A calibration is basically defined as an activity which performs and documents a comparison between a standard and a unit under test, under defined conditions and with the relevant measurement uncertainty. A traceable calibration in an accredited laboratory is the only way to guarantee complete metrological proof – as per factory, national or international standards, to comply with norms such as IATF 16949.
Calibration in laboratories accredited to ISO 17025
Traceable calibrations are performed by laboratories that are accredited for this purpose (to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025). This is the globally recognized standard that defines the requirements for the competence of test and calibration laboratories.