Calibration and Measurement

Traceability for Construction Materials

Testing Equipment
[UKAS Publication ref: LAB 21]

Contents
Section Page
1. Introduction. 3
2. Terminology 3
3. General 4
4. Measurement traceability 4
5. Calibration and check intervals 5
6. Calibration and check procedures 6
7. Records 6
8. Uncertainty of measurement 7
Appendix A Table detailing calibration and checking of equipment used to test construction 9
materials

Appendix B Examples of uncertainty budgets 28

About the United Kingdom Accreditation Service

The United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) is recognised by the UK Government as the national
body responsible for assessing and accrediting the competence of organisations in the fields of calibration,
testing, inspection and certification of systems, products and personnel

Page 1 of 29
1 Introduction

1.1 The requirements for equipment calibration and measurement traceability are given in
ISO/IEC 17025. Several guidance publications providing interpretation of these
requirements for particular items of equipment and forms of measurement are listed in
SANAS Publications. M4.

1.2 This publication provides guidance for laboratories needing to meet the requirements as
applied to construction materials testing. By following this guidance, laboratories will be
able to demonstrate at assessment that they meet these requirements. Alternative methods
may be used provided that they are shown to give an equivalent outcome.

1.3 In general, calibration of equipment needs to be traceable to national standards. When

laboratories use external calibration services, they should obtain a valid certificate from a
calibration laboratory that demonstrates competence, measurement capability and
traceability. A calibration certificate bearing the SANAS calibration accreditation mark [or
identity of the national standards laboratory mark of an accreditation body with which
SANAS has a recognition agreement] for the relevant calibration/verification will be sufficient
evidence.

2 Terminology

2.1. For the purposes of this publication the following terms apply:

2.2. Calibration: specific types of measurement performed on measurement standards,

material measures and measuring instruments to establish the relationship between the
indicated values and known values of a measured quantity. The term covers calibrations
carried out using appropriate reference equipment at any location.

2.3. Check: specific types of inspection and/or measurement performed on materials and
equipment to indicate compliance or otherwise with stated criteria. The term covers
checks carried out at any location.

2.4. Repeatability: r is the value below which the absolute difference between two or more
single test results obtained with the same method on replicate test samples, under the
same conditions (same operator. same apparatus. same laboratory and a short interval of
time) may be expected to lie with a specified probability; which. in the absence of other
indicators is 95%

2.5. Reproducibility: R is the value below which the absolute difference between two or
more single test results obtained with the same method on replicate test samples, under
different conditions (different operators and/or different apparatus and/ or different
laboratories and/ or different time), may be expected to lie with a specified probability;
which in the absence of other indications is 95%.

2.6. Uncertainty of measurement: a statement of the limits of the range within which the
true value of a measurement is expected to lie at a given level of confidence (see SANAS
publication M3003. The Expression of Uncertainty and Confidence in Measurement).

The definitions of r and R are consistent with those given in BSI PD 6461: Part 1: 1995:
Vocabulary of Metrology.

Page 2 of 29
3 General

3.1 The laboratory's programme for the maintenance and calibration of equipment will
typically comprise periodic cleaning, servicing, calibration and safety checks (where
applicable). Performance and compliance checks may also be necessary as part of the
calibration aspect of the programme.

3.2 Standards often define the accuracy to be achieved and include specifications for
equipment considered suitable for use. In order to ensure that the equipment available
complies with the requirements of a particular test method, each item must be suitably
calibrated and/or checked. These calibrations and/or checks can be achieved in a
number of ways depending on the parameters being measured, the specified tolerances
and the capability of the laboratory.

3.3 When establishing a calibration programme, aspects of measurement traceability,

procedures, intervals and records for both calibration and checks, need to be considered
for each item of equipment in relation to the particular test method for which it may be
used. These key components are considered in this publication in order to assist
construction materials laboratories establish a suitable equipment verification programme.

3.4 Appendix A lists key items of reference equipment and working equipment used to carry
out a wide range of tests on construction materials, and detail a programme of
calibrations and checks which would normally be considered suitable. The table also
indicates the level of traceability generally considered appropriate (see paragraph 4.2)
and for which items external certificates of various forms are advised (see paragraphs
7.2; and 7.6). Appendix A is not an exhaustive list of all items of equipment requiring
periodic recalibration or checking but may be of assistance as a guide when establishing
or reviewing a calibration system.

3.5 It must be borne in mind that the calibration and checking guidance given in this
publication does not supersede the requirements of a nationally published test method.

Page 3 of 29
4 Measurement traceability

4.1 The means of establishing traceability of measurement to national standards will vary
between different items of equipment depending on a number of factors such as the
complexity of the measurement, the accuracy of the measurement and the capability of
the laboratory.

4.2 Calibrations and checks carried out on equipment used for testing construction materials
and products may be conveniently classified into four general levels as listed below:

(a) Level 1: A calibration carried out by a laboratory accredited by SANAS for the
measurements concerned and for which a SANAS calibration certificate is issued.
Certificates from other calibration bodies may be acceptable provided that full traceability
to national standards is demonstrated.

(b) Level 2: A calibration, which may be carried out in-house, performed to a documented
method by competent staff, using appropriate reference standards/equipment. The
reference standards/equipment will need to be calibrated by a laboratory that can
demonstrate competence, measurement capability and traceability, e.g. a SANAS
accredited calibration laboratory.

