and to build operational buildings meeting the requirements of modern measurement technologies with adjusted ownership relations in the sense of good stewardship of state property.
This significant investment will be used effectively and will not be a threat to the CMI's economy only if the Institute's non-investment funding is maintained at least at the current level (CZK 50 million per year) and the current system of legal metrology in the area of subsequent verification of established measuring instruments is maintained.
For the intended construction of the laboratories, the site of the CMI in Prague 10, Radiová 3 was chosen, where the land adjacent to the CMI building is ready for construction. Utilities are in acceptable condition and distances. According to analyses and studies, the extension will provide the necessary space, especially for the branch:
- laboratory of force, moment of force and mass metrology,
- quantum laboratory of electrical quantities,
- laboratory of volume and flow of technical fluids,
- laboratory of HF quantities,
- chemical laboratory of gas mixtures and primary methods,
- fuel quality control laboratory (within the scope of the conclusions of the above analyses),
- a dedicated shock-free chamber and EMC laboratory for testing measuring instruments and systems,
- a taxometer verification facility.
In addition, suitable sanitary facilities, warehouses, operating rooms for the preparation of meters, an exchange station, a workshop and garages will be provided.
An essential characteristic of the building is that the laboratory rooms must meet strict standards for metrological work and operation of standards, such as limits of humidity, narrow temperature range, absence of influence of external electromagnetic fields, etc. The project of the above-mentioned operational building will enable to achieve the required parameters and to complete the necessary technical base of primary metrology in the Czech Republic.
On the basis of Government Resolution No. 812/2000, a final version of the study of the construction, including the budget, an independent assessment of the expediency of the construction was prepared and an inter-ministerial working group was established to prepare the submission of the investment for the completion of the CMI operating building to the Government of the Czech Republic. In 2004, steps were initiated to prepare the design and technology for the planning and construction procedures. The work already carried out allows us to assume a very rapid progress in the preparation of the investment.
The implementation of the construction requires a construction investment of approx. CZK. The prescribed analyses and variant studies have already been carried out and discussed by the interdepartmental working group. Further refinements will be made on the basis of the offer of a contractor selected in accordance with Act No. 40/2004 Coll. on public procurement.
The construction can benefit from the experience of similar projects, as similar major construction investments in metrology institutes have been made in recent years in Norway, Ireland, Switzerland and the UK (new construction, 40,000 m2). The investment in question marks the end of the construction of the CMI infrastructure for a relatively long period of time and represents a cost-effective solution. The concept of the Institute and the CMI is not to build a concentrated institute in one place, but to make appropriate use of all the existing laboratories located in the eleven regional centres of the country.
Estimated completion schedule:
planning and building proceedings 2003 2005
commissioning of project documentation 2004 2005
preparation and approval of project documentation 2005
assignment of the construction part of the action 2005
implementation of the construction part of the project 2005 2007
assignment of the technological part of the construction 2006
implementation of the technological part of the construction 2006 2007
Final evaluation of the 2008 event
3.10 Development of the information system
The activities associated with the exercise of state administration in the regulated area of metrology and the provision of industrial metrology services require that users of the services are provided with up-to-date and complete information at a level appropriate to the information society. It can be assumed that the most common source of information will be websites and special applications published by the Office for Technical Standardisation, Metrology and State Testing and the Czech Metrology Institute.
Compatibility with the information portals of the state administration and with the resources of EUROMET or virtual metrology institutes must be ensured to an appropriate extent. This part of the information system requires continuous modernisation, linked to the use of new editing principles and data protection measures. The immediate task is to complete a satisfactory CMI information system which, in addition to the website with a wide range of information on the Institute's services, contains a number of databases (national standards and calibration and measurement capabilities, authorised bodies, approved types of measuring instruments, legislation, etc.). This information resource serves the entire national metrology system. Therefore, in applying the present concept, it will be necessary to establish and operate an information point for technical information in the field of metrology at the CMI (website, e-mail address, provision of oral consultations, literature and technical service).
3.11 Brief summary, target state after implementation of the concept
The aim of the implementation of the concept is to significantly strengthen the metrology infrastructure in the Czech Republic, enabling better fulfillment of the metrology mission in the protection of public interests, support of business, including a more comfortable environment for foreign investors and implementation of European legislation (strengthening the single market), knowing that measurement is directly reflected in about 50% of GDP.
