News

In November EURAMET and the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) held a joint training course on the review of quality management systems in National Metrology Institutes (NMI) and Designated Institutes (DI).

Topics included an introduction to the Mutual Recognition Arrangement of the International Committee for Weights and Measures (CIPM MRA), structure and operation of EURAMET's Technical Committee for Quality, specifics about peer reviews and visits, and good practice in reporting and practical training sessions. Lecturers included experts from BIPM, EURAMET and its members.

The training course was aimed at NMI and DI quality managers and those involved in the revision of quality management systems. Participants were prepared to carry out reviews of quality management systems in the scope of the CIPM MRA, with additional focus on EURAMET specifics of peer review process and requirements for reviewers.

The two-day event was hosted by the National Institute of Aerospace Technology (INTA), one of Spain's Designated Institutes. INTA is a public research agency that specialises in aerospace technological research and development in the fields of land, naval and defence. "INTA has been a great host. They provided a perfect environment for a productive workshop and training course," comments Tanasko Tasić, EURAMET's Capacity Building Officer.

Along with 23 participants from 12 different countries, guests from the Regional Metrology Organisations COOMET and GULFMET also attended the workshop. Initial feedback from participants has been very positive, with the practical session regarded as very helpful and suggestions made for follow-up actions and improvements.

"An effective quality management system is vital for the smooth operation of the CIPM MRA, this course has clearly contributed very effectively to that goal," says Andy Henson, Director of the BIPM's International Liaison and Communication Department.

Due to the success of this training course it is very likely that EURAMET will organise a similar event in 2018.

An overview of upcoming EURAMET training courses can be found at https://www.euramet.org/trainingcourses