(c) Level 3: A check, which may be carried out in-house, performed by competent staff
using appropriately calibrated equipment to a documented procedure.

(d) Level 4: A visual check, where the item is inspected to provide assurance that the
equipment meets the requirements of the appropriate standard, but no measurements are
required.

4.3 When determining the programme of calibrations and/or checks appropriate for an item of
equipment the capability of the laboratory and requirements of the calibration must be
kept in mind. As a guide, any instrument or reference standard used should have an
accuracy 10 times better than that of the device being calibrated. The actual accuracy
required will be determined by calculating uncertainty budgets for particular calibration
regimes using defined calibration apparatus. Guidance on where this should be
performed is given in Appendix A. As an example, a device having a ±0,5 % tolerance
might be calibrated using a standard having an uncertainty of ±0,05 %. There may,
however, be exceptions to this rule where a factor of 2 or 5 may be acceptable.

4.4 Many items of equipment are assemblies of component pieces of apparatus and
calibrations or checks may be required on the item as a whole, the individual components
or a combination of both. A number of levels of calibration or check may therefore be
required on the one item.

4.5 Following assessment of a laboratory's equipment calibration and check system, a higher
level of traceability may be necessary than that undertaken by the laboratory to achieve
the accuracy required in the accredited tests. This situation may arise where the
capabilities required to perform the calibration in-house e.g. environment, equipment,
staff are not available to the laboratory.

Page 4 of 29
5 Calibration and check intervals

5.1 Before equipment is placed into service, a suitable calibration or check is needed to
confirm compliance with the respective standard requirements. Most items of equipment
also require periodic re-calibration or checking, as the accuracy or value may change with
use/time. It is important that the re-calibration or check is undertaken before any
probable change in accuracy or value has occurred that is of significance to the use of the
equipment. To confirm such changes have not occurred in between re-calibration, interim
checks may also be required.

5.2 To assist laboratories develop their calibration and check programme, the table in
Appendix A contains periods between successive calibrations or checks which have been
defined in published standards or are considered to be acceptable. Normally, these
intervals are the maxima acceptable for each specified type of equipment provided that
the equipment:
(a) is of good quality and known stability;
(b) has achieved satisfactory performance at previous calibrations and checks;
c) is checked before first use or as defined in 5.1 and at appropriate intervals
thereafter to show stability has not been impaired following suspected or indicated
mishandling, overloading or malfunctioning;

5.3 When determining re calibration and check intervals, the applicable test methods in
published standards, SANAS publications and manufacturer's instructions should be
referred to for initial guidance. The guidance set by these publications and the
compliance of each item of equipment with the criteria detailed under paragraph 5.2, will
determine the interval finally set. Where there is doubt regarding an individual item's
ability to meet the above criteria, the calibration/check interval for that piece of equipment
may have to be shortened to ensure continued accuracy and performance. In some
instances this calibration interval may be extended for an individual piece of equipment
e.g. when a stable calibration history has been established. Calibration intervals may not,
however, be relaxed if they are a mandatory element of the test method.

5.4 To ensure that calibrations and checks are carried out at the appropriate frequency a
forward planner should be prepared. A planner may take one of a number of forms. A
wall calendar which identifies the items requiring attention in each month is just one
example of a forward planner. Whatever form the system takes it needs to provide
adequate notice of a pending calibration or check to ensure it is carried out by the due
date. This is particularly important where items are calibrated externally and considerable
time may be required to organise the calibration, to have it carried out and to evaluate the
results before the item is returned to service.

Page 5 of 29
6 Calibration and check procedures

6.1 Laboratories should normally have and follow documented procedures for all calibrations
and checks. [Exceptions may be allowed for measuring equipment when it is technically
unnecessary to require a detailed procedure]. Documented procedures may be
published Standards, instrument manufacturer's instructions or in-house procedures. It
may be necessary to supplement published procedures with in-house instructions.

6.2 The appropriate selection and correct execution of these procedures by trained and
authorised personnel is fundamental to achieving confidence in the results of the
calibrations or checks.

7 Records

7.1 For ease of use, laboratories may wish to hold a number of associated records rather
than one large document or file. A records systems might for instance consist of an
equipment register, calibration/check forward planner and calibration/check and
maintenance files, which may be in hard copy or other suitable laboratory information
management system. It is essential that these records are available to the staff
performing the checks or recalibrations.

7.2 When an external calibration is required (par. 4.2a, Level 1), it is the responsibility of the
laboratory to check each certificate (SANAS or otherwise) in order to ensure that the
corresponding item of equipment is suitable for use. In particular, the certificate must be
checked to ensure that the equipment has been calibrated over the appropriate range
and with the required uncertainty for the test method. Any queries should be raised with
the calibrating body or, where necessary, SANAS.

7.3 The use of proforma record sheets for in-house calibrations or checks (par. 4.2b level 2
and par. 4.2c & d levels 3 & 4) is recommended as this ensures that all necessary
information is recorded. When preparing such proformas, care should be taken to ensure
space is provided for all components of the calibration or check and all applicable details.

7.4 The use of diagrams and tables indicating acceptable values and actual values may be
useful, particularly where dimensional checks are made. Diagrams may also be helpful in
other areas e.g. to indicate the placement of temperature measuring devices during a
check of the temperature distribution within the working space of an oven.

