CALIBRATION GUIDE

What is calibration management—and why is it more than scheduling dates?

Learn how organisations control measuring equipment from selection and identification through calibration, use, exception handling and retirement.

10 minute readReviewed September 2026
THE SHORT ANSWER

Calibration management is the controlled process for identifying measuring equipment, defining requirements, scheduling calibration, establishing traceability, evaluating results and preserving evidence that measurements are fit for purpose.

Elements of calibration management

A programme includes scope, unique identification, metrological requirements, status, handling, storage, calibration method, interval, traceability, records and responsibility.

The level of control should reflect how measurement error could affect safety, quality, compliance or customer decisions.

Evaluate the result

A calibration compares instrument indication with a reference under stated conditions. The result needs interpretation against intended use, tolerance, measurement uncertainty and the decision rule where conformity is stated.

As-found data can be especially important because it indicates the condition during the preceding use period.

Manage exceptions and change

Damage, relocation, adjustment, overdue status or an out-of-tolerance result can require removal from use and assessment of previous measurements.

Record containment, affected product or periods, technical review and disposition so the final decision remains explainable.

Authoritative guidance

Use these primary sources alongside your organisation's competent technical and legal advice.

COMMON QUESTIONS

What is calibration management? FAQs

What equipment needs calibration management?

Equipment whose measurement performance affects product, process, safety, compliance or a decision should be considered according to risk and requirements.

Is calibration the same as adjustment?

No. Calibration establishes the relationship between indication and reference values; adjustment changes the instrument and may be followed by recalibration.

Who sets calibration requirements?

The organisation should use technical requirements, intended use, risk, standards, customer obligations and competent judgement.

KEEP READING

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PUT THE GUIDANCE INTO PRACTICE

Keep every instrument, result and certificate under control.

Maintarium Pro connects calibration schedules, traceable results, approvals and instrument history.

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