Basic requirements for legal metrology in Developing economies

摘要

Measurement is a part of our everyday economic life. The ordering of society must therefore involve metrology. Some sectors, particularly trade, need to be regulated by legislation, so we have "legal metrology" which involves the disciplines of metrology, law and practical organization. This paper introduces the roles of metrology in the economy and considers the choices of what to regulate. It examines the benefits for trade in the context of developing economies and the potential for more general economic and spcial benefits. The practical methods of metrological control are considered in the context of a developing economy; dealing firstly with control of measuring instruments -through certification, verification and inspection, and then with other methods e.g. control of packaged goods and prescribed quantities. Some parts of the system can be more easily realized by direct involvement with the institutions of the developed world but every national and local economy has its own special needs and processes which call for unique local solutions. The necessary institutional elements of a legal metrology system comprise a framework of legislation, physical metrological standards, and an organizational structure with expert people to operate it. The paper proposes practical ways to meet these needs, e.g. by outlining the minimum specifications for metrological standards. It affirms the need for a supporting infrastructure. This comprises the support of the government administration and access to the other essential technical services which encompass standards, quality assurance and accreditation. When established in this way, legal metrology becomes an important component of a functioning society, part of the fabric of the nation and indeed a part of the rapidly developing global network that links all peoples together.