7.5 Where a simple measurement or visual check of an item is required before each use (e.g.
a visual check of sieves) it is acceptable and often most appropriate to record the check
on the relevant test work sheet rather than on a separate form.

7.6 For some items, parameters, such as the material of manufacture, are specified in the
test method for which calibrations are not required. In such cases, when an item is
purchased, an authoritative certificate or statement of compliance to the design
specification will be needed as evidence that the item is designed and manufactured to
meet the requirements of the test method.

Page 6 of 29
8 Uncertainty of measurement

8.1 Laboratories testing construction materials are expected to estimate the uncertainty of
measurement for all calibrations carried out in-house (Level 2) on measuring equipment
(i.e. equipment which is used to take measurements such as length. temperature and
mass). Guidance on where this is required is given in Appendix A and typical worked
examples are given in Appendix B. The practicability of this will largely depend on
whether the calibration involves measurements by equipment for which uncertainty
values are available or readily determinable.

8.2 To determine the uncertainty associated with a calibration the procedure should first be
broken down into its component measurements. The significant sources of all
uncertainties should then be identified and quantified. In most cases, uncertainties may
then be combined by an appropriate method to produce an overall uncertainty value.

8.3 Every time a measurement is taken, random effects from various sources contribute
uncertainty to the value of the reading taken. These include variability resulting from
imprecise definition of the calibration (e.g. poor accessibility for taking a length
measurement), uncertainty in discrimination (e.g. interpolation on a scale) and random
fluctuations (e.g. fluctuation in an influencing parameter such as temperature).

8.4 The uncertainties arising from random effects are principally evaluated from repetitive
measurements by statistical methods (a Type A evaluation). Information contained in
Standards on repeatability and reproducibility may be useful when evaluating these
uncertainties.

8.5 Systematic effects also contribute uncertainty, and sources associated with a calibration
include those relating to the equipment used to make each specific measurement and
any peripheral measurements, such as room temperature. The uncertainty associated
with each piece of equipment used to carry out the calibration will in most cases be
available from its current calibration certificate. Where this is not applicable, information
which may be acceptable to SANAS may be available from the equipment manufacturer.
In many cases, it will be practical to eliminate many of the sources of uncertainty, e.g. by
applying corrections from the external calibration report and by carrying out the calibration
at the same temperature at that used for calibrating the reference equipment.

8.6 More detailed guidance on the expression of uncertainty and confidence in

measurements may be found in the SANAS publication M 3003. The Expression of
Uncertainty and Confidence in Measurement.

8.7 Appendix B gives worked examples of uncertainty budgets for two commonly used
parameters in materials testing laboratories.

Page 7 of 29
Appendix A
Table detailing calibration and checking of equipment used to test construction
materials
A.1. This table has been prepared as a guide to the effective calibration and checking of items
of equipment used to carry out tests on construction materials. Where more than one
type of a particular item is listed (e.g. reference or working thermometers; coarse sieves
and fine sieves) guidelines are given for each specified type. Note that further guidance
on calibration for specific items may be available. Consult SANAS Publications (M4) for
current SANAS publications.
A.2. The table does not list all items of equipment that may be used and the absence of an
item in the table does not necessarily indicate that calibration or check procedures are not
appropriate.
A.3. For ease of use, the table is divided into five sections indicating the nature of the material
for which the item is commonly used. These are headed' General', 'Aggregate',
'Bituminous Materials', 'Concrete' and 'Soils'. Items of equipment are listed alphabetically
within the section to which they relate
A.4. The table specifically provides guidance on the:
(a) minimum level of traceability (see Section 4 of this publication), considered
appropriate for each calibration/check;
(b) maximum period between successive calibrations considered to be appropriate (see
Section 5 of this publication);
(c) the certificates or records of various types that shall be held.
(d) uncertainty of measurement requirements (see Section 8 of this publication)
A.5. The specified level of traceability is the minimum considered appropriate. An organisation
may choose to achieve a higher level of traceability for a calibration/check, but not a lower
one, e.g. Level 1 rather than Level 2.
A.6. The specified calibration interval is the maximum considered appropriate and may not
normally be extended (see Section 5 of this publication).
A.7. Where the calibration/check requirement for a particular item of equipment (i.e. 3rd
column of table) refers to items of equipment used to carry out the calibration/ check,
many of these auxiliary items are themselves listed as separate entries in the table.
A.8. The relevant parts of the following standard test methods were consulted when preparing
this table.
THM1, 5, 6
BS 598: Parts 102; 105; 107
BS 812: Parts 100; 101; 102; 103.1; 105.1; 105.2; 109; 110; 111; 112; 113; 114; 118;
120; 121; 124
BS 1371: Parts 1 - 9
BS 1881: Parts 101; 102; 103; 105; 106; 107; 108; 112; 114; 115; 116; 117; 118; 119;
120; 122; 125; 127
BS 2000: Parts 49; 58

NOTE: These Standards were correct at the time this publication was printed, but
calibration requirements in them may be subject to amendment

Page 8 of 29
Notes:
1. This Table details recalibration and check intervals, but each item of equipment requires appropriate calibration and /or checking
before it is placed into service.
2. Where a SANAS-SANAS calibration certificate is indicated by the table, certificates from other sources may be acceptable (see
para 1.3)
3. Where an item is calibrated in-house and is defined as a calibration rather than a check, an uncertainty budget should normally be
determined for that specific calibration procedure. The extreme right-hand column of the table below indicates where an uncertainty budget
should be determined.
4. Calibrations must cover the full range for which the equipment is to be used or specified.

Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty

certificate budget
required?
Bottle shakers
Check speed of operation of machine when fully loaded 3 3 In-house No
& rollers
Chemical Consult SANAS In-house N/A
Use AR grade [grades other than AR grade chemical
reagents guidance publication e.g.,
reagent may be used where permitted by the test
4 on chemical reagents labelling
method] from reputable manufacturer (if possible ISO
QC checks
9000 approved). Establish date of expiry
or charts
Distilled or de- Check as defined in test method (need more guidelines 3 At appropriate In-house N/A
ionized water in test methods or separate document) intervals, depending
on production batch
size and storage
conditions (max 6
months)
Force (a) Compression Calibrate against BS 1610:Part 1 1 Must not exceed 1 SANAS Yes
measuring testing machine year
devices for concrete &
mortar
Check rate of load pacer and that platens, auxiliary 3 Yearly In-house No
platens and spacing blocks meet the specifications
given in the relevant standard

Hardness and surface texture of platens and auxiliary 2 Initial and after SANAS No
platens maintenance or
repair
(b) Loading Calibrate in accordance with the relevant standard, e.g., 2 Yearly In-house Yes
frames for soils, TMH1 A8, A9, A14, A16T, B1, B2, C2, BS 812, BS 598,
aggregates and BS 1377, etc

Page 9 of 29
 bituminous Check the load pacing/strain rate where rates are 3 Yearly In-house No
testing specified by the test method

Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty

certificate budget
required?
Hydrometer Density Shall comply with BS 718 Soils. (Check latest /most 1 Initial only SANAS Yes
appropriate method)
Scale calibrate in accordance with BS 1377 : Part 2 3 Yearly In-house No
Length 1. Gauge blocks
measuring (a) Reference Shall comply with the relevant grade of BS EN ISO 1 5 Yearly SANAS Yes
devices 3650. Calibrate
(b) Working Calibrate against appropriate calibrated reference 2 Yearly In-house No
equipment
2. Callipers
(a) Reference Calibrate externally 1 Yearly SANAS Yes
(b) Working Calibrate against calibrated gauge blocks meeting the 2 6 monthly In-house Yes
appropriate grade requirements of BS EN ISO 3650
3. Steel rules
(a) Reference Calibrate externally 1 Initial only SANAS Yes
All rules - visual check for readability and wear 4 Yearly In-house No
All rules - recalibration 2 5 Yearly In-house Yes
4. Feeler Calibrate with appropriate calibrated reference 2 Yearly In-house Yes
gauges equipment

Engineers'
square
(a) Reference Calibrate externally 1 5 yearly SANAS Yes
(b) Working Carry out appropriate checks to satisfy the relevant 3 Yearly In-house No
standards
6. Dial gauges Calibrate against a calibrated micrometer device or in a 2 Yearly In-house Yes
and comparator frame using calibrated gauge blocks or
displacement calibrated length bars in an appropriate environment
transducers

Page 10 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?
Muffle furnace Initial and after
Check temperature profile in working space 3 maintenance or In-house No
repair
Recalibrate or check as appropriate for the accuracy 2 Yearly In-house No
required by the test method i.e., recalibrate using
calibrated reference thermocouple or
check temperature profile using substance of known 3 Yearly In-house No
melting point or other suitable indicator
Nuclear density Manufacturer's calibration Yearly Manufactur N/A
/moisture meter er’s
or agent’s
Stability check 3 Monthly In-house N/A
Standardisation check 3 Daily or 8 hourly In-house N/A
For soils testing to BS 1377: Part 9, carry out the 3 As specified by In-house N/A
following: method
(a) bulk density. verify by comparison with in situ
measurement or preferably the bulk container method
(b) moisture content: verify by comparison to moisture
contents obtained by BS : 1377: Part 2 method or by the
method given in (a) above

Ovens (a) Required Check temperature profile in working space with a BS 3 Initial and after In-house No
(conventional) temperature 593 thermometer or calibrated thermocouple (with a maintenance or
tolerance unique serial number) repair
< ± 5°C Check temperature at the midpoint of the working space 3 Monthly In-house No
with BS 593 thermometer or calibrated thermocouple

Page 11 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?
Pressure/ (a) Reference Calibrate. Refer to BS EN 837-1 1 Yearly SANAS Yes
vacuum gauges Liquid manometers/barometers 1 5 Yearly SANAS Yes
(b) Working 2 6 monthly In-house No
Calibrate against calibrated deadweight tester or a
(Bourdon tube
calibrated reference gauge. Refer to BS 1780: clause 7;
or electrical
BS 1377: Part1
transducers)
Test sieves All sizes Refer to current SANAS / SABS guidance publications /
test method
Reference sieve set not older than 2 years
Verify working sieves utilising a reference sand against 3 monthly In-house No
the reference sieve set.
Thermocoup Refer to current SANAS guidance publications
les 1 1 -4 Yearly SANAS Yes
Calibrate externally Refer to BS 1041: Part 4: for depending on
(a) Reference requirement of test
selection of appropriate type
method, use or type
2 Yearly 6 monthly for In-house Yes
Calibrate against reference thermocouple or liquid-in- BS 598: Part 102; BS
(b) Working 812: Part 100; BS
glass thermometer.
1377: Part 1

