SOP – Engineering – Instruments

Calibration
16 December 2023 by Augustine
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Standard Operating Procedure for

Engineering Instruments
Calibration
Engineering instruments are widely used in various industries to collect data,
monitor processes, and measure different parameters. However, it is essential
to ensure that these instruments are accurate and reliable. This is where
calibration comes in.

Calibration is the process of comparing the readings of an instrument with a

known standard to determine its accuracy and make any necessary
adjustments. It is a critical step in ensuring that the measurements obtained
from the instrument are reliable.

Standard operating procedures (SOPs) are developed to provide a systematic

approach to instrument calibration. The SOP for engineering instrument
calibration should include the procedures for preparing the instrument,
selecting the calibration standard, performing the calibration, and recording
the results.

The SOP should also identify the frequency of calibration and the personnel
responsible for performing the calibration. Regular calibration ensures that the
instrument performs within its specified accuracy and reduces the risk of
inaccurate measurements leading to faulty products or processes.

In conclusion, following SOPs for engineering instrument calibration is crucial

to ensure accurate and reliable measurements, ultimately leading to the
success of the process or product.
Instruments Calibration Standard Procedure:
 All instruments used in the hotel should be calibrated for 100%
performance.
 An authorized person/agency should be called for the calibration of the
instruments.
 To check the performance, readings/measurements should be taken at
least seven days after calibration.
 Calibration should be done every year for all the measuring
instruments.
 A master list of all instruments should be maintained to indicate which
one is due for calibration.
 The frequency of calibration of each instrument should be mentioned
on the list.
 A calibration schedule is prepared to indicate the month in which the
instrument is due for calibration.
 Each instrument due for calibration is uniquely identified.
 Instruments should be calibrated by their manufacturer or by authorized
service agencies.
 On receipt of the calibration certificate following needs to be
checked:
1. Calibration masters traceability to the national standard.
2. Acceptance of error w.r.t defined acceptance norms.
 If the calibration report is found okay a suitable indicator in the form of a
sticker indicating the next due date of calibration should be put on the
instrument.
 In some cases, after calibration, the instrument is found out of
calibration.
 In such cases, the calibration error is received by HOD Engineering
along with the applicable department.
 Necessary action including change of calibration frequency is initiated.
 There is a possibility of any intentional or unintentional disturbance of
the instrument setting.
 All users handling the instruments should be given training and
instructions on the safe handling and storage of instruments.
Calibration Card Sample:

Calibration Sticker / Card

INSTRUMENT NAME : ___________________________
Id NO. / INVENTORY No : ___________________________
CALIBRATION NO. : ___________________________
CALIBRATION DUE ON : ___________________________

Training Summary questions:

1. Why is it crucial to calibrate instruments regularly?
2. What does the SOP recommend in terms of the frequency of
instrument calibration?
3. Who is responsible for performing the calibration according
to the SOP?
4. Explain the significance of maintaining a master list for
instruments and how it aids in the calibration process.
5. In case an instrument is found out of calibration, what steps
does the SOP suggest taking, and who is involved in the
process?
6. Describe the information included in the Calibration
Card/Sticker.
7. What should be checked upon receiving the calibration
certificate for an instrument?
8. Why is it important to provide training to users on the safe
handling and storage of instruments?
9. How does the SOP suggest handling instruments found out
of calibration, and what actions may be taken, including
changes in calibration frequency?
10. Explain the purpose of the calibration sticker or card on
the instrument.
11. What are the potential consequences of using
instruments that are not regularly calibrated?
12. Provide an example of a situation where an instrument
may need its calibration frequency adjusted based on
calibration results.
13. How does the SOP recommend ensuring traceability to
the national standard in the calibration process?