Calibration of M&TE

DOE-STD-1054-93

3.4.4

Calibration of M&TE

3.4.4.1

M&TE should be calibrated using reference standards (secondary or

working) whose calibration has a known valid relationship to

nationally recognized standards or accepted values of natural physical

constants. If national standards do not exist, the basis for calibration

should be documented. The reference standard used should have an

accuracy at least four times greater than the device under test. If this

accuracy ratio cannot be met, analysis of the errors should be

estimated to provide a valid uncertainty of the calibration process.

3.4.4.2

M&TE Calibration Schedule and Interval

The standards laboratory, in conjunction with each department

manager responsible for M&TE, should establish and maintain a

calibration schedule for the M&TE (including primary, secondary, and

working standards. Specific items may be calibrated on a prior-to-use

basis rather than on a periodic basis. These devices shall be

controlled as specified in Sections 3.4.3.1 and 3.4.3.2 (tagging and

storage).

The schedule should normally be divided by application departments.

The M&TE assigned to a department should be listed in calibration

due date order by the unique identification number of Section 3.4.2.3

and noun name. Calibration dates for similar M&TE should be

staggered to ensure availability for day-to-day and peak needs. The

established scheduling organization should normally update and

distribute the schedule to the responsible department managers on a

quarterly basis. Department managers should ensure that M&TE

under their cognizance is calibrated in accordance with the master

schedule.

The calibration intervals for M&TE should be established by the

cognizant department managers. The initial interval should be based

on the inherent stability characteristics of the device, the rate/level and

purpose of expected use, manufacturer's recommendation, and

historical data for similar equipment. Calibration intervals may be

revised, based on a review of previous calibration results and

maintenance history. Revision of calibration intervals should require

the approval of the cognizant department manager. Revisions should

be documented on the Calibration Interval Change Authorization form

(Appendix C) which should be filed in the maintenance history.