Page 12 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?
Thermometers Refer to current SANAS guidance publications
Calibrate for precision and range of measurement 1 5 Yearly SANAS Yes
(a) Reference: required
liquid-in-glass Check at ice point (or exceptionally, some other 3 Yearly In-house No
reference point).
Calibrate against a calibrated reference thermometer in 2 Initially, then 5 yearly In-house Yes
(b) Working:
working range.
liquid-in-glass 3 6 monthly for first No
In-house
temperature year of use and
and Check at ice point or another reference point.
tolerance yearly thereafter
< ± 0.5 °C 4 Weekly
Visual check of bubbles
(c) Working: Use a BS 593 thermometer (with unique serial number) 2 5 yearly; re-calibrate In-house Yes
liquid-in-glass or calibrate against a suitable reference thermometer or replace
temperature 3 6 monthly for first In-house No
tolerance and Check at ice point or other reference point. year of use and
≥ ± 0.5°C yearly thereafter
Complete calibration 1 Initial SANAS Yes
(d) Working: IP Partial recalibration 1 5 Yearly SANAS Yes
& ASTM liquid- Reference point check. 3 Yearly No
in-glass Refer to BS 2000: Part 0 (IP thermometers);
ASTM Designation E77 (ASTM thermometers)

Page 13 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?
(a) Required 3 6 Monthly In-house No
Time measuring
tolerance Check against Telkom speaking clock (Tel # 1026)
devices
> ± 0.5 sec
Volumetric As per SANAS R25 requirements 2 Initial, then consult In-house N/A
glassware As required by or by reference to appropriate test method SANAS guidance
test method publications on
volumetric glassware
Volume-change (a) Transducers Calibrate by weighing the amount of distilled water 2 Yearly In-house Yes
and readout delivered at a measured temperature
units (referring to the correction tables in BS 1797)
Calibrate by weighing the amount of distilled water 2 2 Yearly In-house Yes
(b) Burette type
delivered at a measured temperature
indicators
(referring to the correction tables in BS 1797)
Water baths. (a) Required 3 Daily during use In-house No
Check bath or tank temperature with an appropriate (minimum &
tanks etc. temperature
calibrated thermometer or calibrated continuous Maximum)
constant tolerance
recording device
temperature < ± 2°C
Check temperature profile with a calibrated 3 Initial and after In-house No
thermometer; refer to the relevant BS or standard maintenance or
method for individual requirements repair
(b) Required 3 Daily during use In-house, No
temperature Check bath or tank temperature with a BS 593 e.g. test
tolerance thermometer or calibrated maxi min thermometer worksheet
≥ ± 2°C
Check temperature profile; refer to the relevant BS or 3 Initial and after In-house No
maintenance or
standard method for individual requirements repair

Page 14 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?
Weighing Refer to current SANAS guidance publications
machines
(a) Laboratory 1 Annually or after SANAS Yes
Complete calibration. transport
balances,
platform 3 Daily or before use In-house No
scales, Etc Zero and 1/multi-point check.
<1g
accuracy
(b) Laboratory 1 Annually or after SANAS Yes
Complete calibration. transport
balances,
platform Stability and distribution checks 2 after transport In-house No
scales. Etc 3 Daily or before use In-house No
>1g Zero and 1/multi-point check.
accuracy
(b) Spring 3 Before each use In-house No
Check with working masses at suitable points.
balances

Weights Refer to current SANAS guidance publications

(a) Reference: 1 2 Yearly SANAS Yes
Calibrate.
Class El & E2
(b) Reference: 1 Yearly SANAS Yes
Class F1. F2 & Calibrate.
Ml.
Weights - (c) Working; Calibrate 2 2 Yearly In-house Yes
continued Class E1 & E2

(d) Working: Calibrate 2 Yearly In-house Yes

Class F1, F2 &
M1
(e) Working: Calibrate to an accuracy appropriate for their use 2 Yearly In-house Yes
Other e.g.
traders

Page 15 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?

Aggregates

Abrasion Check: 3 2 Yearly In-house No

machine dimensions of moulds, trays and plates;
speed of rotation of machine; 3 2 Yearly In-house No
mass of weights; 3 Before each run In-house No
rate of flow from feed mechanism 3 At start of run In-house No
Visually check surface of lap for scoring. 4 Before test runs
Refer to BS 812: Part 113: clause 5.1.
Abrasive Silica sand for Check the grading of a sample from each batch Refer to 3 Before In-house No
AA V BS 812: Part 113: clause 6.1 commissioning each
determination batch
Accelerated Check apparatus as specified in test method Check:
polishing rate of flow of flow meter; 3 At least 6 monthly In-house No
machine rotational speed of road wheel; 3 Yearly In-house No
planes of rotation of all tyred and road 3 Yearly In-house No
wheels; 3 Yearly In-house No
force of rubber wheels on road wheel; 3 Yearly In-house No
3 At start of run and In-house No
rate of flow of feed mechanism; during test
parallelism of rubber wheels to axis of 3 Yearly In-house No
3 At least yearly, In-house No
road wheel; depending on use
rubber tyred and road wheel dimensions 3 Yearly In-house No
Ensure rubber tyred wheels of required hardness are Initial Manufactur No
purchased and stored correctly Refer to BS 812: Part er’s or
114 agent’s
Corn emery Natural corn Check the grading of a sample from each batch 3 Before In-house No
emery for PSV commissioning each
determination batch