The national metrology system will take advantage of the harmonised legislation for the regulated area and the new Metrology Act. The implementation of the various metrology activities will increasingly move along an axis from government administration (public law management) to conformity assessment (private law management). In this context, greater involvement of the CMI and other eligible entities in conformity assessment in metrology is foreseen in the framework of business support, in particular in connection with the entry into force of Directive 2004/22/EC on measuring instruments (MID), on the principles of efficient use of all professional capacities and cost-effectiveness.
The concept addresses the problems of calibration and verification of measuring instruments in fields where shortcomings are still felt, for example in medical devices with measuring function, in determining weight in road and rail transport, determining vehicle speed in road transport, determining the presence of alcohol in the organism of transport participants in general, measuring emissions of internal combustion engines of vehicles, measuring selected kinematic and dynamic parameters of vehicles, etc. Technical development tasks will be addressed, introducing new fields of measurement and metrological services. Priority will be given to applications in the fields of public health, safe societies, nanotechnology, new materials, informatics in metrology, broadband communications, environment (chemistry, biology), new energy sources. Modern methods and approaches to calibration of measuring instruments will be introduced (use of the Internet, block calibration, data mining, etc.).
The development of the technical basis for mutual recognition of measurement and test results, the set of national standards will continue and the full potential of the Arrangement on Mutual Recognition of National Standards and Certificates issued by National Metrology Institutions (CIPM MRA) will be exploited. The system of metrology education at all levels will be completed.
An important component of the concept is the expansion of international cooperation on the basis of the Metric Convention, membership in EUROMET, cooperation with OIML and WELMEC.
The concept envisages coordinated and effective research in the field of metrology, which is essential for maintaining the pace of technical development and for meeting the needs of the economy, associated with the increasing demands on the quality of production.
4. Implementation process - summary of tasks and costs
4.1 Coordination and cross-cutting tasks
The tasks of this group will be financed from the normal operating funds of the task holders. Estimated cost CZK 3 million.
|
P.no. |
Task content |
Solver |
Deadline for completion |
|
1. |
Coordinate the development of the national metrology system in accordance with this approved concept. | MIT | Continuously |
|
2. |
To cooperate with the MIT to coordinate the development of the national metrology system in the context of this approved concept and to participate in the legislative tasks arising from it. | MD
MZ MOE MOE MV |
Continuously |
|
3. |
Ensure the operational conditions and financing of the activities of the laboratories affiliated to the CMI for the CIPM MRA according to the jurisdiction of the Ministry and in agreement with the MIT:
a) Ministry of the Environment: metrological laboratory of the Czech Hydrological Institute b) Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic: laboratory of the Institute of Radio Engineering and Electronics c) VŠCHT: metrology centre of VŠCHT in the scope of competence for NMS d) ČÚZK: laboratory of the Research Institute of Geodesy, Topography and Cartography |
MOE
CAS CCHR Journal CMI |
Continuously |
|
4. |
Establish and develop an information point for technical information in the field of metrology at the CMI (website, literature and technical service, help-desk). | CMI | 2007 |
|
5. |
To submit a project for a metrology training centre at the CMI, including technical and personnel equipment. The centre should be designed as an accredited training centre for postgraduate education. Establish cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Science and the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic. | CMI | 2010 |
4.2 Legal metrology and legislation
The tasks of this group will be financed from the normal operating funds of the task holders. Estimated cost CZK 8 million.
