SOP for Periodic Sensitivity Tests

Routine Testing SOP

Routine Testing

Title: SOP for Periodic Sensitivity Tests

Document No.:
Author: METTLER TOLEDO
Number of Pages: 4

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Replacement Document: N/A
Reason for Revision: N/A
Release Date: 01 January 2022

Release for Routine Operation

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Approved by:
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 General

Basic Rules for Using Balances and Scales

• Before using a balance or scale, make sure the power was switched on for a sufficient period of time (men-
Routine Testing SOP

tioned in the operating instructions).

• Make sure the device is leveled.
• Minimize environmental influences, e.g. open windows vibrations, temperature changes or strong drafts.
• In case of a draft shield, do not enter the draft shield with hands. Use gloves or long tweezers.
• Place objects gently and in the center of the pan or platform.

Basic Rules for Handling Weights

Test Weights
• Only an external test weight with an up to date calibration certificate can make a balance or scale a “trace-
able” piece of equipment.
• Test weights should always be placed gently on a clean weighing pan or platform and put back immediately
in their storage place after use.
• Test weights (since they are also part of measuring equipment) need to be re-calibrated at specified intervals
(ISO 9001).
• Test weights should be protected from shock, scratches, dirt and any other external influence that might
degrade their integrity.
• Any incident, which might have affected the value of the test weight, should trigger an immediate re-calibra-
tion. METTLER TOLEDO’s calibration services will give advice on this.

Test Weights
Find all your needed OIML or ASTM test weights from the range of 1 mg up to 5 tons in all accuracy classes,
with or without certificate.
www.mt.com/weights

How to Store Test Weights

• Test weights should be stored in their original box.
• Test weights should be stored in a clean and dry room. Where possible in the same room as the balance or
scale they are used with, since temperature differences between test weights and their surrounding lead to
measurement errors.
• Test weights that have not been stored at the same temperature need acclimatization, which can take several
hours.

How to Move Weights

• Test weights should only be handled with appropriate tools such as tweezers, forks, handles or gloves (see
METTLER TOLEDO’s accessories for weights).
• These tools should be exclusively used for transferring test weights, to avoid possible contamination.
• Always use care when handling test weights, to avoid contamination and damage.

2 METTLER TOLEDO
SOP for Periodic Sensitivity Tests
Sensitivity Test

Preparation
• Before the test is performed, the test weight must be acclimatized to the ambient temperature of the balance or
scale.
• Prepare a sheet where you can note the readings of the sensitivity test.

Test Weight
For sensitivity testing the test weight should normally be:
• For device capacities up to 60 kg: 100% of the device's capacity.
• For device capacities above 60 kg: 33% of the device's capacity.
The weight is rounded down to the next available OIML/ASTM denomination.

Test Procedure
• Empty the pan or platform
• If required, place the tare load on the weighing pan or platform
• Tare the balance or scale (if required press zero)
• Place the test weight on the weighing pan or platform
• Read the stable value from the display and note it

Evaluation
• Evaluate whether the noted value exceeds the defined “Warning Limit” 1).
• Evaluate whether the noted value exceeds the defined “Control Limit” 2).

Deviation
Warning Limit 1) (where defined)
• If the warning limit is exceeded, repeat the test.
• If the warning limit is exceeded again, report that the warning limit was not met to the appropriate supervisor
or the person responsible for the device.
• Level the balance or scale, perform adjustment with built-in or external adjustment weight – where existing –
and repeat the test.
• If the warning limit is still exceeded, report the problem to the appropriate supervisor or the person responsible
of the device. Optionally, contact METTLER TOLEDO’s service organization for advice.

Control Limit 2)
• If the control limit is exceeded, report the problem to the appropriate supervisor or the person responsible of
the balance or scale.
• Mark the device as “out of control limits”.
• Contact METTLER TOLEDO service organization for advice.

1) – Values within the warning limit: No action is necessary.

– Values between the warning and control limit are within the tolerance but must be kept under surveillance. Corrective action may be
appropriate, depending on the direction in which the values are changing.

2) – Values within the control limit, see 1)

– Values beyond the control limit show that weighing process is no longer under control and immediate action is therefore required.

METTLER TOLEDO 3
SOP for Periodic Sensitivity Tests
 Define Your Routine Testing Parameters
Do you need help defining the right test frequency, methods, weights or tolerances?
METTLER TOLEDO's GWP® Verification can answer these questions.
Routine Testing SOP

GWP® Verification
Based on a risk assessment, a GWP® Verification provides
you with a calibration and routine testing plan to maintain
consistent quality and optimize costs. This includes the fre-
quency of calibration and routine testing as well as testing
methods, weights and tolerances. It also provides you with
additional security and regulatory-compliance documenta-
tion.

www.mt.com/GWP-Verification

www.mt.com/GWP
For more information

METTLER TOLEDO Group

Laboratory Weighing
Local contact: www.mt.com/contacts

Subject to technical changes.

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