Page 16 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?
Friction tester Polished stone Calibrate tester 1 Yearly UKAS Yes
value, slip Refer to BS 812: Part 114: clause 5.2.2
resistance Check (Refer to BS 812: Part 114) 3 Initial In-house No
value, etc dimensions of rubber slider;
mass of rubber slider; 3 Initial In-house No
specimen contact angle of rubber slider: 3 Before each batch In-house No
verticality of column; 3 Before each batch In-house No
location of specimen holder to rubber slider and to axis 4 Before each batch In-house No
of suspension of pendulum
condition of rubber slider 4 Before each batch In-house No
Initial Manufactur No
Ensure slider of required resilience and hardness is
er’s or
purchased and stored correctly
agent’s
ACV /10% fines Mould, plunger Check essential dimensions 3 Yearly In-house No
apparatus base plate, rod Hardness where specified 2 Initial SANAS No
Impact testing Aggregate
Check
device impact value
apparatus dimensions of cylindrical steel cup 3 2 Yearly In-house No
and metal hammer; mass of circular metal base and 3 2 Yearly In-house No
metal hammer;
height of drop and free fall of hammer 3 Before each test In-house No
thickness of reaction block/floor 3 Initial and if moved In-house No
Thickness Flakiness Check with calibrated calliper or micrometer 3 6 Monthly In-house No
gauges index/elongation

Page 17 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?

Bituminous Materials

Centrifuges Maintain centrifuge in accordance with BS EN 61010-2- 2 6 monthly In-house No

020 and calibrate at speed of rotation used. Where the
design gives appropriate access this may be done in-
house with a calibrated tachometer or other method of
similar accuracy. (Ensure safety requirements are met
when calibrating in-house)
Compression Check dimensions of apparatus, 3 Before use In-house No
recovery
apparatus
Compaction Automatic and Check hammer mass, freefall distance, foot diameter, 3 2 monthly In-house No
hammer manual face of foot, blows and counter function with the
requirements of relevant SABS and TMH1 test methods
All other parameters on delivery Initial N/A
In addition to the above, an annual visual inspection
should be carried out on the hardwood block and the
torqued rods

Penny Test. 3 Yearly N/A

Check dimensions and angles and fitment of various 4 Initial
Clamping device
pieces of mould
Initial
Initial Manufactur No
Either: certificate of conformance
er's
or: check dimensions and surface condition on all 3 Initial In-house No
Mould
moulds
Elastic
Subsequent
recovery 3 Monthly
Check dimensions and surface conditions In-house No
Visually check general condition. Refer to SABS XXX 4 Before each use In-house No
Ductilometer Check bath or tank temperature with an appropriate 3 Daily during use In-house No
Water baths calibrated DIN 12775-E0,1/0/50 thermometer or (minimum &
(<0.2°C) calibrated continuous recording device Maximum)

Page 18 of 29
 Check temperature profile with a calibrated DIN 12775- 3 Initial and after In-house No
maintenance or
E0,1/0/50 thermometer. repair
Initial
Ductilometer Initial Manufactur No
Either: certificate of conformance
trough er's
or: check dimensions 3 Initial In-house No
Speed of “pulling apart of the two portions of thew 3 Initial and after In-house No
Testing machine maintenance or
mould” repair
Calibrate penetration dial gauge 2 Yearly In-house No
Hardness Calibrate force applied 2 Yearly In-house No
Mastic asphalt 2 Yearly No
number Check dimensions of indenter pin In-house
measuring dial 4 Regularly,
apparatus Check general condition and wear on No
indenter pin depending on use
Penetrometer Calibrate needle against requirements of BS 2000: Part 1 100 uses or 5 years, SANAS Yes
whichever occurs
Needle 49: Section 5.3 first
Check condition of needle 4 Before each use In-house No
Check apparatus meets requirements of BS 2000: Part
49
3 Monthly, or each In-house No
Apparatus Check mass of spindle assembly time mass is
changed
Calibrate dial gauge 2 Yearly In-house No
Calibrate timing device 1 Yearly SANAS Yes
Ball penetration Check mas and dimentions of ball and shaft 3 Monthly, or each In-house No
tool time mass is
changed
Gyratory
Compactor

Page 19 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?
Rolling straight 3 30 km, or monthly In-house
Calibrate according to industry protocols (UKAS) depending on use
edge
3 Before and after In-house No
Check deflection using spacer strips each use
Modified Oven Required Check temperature profile in working space with a 3 Initial and after In-house No
rolling thin temperature calibrated reference thermometer or calibrated reference maintenance or
film oven test tolerance thermocouple. See Note 5.1 ASTM: D2872 - 88 repair
(AsAC TG1 < ± 2°C Check temperature at the midpoint of the working space 3 Monthly In-house No
Method MB-3) with calibrated reference thermometer or calibrated
reference thermocouple
Metal treatment Check dimensions of brass tube, screw caps and brass 3 Manufacturers In-house No
bottles end pieces certificate or initial
Check frame assembly. Guides, balls and rings against 3 Monthly In-house No
Softening point Apparatus
requirements of BS 2000 : Part 58
Solvents (e.g. Purchased Ensure product complying with appropriate standard
dichloromethan (e.g. BS 1994, Specification for dichloromethane) is
e) purchased
Recovered in- Check re-distilled solvent for parameters specified by
house Regularly,
standard (e.g. residue on evaporation - BS 598: Part 3 In-house No
depending on use
102)
Texture meter Check operation of equipment Manufactu
Yearly No
(laser) rer's
Calibrate tyre pressure against calibrated pressure
2 Before each use In-house No
gauge;
Check texture meter against dedicated texture mat 3 Before each use In-house No
Refer to manufacturer's guidelines

Page 20 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?