|
P.no. |
Task content |
Solver |
Deadline for completion |
|
1. |
In cooperation with the MIT, CMI, ÚNMZ, the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of the Interior, the Police of the Czech Republic and selected carriers, develop a unified concept of measurement in road and rail transport, including the principles of selection of measuring instruments and methods of measurement and requirements for the modification of legislation. Submit this concept to the Minister for Transport for approval. | MIT
MD MV Journal CMI |
06/2007 |
|
2. |
To prepare and issue a Government Regulation on the Act on Technical Requirements for Products, implementing Directive 2004/22/EC into the Czech legal system. | MIT
Journal |
04/2006 |
|
3. |
Ensure the adoption of harmonised European technical standards and implement OIML and WELMEC documents and other documents implementing Directive 2004/22/EC. | Journal
CSNI, CMI |
04/2006 |
|
4. |
On the basis of the analysis of the needs of manufacturers of measuring equipment in the Czech Republic, to develop a strategy of the Czech Metrology Institute regarding its application as an authorized (notified) person for conformity assessment of measuring instruments covered by Directive 2004/22/EC. | Journal
CMI |
12/2005 |
|
5. |
To prepare and issue a Government Regulation to the Act on Technical Requirements for Products implementing the EU New Approach Directive for prepackaged goods into the Czech legal system. To reflect the changes in the Metrology Act. Ensure the adoption of harmonised technical standards and implement the OIML and WELMEC recommendations and other implementing documents of the Directive. | MIT
Journal CSNI CMI |
following the adoption of the Directive, |
|
6. |
To provide administrative procedures for the authorisation and notification of conformity assessment bodies within the scope of the EU New Approach Directive for pre-packaged goods and to contribute to the development of uniform EU-wide conformity assessment procedures in line with the EU Directive. | MIT
Journal CMI |
12/2006 |
|
7. |
Develop and issue a cross-cutting MIT implementing decree to the Metrology Act and a MIT decree specifying the types of measuring instruments subject to type approval and mandatory verification and setting the validity periods for verification. | MIT
Journal CMI |
12/2006 12/2010 |
|
8. |
Complete the process of drafting the MIT Decree on the Metrology Act setting out the metrological and technical requirements for specified measuring instruments and other requirements. | MIT
ÚNMZ, |
12/2007 |
|
9. |
Introduce a system of metrological testing of measuring instruments withdrawn from the network of use after the expiry of the validity period for verification, with a view to objectifying the validity periods for verification laid down by law. | Journal
CMI |
12/2006 |
|
10. |
Establish a system of registration and metrological categorization of types of medical devices with a measuring function and establish rules for ensuring their metrological characteristics. In cooperation with the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Health, the State Institute for Drug Control, to reflect the requirements for ensuring and controlling the metrological continuity of these measuring devices in the relevant legislation in accordance with the EU regulation of this harmonised area. | MIT
MZ SÚKL ÚNMZ CMI |
12/2008 |
|
11. |
Within the framework of international cooperation, to promote the principles of practical application of the "recognition clause" for metrological testing in the so-called non-harmonised sphere according to the principles acceptable in the Czech Republic, to implement the EC document on the practical application of the "recognition clause" and to ensure the registration of approved types of measuring instruments used in the Czech Republic as specified and the registration of verification marks having the validity of official marks in the Czech Republic according to the Metrology Act. Implement the implementation documents and recommendations of OIML and WELMEC. | MIT
Journal CMI |
following the publication of the EC document |
|
12. |
Analyse the requirements of the MAA system and the prerequisites of the CMI as a body authorised by the Metrology Act to perform tests for type approval of measuring instruments. Subsequently, make recommendations for possible accession of the Czech Republic to the MAA arrangements. | MIT Journal CMI |
following the release of the OIML document |
|
13. |
To gather knowledge on methods of influencing the accuracy of measuring instruments, to collaborate on the development of methodologies for testing measuring instruments in order to prevent or detect the mechanism of influencing measuring instruments through electronic elements and software functions. To apply the acquired information in the legal and technical regulations of the Czech Republic and in the performance of metrological supervision. | CMI
Journal |
Continuously |
|
14. |
In cooperation with the manufacturers of meters and metering systems and with the distribution entities of water, gas, electricity, heat, or other media, monitor trends in the practical implementation of systems for remote reading of the amount of media consumed. In the framework of international cooperation, participate in the development of requirements for remote metering systems and methods for their testing. To apply the information obtained in the drafting of legal and technical regulations of the Czech Republic and in the performance of metrological supervision. | CMI
Journal |
Continuously |
|
15. |
To ensure the practical implementation of state metrological control of measuring instruments and measuring sets with remote reading and data processing, both technically and in terms of personnel. | CMI
Journal |
Continuously |
|
16. |
To develop the content and structure of metrological audits of entities transporting and storing energy and petroleum products and to create a personnel and technical basis for their practical implementation. | CMI |
12/2007 |
The tasks of this group will be financed from the normal operating funds of the task holders and from the operating subsidy. Estimated cost CZK 10 million.
