UNDER the theme, “The International System of Units – Fundamentally better”, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) will be observing World Metrology Day on May 20, 2019.

Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the GNBS, Lloyd David, said World Metrology Day commemorates the anniversary of the signing of the Metre Convention in 1875. He explained that this treaty provides the basis for a coherent measurement system worldwide that underpins scientific discovery and innovation, industrial manufacturing and international trade, as well as the improvement of the quality of life and the protection of the global environment.

David said that the General Conference on Weights and Measures is agreed as perhaps one of the most significant revisions to the International System of Units (SI) since its inception.

Research, he said, into new measurement methods, including those using quantum phenomena, underpin the change.

“The SI is now based on a set of definitions – each linked to the laws of physics and have the advantage of being able to embrace further improvements in measurement science and technology – to meet the needs of future users for many years to come,” David said.
Across the world, he noted national metrology institutes continually advance measurement science by developing and validating new measurement techniques at whatever level of sophistication is needed.

“The national metrology institutes participate in comparisons coordinated by the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) to ensure the reliability of measurement results worldwide,” David said.

He explained that the BIPM also provides a forum for its Member States to address new measurement challenges. The International Organisation of Legal Metrology (OIML) develops international recommendations, the aim of which is to align and harmonise requirements worldwide in many fields.

David said that the GNBS, as the National Metrology Institute (NMI), continues to improve and expand its measurement services in the areas of verification (stamping) and calibration to meet the needs of all stakeholders.

These stakeholders, he said, include those who use measuring devices and instruments at shops, markets, supermarkets, industry, manufacturing companies, hospitals, health centres, airlines, shipping companies, post offices, petrol stations, bulk terminals and laboratories.

As a result, he said more than 10,000 measuring devices and instruments are submitted to the GNBS annually. “A mini exhibition to promote the SI units and encourage appropriate measurement practices is planned for vendors and consumers on Friday, May 24, 2019 at the Stabroek Market Square,” he said.