Concrete

Air content (a)Type A Calibrate apparatus Refer to BS 1881: Part 106: clause 3 Yearly, & when site In-house
apparatus 5.3 of operation varies in
elevation by > 200 m No
from that of previous
calibration
(b) Type B Calibrate. Refer to BS 1881: Part 106: clause 6.3 3 Yearly In-house No
Compacting Check machine complies with requirements of BS 1881: 3 Initial In-house
factor apparatus No
Part 103
Concrete Electromagneti (a) Calibrate against requirements of BS 1881 : Part 204 2 Initial Manufactur No
reinforcement c apparatus er's
cover (b) Check against test block (s) 3 Before each use In-house No
Cube moulds Initial
Initial Manufactu No
Either: certificate of conformance (ISO 9000)
rer's
or: check dimensions and surface condition on all 3 Initial In-house No
moulds
2 Initial SANAS No
plus hardness on 10% of each batch
test
Subsequent
Check dimensions and surface conditions 3 Monthly In-house No
Visually check general condition. Refer to SABS XXX 4 Before each use In-house No

Page 21 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?
Curing tanks (a) Required Check tank temperature with a calibrated max-min
temperature thermometer or calibrated continuous temperature
3 Daily during use In-house No
tolerance recording device
< ± 2 °C
Check temperature profile of tank with a calibrated Initial and after
thermometer maintenance,
3 In-house No
adjustment,
transport, or repair
(b) Required In-house,
Check tank temperature with BS 593 thermometer.
temperature e.g. test
calibrated continuous temperature recording device or 3 During use No
tolerance work
calibrated maxi min thermometer
≥ ± 2 °C sheets
Check temperature profile of tank Initial and after
3 maintenance, In-house No
transport, or repair
Flow table Check apparatus complies with requirements of BS 1881:
3 Yearly In-house No
Part 105: clause 3.1
Slump cone Check dimensions 3 6 Monthly In-house No
Visually check general condition 4 Before each use In-house No
Slump rod/
Check dimensions and mass for tamping bars 3 6 Monthly In-house No
tamping bar

Page 22 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?

Soils

Mod AASHTO Automatic and 3 Weekly or before

Compaction manual Check hammer mass, freefall distance, foot diameter, face each use, as detailed
of foot, blows and counter function with the requirements of in testprocedure In-house No
mould
relevant SABS and TMH1 test methods
Mod AASHTO 3 Every 100 uses or
Compaction Check dimensions and volumes per base plate quarterly In-house No
mould
Depth gauge Calibrate. e.g. using calibrated gauge blocks 2 Yearly In-house Yes

Dynamic 3 Initially on delivery

Cone Check hammer mass. or certificate of In-house No
Penetrometer complience
Check weight freefall distance, cone diameter and angles, 3 before each use
reference scale (measuring tape) with the requirements of In-house No
TMH6 ST 6 test method.
CBR 3 6 monthly In-house No
Weight and adjustment rod as per SABS and TMH1 test
surcharge
methods
weights
Hanger Consolidation Check weight using appropriate calibrated direct shear tests 3 Yearly In-house No
weights direct shear balance
tests balance
Hydraulic Yearly, depending on No
Cell calibration 3 In-house
consolidation use
cell & Diaphragm calibration 2 Yearly In-house No
accessories Check diaphragm pressure, back pressure and pore
pressure systems -
'Complete' check 3 3 monthly In-house No
'Routine' check 3 Before each use
Refer to BS 1377: Part 6: clauses 3.2.5 & 3.2.6
Liquid limit Casagrande Check dimensions of cup and grooving tool 3 Monthly In-house No
device apparatus Check general condition of grooving tool and cup 4 Before each use In-house No

Page 23 of 29
 Manufact
Ensure rubber base of hardness and resilience specified
Initial urer's
by standard is purchased
certificate
Check hardness/resilience of rubber base 2 2 yearly or replace In-house No
(a) calibrate dial gauge 2 Yearly In-house Yes
(b) Check cone dimensions, cone assembly mass, timer
Cone 3 6 Monthly In-house No
and cone tip gauge using appropriate reference equipment
Penetrometer
Cone tip sharpness (refer to BS 2000 : Pt 49; BS 1377 : Pt Daily or before each
4 In-house No
2) use

Page 24 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?
Moisture Calcium Check according to manufacturer's instructions
meter carbide
pressure 3 Yearly In-house No
moisture
meter
Odometer Calibrate apparatus - deformation characteristics Refer to
2 Initial In-house No
(consolidation BS 1377: Part 5: clause 3.2.4.2
apparatus) Calibrate/check component items (e.g. consolidation ring,
Refer to individual
consolidation cell, dial gauge, weights, loading device). 2, 3 In-house Yes/No
listings
Refer to BS 1377 : Parts 1 & 5
Ohmmeter Impedance Calibrate against a calibrated reference instrument 2 Yearly In-house Yes
Chemicals AR Check with at least two standard buffer solutions of
pH meter 3 Before each use In-house No
grade appropriate pH, expiry date etc.
Pore water
pressure Calibrate pressure transducer or gauge using a calibrated
2 6 monthly In-house Yes
measuring reference pressure gauge
device