|
P.no. |
Task content |
Solver |
Deadline for completion |
|
1. |
Arrange for the sending of a Czech delegation to the General Conference on Weights and Measures. | MIT
Journal |
2007 |
|
2. |
Consistently promote the participation of Czech experts in the work of CIPM Advisory Committees. | Journal
CMI |
Continuously |
|
3. |
Maintain and develop the established international cooperation in EUROMET and in the OIML and WELMEC organisations, strive to strengthen the position of Czech experts in the bodies of these organisations and in technical committees. | Journal
CMI |
Continuously |
|
4. |
Involve qualified Czech institutions in the so-called virtual institutes and in other common topics and try to involve Czech laboratories in the network of so-called centres of excellence. | CMI |
Continuously |
|
5. |
Participate in joint projects in the EC Framework Programmes, in particular the iMERA project. | CMI |
2005/2007 |
|
6. |
Consistently apply the CIPM MRA Arrangement and comply with its terms, including systematic participation in key comparisons and including cooperation on quality management systems. | CMI |
Continuously |
|
7. |
To continue the cooperation with the EC JRC IRMM Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements, to act as coordinator of the IMEP programme and as a training centre for metrology in chemistry (MiC Training). | CMI |
Continuously |
|
8. |
Ensure the participation of a representative of Czech metrology in WG 25 (WELMEC), focused on the standard containing general requirements for ISO/IEC 17025 laboratories. | CMI |
2005 |
|
9. |
Participate in the work of ISO/REMCO committees and participate in the development and implementation of documents applied in the field of metrology in chemistry. | Journal
CMI |
Continuously |
4.4 Development of existing and introduction of new fields of metrology, technical development
The tasks of this group will be financed from the CMI reproduction fund, the operating subsidy and investment subsidies. The estimated cost is CZK 205 million, of which CZK 45 million are non-investment costs for research, development and operation of the state standards.
The subject of the solution are cross-cutting programmes and specific tasks of technical development, including the implementation of the CMI research plan.
|
P.no. |
Task content |
Solver |
Deadline for completion |
|
1. |
Technical and personnel support for a specialised workplace to carry out expertise, validation and verification of software in metrology applications, including data transfer and calibration support, supported by internet facilities. | CMI | 2006/2007 |
|
2. |
To prepare an analysis of the provision of needs in the field of NMS for quality control of PH and on the basis of its results to propose the possible completion of the necessary capacities, including technical and personnel provision, the system of sampling and transport of samples and to determine the directions of scientific research activities in the field of testing of quality parameters of PH. | CMI |
2010 |
|
3. |
In the following period, to ensure the operation and continuous technical renewal and improvement of the system of state standards announced by decisions of the President of the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Director General of the CMI. | MIT
Journal CMI associated laboratories |
Continuously |
|
4. |
Introduce ultrasound performance benchmarking. Develop a study on the metrological security of ultrasound diagnostic and therapeutic equipment in medicine and industrial diagnostics. | CMI |
2007 |
|
5. |
Implement quantum standards into the system of national standards, complete the relevant laboratories, enforce the declared calibration and measurement capabilities within the CIPM MRA arrangements. | CMI |
2006 |
|
6. |
In the area of electrical quantities for very high frequencies, add measurement equipment at the primary level for spectrum analysis up to 18 GHz and for measurements in the data domain. | CMI |
2006 |
|
7. |
To expand the capabilities of primary metrology in the area of large currents and voltages and to provide systems for measuring partial discharges and impulse current and voltage meters. | CMI |
2010 |
8. |
Renew and complete the equipment for the electrical immittance standardization and for the calibration of the RLC bridges. | CMI |
2008 |
|
9. |
Complete the development of the gas flow test station to a range of 10000 m3/h and continually review service user requirements. | CMI |
2007 |
|
10. |
In international collaboration, focus on the study of new applications of quantum phenomena for the standardization of electrical quantities, frequency and length. Produce a feasibility study and economic analysis. | CMI |
2010 |
|
11. |
Ensure the continuous development of the standardisation of ionising radiation quantities, taking into account the coordinated approach of European institutions within EUROMET. | CMI |
2010 |
|
12. |
To develop a study on the possibility of introducing a primary methodology for dosimetric quantities, focusing on the use of new computational algorithms. The methodology will also include the high energy field (10 MeV - 22 MeV), which is not yet covered by the CMI. The issue of standardisation of beta radiation from radionuclide sources is also not covered. | CMI |
2006 |
|
13. |
In the field of neutron dosimetry, two national standards (neutron emission and spatial dose equivalent) have been announced. Ensure the continuous development of the standards. | CMI | Continuously |
|
14. |
Development of length metrology, metrology of intelligent, adaptive measuring and machining devices, implementation of methods of positioning in space. | CMI | Continuously |
|
15. |
Development of methods related to nanotechnology. Introduction of methods for the analysis of structures and surfaces of materials. | CMI | Continuously |
|
16. |
To prepare a study of the optimal solution at the level of national standards in the field of planar angle metrology for engineering and geodetic applications and to implement the selected concept by 2007. | CMI |
2007 |
|
17. |
Develop equipment for measuring the flatness of precision optical surfaces (diameter over 200 mm, uncertainty 5 nm) and methodology for optical measurements of shape complex parts. One of the objectives is to be applied in the European Virtual Institute EVIGEM. | CMI |
2007 |
|
18. |
In cooperation with CMI and the associated laboratory of the Research Institute of Geodesy, Topography and Cartography, ensure metrological continuity and calibration of GPS, GLONASS and GALILEO positioning equipment. | CMI
ČÚZK/ VÚGTK |
2008 |
|
19. |
To prepare documentation for the declaration of the state standard of large lengths and to declare the geodetic base of large lengths as the state standard. | ČÚZK/ VÚGTK |
2006 |
|
20. |
To prepare the documentation required for the state standards and to announce the state standard for gravimetry - the parameter of gravity. | ČÚZK/ VÚGTK |
2006 |
|
21. |
Develop and commission extreme vacuum and high pressure standards in liquid media.
To ensure the development and construction of a primary vacuum standard with a range of 10-5 up to 10-9 Pa, resp. 10-10 Pa. On the other side of the pressure scale, it is necessary to ensure a significant refinement of the standardisation of extremely high pressures up to 1 GPa. The solution requires the acquisition of a replacement for the existing inadequate working standard. |
CMI |
2007 |
|
22. |
At CMI, complete the development of equipment for weighing under conditions of constant pressure and humidity and the development of density standards for solids and liquids. | CMI |
2006 |
|
23. |
Conduct a needs analysis and research of methods for dynamic force and moment of force measurements. To develop a partial concept of the standardisation equipment in CMI. | CMI |
2006 |
|
24. |
To complete the construction of a system of force and moment measurement facilities with the aim of transferring these activities to the premises to be acquired by the extension of the CMI Regional Inspectorate building in Prague. The laboratory will be temporarily operated in the CMI Primary Metrology Laboratory building. | CMI |
2010 |
|
25. |
Development of a decentralised system of metrology services for metrology in chemistry and biology - using the system of existing qualified laboratories, cooperation with EUROLAB CZ and international cooperation. | Journal
CMI |
2010 |
|
26. |
Conduct a detailed analysis of the needs and possibilities of creating joint laboratories in the cross-cutting fields of metrology in chemistry, especially with university departments and with departments of the CAS. On the basis of the results of the analysis, ensure the development of key facilities, especially for primary measurement methods, in a subsequent phase. | CMI |
2006 |
|
27. |
To complete a top specialised radiometry and photometry facility, to announce a national standard of optical performance based on the experiments carried out and to ensure the calibration of standards for the visible part of the spectrum by 2007. | CMI |
2007 |
|
28. |
Building a device for non-contact temperature measurement over a wide temperature range. | CMI |
2006 |
|
29. |
Ultrasensitive measurement of short-term frequency stability in the time and frequency (spectral) domain. | CAS/ IRE |
2007 |
|
30. |
Measurement of small delays using the time-difference method with double mixing. | CAS/ IRE |
2006 |
|
31. |
Precision time transfer - a next generation nanosecond time transfer system will be developed and implemented for time scale comparison using the method common-view GPS. | CAS/ IRE |
2010 |
|
32. |
Approximation of the SI second and UTC time scale - continues to assume a group standard based on commercial cession clocks. Ensure gradual renewal and replenishment of equipment. | CAS/ IRE |
2006 |
4.5 Completion of the operational building of CMI OI Prague
The tasks of this group will be financed from the investment subsidy of the MIT and the budget of the Czech Metrology Institute. At the time of the submission of the draft concept, negotiations are underway with the MIT to secure resources in the individual years of construction. The planned cost is CZK 250 million.
Ensure the following tasks are addressed:
|
P.no. |
Task content |
Solver |
Deadline for completion |
|
1. |
Zoning and construction proceedings | CMI |
2003/2005 |
|
2. |
Project documentation assignment | CMI |
2004/2005 |
|
3. |
Preparation and approval of project documentation | CMI |
2005 |
|
4. |
Commissioning of the construction part of the action | MIT
CMI |
2005 |
|
5. |
Implementation of the construction part of the action | CMI |
2005/2007 |
|
6. |
Specification of the technological part of the construction | CMI |
2006 |
|
7. |
Implementation of the technological part of the construction | CMI |
2006/2007 |
|
8. |
Operational tests | CMI |
2008 |
|
9. |
Final evaluation of the event | MIT
Journal CMI |
2008 |
The submitted material is a comprehensive document on the concept of development of the national metrology system of the Czech Republic for the period until 2010. The concept is a logical continuation of the intentions and subsequently fulfilled tasks approved by Government Resolution 812/2000.