Page 25 of 29
Item Type Calibration or check Level Interval Type of Uncertainty
certificate budget
required?
Ring shear For component items such as dial gauges and load 2, 3 Refer to individual In-house Yes/No
apparatus application, refer to BS 1377 : Parts 1 and 6 listings
Sand In situ density Check a sample from the batch for grading and purity 3 Before In-house No
replacement requirements. Refer to BS 1377 : Part 9 commissioning a
sand batch
Shear box Calibrate force measuring and displacement devices. Refer Refer to individual In-house Yes
apparatus to B S 1377 : Parts 1 and 7 listings
Shrinkage Definitive Calibrate component micrometer with appropriate 2 Yearly In-house Yes
limit calibrated reference equipment
apparatus Linear Engineers' steel rule- see Length measuring devices 2 Yearly In-house No
Springs Torque etc Calibration 1 Yearly SANAS Yes
Tri-axial cell & Calibrate component items. Refer to BS 1377 : Parts I, 7 2, 3 Refer to individual In-house No
accessories and 8 listings
Vane Calibrate torsion springs 1 SANAS In-house Yes
apparatus Yea
rly
Calibrate area ratio of the vane 2 Yearly In-house No
Voltmeter Calibrate against a calibrated reference 2 Yearly In-house Yes

Page 26 of 29
Appendix B

Examples of uncertainty budgets

Example 1. Accuracy of micrometer traverse up to 150 mm using grade 1 gauge blocks

The table below gives all possible input values derived from the calibration of a working
micrometer used to measure lengths up to 150 mm. The micrometer was checked at ten equally
spaced distances in the range of 150 mm using a gauge block or combinations of gauge blocks
to determine the point of maximum inaccuracy, this point was then determined ten times to give
the repeatability (0.5 µm). All other values are obtained from the environmental conditions during
the performance of the calibration and the reference equipment used.

Value, Probability Standard

Source of uncertainty µm distribution Divisor Uncertainty, µm
Uncorrected errors in
length
of gauge block 0.30 Rectangular √3 0.173
Uncertainty of gauge block 0.1 Normal 2 0.05

Repeatability 0.5 Normal 1 0.5

Temperature effect N/A Rectangular √3

Resolution of micrometer 1.0 Rectangular √3 0.577

Sum of squares - - 0.615

Combined standard
uncertainty - Normal - 0.784
Expanded uncertainty - Normal - 1.569
(k = 2)

Uncertainty would be reported as ± 2 µm.

Notes:
1. The repeatability values given were derived from an internal calibration procedure being
performed under truly repeatable conditions 10 times.
2. The combined standard uncertainty multiplied by coverage factor of k = 2 provides a
confidence level of approximately 95%.
3. References and further reading are given in UKAS
4. publication M3003.
5. The above uncertainty budget is intended to consider all relevant input values, but it is
possible to eradicate some input values, depending on how a calibration is performed.

Page 27 of 29
Example 2. Accuracy of liquid-in-glass total immersion thermometer used full range

The table below gives all possible input values derived from the calibration of a working total
immersion thermometer using a platinum resistance reference thermometer. The repeatability
value of 0.05 is derived from performing the calibration at ten equally spaced points over the
working range of the thermometer then determining the repeatability at the point of maximum
inaccuracy. It can also be noticed that the instruments drift has been taken into account, similarly
the possible discrepancy due to where the instruments are placed in the heating medium (bath).

Value, Probability Standard

Source of uncertainty Divisor
°C distribution uncertainty, °C
Uncorrected error on
calibration of reference 0.05 Normal 2 0.025
thermometer
Uncorrected error on
0.02 Rectangular √3 0.0115
reference thermometer
Drift of reference
0.05 Rectangular √3 0.0289
thermometer
Resolution of reading of
0.05 Rectangular √3 0.0289
reference thermometer
Resolution of reading of test
0.1 Rectangular √3 0.0577
thermometer
Temperature source
0.01 Rectangular √3 0.0058
(bath)non-uniformity
Repeatability of
0.05 Normal 1 0.050
measurements
Sum of squares - - - 0.00831
Combined standard
- Normal - 0.0914
uncertainty
Normal(k =
Expanded uncertainty - - 0.18
2)

Uncertainty would be reported as ± 0,2 °C.

Notes:

1. The repeatability values given were derived from an internal calibration procedure being
performed under truly repeatable conditions 10 times.
2. The combined standard uncertainty multiplied by coverage factor of k = 2 provides a
confidence level of approximately 95%.
3. References and further reading are given in UKAS publication M3003.
4. The above uncertainty budget is intended to consider all relevant input values, but it is
possible to eradicate some input values, depending on how a calibration is performed.

Page 28 of 29
Document number: Reference to document number SANAS Lab21
SANAS Lab21 (draft) (draft)
Comment Clause SANAS Lab21 (draft) Comments
No No
1
2
3
4
5

Page 29 of 29