The concept is aimed at ensuring that the Czech metrology system continues to play its role in ensuring the competitiveness and growth of the Czech economy.
The concept assumes continuous development of all segments, including scientific metrology, but respects as much as possible the developments in the European Union, leading to efficient coordination of work, sharing of capacities, etc. This corresponds in particular to the focus of international cooperation and the expected participation in the coordination of R&D tasks.
An essential part of the concept is the intention to complete the construction of the infrastructure of the Czech Metrology Institute. In this part, the presented concept is again a continuation of the work carried out pursuant to Government Resolution No. 812/2000.
List and explanation of abbreviations used
AMS Authorised Metrology Centre
Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic
BIPM Bureau International des Poids et Mesures International -
International Bureau of Weights and Measures
CIPM Comité International des Poids et Mesures - International Committee on Weights and Measures
CNG compressed natural gas - international abbreviation for compressed natural gas
ČHMÚ Czech Hydrometeorological Institute
CMI Czech Metrology Institute
CTIA Czech Trade Inspection Authority
ČÚZK Czech Office of Surveying and Cadastre
CTU Czech Technical University
EA European co-operation for Accreditation
EC (EC) European Commission
EC JRC IRMM Joint Research Centre of the IRMM - International Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements
EEA European Economic Area
EMAS Environmental Management and Audit Scheme in small
and medium-sized enterprises
EMC electromagnetic compatibility
ERA European Research Area
EC European Community
EU European Union
EURACHEM European professional organisation in the field of analytical chemistry
EUROLAB European organisation for the promotion of cooperation between testing laboratories
EUROMET European regional organisation for cooperation between national metrology institutes
EVIGEM acronym of the European Virtual Institute for Length Metrology
GALILEO European Navigation Satellite System
GLONASS Global Navigation Satellite System - Global Navigation Satellite System
GPS Global Positioning System
HBZ prepackaged goods
GDP gross domestic product
IEC International Electrotechnical Commission
ILAC International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation
IMEP International Measurement Evaluation Programme
iMERA acronym for the programme which aims to implement the results of a pan-European survey of research and development capacities and to coordinate international development in this field
ISO International Organization for Standardization
ISO/CASCO ISO International Committee for Conformity Assessment
ISO/REMCO International Reference Materials Committee
JRC EU Joint Research Centre
KCDB BIPM Key Comparison Database
MAA Mutual Acceptance Arrangement"
MD Ministry of Transport
MERA development project EUROMET
MID Measuring Instruments Directive - EU Measuring Instruments Directive
Metric Convention International Convention to provide a globally uniform system of units of measurement
metrology the science of measurement
MF Ministry of Finance
MiC Metrology in Chemistry
MLA Multilateral Mutual Recognition Agreement
MoD Ministry of Defence
MIT Ministry of Industry and Trade
MRA Mutual Recognition Arrangement
Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports
Ministry of the Interior
MZ Ministry of Health
MZe Ministry of Agriculture
Ministry of the Environment Ministry of the Environment
NCSL National Conference of Standard Laboratories, USA - National Conference/Association of Standard Laboratories
NMS National Metrology System
OI Regional Inspectorate
OIML International Organization for Legal Metrology
PH fuel
PO contributory organisation
RLC immittance designation (R-resistance, C-capacity, L-inductance)
RM reference material
FP framework programme
SI System International d´Unités (International System of Units)
designation of the international system of units
STK technical inspection station
SW software - software equipment
SÚKL State Institute for Drug Control
SZÚ State Institute of Health
TAA Agreement on Recognition of Type Approval (within WELMEC)
Institute of Radio Engineering and Electronics of the CAS
UHV ultra high vacuum
ÚNMZ Office for Technical Standardization, Metrology and State Testing
UTC Universal Time Coordinated - Universal Time Scale
VŠCHT University of Chemical Technology
V/V science/research
WELMEC (Western) European Legal Metrology Cooperation WELMEC
European cooperation in legal metrology
WG working group
WGS World Geodetic System
WTO World Trade Organisation
World Trade Organisation
WTO TBT WTO Agreement on the elimination of technical barriers to trade
ZPMF medical devices with measuring function